It's hard to believe we're already talking about the end of summer. It feels like Memorial Day was just a few weeks ago, and now school supplies are filling the aisles and everyone's already counting down to fall. While I love a good pumpkin spice latte as much as the next person, I think August deserves a little more credit. There are still plenty of warm evenings, beautiful beach days, and local events to enjoy before summer officially comes to an end.

If you know me personally or follow me on Instagram at @successinthebag, you probably already know that I love a good thrift find. Some of my favorite reels to make are my thrifting videos, and there’s just something about finding exactly what you were looking for—or something you didn’t even know you needed—for a fraction of the original price.

I know... it's only July. The kids are still out of school, it's 95 degrees outside, and the last thing most of us are thinking about is Christmas. But between "Christmas in July" sales popping up everywhere and retailers already advertising holiday deals, it got me thinking about something else—the holidays have a funny way of arriving much faster than we expect.

If you've followed along with my blogs for a while, you know I occasionally like to sprinkle in a little bit of my own life. So, I'm excited to finally share that my husband and I are expecting our first baby!

There's just something about the Fourth of July on the Grand Strand. Whether you're spending the day on the beach, grilling with family, or out on the boat, it always seems to end the same way—looking up at a fireworks show. One of my favorite things about living here is that you don't have to travel far to find one. From North Myrtle Beach all the way down to Georgetown, there are plenty of places to celebrate Independence Day, and many of the events are completely free.

Summer has officially arrived on the Grand Strand, which means beach days, boat rides, and long evenings outside. Unfortunately, it also means the start of hurricane season.

Summertime has finally arrived at the grand strand, and unfortunately, hurricane season came right along with it. Living near the coast, we are in hurricane season from June 1st to November 30th. Thinking about a potential hurricane can be somewhat stressful. However, being educated and prepared can help relieve a bit of that anxiety.

The ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic is officially back this week, and honestly, it’s becoming one of my favorite events of the entire spring season here on the Grand Strand. There’s just something really fun about seeing Myrtle Beach show up on the national golf stage while the whole community leans into the excitement of it all.  My husband is a huge golf fan, so I’m excited to take him back with me again this year, and one of my favorite golfers, Brooks Koepka, is playing, so it’s going to be an exciting few days. 

May has a way of filling up quickly. One minute your calendar feels manageable, and the next it’s packed with events, travel, and celebrations. This year alone, I’ve got a Kentucky Derby party, the ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic, my sister’s physical therapy school graduation, travel for Mother’s Day, and the CAF Gala—all things I’m genuinely excited about, but all things that come with a cost. And that’s the part we don’t always talk about: how quickly a “fun” month can also become an expensive one.

ArtFields is officially back for 2026, and if you’ve been before, you already know it’s one of those events you look forward to all year. If you haven’t, this is your sign to go ahead and plan a visit. This year’s festival is bigger than ever, running from April 10 through May 2, 2026, giving you even more time to experience everything Lake City has to offer.