Ah, Father’s Day – the day preceded by weeks of stressing over how you can possibly thank your dad for all he’s done for you and your family. If you’re anything like me, gift-giving is a challenge. There are those people who seem impossible to buy anything for and, if they’re anything like my dad, there are those people who have an abundance of hobbies that make narrowing down one gift tricky. Luckily, Charleston gives us a plethora of options to choose from. We asked y’all what some of your go-to gifts for dads were, and the answers came rolling in with ideas for all kinds of fathers.

The Cook 👨‍🍳

○ A knife or oyster shucker from Burls and Steel

Variety of knives | Photo provided by Burls and Steel

If your dad is in need of the perfect kitchen, skinning, or filet knife, look no further. These knives are handmade by Ben Spurrier in James Island in just about the burliest way you can imagine – with a hammer and anvil. The result is a one-of-a-kind piece of art, each with intricate blades and colorful handles from exotic materials. You can browse the knife selection online, find an assortment at the Preservation Society of Charleston shop (147 King St.), or reach out for a custom design.

○ A cast-iron skillet from Smithey Ironware Co.
This Charleston-based company offers a variety of cast iron skillets and dutch ovens to suit your dad’s cooking style. Smithey provides a generous list of recipes to get him started, and each item comes with a lifetime guarantee, making it the gift that keeps giving (and keeps delicious meals coming to you).

The Traveler ✈️

○ A duffle from J.Stark (489 King St.)

Medium navy duffle | Photo provided by J.Stark

Traveling may be on pause for a while, but that only leaves more time to dream, plan, and prepare for future journeys. J.Stark bags are locally made with sturdy materials like canvas, leather, and heavy-duty twill that will give your dad the opportunity to adventure anywhere. Let’s be real here, we’re all going to be vacationing and exploring hard once we can. Now he’ll have a bag that can keep up with him (and a classic bag that allows him to keep up with trends).

The Golfer 🏌️‍♂️

○ A Custom golf package from Charleston and Resort Islands Golf

18th hole of Kiawah Osprey course | Photo by Greg Rothman

Maybe what your dad needs is some peace and quiet for a weekend… preferably with a golf club in hand. This site allows you to choose from a variety of premade golf packages for the Charleston area, or you can go for the build-your-own option that lets you select lodging, golf courses and tee times for a personalized experience.

The Fisherman 🎣

○ An updated fishing setup from Haddrell’s Point

Let the folks at Haddrell’s Point you in the right direction. Most of the inventory is in-store rather than online, so take a trip over to one of the stores in Mount Pleasant or West Ashley and let the experts help you fish for the perfect gift.

Pro Tip: If you’re unfamiliar with fishing or unsure of your dad’s preferences, take a peek at his fishing supply stash and jot down some of the brands you notice and items you see to help give the staff an idea of what he already has and may need.

My dad’s go-to recommendations are:
○A nice pair of pliers
○Polarized sunglasses
○A shirt with UV protection
○A headlamp for early morning or night fishing

If you want to give your pops the chance to show off his new gear while spending some quality time together, check out this list of local fishing spots to try out.

The Beer Enthusiast 🍺

○ Make your own brew kit from Beer Engineer Supply (1923 East Montague Ave., North Charleston)

Brewer’s Best Deluxe Equipment Kit | Photo provided by Beer Engineer Supply

If your dad loves beer, he certainly lives in the right city. With approximately 30 breweries in the Charleston area, the options are seemingly endless on where you could head over to catch a cold one this Sunday. But, if your dad is crafty enough for it or thinks he can out-brew his favorite brewery, this is the perfect gift to wish him a hoppy Father’s Day. Beer kits are available for all experience levels and taste profiles.

The Artist 🖌️

○ An acrylic painting from local artist Susan Irish

“Dad Jokes” acrylic on wood painting | Photo provided by Susan Irish

Not only are these works of art mesmerizing, but they each also have endearing titles that describe all types of dads or connect to common father-child moments. Personal favorites include- “Vacation Time”, “Monster Chaser”, and “On the Rocks”. The size and accompanying stand make this gift perfect for a desk embellishment that can bring you and your dad together even when he’s working. Better yet, each piece is only $25 and comes with free delivery around Charleston this week.

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