Obviously, COVID19 changed everything. I update this blog post as often as possible. I haven’t been to Charleston since 2019, but I try very hard to research which of these vendors are still at the market. My apologies if any are missing when you go to visit. These are still wonderful artisans, and I highly recommend visiting their Etsy page if you can’t find them at the market.
Culture lovers take note! One of the best ways to get that “giddy” feeling — the one where your heart soars from seeing the breadth of diversity in the art, history, and culture of a place — is to visit the Charleston Marketplace in South Carolina. The charmed city fell short of my expectations in so many ways.
However, it really redeemed itself the moment that I set foot in this bustling, friendly, breath of fresh air. Since 1807 the Charleston Marketplace has been a hub for local artisans to show off their skills and sell their goods. In my opinion, it is still one of the best ways to get a genuine essence of the city. There’s a good reason, in fact many good reasons, why it’s Charleston’s top attraction! Here are some of my favorite Charleston Marketplace vendors:
Old Whaling Co.
The Old Whaling Co. has a concept that, as a Long Islander, I can really get behind. This company sells body butters, salt scrubs, bath bombs, soaps, and candles. All of their scents are inspired by the sea. As a traveler, I cannot tell you how much I appreciate their cute, travel sized products and their roll on perfume line. This means travelers don’t have to awkwardly lug around full sized bottles of perfume, nor those little spritzer samples that always seem to get lost or spill all over one’s pocketbook. They’re family owned and obviously Charleston based, and I’m utterly obsessed with the old school labels.
Riddle Wovens.
Every one in a while, I find a purveyor of gifts whose artistry stops me in my tracks. My jaw damn near hit the floor when I learned about Riddle Wovens Boutique, one of the many Charleston Marketplace vendors. This shop makes all of their products from wool and felt, giving each item a cozy feel and unique look. Most notably, the shop sells “felted soap” and I can’t imagine a cooler souvenir or gift than that! I’m also pretty in love with these little dolls that they sell called, “twoolies!”
Silhouettes by Lena.
I’ve been somewhat obsessed with the art-form of silhouettes ever since doing a deep dive into research on John Andre, a British officer from the Revolutionary days who was a master at them. It’s truly remarkable how folks like Lena Bengtson can create such a remarkable likeness of her clients. I have no idea how she does it, but I’m glad that she does. I’ve never seen nor heard of any other company that has pursued this art form exclusively. Her business makes me feel closer to history and I love it.
Callie’s Hot Little Biscuits.
Everyone loves Callie’s biscuits…EVERYONE including OPRAH WINFREY! The owner, Carrie, has come a long way since she started in 2005. She’s been featured in places like Saveur and Southern Living, as well as made appearances on Top Chef and Martha Stewart Living. Callie’s Hot Little Biscuits are HANDMADE and come in a variety of flavors including iced blueberry, country ham, and sharp cheddar. This shop also sells pimento cheese, which is a southern favorite. Stop in at the Charleston Market, or browse a seemingly endless variety of options on the website.
Sweet Jesus Kettle Corn.
The owner claims that your “taste buds are resurrected with every bite,” so honestly, how can you go wrong? Customers and owner alike claim that even for those who are decidedly anti kettle corn, preferring its salty counterpart, that THIS IS the kettle corn that will change your mind forever. Believe them at their word and support this great small business!
Palmetto Puzzle Works.
The exquisite design and quality of these puzzles make them the best (and probably only) puzzle that you absolutely NEED in your life. There is seemingly no end to the creative genius of Palmetto Puzzles. Choose anything from a puzzle of your home state to a fictional work of Edgar Allen Poe to a loggerhead turtle.
Botany Bow Ties.
There’s something so decidedly ‘Charleston’ about a bow tie. These ones from Botany Bow Ties, one of the Charleston Marketplace vendors, are the coolest of the cool. Each one is made with preserved elements and is sure to be the conversation piece at any event.
Low-country Lemonade.
There are few beverages more refreshing during a hot, southern summer than lemonade. This shop sells both lemonades and teas, and sometimes does seasonal add-ins using, of course, locally sourced products. Some experiments have included watermelon, hibiscus flowers, coconut, cinnamon, and even chocolate.
Low-country Eclectic.
For charming, dainty, diffuser jewelry with an aesthetic that whispers “Charleston,” buy a piece of jewelry from this remarkable operation. It’s so evident in their design that the natural splendor of the ‘low country’ is a huge inspiration. The owners are transplants who have fallen in love with everything the ‘low country’ sector of America has to offer for their four homeschooled children. Their story is as beautiful as their pieces and you can read it here.
Charleston Low-country Photography.
Sometimes the best and most evocative reminder of a wonderful trip, especially in a place as picturesque as Charleston, is a professional photograph. Charleston Low-country Photography is a great spot to browse through and choose some idyllic photos of beautiful places around the city.
Corey Alston’s Sweetgrass Baskets.
There are many, MANY Charleston Marketplace vendors where travelers can pick up the most sought after souvenir in the area — a Gullah crafted sweetgrass basket. However, my favorite will always be Corey Alston. By chance, we happened to stumble upon his booth as he sat with a most serene demeanor, braiding a basket. We didn’t know at the time that he is one of the most famous sweetgrass basket artists. Before we even expressed interest in purchasing a piece, he engaged us in conversation about the history of the craft and its significance to Gullah people and the city of Charleston. Corey’s passion and love for his craft, as well as his easy way of making conversation and telling stories, makes him my favorite. We purchased a few sweet grass roses which we proudly hang in our home today.
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