“Love makes your soul crawl out from its hiding place.”
While reading about love and thinking about Valentine’s Day, we stumbled upon this quote by late African-American author and anthropologist Zora Neale Hurston. Even for those who proclaim themselves cynical about the holiday, her words are uplifting: Love makes you brave enough to come out of hiding and reveal yourself. But it’s also complex. Hurston’s use of the verb “crawl” shows how difficult love is — we sometimes enter it reluctantly, slowly, almost against our will.
This issue of Monthly looks at love in many forms. Lasting love is celebrated in our profile of Realtor Ken Oliver and his wife, Susie, who have been an influential couple on Hilton Head since the early days of the island’s development as a resort destination. Animal lovers will enjoy reading about a lost cat that found its way home after an incredible journey. And if you love a good cup of coffee, you’ll want to spend time with our story about gourmet coffee roasters in Bluffton.
We’ve got you covered if you’re looking for a unique Valentine’s gift for your significant other — be sure to check out our local gift guide, starting on page 60. February is also our big bridal issue. Have you bought your tickets for the 2019 Hilton Head Bridal Show? Now in its 12th year, this annual event has grown into the biggest bridal event in the region and is a natural extension of our work with the local bridal industry. This year’s show takes place from 1 to 4 p.m. Feb. 17 at the gorgeous Belfair Clubhouse in Bluffton. Come meet the area’s best vendors, taste cakes, view wedding portraits and check out the latest in bridal fashions. Tickets are $9 and include a mimosa. To purchase them before the big event, go to mylowcountrytix.com.com; on the day of the show, tickets are $12 at the door.
February is also important for another reason: Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by African-Americans and a time to recognize the central role of blacks in U.S. history. Inside this issue, you’ll find a schedule of events for the Lowcountry’s monthlong Gullah Celebration, paying tribute to Gullah history, culture, food, art, crafts, music and dance. Since 1996, the Native Island Business and Community Affairs Association, a Hilton Head Island nonprofit group, has showcased the island’s rich Gullah heritage and history. The Gullah Celebration has become a major draw for visitors from around the region, so don’t miss this outpouring of love for the unique culture we are fortunate to have here in the Lowcountry.
