Holiday Heritage: Lowcountry Flavors, Family Traditions & Festive Tables

There’s something about the holiday season that encourages us to slow down and savor the small moments—the glow of a Christmas tree, laughter from the kitchen, and the comfort of gathering with the people we love. At the center of so many of these memories is a good drink—something warm, flavorful, and made with intention. The photos above are from our recent Open House at Sweetgrass Hall, where our incredible partner, Mixin Mixer , brought an unforgettable touch of holiday magic. The festive creations—like the Hot Chata and Tipsy Cider—filled the space with cozy aromas and helped set a joyful, welcoming tone for the entire evening. Mixin Mixer’s cocktails didn’t just taste amazing; they elevated the atmosphere. Guests gathered around the bar, sipping, chatting, and soaking in the mood created by their handcrafted drinks. Mixin Mixer One of the easiest ways to elevate your hosting is with a simple beverage station—pretty glasses, a few mixers, garnishes, and space for guests to create something that fits their mood. A sprig of rosemary or a handful of cranberries can transform even the simplest drink into something special. At the end of the day, the holidays aren’t about perfection—they’re about warmth, connection, and moments that bring us together. And as you prepare for your own holiday gatherings, remember that creating a memorable drink experience doesn’t have to be complicated. Offering one signature cocktail, a cozy warm drink, or even a beautifully presented mocktail can instantly elevate the mood. Focus on flavors that feel comforting and seasonal, and choose elements that reflect your personal style—whether that’s classic, playful, or deeply rooted in Lowcountry traditions. A well-crafted beverage, shared among loved ones, has a way of turning ordinary moments into something truly special. No matter what you’re sipping this season, let it be something that slows you down, warms your hands, and fills your spirit. Something that reminds you that joy often shows up in the simplest moments. Here’s to savoring the season, one comforting sip at a time.

The holiday season is one of the most enchanting times of the year—especially for children. Between the sparkling lights, cozy traditions, and joyful gatherings, December offers endless opportunities to create memories your kids will treasure for years to come. Whether you’re looking for at-home crafts, local outings, or festive ways to bring your family together, there are plenty of kid-friendly activities to keep the season bright. One of the simplest ways to kick off holiday fun is with classic Christmas crafts. Pull out the glitter, glue, and markers to make paper snowflakes, ornament decorating kits, or personalized holiday cards for teachers and grandparents. Not only do kids love hands-on creativity, but these homemade treasures become keepsakes that remind you of their little personalities year after year. Another cozy favorite is hosting a holiday movie night at home. Pajamas, hot cocoa, popcorn, and a lineup of kid-approved classics—The Grinch, Home Alone, The Polar Express, or Jingle Jangle—create a perfect family evening. Add a themed snack board or a “build-your-own” s’mores tray to make the night extra special. If you’re ready to get out of the house, Charleston has plenty of festive adventures that bring the magic to life. Drive through neighborhood light displays, visit holiday markets, stop by the aquarium’s seasonal programs, or stroll through downtown to see decorated storefronts. Kids love the wonder of exploring the city during the holidays, and these outings often become cherished family traditions. And for a magical experience your child will never forget, don’t miss Carolima’s Kid's Grinch Pajama Brunch! Hosted by Isabella Joi at Sweetgrass Hall, this playful event brings the beloved Grinch to life with a fun breakfast, karaoke, photo ops, and holiday cheer. It’s the perfect way to make lasting memories and let your little ones celebrate the season in a truly joyful way. Get your tickets here: Carolima’s Kid's Grinch Pajama Brunch! Round out your holiday season with simple acts of kindness that involve your children—donating toys, baking cookies for neighbors, or writing thank-you notes to community helpers. These activities not only spark joy but also teach the heart of what Christmas is truly about. With the right mix of fun, creativity, and community, you can make this holiday season unforgettable for your family. From at-home crafts to festive outings—and of course, Carolima’s magical Grinch Brunch—there are endless ways to celebrate with your little ones. Here’s to a December filled with laughter, love, and Christmas magic!

The holiday season is the perfect excuse to sprinkle a little extra magic around your home—and your table. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering with friends, creating an inviting experience doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. With a few thoughtful details, clever planning, and budget-friendly décor ideas, you can transform any space into a warm, holiday-ready retreat guests will rave about long after the last slice of pecan pie. Start with the mood you want to set: warm and nostalgic, elegant and modern, or fun and whimsical. Let that theme guide your color palette, table décor, and even your menu. Don’t feel pressured to overhaul your home—small touches like holiday-scented candles, garlands, cozy throws, and soft lighting instantly make a space feel festive. Stores like HomeGoods , Target , and Hobby Lobby offer affordable décor options, while Canva is perfect for creating customizable menus, place cards, and printable signs that give your celebration a professional touch without the cost. When it comes to decorating your table, layering is your best friend. Start with a simple tablecloth or runner, then build upward with chargers, dinner plates, cloth napkins, and a statement centerpiece. You don’t need expensive florals to impress—think DIY arrangements using grocery-store bouquets, fresh greenery, or even foraged pine branches and magnolia leaves. Add a few metallic accents (gold candle holders, beaded napkin rings, or rustic wooden boards) to elevate the look without overspending. For a more personal touch, tuck handwritten notes or recipe cards underneath each guest’s plate. Hosting on a budget doesn’t mean skimping on style. Repurpose what you already own: lanterns, cake stands, ribbon scraps, leftover ornaments, or mason jars can all be turned into beautiful accents. Create height by stacking books under your centerpiece, add warm glow with inexpensive tea lights, and use fabric remnants as napkins or runners. And if you’re short on tableware, stores like Dollar Tree , IKEA , and Walmart carry affordable entertaining essentials that mix beautifully with what you have. Don’t forget about the food—after all, great meals are at the heart of every gathering. Plan a menu that’s flavorful but manageable by choosing 1–2 standout dishes and rounding out the rest with simple sides or store-bought shortcuts. Pinterest and food blogs like Half-Baked Harvest, Grandbaby Cakes, and The Quicker Kitchen offer plenty of crowd-pleasing inspiration. If you’re looking for even more recipes, consider purchasing Carolima’s e-book Party Food 101 . And of course, if you’d prefer to leave the cooking to the pros, Carolima’s is always ready to bring Lowcountry warmth to your holiday table. Finally, make hosting easier by prepping what you can ahead of time. Set the table the night before, chill drinks early, create a self-serve beverage station, and designate a drop zone for coats and bags. A simple checklist helps keep you organized so you can actually enjoy the event. Remember: guests will always remember how you made them feel, not whether your wreath was perfectly fluffed. With thoughtful planning, festive touches, and a little creativity, you can “deck the halls—and the tables” beautifully this season. Whether you go all out or keep it simple and intimate, your home will feel warm, welcoming, and uniquely you. Happy hosting!

In the Lowcountry, we believe gifts should feel personal, memorable, and thoughtful. Food checks every box — especially when that food carries our heritage, our flavor, our story. Instead of defaulting to candles or last-minute gift cards this year… why not surprise someone with a taste of the Lowcountry? One thing about us down here? We show love through food. Dessert tins, homemade sauces, small-batch seasonings — all of these say “I thought of YOU” in a way store-bought items never quite do. Whether you’re gifting corporate clients, saying thank you to a colleague, or putting together a hostess gift basket — edible gifts deliver warmth, nostalgia, and just enough indulgence to make someone’s day. A great place to start is with Charleston Chewies. Our Charleston Chewies are a brown-sugar bar made with pecans that locals grew up loving. Package it in a tin container, add a handwritten note, or add a palmetto rose — and you’ve turned a simple dessert into a lowcountry dessert surcee. Another easy edible-gift idea? Infused honey or flavored simple syrups. A small jar of raw honey with cinnamon or orange peel — or a bottle of rosemary simple syrup for cocktail lovers — feels luxe, but is incredibly quick to make at home. These gifts pair beautifully with charcuterie boards, tea baskets, or brunch-themed gift sets. And don’t forget spice blends. Homemade rubs — packed into small mason jars with kraft labels — feel elevated and boutique. You can mix salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic, dried herbs, a little brown sugar — and suddenly you have your own “house blend.” Add a tiny tasting card with serving suggestions (shrimp, roasted sweet potatoes, chicken wings), and your gift becomes both delicious and useful. You can also consider gifting “Saturday Morning Starter Kits.” Think: stone-ground grits paired with a bag of artisan coffee, or cinnamon-dusted pancake mix bundled with a tiny jar of maple syrup. These small sets instantly feel intentional, and they let someone wake up to an easy, comforting Lowcountry-inspired breakfast. Whether you’re gifting coworkers, church family, bridesmaids, neighbors, or VIP clients — edible gifts from the Lowcountry hit different because they’re rooted in care, memory, and culture. They don’t just taste good — they tell a story. And for us, that’s the real joy of giving: sharing a flavor that reminds someone where we come from.

In the Lowcountry, we believe gifts should feel personal. Memorable. Thoughtful. Food checks every box — especially when that food carries our heritage, our flavor, our story. Instead of defaulting to candles or last-minute gift cards this year… why not surprise someone with a taste of the Carolinas? One thing about us down here? We show love through food. Dessert tins, homemade sauces, small-batch seasonings — all of these say “I thought of YOU” in a way store-bought items never quite do. Whether you’re gifting hospitality clients, saying thank you to a colleague, or putting together a hostess gift basket — edible gifts deliver warmth, nostalgia, and just enough indulgence to make someone’s day. A great place to start is with Charleston Chewies Dry Mix. Our mix makes it easy for your gift-recipient to recreate the original Charleston Chewy — that sticky, brown-sugar-rich, pecan-studded bar that locals grew up loving. Wrap it in kraft paper, add a handwritten baking tip, or tie on a set of mini silicone spatulas — and you’ve turned a single bag into a full baking experience.  Another easy edible-gift idea? Infused honey or flavored simple syrups. A small jar of raw honey with cinnamon or orange peel — or a bottle of rosemary simple syrup for cocktail lovers — feels luxe, but is incredibly quick to make at home. These gifts pair beautifully with charcuterie boards, tea baskets, or brunch-themed gift sets. And don’t forget spice blends. Homemade rubs — packed into small mason jars with kraft labels — feel elevated and boutique. You can mix salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic, dried herbs, a little brown sugar — and suddenly you have your own “house blend.” Add a tiny tasting card with serving suggestions (shrimp, roasted sweet potatoes, chicken wings), and your gift becomes both delicious and useful. You can also consider gifting “Saturday Morning Starter Kits.” Think: stone-ground grits paired with a bag of artisan coffee, or cinnamon-dusted pancake mix bundled with a tiny jar of maple syrup. These small sets instantly feel intentional, and they let someone wake up to an easy, comforting Lowcountry-inspired breakfast. Whether you’re gifting coworkers, church family, bridesmaids, neighbors, or VIP clients — edible gifts from the Lowcountry hit different because they’re rooted in care, memory, and culture. They don’t just taste good — they tell a story. And for us, that’s the real joy of giving: sharing a flavor that reminds someone where we come from.

The holiday season is more than just a time for gift exchanges and glittering décor — it’s a moment to pause, reflect, and celebrate the people who make our workdays meaningful. As the year winds down, it’s important to recognize the effort, dedication, and heart that your team has poured into every project and milestone. A thoughtful celebration — big or small — can remind everyone that their contributions matter and that they’re valued not just as employees, but as people. At Carolima’s, we’ve seen firsthand how food has a special way of bringing people together. Whether it’s a corporate luncheon, an end-of-year celebration, or a simple “thank you” gathering, sharing a meal creates connection. It’s not just about what’s on the table — though we do believe a good spread helps — it’s about creating moments of appreciation that strengthen your workplace culture. The end of the year is the perfect time to say, “We see you, we appreciate you, and we couldn’t do this without you.” For many, the office or workplace is like a second family — and for some, it’s the only family they have nearby. The holidays can be a joyful time, but they can also be lonely for those who may not have loved ones to celebrate with. Hosting a warm, inclusive holiday event at work can be a beautiful way to ensure that everyone feels cared for and connected. A few kind words, a shared laugh, and a good meal can go a long way in making someone’s season brighter. That’s where Sweetgrass Hall comes in. Our venue was designed with community and celebration in mind — an elegant yet welcoming space that fits perfectly for company parties, networking events, or intimate gatherings. With sparkling chandeliers, flexible floor plans, and a cozy Lowcountry charm, it’s a place where people can unwind and celebrate in style. And with Carolima’s catering team on-site, your guests can enjoy authentic, flavorful dishes that bring warmth and conversation to the table. This season, we’re especially excited to welcome our business community to the Sweetgrass Hall Open House on November 6th . It’s a chance for local professionals, event planners, and organizations to experience the space, meet vendors, and imagine what their next celebration could look like. Whether you’re planning an elegant sit-down dinner, a casual mixer, or a festive cocktail party, our team is here to make it seamless — and delicious. As you plan your year-end festivities, remember that celebrating your team doesn’t have to mean going over the top. It can be as simple as gathering for lunch, exchanging words of gratitude, or hosting a small after-hours toast. The goal is to create a moment that feels genuine, inclusive, and filled with good energy — the kind of moment people will carry into the new year with a smile. So this holiday season, let’s celebrate more than just the close of another year. Let’s celebrate the people who made it happen — the co-workers who’ve become friends, the clients who’ve become family, and the communities that keep us inspired. Whether at your office or at Sweetgrass Hall, Carolima’s is honored to help you create those unforgettable moments where gratitude and good food meet.

When the air turns crisp and the leaves start to fall, the South comes alive with the sweet smell of baking — butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and love. Around here, fall isn’t just a season; it’s dessert season. And at Carolima’s, some of us proudly admit we like to start with dessert first. There’s just something about this time of year that makes Southern sweets even more comforting. Maybe it’s the warmth of a fresh-baked sweet potato pie straight from the oven, or the way an apple pie bubbles over with caramel goodness. Maybe it’s the scent of pound cake cooling on the counter, calling everyone to the kitchen before dinner’s even served. Whatever it is, fall desserts have a way of bringing family together — and that’s what we’re all about. At Carolima’s, we love showcasing the flavor s that make the Lowcountry special. From our Charleston Chewies, rich with brown sugar and pecans, to our moist buttery cakes and our sweet potato pie that tastes like a cozy afternoon on the porch — each treat tells a story of Southern comfort and hospitality. Our recipes are rooted in tradition but baked with love in the present — because nothing says “home” like a dessert made from scratch. So whether you enjoy your sweet treat after dinner or sneak a slice before the meal even starts, we say go ahead and indulge. Taste the season! Savor the South! And don’t forget — dessert comes first around here!!! We’d love to see what you’re baking this season! Let us know your favorite fall desserts, tag us, or use #LUVCarolimas to share your go-to sweets and new recipes you discover. Who knows — your creation might just inspire our next Southern favorite!

There’s something special about a Saturday morning at the farmers market — the smell of freshly popped kettle corn in the air, the sound of live music and tables overflowing with vibrant fall produce. Pumpkins, collard greens, sweet potatoes, okra, and apples — all grown by local farmers right here in the Lowcountry. Fall is one of the best times to explore your local market. The weather is crisp, the colors are bold, and every basket tells a story of hard work, heritage, and heart. When you shop local, you’re doing more than filling your bag — you’re helping to sustain family farms, support small businesses, and keep Southern traditions alive. At Carolima’s, we know firsthand that fresh, local produce makes all the difference. There’s just no substitute for the flavor that comes from food grown close to home. From vine-ripened tomatoes to just-dug sweet potatoes, that freshness deepens every dish — it’s what brings out that "made from scratch" flavor we’re known for. We love visiting farmers markets not just to source ingredients, but to connect with the people behind the produce. The farmers who know the soil, the bakers who know the craft, the artisans who keep our culture alive — they’re the heartbeat of our community. Supporting them means investing in better flavor, better health, and a better future for the Lowcountry. So this fall, grab your tote bag, bring a friend, and spend the morning wandering your local farmers market. Ask questions, taste samples, and get inspired to cook something new. You’ll leave with more than just groceries — you’ll take home a story, a smile, and a little piece of the Carolinas’ soul. Because at the end of the day, good food starts with good ingredients — and great flavor starts right here at home.  Here are a few of the Farmer's Markets in the Charleston area: Charleston Farmers Market Marion Square: 329 Meeting Street (29403) Saturdays, 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM April 12 – November 22, 2025 West Ashley Farmers Market Ackerman Park: 55 Sycamore Ave (29407) Wednesdays, 3:00 – 7:00 PM April 23 – October 29, 2025 Summerville- Farmers Market 218 South Main Street behind Summerville Town Hall Every Saturday: April – Mid-November 8:00am- 1:00pm Historic Downtown Summerville

There’s a chill in the air, and that can only mean one thing—oyster season has arrived in the Lowcountry! From the marsh to the city, you can almost smell the smoky aroma of oyster roasts filling the air as friends and families gather to celebrate one of Charleston’s favorite traditions. Oyster season isn’t just about food—it’s about fellowship, storytelling, and honoring the flavors that define our coast. At Carolima’s, we love to honor this time of year with dishes that highlight the rich, briny taste of fresh local oysters. Picture a platter of crispy fried oysters served over creamy grits, a Lowcountry oyster stew with butter, cream, and a touch of spice, or a classic oyster po’boy stacked high with lettuce, tomato, and a drizzle of remoulade. Whether you like them steamed, roasted, or raw on the half shell with lemon and hot sauce, there’s no wrong way to enjoy them. Hosting an oyster roast of your own? We’ve got you covered. Pair those steaming clusters with red rice, chili, and homemade cornbread for a true Lowcountry spread. Add a pot of seafood gumbo and you’ve got yourself a feast that celebrates everything we love about our coastal roots. At Carolima's we add a little Texas Pete hot sauce—it adds just the right kick! Oyster season runs from September through April, and every roast feels like a love letter to our heritage. It’s the perfect time to gather with family, friends, and neighbors—under the stars, near the water, or right in your own backyard—and taste the magic that makes the Lowcountry special. So grab your gloves, stoke the fire, and follow the smoke—oyster season is here, and we’re ready to celebrate every shuck of it.