Life moves fast these days and innovation is required, because today’s problems require new solutions. But innovation isn’t always high-tech. Sometimes, effective new approaches hold on to the best aspects of the past. For example, flip phones and other minimalist devices are surging in popularity thanks to people—especially young people—who want calling and texting, but otherwise want to remain untethered by constant communication. The devices are innovative in their simplicity.
In this Innovators issue, we spotlight people forging new paths in Greenville, and this common thread shines through for many of our subjects. D’Cafe in Travelers Rest has an innovative concept and a high-tech Ripples machine that can print any photo onto your drink (that’s me on a cappuccino!), but they also use traditional roasting techniques and classic Costa Rican recipes passed down through generations.
Art-o-mat brings an old vending machine approach to sharing art, and UGATA is finding innovative ways to get people to do that most elemental of activities: get outside. Chef Connor Hinderks of Little Secret has earned an avid following thanks to his new twists on global flavors, but he also sticks to the basics: what tastes great and what brings people together.
We hope you are inspired by these stories of people leading the way, honoring the best aspects of the past while building a better future. As author Denis Waitley wrote, “You must welcome change as a rule, but not as your ruler.”
