Good news, Charleston. The Holy City is ranked as one of 2021’s Top 20 Happiest Cities in America.

Even the smallest act of kindness can change the course of a stranger’s life and make them happy. In the spirit of being cheerful, here are some ways to spread kindness + support local businesses right here in the Lowcountry.

☕Pay-it-forward

○ Like the outfit of that person who passed by you while shopping on King Street? Let them know. Give someone a compliment today — super easy + doesn’t cost a dime.

○ If you have the means to do so, try paying for the person in front of (or behind) you the next time you are in the store or at a restaurant

⭐ Donate

○ You can even donate airline miles (+ other gifts) to children participating in South Carolina’s Make-A-Wish program.

💐Surprise your loved ones with a gift

○ Pick up a sweet treat from Christophe Chocolatier + grab a bouquet at Salt + Stem Flowers — a local traveling flower truck — for your friend or neighbor. They’ll never expect it.

🥂Leave a generous tip

○ If you’re going out for dinner tonight, plan to surprise your server with a generous tip. This amount is totally up to you, but we guarantee it will make their day.

💖 Volunteer your time

○ Give up some of your time to volunteer at the Lowcountry Food Bank, volunteer through Charleston Promise Neighborhood, empower students through Be a Mentor, or help community members with cognitive and physical disabilities by being placed through the Disabilities Board of Charleston County.

🚘 Let someone go in front of you

○ Are you really in that much of a rush today? Whether you’re stuck in traffic on I-526 or at Mercantile and Mash grabbing a coffee, let someone in front of you in line.

✅ Leave a positive review

○ This past year has been difficult for many small businesses. Support some of your local favorites by leaving them a positive review.

💌 Write a letter

○ Pick up a card from Ink Meets Paper and write a letter to an old friend. Yes, we know texting exists — but something about a letter feels more meaningful.