Are You Intentional About Shopping Local?

It’s no secret that many locals feel that Charleston is loosing its local character, but most people don’t understand why. Small businesses and a locally-driven economy are at the heart of what gives our community its unique character. But increasingly, the small and locally-owned businesses that residents and visitors have come to love are shutting their doors. The reasons why are complex, but they were outlined perfectly in a recent article on Medium, which you can read here. We do hope you’ll take the time to read it, because even if you aren’t a business owner yourself, it breaks down how the math in places like downtown Charleston simply doesn’t work for small businesses. And it makes you think about what needs to change to ensure Charleston maintains a balance between growth and authenticity.

We’re committed to helping people understand why their intentional support of local businesses is increasingly essential. That’s why we continue to support the work of Lowcountry Local First. For nearly two decades, this non-profit organization has been working to support local businesses in a wide variety of ways. From educational and training programming to lobbying and networking events, there are endless ways that LLF works to support your favorite local businesses.

When you join us for Friday Dinner during the second quarter of 2025, 10% of proceeds from your meal will be donated to support LLF’s initiatives to help build our local economy. They’re our featured charity for our ongoing “Friday Dinners for a Cause” initiative.

For information about other ways that you can help support the “local” movement this season, click here. It’s officially “eat local” season in the Lowcountry, and there are lots of ways to get involved. Thank you for supporting local businesses in Charleston!