Celebrate love at La Cave with a five-course menu thoughtfully made just for Valentine’s Day. | Photo by Andrew Cebulka
Want to celebrate your Valentine with more than cards and chocolates? Let us help you plan the perfect Valentine’s Day in Charleston. Pro Tip: Buy your tickets and make your reservations ASAP — events sell out, and restaurants fill up quickly.
Legami | $120+ per person | This cozy spot offers a special tasting menu, including dishes like Burrata with artichokes and Poached Lobster with citrus sauce and endive.
Things to do
Valentine’s Cocktail Class for Two | Friday, Feb. 14 | Striped Pig Distillery | $120 | Join this hands-on class where you will learn how to mix up some delicious drinks with your special someone.
Stay tuned — we’re working on a guide for your gals + pals in the Holy City, so you can celebrate all of your besties.
Biscuit Belly Grand Opening | 7:30 a.m.-2 p.m. | Biscuit Belly, Summerville | Price of purchase | Make your way to Flowertown for the opening of its newest breakfast spot — pro tip: there will be giveaways + prizes.
Fittest of the Coast 2025 | Through Sunday, Feb. 9 | 8 a.m.-5 p.m. | Charleston Area Convention Center, North Charleston | $20+ | Join one of the country’s largest fitness events to experience big moments and explore 20+ fitness vendors.
Author Luncheon | 12 p.m. | Halls Signature Events | $42+ | Grab your tickets for this author luncheon with Signe Pike, the best-selling author who will discuss the latest in the series, “The Shadowed Land.”
Saturday, Feb. 8
Fossil Fest | Through Sunday, Feb. 9 | 10 a.m. | Cypress Gardens, Moncks Corner | Free with admission | Learn how to responsibly find shark teeth and other fossils across the Lowcountry.
Galentine’s Day Yoga | 11 a.m.-12 p.m. | Hobcaw Brewing Company, Mount Pleasant | $15 | All levels are welcome — grab your mat for a fun yoga pop-up and stay for a post-class pint.
Tideland Brewing Oyster Roast | 12-4 p.m. | 4155 Dorchester Rd., North Charleston | $45 | Enjoy brews, fresh local oysters, and great company.
SwifTEA Galentine’s Tea Party | 1-3 p.m. | Sweatman’s Garden | $55 | Get ready for a fabulous afternoon presented by Above Tea Level + Sweatman’s Garden.
Sunday, Feb. 9
Galentine’s Pop-Up Market | 12-3 p.m. | Ritual Rooftop | Free admission | Shop, mingle, and celebrate with your besties.
Yelp’s Elite Squad is the place for local movers and shakers. | Photos provided by Yelp
Meet your new favorite club.
If you love food, Charleston, and meeting people who also love both, get to know Yelp’s Elite Squad.
As a member, you’ll be invited to special events, get to know more Charleston businesses, and have a genuinely good time with other Elites who write “chef’s kiss” reviews.
Here’s the best part — you can nominate yourself (or a friend) to join the Yelp Charleston Elite Squad. We’re cheering you on.
Patriots Annex is another step closer to becoming a reality. Mount Pleasant’s Planning Committee met to discuss plans + changes for the proposed development. Leaders want to ensure the project, which includes hotels, living spaces, offices, and retail space, will match the feel of the town while preserving nature and open spaces. (Moultrie News)
Eat
Snacks are the true MVP on Super Bowl Sunday. So whether you’re looking for a spot to watch the game or a place to help you perfect your game day spread, Kickin’ Chicken has you covered. Go for two (restaurants) + pick up more bites from one of these Lowcountry spots.
Biz
Charleston Crab House restaurants have a new owner after more than three decades. Get this — Scott Larymore, who first started as a busboy and has worked almost every position in the restaurant, is taking over from John Keener, who co-founded the original Charleston Crab House back in 1991. (The Post and Courier)
Read
Jenna Bush Hager + Barbara Pierce Bush are bringing their book tour to the Holy City on Thursday, March 27. Buxton Books and The Charleston Library Society are teaming up to host the sister duo for two events to celebrate their new picture book. Secure your spot.
Charlestonian
Did you know? The North Charleston Coliseum and Performing Arts Center has been in operation for 32 years. Fun fact: There’s a group of 18 employees who’ve been there for almost just as long — so let’s meet the behind-the-scenes team,who keep things running.(The Post and Courier)
Did you catch this? Beyoncé gave a shoutout to Linda Martell when she accepted her Grammy for “Album of the Year.” Martell is an SC native from Batesburg-Leesville (about two hours northwest of Charleston) + was the first solo Black woman country artist to play the Grand Ole Opry. (Today + free times)
Job
Ready to connect with the best local talent in 2025? We created our community job board just for you. Give it a try + post your first listing for free.
Eat
If what to eat for lunch has you stumped (because, same), try this easy sandwich alternative. This fresh, healthy, and tasty pita pocket comes together in just 10 minutes with the help of a rotisserie chicken. We recommend this one.*
Finance
Did you know some credit cards can actually help you get out of debt faster? (It sounds wild, but it’s true.) The secret: Find a credit card with a “0% intro APR” period for balance transfers. This one even offers 5% cash back on your purchases, helping you save even more while you pay down your debt.*
Health
Weight Loss by Hims & Hers makes hitting your goals simple and personalized. Answer a few questions online, and a medical provider will design a plan just for you — medications, follow-ups, and all. Plus, it’s the least expensive 12-month GLP-1 plan around†. Ready to get started?Take the free assessment.*
†Please note: Comparison based on 12-month plan prices for compounded semaglutide from 12 leading competitors as of December 2024.
Category
Try This
Create some new memories
City Editor Callie here — I recently had one of my best friends in town, we stopped by Big Gurl and had so much fun catching up and crafting that hours passed by and we didn’t realize it. | Photo by Callie Putnam
Calling all creators, makers, or those looking to try their hand at a new craft. King Street is now home to Big Gurl, a walk-in studio for self-guided crafts. Created for those 18 years and up, the space is nestled next to Cafecito, a few steps from the intersection of King and Ann Streets.
I had the chance to chat with owner Rosie Werden, and she shared all the details about the new studio.
For those who don’t know, tell us about your space.
Big Gurl is a creative studio. During open hours, I have a set “menu” of craft options you can choose from. I give you everything you need, and you create. We are walk-in only, so you stop in whenever works best for you; no planning ahead necessary.
Everything is self-guided (with small instructions), and I walk around and assist as needed. This way, you can create at your own pace.
We are an adult-only space, so as much as we love littles, please leave them at home. We have non-alcoholic beverages available for you to enjoy. We also have retail and art from Charleston’s small businesses and artists for you to enjoy or purchase.
Although our walk-ins are our bread and butter, we also have a handful of ticketed events that you can purchase on our website. These include clubs, socials, and hands-on workshops. We’re also open to private events for you to celebrate meaningful moments. We are a community space where you get your creative fix, maybe meet a new friend, or find a new skill.
Tell us a little bit about yourself + your connection to Charleston.
I grew up in Elgin, a small town about two hours away from Charleston, so we visit here occasionally. I remember the first time I visited Charleston when I was about 13 and knew even then, I would one day live here.
I decided to go to Clemson to pursue a STEM major (that I clearly do not use), then shipped up to Boston for work and was there for four years. Unable to bear the cold, I knew it was time to finally move back to my dream city, Charleston.
I moved back in 2023, and I’m never leaving again. Charleston has allowed me to make means through my art and connected me with amazing creatives, and without this city, I don’t think I would’ve ever ventured into my small business. It was a perfect place and timing situation.
What inspired you to open this space?
I’ve been involved in the Charleston art scene primarily through craft fairs, vendor events, and farmers markets selling my art. I’ve always dreamt of somehow sharing art with the community in a greater way.
I was first interested in finding a space to lead hands-on guided workshops, but once I found my space, a completely new idea developed. That’s where I got the walk-in concept. Charleston has many great bars, restaurants, and beaches, but something was missing where people could participate or create something of their own.
Guided workshops in several formats already exist throughout Charleston, where you have to plan ahead, make a commitment, and often spend a hefty dollar. At Big Gurl, I’m making art casual. You don’t have to be an expert, just come and have fun.
Also, as an artist, I know how tough it can be to reach your audience or have the opportunity to showcase your work. It was important for me to dedicate a portion of my store to giving makers and artists to display their goods. I work with all small businesses that may have never been in a storefront or just getting started.
Where do you see your craft shop in five years?
I hope Big Gurl becomes a pillar of the community — the go-to spot, where to take your visitors, catch up with friends, or a date night spot, the possibilities are endless.
I also see this being a destination for celebration and a place to make memories. We offer a unique way to spend birthdays, bachelorette trips, and company outings. Somewhere you can continuously come to hone in on a specific skill or try something new.
We will always keep things fresh and offer new opportunities for everyone to get involved. I hope to evolve with the community and what the people want. I’ve already learned so much from our guests in our first month; I can’t even imagine the learnings in five years. And who knows, hopefully, we get so busy you can find us in other locations.
What about the folks who don’t consider themselves crafty or creative, can they still stop by?
Absolutely. If anything, that’s what I’ve intended for Big Gurl. This is a hub for all skill levels to participate. Art isn’t always accessible or can be intimidating to start, so I wanted to create a space that cultivated and encouraged trying something new.
I intentionally pick crafts that anyone can do. It’s not about what you produce but the joy that comes with it.
What’s your favorite Charleston restaurant (or top three)?
Ooooo, this is so so hard — as I’m sure everyone says. I’m going to go a little off the beaten path, and name spots you can in the greater Charleston area.
El Molino is my go-to spot anytime I’m craving tacos — the Birria tacos are my usual order, but the steak burrito is also amazing.
King BBQ, a Charleston classic, cannot be beaten. Most of the dishes are so simple, and that’s what makes them so good.
PHO-NOMENAL-BOWL is my favorite Pho, which has been so hard to find. Can you tell I live in North Charleston?
The Buy
The Buy
A corner bathroom counter organizer. Elegant and functional, its three tiers are perfect for housing toiletries and cosmetics while saving precious bathroom counter space.
Mark your calendars. On Friday, March 14, there will be a chance for you to spot a total lunar eclipse. Take a peek at the visibility map. Pro tip: keep your eye on local photographers’ pages for the stunning pictures they’re sure to capture.
Answered
Answered
What readers would like to see The Powerhouse become:
The historic space located at The Navy Yard recently hit the market + we asked you what you want to see there.
Several readers said they want to see a concert hall or an art center for artists — keep reading for more reader ideas.
I would love to see concerts performing there, and also Broadway shows that would be awesome. — Denise B.
An indoor food market like they have in Europe. — Ester P.
I’d like to see a wedding venue. — Parker C.
Concerts and festivals. — Sarah T.
I’d like to explore having the space used for family-friendly shows and entertainment.