A Journalism graduate from the University of Georgia, Pat served as Women's Editor for WSB Radio, Atlanta, and later became the Assistant to media mogul Ted Turner. Once married, she accompanied her husband to Beaufort, SC, where he purchased a plantation on Lady's Island. Many of her stories are from her early days in Beaufort and the memorable meals she shared with friends who entertained in the antebellum dining rooms along Beaufort’s waterfront and across the sea islands. Everywhere folks gathered, whether it was an oyster roast, a dove hunt, a golf tournament, or a celebration during the annual water festival, there was plenty of Southern hospitality and finely prepared food and drink.
Recipes and stories reflect the traditions of community and foodways that have survived and evolved for centuries. Pat Branning, the author of 7 best-selling books on the South Carolina Lowcountry, now presents The Anniversary Edition of Shrimp, Collards and Grits.
Pat is a prolific writer of books, periodicals and magazine stories including The Local Palate, Deep South and Charleston Style and Design.