Charleston

Charleston, SC has always been one of those cities where I knew if I had to live there without ever visiting, I would absolutely love it. When we finalized vacation plans on Hilton Head Island with my family this summer, we knew we wanted to make a pit stop in Charleston along the way. So after a year of anticipation (and a 8 hour car ride), we finally arrived and it was everything I imagined. From the serene Cypress Gardens (where The Notebook and The Patriot were filmed) to the regal Middleton Place and the ever popular Boone Hall Plantation (hello, Forest Gump!), every where we toured was better than the last. And as awesome as all though sights were to see, the food may have been even better — fried shrimp, chicken and waffles, homemade mac and cheese and even a slice of cake in bed at the end of the night!

We arrived in the city just a few days after the horrible violence that occurred the week before. There was a surprise visit from President our first day there for the Emanual AMC funerals and it was amazing to see the city stand together, overcoming fear. Even in tragedy, Charleston held strong.

It was definitely a short trip, but that was probably for the best as I sweat more there in 2 days that I have at home in a month — and that’s saying something! I can’t wait to return to this amazing little spot in November for Creative at Heart!!!

Cypress Gardens | Moncks Corner, SC

Boone Hall Plantation | Mt Pleasant, SC
This is home of the infamous Oak Alley! It was truly magical to see this in real life and I would highly recommend a trip — it’s not too far from downtown!