Hilton Head in Your Hands

A Story of Art, Grace, and Grit

At The Palmetto Directory, we believe everyone has a story and some of the most powerful are found in unexpected places.

When we discovered Michelle Laughry Pierce’s oyster shell art, we saw more than craftsmanship. We saw beauty and a whole lot of Lowcountry soul. Her journey from hospitality to handcrafted keepsakes reminds us that creativity can flourish even in stillness.

In this edition of Local Voices, we’re honored to share Michelle’s story – one of resilience, transformation, and quiet strength.

Because sometimes, the most meaningful souvenirs aren’t just taken home, they’re made with love.

Meet the Artist

Michelle Laughry Pierce

“The Moments that really remind me of why I’m doing this is because when I hear the gasp from the beauty, they see it makes me feel just as good as when I’m at work and I hear people make the same expressions of the beauty of the ocean.” Michelle shared.

For years, she worked as a bartender and server at Coast, a restaurant in Hilton Head known for oysters and oceanfront views. Her favorite part? Watching guests encounter the ocean for the first time. “That look – eyes wide, breath caught – that moment is everything.”

Originally from Michigan, Michelle moved to Hilton Head eleven years ago after health challenges and cold winters nudged her family toward a warmer, more healing life. It was a leap born from necessity, but one that quickly became home. Then came the unexpected, an injury that forced her to slow down and step away from the work she loved.

From Hospitality to Handcrafted Keepsakes

Michelle needed a new way to connect with people. A way to share the magic of Hilton Head, even when she couldn’t be on her feet. That’s when her journey with oyster shell art began.

Using locally sourced shells and intricate decoupage techniques, she started creating one-of-a-kind keepsakes. “I wanted people to be able to take a piece of the island home with them,” she says. “Whether it’s their once-in-a-lifetime trip, or part of a family tradition.”

Michelle joined a community of decoupage artists online, drawing inspiration and courage. Word began to spread. Boutiques reached out. Orders rolled in. Locals cheered her on.

A Purpose Rekindled

More than just creative expression, this work became a path to emotional healing. “Even when I couldn’t physically serve people like I used to, I realized I could still bring them joy,” Michelle reflects.

Now, when someone reacts to her artwork with the same awe she used to hear at the bar, it fills her with gratitude. “It reminds me that I still have something beautiful to give.”

Each piece is more than a souvenir – it’s a love letter to the Lowcountry, crafted by someone who lives its beauty every day.

A Message to Others Facing Hard Times

“My message to anyone going through a tough time is just keep positive. We are who we are for the things we go through in life you either let it take you down or find positive and make the best of things. Remember somewhere somebody is going through worse or the same things you are not alone so embrace the beauty of the life you have! Reach out to people around you!” Michelle Shared.

Since Michelle’s recovery she is expecting to return to work at Coast, Oceanfront Dining. From one neighbor to another, thank you for supporting local’s and heartfelt stories like Michelle’s.