The 'A' List 2025

Get to know these seasoned entrepreneurs and leading men and women in the greater Charleston community.

Charleston Allergy & Asthma

allergypartners.com/charleston

My Mission: To improve the quality of life of every patient I care for. For many, this means improving the disease we are treating but I strive for all patients to feel heard and better understood.

My Business: The immune system and how it interacts with the world! This encompasses asthma, allergies, to include food allergy desensitization, and immune deficiencies.

Best Business Advice I Ever Received: From Dr. Bruce Ball, “Stay focused on practicing good medicine and the rest will take care of itself.”

What do you love most about owning a business in Charleston? The people! The people in this community are kind, appreciative, gracious and understanding.

Words of Wisdom to Other People in Business: Surround yourself with people who understand your passion and level of dedication AND are willing to support you in that pursuit.

One Thing I've Learned the Hard Way: Remember to set time aside to prioritize taking care of yourself and the people you love.

My Strengths: Interest in other’s points of view and endurance for hard work.

Bohemian Bull

Chad Biel • bohemianbull.com

My Mission: To be a positive influence on everyone we come in contact with.To give back to the community we work and live in. To honor everything we are trusted with.

My Business: Restaurants

Best Business Advice I Ever Received: Being an entrepreneur is like jumping off a cliff and building a parachute on the way down.

What do you love most about owning a business in Charleston? We have been open for 13 years, so we have been through a lot of changes over the years and the community has stood by our side through it all.

Words of Wisdom to Other People in Business: There are always highs and lows when owning a business. You have to keep your head up during the hard times and smell the roses during the great times.

One Thing I've Learned the Hard Way: Trust your gut, mine has never been wrong, but I’ve tried to go against it many times.

My Strengths: I try to always put my people first. My employee experience is more important to me than my guest experience. In doing so, my staff gives my guest a great experience of our success.

French Fashion Designs

Jean-Pierre Klifa • jeanpierreklifa.com

My Mission: My mission is to make every women feel beautiful.

My Business: My business showcases resort wear designs.

Best Business Advice I Ever Received: The best business advice I ever received was, “Keep thinking about the goal.”

What I Love Most About Business in Charleston: It is the prettiest destination of all.

Words of Wisdom to Other People in Business: Elegance beats vulgarity.

One Thing I've Learned the Hard Way: I’ve learned that I trust too much the hard way.

My Strengths: I have an eye for designs and colors.

Melvin’s BBQ

David Bessinger • melvinsbbq.com

My Mission: From the originators of Charleston’s mustard-based barbecue, Melvin’s mission is to honor Southern tradition with every bite — serving authentic, slow-smoked barbecue in a place where family, flavor and hospitality come together in a space that feels like home for locals and visitors alike. We preserve the roots of real BBQ, smoking our meats over all wood, ensuring there are no gas fumes.

My Business: I am the owner of Melvin's Legendary Barbecue, located in James Island on Folly Road and in Mount Pleasant on Houston Northcutt Blvd.  

What I Love Most About Business in Charleston: I am very proud to come from a family of entrepreneurs and restauranteurs steeped in the Charleston restaurant scene. My immediate and extended family have been a part of the Charleston food and beverage community since the 1950s, owning 12 restaurants. Today, Melvin’s is one of the oldest restaurants in Charleston that has been continuously owned by the same family.

Words of Wisdom to Other People in Business: Support each other. There is real strength in community, with competition at the forefront. For example, my cousins own Bessinger's BBQ. We are in direct competition with each other, serving a similar menu and with a very similar BBQ sauce, yet we are still family first. 

My Strengths: My biggest strength is my experience. I have been in this business a long time, starting when I worked for my dad at Piggy Park when I was 10 years old, making sodas, cleaning trays and picking up trash in the parking lot. I’ve been at it ever since. 

Patria Travel

Patrick Burrows • patriatravel.co.uk

My Mission: To show visitors to Great Britian the very best of the British countryside.

My Business: Patria Travel designs bespoke luxury holidays in Great Britain focusing on three elements: private accommodation, excellent field sports, and magnificent gastronomy. We craft holidays across England, Scotland and Wales to be completely tailored to you.

Best Business Advice I Ever Received: Persevere, persevere and persevere.

What do you love most about owning a business in Charleston? I’m actually across the pond in London! I was lucky to visit Charleston for a week in summer 2024 with my girlfriend. I was struck by the charm and history of Charleston; it reminded me of home in many ways and I would love to visit Charleston again soon.

Words of Wisdom to Other Other People in Business: Persevere, persevere and persevere.

One Thing I've Learned the Hard Way: Nothing good came easy! Starting a company is hard work but it is incredibly rewarding to see the fruits of imagination and perseverance come to life.

My Strengths: I’m very much a “people person”. Coming from a military family, organization and efficiency are also in my DNA! I find these skills fit well in the travel sector. People prefer meeting and connecting with someone when designing a tailored holiday abroad, rather than doing so through a website.

Southern Tide by M. Dumas & Sons

Susan Hall-Herron • mdumasandsons.com

My Mission: My mission is to be the person that lets everyone know that just because you didn’t do what your parents or society said you were supposed to do, you will still be okay — and sometimes even better than okay.

My Business: I manage the Southern Tide by M. Dumas and Sons location at Towne Centre in Mount Pleasant.  This store is special not only because of the legacy of service that Dumas has provided for 108 years, but, because the Southern Tide brand is built for coastal living. Southern Tide brings comfort, vibrant color and relaxed style to those who wear it.

Best Business Advice I Ever Received: Put the customer at the heart of your decisions. This statement resonates loudly with me today as I find myself working with a team who lives and breathes this motto.

What I Love Most About Business in Charleston: To quote my husband, “Living here is like being on vacation every day.” There’s the charm and history of the city, the ocean and beautiful wildlife, terrific food and, of course, the people of the South. Our customers are the nicest people I have ever had the pleasure of working with.

Words of Wisdom to Other People in Business: Life isn’t always fair. Learn from challenges and use them as an opportunity to grow stronger.  Bring your optimism to the table and figure out how to manage inequity.   

One Thing I've Learned the Hard Way: When I was young, I thought always saying “yes” and being the “easy” one was a good thing. It took a lot of years for me understand that saying “no” doesn’t make me unpopular or lazy. I’m a much more productive person now that I have confidence in my own voice.    

My Strengths: I believe in being passionate about what you do. Passion helps me create fresh ideas and build stronger relationships. Passion increases my resilience and improves my productivity. Passion reminds me to take care of myself and others.

Pitt Street Pharmacy

Brandi Sherbert • pittstreetpharmacy.com

My Mission: My mission is to provide the highest quality effective personalized medication and supplement solutions for people and pets — to be the easily accessible and local resource for anyone that has questions concerning their healthcare and help them advocate for themselves and be as informed as possible. 

 My Business: We specialize in compounded prescriptions for hormone replacement therapy, topical pain relief, dermatologic compounds and veterinary medications. We also have a full soda fountain with locally made ice cream and a wide variety of snacks and treats, straight out of the 1950s.

 What I Love Most About Business in Charleston: Building relationships with our customers, physicians, healthcare practitioners and suppliers. I love the community aspect of the pharmacy and that it really is a family of the employees, patients and regulars that come in to visit. Being in Charleston, we have some of the highest quality of practitioners anywhere and working with them and learning from them is something I would not be able to get anywhere else! 

 Words of Wisdom to Other People in Business: Build a network of strong, supportive women and allies. Surround yourself with people who lift you up, not those who try to hold you down. Don’t downplay your achievements. Celebrate your wins, big and small. You’ve earned it.

 My Strengths: I love learning new things constantly. I love the challenge of something new every day, and that is one of the many reasons I enjoy compounding so much.

Charleston Medical Spa

Lisa Query • charlestonmedicalspa.com

My Mission: At Charleston Medical Spa, our mission is to help clients look and feel their best by combining advanced medical esthetics with personalized care in a welcoming, luxurious environment that allows our clients to reach their skincare goals.

My Business: Charleston Medical Spa is a premier destination for advanced esthetic treatments and personalized skincare solutions. We specialize in non-invasive cosmetic procedures that enhance natural beauty and promote overall wellness.

Best Business Advice I Ever Received: “Know your numbers and trust your gut.” When you understand your business metrics, you are able to make smart decisions, paired with instinct, you are unstoppable.

What do you love most about owning a business in Charleston? Charleston is a city full o charm, community, and character – there is truly no place like it. The people here value high quality, connection, and authenticity, which aligns perfectly with the way we operate at Charleston Medical Spa.

One Thing I've Learned the Hard Way: You cannot do it all by yourself. In the beginning, I wore every hat from manager, marketing, provider, bookkeeper, and more but once I began to delegate, build a strong team, and let go of the day-to-day tasks, I was able to grow the business. By not trying to run the business by myself has allowed me to continue to enjoy being the owner of a wonderful and rewarding business.

My Strengths: Vision, resilience, and empathy.  I can see where we are going and stay grounded though tough times, and we have had some tough times over the years.  Most importantly, I lead with my heart.  I truly care about my team, our clients, and the legacy we are building at Charleston Medical Spa.

Johnson Cinque, EXP Realty

The Oswald Group

Dr. Allison Johnson • johnsoncinque.com

My Mission: My mission is doing all things for the glory of God.

My Business: My business is real estate and senior resource.

Best Business Advice I Ever Received: The best business advice I ever received was, “Do what you love, and everything else will fall into place.”

What You Love Most About Business in Charleston? I love the hospitality of this beautiful city and how supportive everybody has been.

Words of Wisdom to Other People in Business: Be confident, be encouraged. You are what makes your business.

One Thing I've Learned the Hard Way: Reference this quote, “Your most unhappy customers are your greatest source of learning.” — Bill Gates 

My Strengths: My strengths are adaptability, creativity, passion and the will-get-it-done mindset.

Epiphany Dermatology

John Hendrick, PA-C • epiphanydermatology.com

My Mission: To provide excellent dermatologic care to my patients, whether medical or cosmetic. I want all patients to feel comfortable in their own skin.

My Business: I have the pleasure of practicing as a Physician Assistant treating medical and cosmetic dermatological patients.

Best Business Advice I Ever Received: In business, but also in life, treat people the way that you would want to be treated. Everyone’s opinion matters even if it differs from yours.

What do you love most about owning a business in Charleston? Who doesn't love living in Charleston? Year after year voted one of the best places to live in the US. A little bit of paradise for everyone no matter their interests.

Words of Wisdom to Other People in Business: Always present yourself with confidence and professionalism and greet & acknowledge everyone with a smile. Be yourself.

One Thing I've Learned the Hard Way: Don't listen to reply, take time to listen to what is actually being said. It has given me the opportunity to gain the respect of my patients, colleagues and team members.

My Strengths: I treat all patients the same regardless of race, age or gender. I love my life and I portray that to my patients. Happiness in your personal life leads to happiness in your professional life and vice versa.

Michael’s Barkery

Kelsey Golden • michaelsbarkery.com

My Mission: The mission of Michael’s Barkery is to provide jobs and training opportunities to individuals with cognitive disabilities, while supporting animal lovers. As the job coach, I work closely with our teammates to facilitate their professional growth and complete their tasks in the kitchen with increasing independence. 

 My Business: Michael’s Barkery is a dog bakery, boutique and grooming spa. We employ adults with cognitive disabilities who are hands-on for the entire treat-making process in our kitchen. They may work with us long-term and/or develop their professional skills with us to seek additional employment. 

 Best Business Advice I Ever Received: When hiring adults with cognitive disabilities, it is important to remember that our assumptions limit their potential. It’s an honor to help them develop their professional skills and watch them grow in their place of employment. 

 What I Love Most About Business in Charleston: I love the interactions I have with customers and coworkers while working in Charleston. I’m able to get to know our regular customers and meet locals or visitors seeing the Barkery for the first time — and learn about my coworkers’ experiences living in different parts of the area.

 My Strengths: I believe that my experiences and education help me connect with and understand the adults with disabilities who I am lucky enough to work with. I feel confident in my ability to facilitate learning and growth in a professional setting in a way that works for each individual.

Flowertown Garden Center

flowertowngardencenterllc.com

My Mission: My mission is to provide the healthiest, most beautiful plant material, along with a large variety of other landscaping and gardening products, to our customers in a welcoming, friendly and comfortable environment.

My Business: A retail garden center providing everything one would need to create a beautiful outdoor sanctuary in their own yard.

Best Business Advice I Ever Received: Actually, it is something my husband, Paul, says on a regular basis- “If we don’t have it, our customers can’t buy it!” Paul is adamant about always keeping a large inventory of everything we sell. He spends hours weekly placing orders to make sure we have the best selection possible.

What do you love most about owning a business in Charleston? I love the fact that we have customers from all over the tri-county area. From Charleston to Summerville; Mt.Pleasant to Walterboro, everyone loves their plants! We are fortunate enough to live in an area that affords us the opportunity to spend so much time outside enjoying our yards.

Words of Wisdom to Other People in Business: Owning a business is very rewarding, but it takes true dedication and A LOT of hard work. Business owners can never really take a break from their work. It’s a never-ending responsibility that must be taken seriously in order to be successful.

One Thing I've Learned the Hard Way: I must delegate! We have wonderful employees who will do anything for the business. I’m getting older and need to realize I can’t do everything I used to do!

Backyard Retreats

Darla Miller and Terry Lawrence • backyardretreatssc.com

My Mission: My mission is to create a retreat in the backyards of every homeowner in the Lowcountry.

My Business: My business is selling only the best outdoor furniture lines in the industry. Not only will they last in our area, but over 75% of our lines are American made.

Best Business Advice I Ever Received: The best advice I ever received was to listen to every customer.

What I Love Most About Business in Charleston: There is no greater city. This is the best place to live and work. The weather is amazing. Plus, the people are so fun to be around.

Words of Wisdom to Other People in Business: Take time to work on yourself. I am never too old to try something new. If we don’t help ourselves, we can’t help others.

One Thing I've Learned the Hard Way: Quality is more important than price.

My Strengths: I can see the larger picture and put things together others may not see.

Household Hero

Ashley Houston • yourhouseholdhero.com

My Mission: We are a housewife for the housewife, taking a few things off your plate, so you can focus on being the best parent/spouse/business owner/ career person you can be. We take care of the things anyone can, so you can focus on the things only you can do.

My Business: From organization and declutter to grocery shopping and meal prep, laundry assistance to event coordination, Your Household Hero can save the day with anything you throw our way. We help your home feel less chaotic and more organized, your family to eat healthier meals together and you from feeling stressed and overwhelmed.

What I Love Most About Business in Charleston: Everywhere I drive to service my clients, the views of nature are a beautiful masterpiece. Charleston has big city vibes with a small-town feel. It reminds me of the diversity of cultures and backgrounds I experienced while working in D.C., but with the homey feeling of growing up in southern Maryland.

One Thing I've Learned the Hard Way: It’s okay to ask for help. I remember early on, after some tragedy hit my family, I tried to do everything on my own. I realized that asking for help — whether it’s for advice, physical help or encouragement — is not a sign of weakness but of strength.

My Strengths: What some called perfectionism, OCD and Type A in high school, I turned into my greatest strengths. I love people deeply and have never been afraid of hard work. All of these things I use now to build this brand and help clients.

Reinvented Upscale Retail

Beth Cook • reinventedresale.com

My mission: To make people feel good about themselves.

My Business: Reinvented Upscale Resale

Best Business Advice I Ever Received: “Never wish more than you are willing to work” – Dr. Seuss

What I Love Most About Business in Charleston: All the fabulous people I meet daily. All walks of life shop here.

Words of wisdom to Other People in Business: Something that looks so simple took a lot of hard work and determination. Dreams do come true.

One Thing I've Learned the Hard Way: Good decisions take time. Sometimes I am too impulsive and jump too quickly. Take your time and do it right.

My Strengths: My Family. John, Lydia, and Matthew give me such strength with all of their love and support. I am truly blessed with my family.

Draisin Vision Group

Jennifer Zolman, OD, FOVDR • draisinvision.com

My Mission: It is to provide exceptional eye care that not only improves vision but enhances the way my patients experience life.

My Business: I believe in building a business with purpose — one that blends clinical excellence, compassion, and leadership. We are set apart by the level of personalized care we provide. Every treatment plan is tailored, every patient is heard and every experience is rooted in compassion and clinical expertise.

Best Business Advice I Ever Received: “Work on your business, not just in it.” That advice taught me to carve out time for planning, vision and leadership development — not just operations. It empowered me to grow a stronger team, foster innovation and create a business that thrives with purpose, even when I’m not in the room.

What I Love Most About Business in Charleston: As a 53-year-old staple in the community, we have built lifelong relationships with generations of families. I love the amazing mix of Southern Charm, deep-rooted community and growing innovative energy.

Words of Wisdom to Other People in Business: Build a circle, not just a network: find your tribe that will support, challenge and hold you accountable while celebrating your wins. Redefine success on your own terms. For some, it's building an empire; for others, it’s showing up for every game and recital. Don’t chase someone else’s dreams — build your own.

Baker & Blossoms

Ann Zalla • bakerandblossoms.com

My Mission: At Baker & Blossoms, we craft garden-inspired products using edible flowers and herbs, while creating meaningful job training and employment opportunities for people with disabilities and those who are neurodivergent. Our mission is to show the Charleston community that everyone has unique gifts and valuable contributions to offer. Through hands-on learning, such as exploring the beauty and purpose of edible flowers, we help individuals grow in both skill and confidence, creating a space for everyone to blossom.

My Business: Baker & Blossoms is a distinct blend of confectionary artistry, edible botanicals and a thoughtful gathering space. In the heart of Charleston's Avondale neighborhood, Baker & Blossoms has an abundant edible flower garden, pastry studio and new boutique event space, The Southern Zen™.   

Best Business Advice I’ve Ever Received: A mentor once told me that it is much easier to work for someone else. This may sound funny to some as the best advice I’d ever received, but this mindset gave me the grit to keep going when it got tough.

What I Love Most About Business in Charleston: Charleston is intent on supporting the local creatives, growers and makers. I’ve built professional and personal relationships with others who realize the importance of a vibrant small business community.

My Strengths: I am undaunted by manual labor and am persistent to the extreme. My greatest strength is that I believe in myself. I’ve become adept at tuning out the “noise” of the doubters and the critics. I trust my vision.