All posts by Emily Thompson

Cheers to the Night: Unveiling the Signature Cocktails at The Burgundy Lounge

Cheers to the Night: Unveiling the Signature Cocktails at The Burgundy Lounge

By Emily Thompson on

When the sun dips below the horizon and the warm glow of Charleston’s streetlights begins to flicker on, there’s one place that cocktail aficionados and curious travelers alike should prioritize for their evening plans. Tucked away beneath the stars is The Burgundy Lounge, an inviting retreat where seemingly ordinary nights quickly become extraordinary as you sip on expertly crafted cocktails. If you’re a fan of unique libations and a vibe that’s equal parts classic and contemporary, this is your go-to spot.

Step inside, and you’ll find yourself immersed in an atmosphere that balances sophistication with comfort. With a drink menu that pays homage to Charleston’s vibrant culture while also drawing inspiration from mixology traditions around the globe, the cocktails at this lounge are not just beverages; they’re experiences in a glass. Curious about what’s in store? Allow us to unveil some of the signature cocktails you simply must try during your visit.

1. Lowcountry Lemonade 

This is pure summer in a glass, no matter the time of year. The Lowcountry Lemonade expertly marries the fresh zest of lemons with the subtle sweetness of locally sourced honey. Crafted with small-batch vodka and sparkling citrus water, this cocktail is both refreshing and sophisticated. One sip, and it feels like a warm Southern breeze whispering through your evening. It’s the perfect way to kick off your time at the lounge, whether your plans include mingling or unwinding.

Why It Stands Out:

  • The use of local honey provides a distinct sweetness you won’t find elsewhere.
  • It’s light, balanced, and a great option for those who appreciate understated, refreshing flavors.

2. Burgundy Old Fashioned 

For those with a penchant for timeless classics, the Burgundy Old Fashioned takes the crown. Crafted with a premium bourbon base, this rendition refreshes the classic recipe with house-made bitters infused with dried orange peel and a hint of spice. The drink is elegantly served with a single, perfectly clear ice sphere and garnished with a torched orange peel that adds a touch of smokiness.

Why It Stands Out:

  • The house-made bitters are a game-changer, delivering layers of complex flavor.
  • The torched orange garnish creates an aroma that enhances each sip.

3. The Starlit Spritz 

Looking for something effervescent and celebratory? The Starlit Spritz might be your perfect match. A delicate combination of elderflower liqueur, Prosecco, and a hint of lavender syrup, this cocktail feels like sipping on liquid elegance. With its floral notes and crisp finish, this drink is ideal for those golden Charleston evenings that deserve a bit of sparkle.

Why It Stands Out:

  • Its delicate florals and fizz create a luxurious drinking experience.
  • It’s versatile enough to pair beautifully with light appetizers.

4. Palmetto Punch 

Evoking the spirit of South Carolina’s iconic state tree, the Palmetto Punch is a festive blend of tropical flavors. Featuring rum as its base, this cocktail layers in subtle coconut, juicy pineapple, and a splash of freshly squeezed lime. Finished off with a sprinkle of nutmeg, it’s a lively concoction that provides a bit of an island escape right in the heart of Charleston.

Why It Stands Out:

  • Its tropical profile is incredibly vibrant, making it a standout drink for summer vibes or anyone with a love for bold, fruity flavors.
  • The nutmeg dusting creates a warm, aromatic touch at the end.

5. The Bourbonberry Smash 

This fan-favorite cocktail strikes the perfect balance between bold and refreshing. A deliciously surprising combination of bourbon, muddled blackberries, mint, and fresh lemon juice, the Bourbonberry Smash leaves an impression after just one sip. The richness of the bourbon contrasts beautifully with the bright, tangy notes of the berries and citrus, creating a drink that’s as unique as it is memorable.

Why It Stands Out:

  • It caters to both bourbon lovers and fruity cocktail enthusiasts.
  • Blackberries provide natural sweetness without being overpowering.

6. Aperitivo Americano 

A nod to Italian aperitif culture, the Aperitivo Americano is the lounge’s playful twist on a traditional Americano. Bitter, sweet, and a little bubbly all at once, this cocktail blends select vermouths, Campari, and soda water over ice. A zesty twist of grapefruit completes the drink, elevating it to an entirely new level. It’s a must-try for those who enjoy intriguing, bitter-sweet concoctions.

Why It Stands Out:

  • It’s a refreshing option for those who enjoy a drier, complex flavor profile.
  • Its balance of herbal and citrus notes makes it a fantastic pre-dinner choice.

7. Midnight Espresso Martini 

If your night needs a little kick, the Midnight Espresso Martini delivers. A rich blend of cold brew coffee, vodka, and coffee liqueur, this cocktail is topped with a foamy crema and three artfully aligned coffee beans. It has just the right amount of caffeine to keep your evening energized and exciting, without feeling overpowering. Pair it with a dessert, and it’s truly indulgent.

Why It Stands Out:

  • The cold brew used offers a smoother, deeper coffee flavor compared to traditional espresso.
  • Combines the best of a cocktail and a pick-me-up for a luxurious treat.

Raise your glass and toast to unforgettable nights, vibrant flavors, and Charleston’s most inventive cocktails. Cheers!

How to Fix Crooked Teeth Naturally (And When You Need a Professional!)

How to Fix Crooked Teeth Naturally (And When You Need a Professional!)

By Emily Thompson on

Having crooked teeth can affect more than just your confidence in your smile. Misaligned teeth can lead to difficulties with chewing, speech issues, and even long-term oral health problems when left unaddressed. Many people are curious about fixing their teeth without resorting to braces or aligners, hoping for natural solutions. While there are some cases where natural methods can help improve teeth alignment, understanding their limitations and knowing when to seek professional care is essential.

This guide explores natural approaches to addressing crooked teeth, situations where professional intervention is necessary, and why straightening your teeth can be beneficial for both your health and confidence.

Can Crooked Teeth Be Fixed Naturally?

While severe cases of misalignment usually require professional treatment, there are a few natural or DIY approaches that people often explore. These methods are most effective for minor alignment issues and should always be approached with caution. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Practice Myofunctional Therapy

Myofunctional therapy focuses on improving oral and facial muscle behavior, which plays an important role in how teeth align over time. This method involves exercises that correct tongue placement, swallowing patterns, and posture. Poor posture, for example, can put unnecessary pressure on teeth, contributing to misalignment.

Consulting a myofunctional therapist can help you learn targeted exercises. This approach is particularly successful with kids, especially in correcting mild cases of crooked teeth caused by habits like thumb-sucking or tongue thrusting.

2. Tongue Positioning

Improper tongue positioning while resting or swallowing can lead to teeth being pushed out of place. Training your tongue to rest on the roof of your mouth can help guide teeth into a more natural position over time. This practice, sometimes referred to as “mewing,” is gaining popularity. However, it requires consistent effort and works best in cases of very mild misalignment, particularly in younger individuals.

3. Eliminating Bad Habits

Certain habits like thumb-sucking, prolonged pacifier use, nail-biting, or consistently pushing your tongue against your teeth can worsen dental alignment. If these habits are caught early, particularly in children, eliminating them can improve the development of your bite and alignment. For adults, habit correction can help prevent additional damage or worsening crookedness.

4. Improving Your Diet

Surprisingly, diet plays a role in dental alignment as well. Chewing harder foods like carrots or apples helps strengthen the jaw and encourages proper teeth alignment. This principle can even trace back to our ancestors, whose diets included tougher, unprocessed foods, which led to generally straighter teeth and wider jaws.

While adjusting your diet supports oral health, it’s important to note that this is unlikely to realign teeth that are already significantly crooked.

5. Orthodontic-Friendly Retainers

Some retainers, particularly those prescribed by dentists, can help prevent teeth from becoming more misaligned over time. Retainers molded to your specific bite are typically used after orthodontic treatments, but in some mild misalignment cases, dentists may recommend them as a solo solution for maintaining or slightly improving alignment.

When You Need a Professional to Fix Crooked Teeth

Natural remedies certainly have their place, but when crooked teeth are causing pain, severe misalignment, or functional problems like difficulty chewing, it’s time to consult a professional. Here are some signs that professional intervention is necessary:

1. Severe Crowding or Gaps

If your teeth are tightly crowded or if you have large gaps, natural methods won’t be effective. Crowding often requires tools like braces or clear aligners to shift teeth and create proper spacing. Likewise, large gaps require professional adjustments to draw the teeth closer together.

2. Bite Issues

Problems such as overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite affect how your upper and lower teeth come together. These issues often require orthodontic treatment to correct both the aesthetics and the functionality of your bite. Without treatment, these bite issues can lead to uneven wear on your teeth and even jaw pain.

3. Speech or Chewing Problems

If misaligned teeth interfere with your ability to speak clearly or chew properly, professional help is essential. Devices like aligners, braces, or more advanced orthodontic appliances can properly adjust teeth to eliminate these obstacles.

4. Jaw Pain or Discomfort

Misaligned teeth can place additional stress on your jaw, leading to pain, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, or even headaches. Professional orthodontic treatments can help address the underlying alignment issues that are causing discomfort.

5. You Want Predictable and Long-Lasting Results

Natural remedies lack the precision and long-term reliability that professional treatments offer. Options like braces or clear aligners are personalized to address your specific dental needs and provide predictable, lasting results.

Why Fixing Crooked Teeth Matters

Straightening your teeth isn’t just about aesthetics. There are both practical and health-related advantages to addressing misalignment. For example, straighter teeth are easier to clean, reducing your risk of cavities or gum disease. Additionally, proper alignment can improve chewing efficiency, prevent unnecessary stress on your jaw, and alleviate any associated pain.

If you’re wondering why you should prioritize straightening your teeth, learn more about the benefits of straightening your teeth. The right solution can transform not only your smile but also your overall oral health.

Professional Options to Fix Crooked Teeth

For those cases where natural methods won’t cut it, professional options are your best bet. Here are some of the most common treatments:

1. Braces

Traditional braces remain one of the most effective solutions for even the most severe cases of crooked teeth. They use metal brackets and wires to gradually move the teeth into their correct positions.

2. Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are a discreet and convenient option for fixing crooked teeth, offering flexibility for adults who may feel self-conscious about traditional braces. Aligners are custom-made and replaced every few weeks as your teeth gradually shift.

3. Veneers

For those who want faster results, cosmetic options like veneers can help address the appearance of crooked teeth by placing a custom-fitted shell over them. Veneers are not a true alignment solution, but they are a popular choice for a quick aesthetic fix.

4. Surgical Interventions

Severe misalignment caused by skeletal issues may require oral surgery. This option is typically reserved for extreme cases and is performed under the guidance of an orthodontist and oral surgeon.

Making the Right Choice

Deciding whether to try natural methods or opt for professional treatment depends on the severity of your misalignment and your long-term goals. While natural remedies are appealing for their simplicity and cost-effectiveness, most cases of crooked teeth benefit greatly from the guidance of a dental professional.

If you’re ready to take control of your smile and explore your options, now is a great time to take the next step. Whether that’s starting with healthy habits to maintain alignment or consulting with a dental expert, prioritizing your oral health will lead to lasting benefits.

Haley Lickstein: Empowering Youth Through Civic Influence

Haley Lickstein: Empowering Youth Through Civic Influence

By Emily Thompson on

Article written by Marjorie Blankfort:

In today’s fast-paced digital era where there’s a fine line between staying informed and being inundated, Haley Lickstein stands out as a guiding light for the youth by helping them navigate the intricate terrain of politics. At 27, Lickstein has become a pivotal “civic influencer” who has dedicated her social media presence to mobilizing young people into political action and civic participation.

Lickstein’s journey into the world of politics began early. With internships at the United States Senate during high school and a president’s role in her high school, she was no stranger to leadership roles from a young age. Her college years in Washington, D.C., saw her work on Capitol Hill and with organizations like EMILY’s List and the Democratic National Committee, further honing her understanding of political mechanisms and advocacy.

Her mission is clear: to prepare, inspire, and empower, especially young women, to voice their concerns and influence change. Since October 2022, Lickstein has utilized her social platforms—Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat—to demystify politics for young voters. She crafts easily digestible content that breaks down court cases, election processes, and critical legislative updates.

“I am determined to help to prepare, inspire, and empower young people, especially young women, to make their voices heard,” said Lickstein. “I love the idea of using my platform to help bridge the disconnect between civic engagement and civic participation and using social media as a tool for grassroots advocacy.”

Haley Lickstein’s impact extends far beyond the ephemeral stories and posts on social media platforms. Her strategic collaborations with key national advocacy groups have led to a powerful synergy that amplifies crucial action items, propelling a movement of grassroots advocacy that resonates across the nation. Lickstein’s approach is pragmatic and purpose-driven; she curates content that not only informs but also equips her followers with concrete steps they can take to engage with political issues. By doing so, she transforms passive scrolling into active participation.

Her efforts are relentless and meticulously tailored to ensure that the message of civic involvement is not just heard but also acted upon. She is a catalyst for change and inspires her audience to move beyond the comfort of online activism into the realm of real-world action. By highlighting the significance of local elections and shedding light on legislative developments, she reinforces the notion that political participation should be woven into the fabric of daily life, transcending beyond the buzz of election cycles.  For Lickstein, staying politically active is not merely a response to an upcoming election but a sustained lifestyle choice.

“I post about all things politics, with a goal of making politics more accessible, and less taboo to younger voters,” said Lickstein. “I break down court cases, how elections work, important dates to know and legislation happening across the country in easy short videos. I am extremely impact oriented so I try to help give my audience quick action items and ways they can make an impact year-round, not just during election season.”

The demographic of Lickstein’s audience is predominantly young women aged 18-35, a group she has inadvertently but fortuitously resonated with. An unexpected and yet promising segment of her followers includes the 13-17 age bracket, who, despite being ineligible to vote, are politically curious and eager to contribute to societal change.

“I am really lucky to have a strong audience,” said Lickstein. “This year I became a ‘snap star’, a platform with a younger audience. Almost 40% of my audience on that platform are females ages 13-17 who are not of voting age yet but incredibly politically curious and searching for ways to make their voices heard outside of opportunities at the ballot box — it is so energizing to hear from them and see their passion and commitment for change.”

Lickstein is poised to play a crucial role in the 2024 election cycle. With over 40 million Gen Z members eligible to vote, including 8 million first-time voters, she stands at the forefront of a potential seismic shift in electoral dynamics. Her message to her audience is compelling: go beyond the ballot box, engage in meaningful discussions, and embed civic engagement into the fabric of daily life.

As an influencer, Lickstein envisions a future where her peers are not just content creators but key players in political discourse and advocacy. She calls for a harmonious relationship between traditional political media and influencers, aiming to integrate youth perspectives into mainstream political narratives.

Haley Lickstein’s work epitomizes the intersection of digital influence and democratic engagement. Through her efforts, she not only informs but empowers, not just mobilizes but inspires. As she continues to build her platform, one post, one video, one story at a time, the impact of her young audience in the political process seems destined to grow under her guidance.

For more information and to join her community, follow Haley Lickstein on Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat.