Downtown Beaufort Feature: Jennifer Polk Mader
Growing up in Beaufort, South Carolina, wasn’t always easy. I had a complicated relationship with this town, to say the least. Born and raised here, with family roots going way back, I often found myself trying to escape its charm. But life had other plans. After moving away and coming back, I eventually found my footing and discovered what makes Beaufort so special.
My journey with Lantz, the owner of Plum’s, Hearth, and Saltus, began when I started working as a server at Plum’s after having my son. We’d chat, and over time, our friendship grew. He became like family to me. As I picked up managing shifts and eventually took on more responsibilities, I learned to navigate multiple roles across different restaurants. After COVID, I stepped into a more significant role, one that allowed me to utilize my strengths in communication and connection.
For me, it’s all about people. Treating every person who walks in as a human being, deserving of respect and care, is key. My experience has taught me that this approach makes all the difference. I’ve worked in corporate settings, moved away, and done a lot of things, but this connection is what sets me apart.
One story that stands out is about a dishwasher who was having a tough time. Instead of firing him, I took him outside and had a chat. I let him go home and told him I believed in him. Months later, he came back to thank me for understanding and giving him a chance. Moments like these remind me why I do what I do.
Beaufort has changed a lot over the years, and while it’s grown and evolved, I want to ensure it doesn’t lose its soul. As a local, I’ve seen it transform from a place I’d try to escape to my safe haven. The community, people like Lantz, and the history all contribute to its charm. I’m proud to call it home and want to protect it while still allowing it to thrive.
What I love about this town is its DNA – it’s ever-changing, yet the fight to preserve its essence has always been there. My dad, who’s 70, remembers the first Water Festival, and my grandmother was an avid fisherwoman. These stories remind me of the importance of holding onto our roots while embracing growth.
I’m vocal about what I want to see in Beaufort because I care deeply. It’s not about being the “no person” but about preserving the community’s heart. I believe that’s where the common ground lies – in our shared care and desire to protect this place.
For me, Beaufort will always be home. It’s where my kids were born, and it’s where I’ve grown as a person. I’ll keep fighting to ensure it stays true to its roots while embracing the changes that make it thrive.
-Jennifer Polk Mader
