Featured Image: Lowcountry Cuisine
Even after seven years as Travel + Leisure’s ‘Best City in the United States,’ Charleston still has that small-town feel. That’s because the only thing Charlestonians love more than Charleston itself is keeping Charleston true to its identity, an identity that is centered around tradition, community and loving all things local. So it should be no surprise that Charlestonians love these seven Charleston-made products:
Sweetgrass Baskets
A beautiful and long-standing tradition, sweetgrass baskets are one of the more well-known products that come from Charleston. Once used as winnowing fans to separate rice seeds from their chaffs, sweetgrass baskets have become a highly sought after cultural souvenir – and a symbol of Charleston. Locals and tourists alike can find sweetgrass baskets at the Charleston City Market, or at the many roadside stands in the area.
Brackish
Charleston’s twist on the classic bowtie. Brackish creates handmade, all-feather and sustainably-sourced bow ties and accessories. Since all materials and feathers are picked individually for each creation, no two items from Brackish are exactly the same. Founded by two local Charlestonians, Brackish bow ties and accessories have been worn by celebrities such as Cam Newton and Blake Lively. Find them in stores all over the Lowcountry or check out their website and
View this post on Instagram
Lowcountry Olive Oil
What started as a farmer’s market business has developed into one of Charleston’s staple shops, with more than 60 different varieties of olive oil and vinegar. Founded by the Benjamin family in 2011, Lowcountry Olive Oil has been proudly serving the Lowcountry’s largest selection of olive oil and vinegar ever since. With stellar customer service as a priority, shoppers are encouraged to sample their specialties of Lowcountry Herb Olive Oil and both Strawberry Champagne and Bourbon Balsamic Vinegars.
The Joggle Factory
Dating back to 1804, joggling boards gained popularity for their calming range of motion, often making users feel at ease with their gentle swaying. Since their inception, joggling boards have become a staple for the spacious porches that are often found in Charleston. To learn more about the history of joggling boards or to purchase one for your porch, you can visit The Joggle Factory’s website or Instagram.
Lillie’s of Charleston
Keeping the traditions (and secrets) of Charleston kitchens alive, Lillie’s offers the best of Charleston’s authentic spices and sauces needed to cook any and every Lowcountry dish. With barbecue and hot sauces, spice rubs and seasoning mixes, Lillie’s of Charleston has it all. You can find Lillie’s products in most specialty shops and markets in Charleston or check them out online on their website or Instagram.
Old Whaling Co.
Creating effective and affordable bath and body products is challenging, but Old Whaling Co. has been able to do this for customers since 2012. Old Whaling Co. proudly sells their soaps, bath bombs, body butters, roll-on perfumes, and salt scrubs, all inspired by the sea. Featuring intoxicating scents such as Bamboo and Teak, Indigo and Rice, and Sea La Vie, Old Whaling Co.’s products are a one of a kind. Visit one of their three Charleston locations, head to their website or check out their Instagram to start shopping today!
J. Stark
With its flagship store located Downtown on Coming St., J. Stark sells aesthetically pleasing, but minimalistic and highly functional bags, wallets and accessories. Made with heavyweight twill, waxed or heavyweight canvas and bridle leather, J. Stark products are designed to last. Though it’s a small shop, J. Stark makes their bags right there in the store, and are highly customizable. Stop by their Coming St. store the next time you’re downtown or check out their website and Instagram!
Did we forget your favorite Charleston-made products? Be sure to let us know!
