#month loves

October is a busy month in Charleston.  The heat has subsided and it’s finally starting to feel like fall. With the change of seasons come a slew of energy as the lazy days of summer are replaced with school activities, social invitations and impending holidays to consider.

1. Is there anything better than giving candy to children? Halloween brings out the inner kid in everyone…and is a great excuse to skip the diet for a few days. Bring on the costumes and chocolate.

2. October means it’s time for Preservation Society’s Fall Tour of Homes. It’s the Super Bowl of home tours with a fabulous history lesson to boot.

3. We can officially eat oysters in September, but true lovers know that October is when they take front and center on the menu. Roasted, fried, raw or steamed. No matter how you eat them, oysters are a standard in these parts.

4. It’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and everyone knows someone whose life has been affected. Join the Komen Lowcountry Race for the Cure October 17th to show support.

5. On October 18, Charleston gains a landmark. After much anticipation, The Gaillard Center reopens its doors after extensive renovation. To mark the occasion, Yo Yo Ma will give an inaugural performance.

6. Your ocean days don’t have to end with the season: check out polo on the beach with the Kiawah Cup.  The sport of kings takes to Kiawah this month!

September is a funny month in Charleston. It still feels like summer outside, but there's a definite shift in the air. There is a palpable "back to school" energy, a lull in tourism and the promise of cooler nights ahead. A few of my favorite September gems this year include:

1. Nature's Treasures: My 13 and 16 year-old-daughters are like 6-year-old boys in the sense that they love to collect shells, rocks and leaves, emptying out of their pockets onto the kitchen counter at the end of the day. One such collection is made up of heart shaped rocks. Another could be titled "Things Shaped like South Carolina." September is the perfect season for scavenging.

2. Labor Day Love: This weekend marks our last chance for an end of summer fling. Find a spot that’s calling your name and pack your bags to enjoy the last of summer.

3. Ice Cream Treats: When it comes to cooking, simple is best. For a real end of summer treat courtesy of SOUTHERN SEASON, drizzle a few scoops of chocolate ice cream with orange flavored olive oil and  sprinkle a bit of good quality sea salt on top. Delish!

4.  Denim: We love the new fall denim and the wide leg craze. These perfectly fitting Rag & Bone Jeans from HAMPDEN CLOTHING will transition nicely into the new season.

5.  Jewelry Shopping: CROGHAN’S JEWEL BOX is hosting a trunk show that you’ll definitely want to attend!  The craftsmen from Single Stone are coming to Charleston with case after case of unbelievable jewels. Whether you’re getting married, marking an important milestone or just want a little something glamorous, you need to take a look! Join them on September 18 and 19 and be dazzled.  Best to make an appointment – 843.723.3594.

6. Wallpaper: I’ve always been drawn to fabulous wallpaper and lately it’s made quite the comeback. Add instant drama (or whimsy) depending on your mood. How about a wallpapered ceiling? Yes, please!

7. Dogs and Horses: MELISSA ANDERSON nails it with her Horses and Hounds collection. The oil paintings are unmistakably autumn in their rich colors and classic scenes.

In Like a Lamb? Here's what we love about March.

This month brings lots of things - a change in the seasons, five days dedicated to nothing but eating and drinking, and a King Street opening you won't want to miss.  March always has a lot up its sleeves! To name a few...

Spring buds come alive this month as we reach the first day of the season.  You have to love a blustery month for that.

Shoes on King has been shopping warm weather trends for months and the store is full of gorgeous seasonal transition shoes, like these Vince wedges in cream.

Avoid the pinches on St. Patrick's Day by wearing green, and look fab doing it. This gold and peridot ring from Croghan's Jewel Box should do the trick quite nicely.

ibu Movement is opening it's doors on King Street so we can shop with purpose anytime we want.  The new showroom has been under construction for months and is going to be a stunner! Stop by the grand opening this Saturday, March 7 from 1-7pm at 183 King Street.

March is the month we eat, drink and are extremely merry at Charleston Wine+Food. Find tickets here.

For many, March is the start of travel season.  Spring Break is up first and I, for one, can't wait. Sometimes the best thing about Charleston is getting away for a few days to really appreciate what a great city we live in.

With the warmer weather comes a need to get those piggies back in shape.  Months of hiding has taken its toll and the time has come for some TLC to the toes. Choose white, pastels or matte colors to stay on trend in nail fashion!