Charleston’s Tia Clark: From Hospitality to Crabbing Queen
In the beautiful city of Charleston, a unique story is unfolding that combines ancestral ties, love for the water, and a thriving business. Meet Tia Clark, a local who has transformed her passion for crabbing into a delightful venture known as Casual Crabbing with Tia, where she not only takes people crabbing along the scenic Ashley River but also gives back to her coastal community.
A Journey Begins
Tia’s adventure with crabbing began quite unexpectedly. After spending two decades in the food and beverage industry, Tia decided she needed a change. The daily grind consisted of long hours and little joy. Growing up in downtown Charleston, she had a limited relationship with the water, remembering her first trip to the beach at the age of 17. Her family roots, however, laid deep in the Gullah Geechee heritage corridor.
It wasn’t until a family wedding that the spark was ignited. With the gentle nudge from a cousin, she tried her hand at crabbing, and that day marked a turning point in her life. “There was something unexplainable about being on the water,” Tia shared. The exhilaration overwhelmed her, and soon she was out crabbing every day.
Building a Community
Initially, Tia was hesitant to invite others along on her crabbing adventures. “I thought people might spoil this precious activity,” she said. However, over time, the requests kept pouring in. By July 2018, she had her first event on Airbnb, and it went off without a hitch! Fast forward a few months, and Tia was being celebrated in San Francisco, yet she still felt a pull toward the water.
Making the Leap
Her transition from bartender to business owner was fueled in part by encouragement from her wife and friend Robbie Mattinger, who eventually became her executive assistant. “If it wasn’t for Robbie, Casual Crabbing might not even exist,” Tia remarked, recognizing the support system that helped turn a dream into reality. Today, her outings usually include a group of about 12 participants, allowing more individuals to experience the joy of crabbing.
Community Impact
Tia is passionate about helping her community and the environment. “I realized I needed to give back to the water that has given me so much,” she explained. Now, every participant in her crabbing activities purchases a saltwater fishing license, with money going to vital programs like the South Carolina Oyster Recycling and Enhancement initiative. Tia herself volunteers to help create oyster reefs to restore shorelines.
Her commitment to sustainability doesn’t stop there. Tia is involved in various local groups, including the Charleston Visitors Bureau and the sustainability board for the South Carolina Aquarium, focusing on ensuring healthy waters for future generations. Recently, she also earned a spot in the prestigious Explorer’s Club, joining the ranks of notable figures like Teddy Roosevelt and Jane Goodall.
Expanding Horizons
In exciting news, Tia is set to open a second location for Casual Crabbing with Tia at The Dunlin resort in Kiawah Island. However, Tia’s name won’t be attached to this new venture due to the expectation that she be present. “My connection to the water is sacred, and I want to inspire others that they also belong there,” she explained.
A Message for All
Tia believes everyone should have a relationship with the water, irrespective of their background or financial situation. “You don’t need a boat or wealth to enjoy the water,” she said. “It’s about being able to connect and belong.” As she continues her journey, Tia Clark is not just providing a learning experience; she’s nurturing a community and a legacy that honors both her heritage and the waters of Charleston.
So next time you find yourself in Charleston, consider joining Tia on the Ashley River for a crabbing adventure that promises not just fun, but a deep dive into the culture, community, and care for our environment.
