By Dr. McLean Sheperd | For eons, humans have been enchanted by fine wines and the culinary arts. The spell cast upon us by this delicious duo has inspired us, fed us and nurtured communities around the world for generations. Food and wine alone are wonderful, but together they create happiness — and happiness, after all, is the secret to health and well-being.

Here in Charleston, we celebrate this important connection every year at the Wine + Food Festival, a gathering recognizing that what we eat becomes us. Our skin celebrates with us when we respect the balance between feeding our minds, bodies and souls.