Shelby Hamilton is an artist and graphic designer in Charleston. Originally from Augusta GA, Shelby graduated from the University of Georgia with a BFA in Graphic Design and moved to Charleston right after to work for RMS Beauty as their graphic designer. She started her career as a full time artist in 2019 and hasn’t looked back. Shelby loves everything about the Lowcountry and hopes to live in it for the rest of her life!
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
My husband Taylor and I live on James Island with our 2 dogs Cash (cocker spaniel) and Cooper (chocolate lab).
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I have known for a long time that I wanted to work for myself. I went on my own full time in 2018 after working as the graphic designer for RMS Beauty. I loved my job there and never thought I would make the decision to work for myself so early in life but I am so happy I did! I love being an artist and graphic designer because of the creative freedom that comes with it.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Home Team BBQ, Sweetwater Cafe, Mama Kims, and a new favorite Island Cabana Bar.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
5 years
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
Peggy Watkins (artist)
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
Italy for the food, wine, views, and art.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
Movie: Hidden Figures. TV Shows: Friends, NCIS, and Grey’s Anatomy.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Do what makes you happy and always surround yourself with people who make you happy!
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
I have always wanted to see the Northern Lights in person, or go to the Bahamas and swim with the pigs!
Q: What is your go to band when you cant decide what to listen to?
Luke Combs or Morgan Wallen
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
Johnny’s Hot Dogs in Mount Pleasant by the Ace Hardware. They are always working with a smile. Really anywhere with good southern hospitality makes me nostalgic. PLUS sometimes they have coke in a glass bottle, which is a game changer for me.
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
Heather McMahan at Le Farfalle. She absolutely cracks me up, and I would love to just chat and hear all about her life.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
I love the food and bev side of Charleston. Food is one of my joys in life, and I love the atmosphere and welcoming feel of Charleston restaurants.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
Still living here or anywhere in the Lowcountry. Still making art, hopefully a little more established in my career, and maybe plus another dog.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I love talking about outer space and conspiracy theories. They are so intriguing to me. I love a “what if” and hypothetical questions.
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
Santorini, Greece, or New Zealand.
Q: Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
June or December, Christmas, and I think my favorite day of the year is your dog’s birthday. They have no idea what’s going on, but they’re so happy. You can take them to do their favorite things, and watching them eat their favorite treat like a pup cup or a dog cookie is just the best. I have a smile on all day on our dog’s birthdays.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
Chick-fil-A, an Oreo blizzard, and Ye Old Fashioned
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
Taylor, God, and my friends.
Q: What is one or two of your favorite smells?
Bread, brownies, and chocolate chip cookies in the oven.
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Happy, comfort, family/friends.
