Last Updated: Sep 10, 2024
Brian Henry’s life has been a dynamic blend of ambition, community service, and a deep connection to coastal living. Born in southern Louisiana’s Cajun country, Brian experienced the ebb and flow of life in a place rich in culture and close to the waters of the Gulf of Mexico. After graduating from Louisiana State University with a degree in Electrical Engineering, his path took him to Atlanta, where he launched a successful career in consulting with Andersen Consulting (now Accenture) and later with Coca-Cola. However, the city’s corporate life rhythms didn’t fully satisfy Brian’s desire for something more meaningful.
In 2002, Brian and his wife, Sassy, took a leap of faith that would change their lives. Drawn to the charm of South Carolina’s Hammock Coast, they purchased the historic Sea View Inn on Pawleys Island, a rustic bed and breakfast nestled along the ocean. It was the start of a new chapter—one that would blend business acumen with a passion for preserving the unique charm and heritage of the island.
Building a Legacy
While running the Sea View Inn, Brian and Sassy expanded their entrepreneurial horizons. In 2006, they founded Palmetto Cheese, a pimento cheese brand quickly gaining popularity nationwide. The brand became a household name with its roots in traditional Southern cuisine, making Pawleys Island synonymous with the famous cheese spread. As Palmetto Cheese grew, so did the Henrys’ footprint in the local business community.
In 2011, Brian and Sassy opened Get Carried Away Southern Takeout, a local eatery serving traditional Southern comfort food. The takeout business flourished, offering favorites like shrimp and grits, crab cakes, and their beloved pimento cheese. Their success didn’t stop there. In January 2024, they opened a second location in Mount Pleasant. By mid-2024, they had launched a second location in Mount Pleasant and a planned 3rd Get Carried Away Southern Market in Georgetown, SC, opening in October of 2024.
Brian’s commitment to the community and the environment never wavered despite these business ventures.
Mayor of Pawleys Island: Protecting the Island’s Future
Brian Henry’s deep-rooted connection to Pawleys Island extended beyond business. In November 2019, he was elected mayor of the town, a position he has since used to protect and enhance the island’s unique character. His leadership has been marked by significant achievements, particularly in environmental conservation and long-term strategic planning.
Under Brian’s tenure, several key initiatives have been implemented:
- Strategic Planning: One of his top priorities was developing a formal strategic plan for Pawleys Island. This plan outlines goals for Beach Preservation, Island Resiliency, Creek Management, and Long-Term Capital Funding, ensuring that the town remains a sustainable and thriving community.
- Architectural Preservation: To safeguard Pawleys Island’s historic charm, Brian established an Architectural Review Board. The board ensures that new developments respect the island’s traditional character while maintaining the aesthetic that draws residents and visitors.
- Environmental Conservation: Recognizing the importance of preserving the island’s natural beauty, Brian enacted a Tree Ordinance to protect the local greenery. This ordinance helps conserve Pawleys Island’s lush landscapes, contributing to its reputation as a serene, unspoiled coastal haven.
- Coastal Resilience: As a low-lying island, Pawleys faces ongoing rising sea levels and climate change threats. Brian launched a Sea Level Rise Coastal Adaptation Study to address these issues, focusing on strategies to strengthen the island’s coastal resilience and protect it from future environmental challenges.
Community Engagement and Leadership
Beyond his mayoral duties and business endeavors, Brian has always been an active local community member. From 2007 to 2015, he served on the Georgetown County Planning Commission, instrumental in shaping policies that balanced development with environmental preservation. He chaired the commission from 2011 to 2015, gaining a reputation for his thoughtful leadership and commitment to the long-term well-being of the area.
His passion for giving back extends to education and sports. Brian was heavily involved with Waccamaw High School, serving as Booster Club President from 2012 to 2019. He became known as the “Voice of the Warriors” for his enthusiastic commentary during football games. His contributions to the school and the broader community were recognized when he and Sassy were named Citizens of the Year for Pawleys Island in 2014, a testament to their ongoing dedication to improving the local area.
The Henrys have also chaired numerous fundraising events for schools and community organizations, contributing time and resources to local charities. Their philanthropic efforts are well known, and they continue to be pillars of the community, supporting causes that enhance the quality of life for residents.
A Life Well Balanced
When he’s not managing businesses or fulfilling his mayoral duties, Brian finds solace in the outdoor activities that first drew him to coastal life. An avid golfer and tennis player, he enjoys spending time on the island’s golf courses and tennis courts. His love for the water endures, and he can often be found boating and fishing in the area’s creeks and along the shore. Recently, Brian has taken on new challenges, pursuing his pilot’s license and even learning to play the guitar.
Brian Henry’s journey from the Gulf of Mexico to the Hammock Coast reflects his love for the ocean, dedication to preserving the environment, and entrepreneurial spirit. Whether leading the town of Pawleys Island as mayor, growing his businesses, or simply enjoying the beauty of the place he calls home, Brian leaves an indelible mark on the community.
Looking Ahead
As Pawleys Island continues to face growth, development, and environmental sustainability challenges, Brian’s leadership remains crucial. With plans to further strengthen the town’s resilience to rising sea levels and preserve its natural and architectural heritage, Brian is focused on ensuring that future generations can experience the same charm and beauty that drew him to the island over two decades ago.
For Brian Henry, the journey is far from over. The pull of the ocean and the call to serve his community will continue to guide his path forward.
Official Site: Brian Henry – Town of Pawleys Island
