www.CharlestonWomenPodcast.com | FB & Instagram @CharlestonWomen New CEO Of Top Ten Port Wellness, Weddings And Wishes For A Wonderful New Year Warm Up To Books, Wine And Cozy Recipes This Winter MEANS FULL STEAM AHEAD FOR WOMEN Top Gifts For HER Introducing Charleston Women In: Business Style Food The Arts Wellness Philanthropy The Home CHARLESTON Wi nter 2022-23 C H A R L E S T O N W O M E N I N B U S I N E S S * S O U T H C A R O L I N A W O M E N I N R E A L E S T A T E
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1 www.Char l e s tonWomenPodcas t . com | www.ReadCW. com | www. Ins t ag ram. com /Char l e s tonWomen THE PROPERTY 3 0 2 0 I O N A V E N U E S U L L I V A N S I S L A N D , S C 2 9 4 8 2 PROPERTY FEATURES A co l l abor at i on between l oca l a r ch i tec t Ca r l McCant s and Rhodes Res i dent i a l Bu i l de r s comp l eted by the des i gn team at Mi t che l l Hi l l Des i gns Th i s home encompas ses the t ime l es s cha rms o f a c l as s i c Su l l i vans I s l and home wi th a l l the mode rn day at t r i butes . 5 Bedrooms 5 . 5 Bathrooms 3 , 976 Sq . Ft . 0 . 33 Ac res Lot 2 Ca r Ga r age I n Ground Poo l Great Locat i on 2 Mas ter Bedrooms La rge Covered Por ch $5,295,000 Katherine@katherinecoxhomes.com (843) 568-3193 katherinecoxhomes.com
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4 www.Char l e s tonWomenPodcas t . com | www.ReadCW. com | www. Ins t ag ram. com /Char l e s tonWomen Features First Female CEO of Port Meet Barbara Melvin........................... 16 Top Gifts for HER............................... 21 ................................................................ Charleston Women in Style Say Yes to the Right Dress for You....................23 Charleston Women in the Arts Artists to Watch...................................................28 Meet Rising Star Faith Schueler........................31 Charleston Women in Philanthropy Wine, Women and Shoes...................................33 The Charleston Hat Ladies.................................34 About the Cover.......................................................6 FromThe Team........................................................7 Social Buzz................................................................9 Our Contributors...................................................10 Women in the Making. .........................................11 Calendar of Events.................................................12 9 12 Winter 2022-23 Table of Contents 16 33 23
5 www.Char l e s tonWomenPodcas t . com | www.ReadCW. com | www. Ins t ag ram. com /Char l e s tonWomen 62 69 Winter 2022-23 Table of Contents Charleston Women in Business Meet Erika Zepp..................................................36 Baldwin & Associates.........................................39 Top 25 Female Realtors......................................42 Meet Susan Matthews.........................................43 Charleston Women in Food She’s The Head Chef............................................49 Amici’s..................................................................53 Bakies....................................................................55 Recipes from Real Charleston Women............56 Charleston Women at Home Oyster Candle Company....................................26 Heaven’s Marketplace. ........................................61 Charleston Women in Wellness Journeys Through IVF. ......................................62 Wellness the Right Way......................................65 Compass Vision Care.........................................68 Book Nook Books to Warm Up to this Winter....................69 Wine Winter Wines. .....................................................71 We Are Charleston Women Meet Real Charleston Women. .........................72 36 56 49 71
6 www.Char l e s tonWomenPodcas t . com | www.ReadCW. com | www. Ins t ag ram. com /Char l e s tonWomen About the Cover This issue’s cover photo features an amazing image of South Carolina Port Authority’s new chief executive officer Barbara Melvin. Inside, you’ll find a feature story about this incredible woman who has a rare quality that could not be ignored: equal parts heart and head. Melvin is a true leader who uses knowledge and logic to facilitate the goals most dear to her, which is for all to thrive together. This picture is important because it captures a moment in history. A woman stands on that barge as its commander and chief, and she is the first to hold that position for a top 10 port in history. This winter, we will navigate the holidays. We will give and receive; we will wrap up the past year. Then, we will all embark upon new journeys in 2023. This could not be a better time to have someone like Melvin showing us all the way. Melvin isn’t someone who has a demanding or loud voice. She isn’t someone who enjoys a fight. She just does the work. She believes in herself and lets her qualifications shine. We are proud to put her on our cover, and we hope that you’ll find inspiration by learning about her confidence and rise to the top in such a unique field. Celebrate Melvin with us, and then leave some room to celebrate yourself. A whole new year awaits, and there are no limits. www.CharlestonWomenPodcast.com | FB & Instagram @CharlestonWomen New CEO Of Top Ten Port Wellness, Weddings And Wishes For A Wonderful New Year Warm Up To Books, Wine And Cozy Recipes This Winter MEANS FULL STEAM AHEAD FOR WOMEN Top Gifts For HER Introducing Charleston Women In: Business Style Food The Arts Wellness Philanthropy The Home CHARLESTON Wi nter 2022-23 C H A R L E S T O N W O M E N I N B U S I N E S S * S O U T H C A R O L I N A W O M E N I N R E A L E S T A T E We are a veteran owned and family operated small business. We mix up small batches of coconut soy candles with custom blended fragrances, poured by hand. We use high quality all natural, skin safe, and clean burning products. No dyes, no parabens, no phthalates, no zinc! TheRaineAndGraceCo.com THE RAINE & GRACE CO. Hand-Poured Candles & Custom Home Decor FAMILY, FRIENDS & FUN #CANUDIGIT DIGHospitality.com DIG Locations are always a comfortable place to have a cold beer, chat with friends, or just watch the game! Dig In The Park 1049 E Montague Avenue North Charleston Dig 17a 3419 S Live Oak Dr Moncks Corner
7 www.Char l e s tonWomenPodcas t . com | www.ReadCW. com | www. Ins t ag ram. com /Char l e s tonWomen Winter 2022-23 MANAGING EDITOR LORNA HOLLIFIELD COPY EDITORS DENISE K. JAMES COLIN MCCANDLESS ART DIRECTOR DANA COLEMAN PRODUCTION MANAGER BETHANY LONG AD DESIGNERS KIM HALL REBECCA SOTTILE BETHANY LONG TECHNOLOGY GEORGE CONKLIN BRIAN SMITH GENE PHAN WRITERS ISABEL ALVAREZ ARATA • DENISE K. JAMES BARBARA SKIDMORE LEAH RHYNE • SHERRY WHITING MARY COY • STACY E. DOMINGO HEATHER ARTUSHIN PHOTOGRAPHERS MARK STAFF BRAND AMBASSADOR STACEY MCLOUGHLIN STACEY@MOUNTPLEASANTMAGAZINE.COM INDEPENDENT MEDIA CONSULTANTS KATIE FINCH KATIE@MOUNTPLEASANTMAGAZINE.COM KIM MARTIER KIM@MOUNTPLEASANTMAGAZINE.COM ADMINISTRATION & BOOKKEEPING GINGER SOTTILE SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER CHESLEY LANFORD DISTRIBUTION U.S. POST OFFICE • HARRIS TEETER • PUBLIX • CVS Charleston Women is published locally by a team of independent contractors. Charleston Women is published three times per year by Media Services, Inc. 1013 Chuck Dawley Blvd., Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Copyright © Media Services 2022. All rights reserved. Reproduction electronically or in print format without the expressed written consent of the publisher is strictly prohibited and a violation of U.S. copyright laws. Inquiries to: Charleston Women P.O. Box 22617, Charleston, SC 29413 843-881-1481 For marketing information, email: GetMore@CharlestonWomenMagazine.com We love all the issues of the magazine we put out. However, this issue has all of us here at Charleston Women just giddy. It’s not only that it includes all the holiday cheer and philanthropy astir in the community, but that it also got a makeover! As you flip through the pages, you’ll find new style, food, home, business, arts, wellness and philanthropy sections highlighting more amazing Lowcountry women than ever before. We’ve also added book, wine and events columns to wrap it all up. With the brand more abuzz than ever, we want to make sure we represent every part of the lives that our fellow Charleston women lead every day. Our readers and subjects are complex creatures with so many points of interest. It only makes sense that we provide the space to include it all. Within the new sections of the magazine, you’ll find that many stories showcase female business owners and community members volunteering, donating or uplifting others. Women in this area are famous for giving back, but the approaching holidays have opened up even more of those doors. Be sure to check out what’s happening with the Charleston Hat Ladies, and learn how to get involved. Also, pay close attention to our new style section. It highlights wonderful gift ideas for women this holiday season and touches on the wedding dress trends coming in 2023. Speaking of 2023, we’ve included a wonderful women in wellness section to help you select the healthiest ways to achieve your goals for mind and body when it’s resolution time. We hope all our readers have a blessed holiday season full of family, laughter and happiness. We also hope you all find ways to pay it forward like so many of the women have that you’re going to learn more about. Remember that we are all in this together. #WeAreCharlestonWomen. The Team at Charleston Women From the Team www.CharlestonWomen.com
8 www.Char l e s tonWomenPodcas t . com | www.ReadCW. com | www. Ins t ag ram. com /Char l e s tonWomen Prudential Advisors is a brand name of The Prudential Insurance Company of America and its subsidiaries. Life Insurance and annuities are issued by The Prudential Insurance Company of America, Newark, NJ, and its affiliates. Offering investment advisory services through Pruco Securities, LLC (Pruco), under the marketing name Prudential Financial Planning Services (PFPS), pursuant to separate client agreement. Offering insurance and securities products and services as a registered representative of Pruco, and an agent of issuing insurance companies. 1-800-778-2255. Property and Casualty policies are issued by insurers that are not affiliates or subsidiaries of Prudential Financial. Long-term care and disability income insurance [is/are] issued by unaffiliated insurers and sold through Prudential Insurance Agency, LLC (PIA). Availability varies by carrier and state. Prudential, the Prudential logo and the Rock symbol are service marks of Prudential Financial, Inc., and its related entities, registered in many jurisdictions worldwide. BUILD A STRATEGIC FINANCIAL LIFE WITH US For products and services that can help form the foundation of your financial life, turn to Prudential Advisors. ASSET PROTECTION • Life Insurance • Disability Income Insurance • Long-Term Care Insurance • Property & Casualty Insurance 917-225-6932 Amal Gawle CFP®, ChFC®, CLU®, CLTC®, MBA Financial Advisor amal.gawle@prudential.com 503 Wando Park Blvd, Suite 130, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 https://www.prudential.com/advisor/amal-gawle INVESTMENT AND RETIREMENT PLANNING NEEDS • Annuities • IRAs and Educational IRAs • Mutual Funds • Managed Money Accounts • SIMPLE IRAs & 401(k)s BUSINESS PLANNING NEEDS • Business Continuation Funding • Executive Compensation Funding • Key Person Insurance • Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation • Group Benefits ADDITIONAL SUPPORT • Financial Planning • Asset Management • Estate Planning Strategies Move forward with confidence that Prudential Advisors is ready to help you meet your financial challenges. 1027610-00002-00 EXP. 02.02.2023 Golf Car Sales, Service and Rentals RadRydz.com | 843-972-8525 | Chad@RadRydz.com | 857 Coleman Blvd., Unit E Mt. Pleasant, SC (behind REV Financial) @RadRydz NOW CARRYING GOLF CARTS BY NAVITAS! Brand New 2022 Golf Cart $11,500 • 18-month warranty • 25-30 mph • Navitas 600amp AC Controller • Navitas AC Motor • MadJax Storm Body • Custom Upholstery • LED Lights with Turn Signals, Brake Lights and Horn • New Batteries • Extended Roof • 6” Lift with 14” Wheels & 23” AT Tires • Rear View Mirror • Flip Down Rear Seat • Custom Steering Wheel • Unique Key for Security • State of Charge Meter • Tinted Windshield • New Charger Included
9 www.Char l e s tonWomenPodcas t . com | www.ReadCW. com | www. Ins t ag ram. com /Char l e s tonWomen Krystal Kaye Portorreal Krystal Kaye Portorreal is a veteran and business owner. She served 10 years active duty with the Air Force and got out to start her own business. Kaye + Co Designs was founded by Portorreal in 2014. After starting an online clothing boutique and learning how to code, the Air Force alum built her own website and logo. She went on to pursue a degree in graphic design and decided to make her passion her career. With an eye for light and clean aesthetics, Kaye + Co appeals to women most. Follow Portorreal on Instagram for more. Her handle is @mrskrystalkaye. Lauren Davis Lauren Davis is an Air Force combat veteran and Realtor in the Charleston area. She is a 2008 graduate of the United States Air Force Academy and served as a contracting officer stationed at Joint Base Charleston. She deployed to Baghdad and managed the private security contracts for the Iraqi theater. She also assisted with the US drawdown in 2011. She is married to a reserve pilot, and they have been blessed with three children. Davis now specializes in working with buyers and sellers in the Charleston vicinity. She loves using her real estate and VA loan knowledge to best assist her clients. In her free time, she teaches indoor cycle classes at Cycle House on Daniel Island. She is also active in her local church. Follow Davis on Instagram @ldavisrealtor for more. Celebrating Female Veterans Turned Entrepreneurs Social Buzz Confident, Smart, Strong, Determined, Nurturing, and much more. Do you have a story idea? If you would like to be featured in Charleston Women Magazine or for distribution and marketing, email Info@CharlestonWomen.com. @CharlestonWomen Erin Kienzle host of PODCAST MAGAZINE Women CHARLESTON
10 www.Char l e s tonWomenPodcas t . com | www.ReadCW. com | www. Ins t ag ram. com /Char l e s tonWomen Leah Rhyne is a professional writer with a bachelor’s degree in English literature from Montclair State University. She spent four years as the festival director of the Charleston to Charleston Literary Festival and specializes in event management, marketing and public relations. Heather Artushin is a clinical social worker, parent supporter, writer and homeschooling mama to two sweet boys. Originally from Detroit, Heather and her family have loved living in the Lowcountry for the past four years. You’ll often find them walking through Old Village or digging in the sand at the beach. She is the founder of Southern Parent, where she offers parenting classes and individual support to equip parents to do their job with passion and insight. Join her in the trenches of nurturing parenting at SouthernParent.com. Chesley Lanford was born and raised in Asheville, North Carolina. Though he spent many years in the insurance industry, he continued to hone the crafts of portrait and landscape photography in his free time, even studying the art in college. His work has been featured in a number of magazines, airports and prominent tourist attractions. He also won photo of the year with WNC Magazine. Drawn by the natural beauty, he is now relocating to the Lowcountry to continue his pursuit of the perfect photo. Barbara Skidmore is a Charleston-area blogger, content creator and columnist. She has written for a host of publications including the famed Condé Nast Traveler. She is a graduate of the University of Arizona. Follow her on Instagram under @blushingalpacas. Contributors
11 www.Char l e s tonWomenPodcas t . com | www.ReadCW. com | www. Ins t ag ram. com /Char l e s tonWomen The woman I aspire to be is the woman who seeks the problems within the world and fights for change—a woman who stands for the people. She will fight for climate change, poverty, education systems, disease, pollution and endangered species. I may be young, but I can still be the change in the world. We are all capable of being the woman we want to become. I choose to put my existence to something effective for society. Princess Diana and Jane Goodall were both women who genuinely cared for the well-being of mankind, and they are two women I admire. They put others above themselves because they believed in having a chance for better. Specifically, I want to work as an intelligence analyst. If I have the option to stop a threat and make a change before it happens, I will. Protecting humanity will transform the earth for better. I strive to be one of the many inspirational women of the world. I believe actually becoming the woman I want to flourish into being has to come from the heart. I am the only one who has control of who I become in the end. I want to live by the words spoken by Princess Diana, “Anywhere I see suffering, that is where I want to be, doing what I can.” Who I Aspire to Become BY SADIE ROBINSON Women in the Making Sad i e Robinson of Cane Bay Mi dd l e S chool .
12 www.Char l e s tonWomenPodcas t . com | www.ReadCW. com | www. Ins t ag ram. com /Char l e s tonWomen Best Night Ever: A Dance Party From Your Wildest Dreams When: 11/11/2022 at 8 p.m. Where: Music Farm Join for one epic night of dancing to all the hits from Taylor Swift, One Direction, Olivia Rodrigo and more. •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Holiday Festival of Lights When: 11/11/2022-12/31/2022 5:30 p.m.- 10 p.m. Where: James Island County Park Visit Santa, sip hot chocolate and create memories at the annual event of over 200 light displays. •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Aquarium Aglow When: 11/18/2022-12/31/2022 Check for times. Where: South Carolina Aquarium Gather friends and loved ones to journey through the aquarium, becoming immersed in waves of color from tens of thousands of lights. •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• WMNup Women Entrepreneurs Meetup When: 11/18/2022 at 10 a.m. Where: Chill Charleston, 520 Folly Road Meet like-minded women in business at this fun networking event. •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Middleton Place Annual Holiday Market When: 11/26/2022 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Where: Middleton Place Kick off the holiday season by shopping local! You can expect to find everything from sweetgrass baskets to pork rinds! •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Nutcracker Tea Party When: 11/27/2022 1 p.m-2 p.m. or 3 p.m.- 4 p.m. Where: Towne Centre Enjoy a whimsical experience with the Nutcracker characters and delicious refreshments. •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Women Surf Foundation: Women’s Paddle Out When: 11/27/2022 at 11 a.m. Where: Isla Surf School, Folly Beach Join this women’s only event the last Sunday of the month to share in the love of surfing. Calendar of Events November
13 www.Char l e s tonWomenPodcas t . com | www.ReadCW. com | www. Ins t ag ram. com /Char l e s tonWomen •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Women’s Golf Clinic When: 11/29/2022 at 4 p.m. Where: The Golf Club at Westcott Plantation Join this clinic for women only. Work on your game by playing three holes and getting great pointers. Registration is required and available at WomenonCourse.com. •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• A Christmas Carol When: 11/30/2022-12/21/2022 Check for times. Where: Dock Street Theater A new production of Dickens’s classic features colorful new sets, costumes and holiday scores. •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Wine Under The Oaks When: 12/4/2022 at 1 p.m. Where: Boone Hall Plantation Wine Under The Oaks has grown to be one of the highlights for the Christmas holidays. •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Women’s Leadership Summit 2022 When: 12/6/2022 7:30 a.m.- 4p.m. Where: Crowne Plaza Charleston Airport The Women in Defense Palmetto Chapter hosts a training in the areas of leadership and professional development. •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Women’s Bible Study When: 12/6/2022 at 9 a.m. Where: Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, 120 Broad Street Join this women’s group to share in your faith and exploration of the Bible. •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Charleston Women in Real Estate Summit When: 12/7/2022 at 10 a.m. Where: Founders Hall, 1500 Old Towne Road Visit AllEvents.In to learn more about this event, exclusively held for Charleston women in real estate. •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Holiday Mingle 2022 When: 12/8/2022 at 5:30 p.m. Where: Blackbaud, Inc. Are you a woman involved in the tech field in Charleston? If so, join this amazing holiday networking event. •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Dolly Disco When: 12/9/2022 at 8 p.m. Where: Music Farm Polish those boots for a night of Dolly Parton-inspired country western disco. Calendar of Events December
14 www.Char l e s tonWomenPodcas t . com | www.ReadCW. com | www. Ins t ag ram. com /Char l e s tonWomen Calendar of Events •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• The Nutcracker When: 12/16/2022-12/18/2022 Check for times. Where: Sottile Theatre Palmetto City Ballet, Charleston’s only professional ballet company, brings a new Charleston Nutcracker this holiday season. This classical tale has an original twist with a dash of a Lowcountry flair. •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Historic Women of Charleston: Guided Walking Tour When: 12/22/2022 from 1 p.m.- 3 p.m. Where: Bitty and Beau’s, 159 Church St. This is the only tour in Charleston which highlights the women in our history. •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• New Year’s Eve Meditation When: 12/31/2022 9:45 p.m. - 10:45 p.m. Where: TargetMarket Join this meditation with Sahaja Yoga Meditation. Learn, practice and unwind. •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• South Carolina Lowcountry Antique Militaria & Americana Show When: 1/7/2023-1/8/2023 Check for times. Where: Omar Shrine Hall, Mount Pleasant Enjoy perusing Civil War memorabilia, Native American artifacts, art, books, rare coins and much more at this enormous event. Learn more at 10Times.com. •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Wifecon 2023 When: 1/27/2023 Where: TBA in Summerville Establish core values and boundaries to help protect your marriage. Fresh and innovative ways to contribute to the health and wealth of marriage will be discussed. January THE BEST HAIR SALON! VOTED Cheer on your favorite team in style this football season. @vanitysalonsc (843) 216-7181 1909 HWY 17 N. Suite T Mount Pleasant, SC (843) 571-1945 2875 Ashley River Rd. Charleston, SC Grammys AtticDesign.com @grammysatticdesign • 843.352.2949 1184-G Clements Ferry Rd. Charleston ANTIQUES •VINTAGE & NEW FURNISHINGS •HOME DECOR
15 www.Char l e s tonWomenPodcas t . com | www.ReadCW. com | www. Ins t ag ram. com /Char l e s tonWomen Calendar of Events ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Destination Charleston When: 1/29/2023 12 p.m.- 4 p.m. Where: Omar Shrine Auditorium This is your special invitation to the most unique bridal show of the year! Visit the Charleston Bridal Show for an insider’s perspective in planning your Charleston Wedding. ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• The Charleston Bridal Show When: 1/29/2023 11 a.m.-3p.m. Where: Omar Shrine Auditorium, 176 Patriot’s Point The Charleston Bridal Show is the most unique bridal show of the year. Visit the Charleston Bridal Show for an insider’s perspective on planning your Charleston Wedding. Meet Charleston’s top wedding professionals conveniently gathered under one roof. Comfortable, convenient dental care with the latest technology. Accepting new patients! Call, text or visit our website to make an appointment today www.riverlandingdentistry.com (843) 242-0645 FREE Sonicare toothbrushes to new patients! *show proof of ad Invisalign Botox & Filler Sleep Apnea TMJ & Headaches General Dentistry Cosmetic Dentistry Implants Same Day Crowns ...and much more! 145 River Landing Dr., Suite 102, Daniel Island, SC 29492 200 Brighton Park Blvd., Suite A, Summerville, SC 29483 Happy Holidays from River Landing Dentistry! WHY SHOULD YOU USE A DIVORCE COACH? CDC Certified Divorce Coach® THE FUTURE STARTS NOW Every journey starts with the first step, you just made yours. 877-21COACH Alice Emerson Divorce2Recovery.com
16 www.Char l e s tonWomenPodcas t . com | www.ReadCW. com | www. Ins t ag ram. com /Char l e s tonWomen There are certain types of leaders who just “get it.” They are the kind who plant trees where future generations will seek shade. They are the boots on the ground who make sure individual parts are turning to move the whole. They naturally look at the world as a place for “us” and not for “me.” These are the kind of people who keep the world not just spinning but functioning, who make sure society’s most basic needs are met. Dreamers have their place, but it isn’t here. These leaders are the doers, the foreseers and the ambassadors of production. This is the kind of leader Barbara Melvin, the newly named CEO of the South Carolina Ports Authority, has always been. The Greater Good Meet South Carolina Ports Authority CEO Barbara Melvin BY LORNA HOLL I F IELD PORT TIMELINE 1682 – Charles Towne established as port of entry for Carolina colony 1783 – International slave trade was a major component of Charles Towne’s port activity 1863 – Port activity and docks devastated during Civil War 1830 – Railway system established linking port of Charleston with inland markets 1897 – Jetties constructed at entrance to Charleston harbor 1882 – Columbus Street Terminal constructed 1942 – SCSPA established and assumed ownership of the port 1921 – Ownership of the port transferred from Charleston Terminal Company to City of Charleston 1966 – First containership arrived at Columbus Street terminal 1955 – Columbus Street terminal expanded to accommodate three ships Photos prov i ded.
17 www.Char l e s tonWomenPodcas t . com | www.ReadCW. com | www. Ins t ag ram. com /Char l e s tonWomen Feature The South Carolina Ports Authority, or SCPA, is a top-10 port in the United States, employing over 800 men and women, but facilitating over a quarter of a million jobs statewide. It generates almost $63.4 billion annually and is headquartered in an 84,000-squarefoot facility here in Mount Pleasant. Trade routes span across the globe, connecting not only the Lowcountry but the entire nation to the rest of the world. The port, established in 1942, is the evolutionary product of Charleston’s maritime commerce, its roots dating back to the founding of Charles Towne, a harbor city destined for trade. The port has a responsibility to provide an enormous number of jobs, exchange tons upon tons of goods daily, ensure safety, promote efficiency and even preserve a piece of history. Leading such an important and highyielding facility is a tall order for anyone. However, after speaking with Barbara Melvin, it became clear why she was chosen. It’s what she was crafted to do by both nature and nurture. When deeming a person qualified for any occupation, people often focus on the nurture first: the education, the training, the titles and the awards. Melvin could rightfully boast about all of those things. She has a degree in political science and an EMBA in global chain supply from the University of Tennessee. She was the 2021 South Carolina Manufacturers Alliance Woman of the Year and the 2022 recipient of the Woman of Courage award. She has held countless leadership titles with the port and other civic and governmental organizations. She is a leader in 1981 – First container ship arrived at Wando Welch Terminal 1972 – Property for Wando Welch Terminal purchased by SCSPA 1997 – SCSPA acquired property on Daniel Island 1982 – Charleston became first port in U.S. to digitalize port information 2013 – Inland Port Greer opened in the Upstate 2002 – SCSPA acquired property at Old Navy Yard 2018 – Inland Port Dillon opened in the Pee Dee 2016 – Charleston Harbor Deepening Project initiated 2021 – Hugh Leatherman Terminal opened at Old Navy Yard 2020 – Port recognized among “Best Places to Work” in the state
18 www.Char l e s tonWomenPodcas t . com | www.ReadCW. com | www. Ins t ag ram. com /Char l e s tonWomen Feature social, philanthropic and business entities throughout the Charleston community and beyond. These things are beyond impressive, but it takes more than an outstanding resumé to lead such a large group of actual human beings while all parts operate like a well-oiled machine. It takes an x-factor — something in one’s nature. Something had to be the catalyst to collect the long list of achievements. It takes the woman behind the accolades to complete that recipe—the recipe that built the first woman in history to run a top-10 U.S. port. Melvin was encouraged by her parents to “take intelligent risks” from an early age. She was also enthralled by politics in a unique way. She didn’t dream of perching behind a podium and delivering the State of the Union while both sides of the aisle stand roaring with applause. Instead, she was fascinated by how things ran and by what made all the parts of the world work. She was the rare political enthusiast who loved policy and focused on the functions of concrete things that make the world move. She was focused on how people were able to work, eat and live at the micro and macro levels. What’s more is that she could envision it and facilitate it. The bottom line: she always had a heart for people and for the good of the world as one body. Without that, the accomplishments would have never been sought out and that impressive resumé never built.
19 www.Char l e s tonWomenPodcas t . com | www.ReadCW. com | www. Ins t ag ram. com /Char l e s tonWomen Feature When Melvin was growing up, it wasn’t necessarily the norm for girls to be encouraged into fields like infrastructure, logistics or trade policy. However, Melvin indicated that this was never an issue for her. “I’ve never been told that I’m not qualified to do something I wanted to do. I was never discouraged,” she said. The simple answer is that Melvin was always qualified—because she was the first one to refuse to question it. She never believed she wasn’t qualified, and the fruit that fell from her tree spoke to that. She didn’t hear scoffs in the background, if there were any. She didn’t feel threatened or competitive. She also credits her success to listening to people more than talking. That’s probably what allowed her to collect the information she needed to establish plans that made sense for large groups or organizations. She just continued to work toward goals that benefitted the greater good no matter her position. She never saw a need to edge anyone out, but to make room for more and to make room for progress. “When a pond is full, I would just rather build a bigger pond. Our job is to leave the door open behind us,” she relayed. That’s exactly what was done for Melvin, and what she intends to do for whomever comes after her. Before 2018, Melvin wasn’t sure she’d end up as the chief executive officer of a port. However, her predecessor, Jim Newsome, believed deeply that she was up next and bestowed greatness upon her. Melvin said, “His faith in me gave me greater faith in myself.” Once she realized her destiny, she stepped up to the plate even more. Before her official coronation, Melvin led the port in 15 consecutive months of record-breaking cargo volume. Reaching the top only made her fight harder. Now she sees her ultimate goal as preparing the port for an even stronger future once the sun has set on her time. She makes efforts to build coalitions and collaborations, to correct pitfalls (that she admits having a gift for foreseeing) and to prepare the port for smooth transitions into the future. She wants to make sure those wheels that turn for thousands of people every day keep turning. Her life’s goal is success for not just one, certainly not just herself, but for all. “Whoever said there’s a work/life balance was lying. It’s a lot. But I do have a great group of women where I can relax and be myself,” she shared. “I exercise in the morning, and I spend weekends in the Keys when I can. Years from now, I’ll be there all the time. But one of the best gifts you can give someone is a great job. I want to make sure that continues on. That’s my big dream for the future.” The Ports Authority of South Carolina is in great hands — hands that will possibly create even more opportunities for tomorrow than they do for today. Because of that, the future for thousands of South Carolinians continues to shine brightly with promise for job stability, economic growth and access to commodities. That sounds a lot like hope…for everyone.
20 www.Char l e s tonWomenPodcas t . com | www.ReadCW. com | www. Ins t ag ram. com /Char l e s tonWomen Oyster Candle Company & Coastal Gifts 2 1 6 S COT T S T R E E T & COL EMAN B L VD S H EM C R E E K WWW . OY S T E R C AND L E COMP ANY . COM Voted Best Gift Shop in Charleston and Mt. Pleasant’s “Best Place to Buy a Gift” Education to Last a Lifetime ✓ Online Courses for Financial Planning & Investing ✓ Free Guides to Make Better Decisions ✓ One on One Coaching ✓ A Guide to Decode the Financial Advice Industry CHARLESTON'S LARGEST SELECTION FOR EVERYTHING TENNIS! Northcutt Plaza 976 Houston Northcutt Blvd., Suite M., Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464 TennisShopMountPleasant.com | 843.284.8977 M-Th 10am-6pm Fri 10am-5pm Sat 9am-3pm Sunday Closed Curbside drop-off for racket stringing available!
21 www.Char l e s tonWomenPodcas t . com | www.ReadCW. com | www. Ins t ag ram. com /Char l e s tonWomen Feature The humid Charleston nights have traded places with the cool salty breezes that dominate Lowcountry winters. Some mourn the sunny beach days of summer or the crisp park days of fall. However, these colder months bring the warmth of holiday cheer along with them to temper the sting. It starts with Thanksgiving, then rolls into Hanukkah, Christmas, the New Year and Valentine’s Day before it’s over. It is the season of giving, and that means finding perfect gifts for all the females in your life, whether it’s a family member, friend or significant other. Sometimes, the mind darts immediately to the extravagant gifts like jewelry or designer handbags—the gifts that can put a serious dent in the wallet. However, focusing on these other two “e” words might be the answer to the perfect gift. Those words are escape and experience. Give the gift of Escape A lot of women are busy ladies. Some are raising families. Some are running companies. Some are throwing themselves into charity work. Some are doing all of it. Others are going through personal or health issues. The perfect gift for women on the go can be just a little bit of “me time.” This gift could be as simple as a great mani/ pedi, or it could be an entire spa day. Some unique options could include a float in a saltwater tank at Glowspa in Mount Pleasant or a relaxing stretching session with a massage therapist (most spas offer this option). A great place to start research on the gift of escape is The Sanctuary at Kiawah. The women in your life will love the drive down Bohicket Road beneath the hanging moss to end up shoreside for a day of luxurious pampering, including endless amenities. If you want to stay a bit more budget-conscious, a Escape and Experience over Extravagance Top Gift Ideas for Her this Holiday Season BY LORNA HOLL I F IELD
22 www.Char l e s tonWomenPodcas t . com | www.ReadCW. com | www. Ins t ag ram. com /Char l e s tonWomen Feature smaller spa like The Winchester in Summerville is a great option. The décor provides an atmosphere of opulence, and the services are quality and professional. You won’t find additions like hot tubs and steam rooms, but the staff treat all guests like royalty while offering a competitive menu of services. Some experiences include picking up the guest in a limousine stocked with champagne and strawberries to whisk them away for an amazing day. Moreover, the spa is in the heart of downtown Summerville. After the pampering session, women will love exploring the adorable gift shops, antique stores and lounges up and down South Main Street. Give the gift of Experience We live in one of the most toured cities in America. There is no need to miss out on the incredible experiences available right here in Charleston. A great gift idea for the ladies in your life are tickets. Concert tickets are wonderful but often expensive. They also include just one night of fun. However, season tickets to beautiful venues are gifts that keep giving. Some top places to purchase season tickets in Charleston include theaters and historical sites. If the lady in your life is a fan of stage arts, season tickets to one of the many theaters is a great choice. Wonderful options include the famed Dock Street Theatre or Queen Street Playhouse, both downtown. Each has historical significance, excellent shows and close proximity to restaurants, bars and shops in Charleston. For residents further north of the city, try out Flowertown Players in quaint downtown Summerville (just a block fromThe Winchester) for the small-town community theater feels. If you are gifting to a history buff, try season tickets to one of the plantations or museums. Many offer an abundance of experiences beyond everyday tours. For instance, Magnolia Plantation, west of the Ashley, offers boat tours, swampy trails and hosts of gardens to stroll. It’s a great place to relax, exercise or simply experience nature. Attractions like The Charleston Museum or South Carolina State Aquarium also offer yearly memberships. Local women could enjoy these places solo or with friends and family. Being close to history, culture or wildlife on a regular basis can be both therapeutic and inspiring. Exhibits and events are constantly evolving at these locations and will never disappoint. Purchasing tickets at either venue also support great causes like preservation of the arts, history and local sea life. No matter what gift you choose to give to the special women in your life this year, just remember that the memories made will never fade.
23 www.Char l e s tonWomenPodcas t . com | www.ReadCW. com | www. Ins t ag ram. com /Char l e s tonWomen Every little girl dreams of her wedding day—the elegant wedding cake with dozens of layers, the perfect venue decorated with gorgeous flowers, and most importantly, the show-stopping wedding dress like they’ve seen in the movies. Considering the distinct charm and year-long perfect weather Charleston has to offer, it is no surprise brides have come from near and far to tie the knot in this picture-perfect city. Perhaps that’s why the area is also the home to many high-end wedding dress boutiques. With spring and summer weddings planned, we enter the season for wedding dress shopping. Many brides are pondering the seemingly impossible question: “Which wedding dress do I pick?” As far as trends go, Jodi Moylan from White on Daniel Island said, “In the last year or so, we have seen a lot of trends making their way back into the mix!” One trend that has been turning heads is the puff sleeve trend, which gives a fun touch to any classic gown. Other brides lean toward a more elegant and simpler look with a slip dress, sometimes incorporating slits or corset bodices to add a touch of character while sticking to an overall clean look. A new trend that has started to gain Saying Yes to Your Dress Local Boutiques Offer Trends and Timelessness BY MADI SON BROACH A happy br i de s ay ing ye s to t he dre s s at Whi t e on Dani e l Is l and. Photo prov ided . Charleston Women in Style
24 www.Char l e s tonWomenPodcas t . com | www.ReadCW. com | www. Ins t ag ram. com /Char l e s tonWomen Angela Miller Regional Partner of South Carolina, Realtor ABR, MRP, SRES, SRS, E-PRO (843) 990-8963 AngelaMillerTeam@gmail.com Her professionalism is a standard that guides her. Her expertise comes from years of experience. You will be lucky to have her in your corner during a transaction that is both exciting and stressful. -Tina G. License: LLR 88498 434 W. Coleman Blvd., Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464 / 843.884.8884 / smilecarolinasc.com / @smilecarolinasc MORE THAN “JUST A DENTIST” WE PROVIDE ALL AROUND ELITE DENTAL CARE Including: Implants | Cosmetic Dentistry | Veneers | Invisalign General Restorative | Aesthetics | Modern Imaging | Sleep COSMETIC RESTORATIVE ENDODONTIC GENERAL FACIAL AESTHETICS IMPLANT DENTISTRY SNORE GUARDS GIFT OF GIVING HOLIDAYS OFFER State of the art CBCT 3D imaging complimentary with your new patient exam. A $300 VALUE! Mention this ad when booking appointment. Offer Expires 1/6/23. If you feel you are a fit, please email Stacey@CharlestonWomen.com. Are you Passionate about Charleston Women and working with women in our community? We are growing our tribe and looking for a strong, ambitious sales person to represent Charleston Women. This is a fun position where you would be a part of an exciting growing brand. We’re HIRING (FT preferred, but would be open to flexible hours)
25 www.Char l e s tonWomenPodcas t . com | www.ReadCW. com | www. Ins t ag ram. com /Char l e s tonWomen popularity is choosing different textured fabrics instead of incorporating lace in the dress. Jessica Kiss, owner of Verità. A Bridal Boutique, even saw gowns with black lace detail when she went to the National Bride Market in Chicago. Clearly, there is not just one style appealing to brides. Janet Culp from Gown Boutique of Charleston commented, “We have a really wide array of brides in the Charleston area, given how transient this area has become. We see trends from all over the area, and we are able to cater to all these looks.” Even each boutique owner has her own signature style. Moylan is drawn to a simpler look and says she often designs silhouettes with beautiful fabrics. She’s proud of a recent square-necked, low-backed dress covered in buttons. On the other hand, Kiss is attracted to all things sparkly. Meanwhile, with all the styles circulating her boutique, Culp said choosing a favorite dress in the store is like asking someone who their favorite child is — impossible to answer. Each owner is attentive to the variety of brides out there and makes sure that there is a dress that will speak to anyone who walks in their doors, despite their particular affections. Another factor pertaining to choosing a perfect dress is the weather. Even though sleeves are a common choice today, Culp said that many brides in Mount Pleasant opt out of them since it is hot for the majority of the year. Moylan explained that fabrics such as chiffon, tulle and organza are always a go-to for summer weddings, whereas thicker fabrics like silk mikado, heavy satin and faille are more popular for weddings in colder months. Brides also pay attention to the kind of venue they’ve chosen to house their special day. Many couples choose to get married on the shore of one of Charleston’s beautiful beaches. Culp said these brides tend to “want gowns that are light and airy with shorter trains.” Although they may still choose to incorporate sparkles or lace, they tend to keep the dress as lightweight as possible. Brides who choose to get married in one of the grandiose historic churches often select dresses that are more dramatic to match the setting. Culp stated, “The looks will range from classic Charleston lace and clean gowns to gowns that have a lot of sparkle and bling.” Although the time and place of the wedding will influence the brides’ decisions, the most prevalent deciding factor is always personal style. Kiss offered, “Our golden rule is, don’t try to match your venue — match you! In other words, we sometimes have brides who are concerned with finding a dress that goes well with their venue, but we always advise them to wear whatever they feel most beautiful and like a bride in, then style the venue around the dress.” A woman’s wedding is arguably the most important day of her life, and it is her time to be selfish, even in light of the current trends. Everything from the venue to the dress should reflect what makes her feel special, and the bridal boutiques in the Charleston area. find joy in doing their parts to make that happen. They hope to work with the brides to make childhood dreams and fairytale visions their realities. A gorgeous dre s s pe r f ec t for t he v int age venue f rom Ve r i t å Br i da l . Photo by Cas ey Hendr i cks on Brown . Charleston Women in Style
26 www.Char l e s tonWomenPodcas t . com | www.ReadCW. com | www. Ins t ag ram. com /Char l e s tonWomen There is something quintessentially Southern about stepping inside Oyster Candle Company in Mount Pleasant. Maybe it’s the little white antique home that houses the shop. It could be the way the front porch just invites patrons to come on inside. Perhaps it’s the beautiful scents that instantly soothe the soul. It also might be the friendly hello from owner Shannon Gallo. More than likely, however, it’s the perfect combination of all these things, touching all the senses and giving shoppers all the feels. Gallo is the definition of a people person. She thrives being around her guests, and those around her feel overwhelmingly welcomed, loved and appreciated. That’s probably why customers return and employees stay put. One of Gallo’s employees, McKenzie Hoffman, has been with Oyster Candle Company since 2018, when Gallo was still making candles out of her garage. When asked about her favorite part of the job, Hoffman replied, “Honestly, all of it. I’ve really enjoyed watching the business grow. I’ve come to know lots of customers on a first-name basis, and Shannon has truly taken me under her wing.” She spoke with emotion of how Gallo has been more like a second mom than an employer, and how she has learned the ins and outs of the business from her. Hoffman is “very thankful” for the mentorship. The sentiment was reciprocated when Gallo said, “Oyster Candle Company doesn’t run without her. I have a truly amazing staff.” This is why shoppers all over Charleston are smitten with Oyster Candle Company. The store is filled with love as much as it is amazing local products. Gallo’s beautifully curated collection of hand-poured candles, local jewelry, home décor, Charleston pantry staples and so much more fill the shelves. But if you want to get the true Oyster Candle Company experience, you should grab the girls and plan your own evening of shopping, socializing and hands-on candle making! This fall, Oyster Candle Company is opening its studio doors and allowing you to be part of the process. Select a beautiful vessel, and pair it with your favorite scent to create a candle as unique as the evening itself. Oyster Candle Company is conveniently situated off Coleman Boulevard, close to Shem Creek and some of Mount Pleasant’s best restaurants. Make it a perfect evening by grabbing dinner and drinks before heading to the shop. You can even swing by Bottles to pick up your favorite sips to enjoy during the candle-making party. But hurry — you’ll want to book soon to make sure you get the date your heart is set on. Be sure to follow Oyster Candle Company on Facebook and Instagram so you can see their schedule of upcoming events. Gallo and the team know how to throw one amazing ladies’ night. This season, support local ladies like Shannon Gallo who are following their dreams while encouraging the next generation of great women of the Lowcountry. Experience Oyster Candle Company This Fall BY KATIE F INCH Charleston Women in Style
www.pollysjewelry.comRkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjcyNTM1