Some cities are sexy. Their electric current burns hot and fast. Charleston is a slow, warm simmer. Both its natural landscape and created spaces are imbued with poetic sentimentality. Here are 4 ways to channel the city’s romance into a perfect date night or Valentine’s Day celebration. Three of them are free!
1.
Watch sunset from the beach. Any beach here will do – Kiawah, Folly, Isle of Palms, Sullivan’s… As the sun sinks into the ocean through a pastel-washed sky, clink your wine glasses together. Toast each other to the soundtrack of waves crashing on the beach.
2.
Take an evening stroll through the cobblestone streets of the French Quarter together. Admire the Antebellum architecture by the glow of gas lanterns flanking front doors. Peek into secret courtyards. Imagine the love stories that unfolded over the centuries inside these homes. Continue down to White Point Garden. Stop for a kiss among the elegant live oaks draped in Spanish moss. Then, peacefully gaze across the harbor.
3.
Have dinner for two at 82 Queen. Be sure to request courtyard seating. The luscious low country cuisine and swoon-worthy setting will make it a meal to remember. I’m not alone in my opinion. Food and Wine magazine named it the most romantic restaurant in South Carolina. For an appetizer, sample the fried green tomatoes with pimento cheese, stone-ground grits and tomato-bacon jam. Remember: sharing is caring.
4.
Make it a movie night. No worries if there’s no babysitter. After tuck in, get out the tissues and put on “The Notebook.” Scenes were filmed locally at Cypress Gardens and Boone Hall Plantation. After the credits roll, gift your spouse with a handwritten love note.
Gifts of the Heart
Shopping for a last minute token of your affection? Go beyond the basic heart box of chocolates. Treat your sweetie to a dreamy concoction from Christophe Artisan Chocolatier-Patissier on 90 Society Street.
Going for a grander gesture? A locally-crafted joggling board is meaningful. Historical rumor has it that these springy benches created many unions back in the day. If a young woman sat on one end and her suitor on the other, they were far enough apart to forego a chaperone. As they chatted and the pliable board swayed in the center, they would slowly inch toward each other. If they got close enough that the young man’s hand touched the young women’s, her purity was ruined. Salvation was found in a swift marriage proposal. If you want to try one out, stop by the Edmonton-Alston House on East Bay or Middleton Plantation on Ashley River Road. Available at The Joggle Factory.
What’s your favorite romantic spot in Charleston? Please share in the comments.