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A year ago, we set out to redefine the way we, as parents, plan activities for our families. With less stress and more focus on making memories. Memories that remind us of what truly matters. We began as a platform, but together we built something much greater: a community of local parents who share, connect, and create meaningful moments side by side. As we celebrate our one-year anniversary, we also share our decision to take a purposeful pause on Ducklinks — not as an ending, but as a time to reflect, breathe, and honor what this community has meant to us. From the very beginning, Ducklinks has been about connection: helping families discover joy close to home, celebrating local moments, and supporting parents through the beautiful chaos of raising children. That mission doesn’t end here. It continues — through the relationships we’ve built, the resources we’ve shared, and the community that still gathers and grows. As part of this transition, we will sunset our platform at the end of this month and proudly sponsor our final planned event — the Meyer Center Polo Classic next week — a celebration that perfectly reflects the heart of Ducklinks: family, connection, and community coming together. As we take this breath, we do so with immense gratitude. To every parent who joined our flock, every partner who believed in our vision, and every child who inspired our why — thank you. You’ve made Ducklinks more than a platform. You’ve made it a legacy of love, laughter, and local connection. Thank you, Greenville. xoxo, Allison Friends of the Flock The community that made this journey unforgettable. These incredible businesses + brands remind us that Ducklinks’ mission lives on — through every shared smile, small business, and simple joy that connects families right here in Greenville. Thank you for being part of this journey — and for continuing to make our city a place where families truly thrive. The Bunny Hive • Greenville Dance Without Limits Good Gatherings • Rita Santana Homes with Grace • Grace Herlong Loveless Knots & Twists Balloon Decor M. Judson Booksellers Music Adventure • Ms. Lynne Musical Chess • Adrienne Tellier

When you walk into Camino Wine Merchant , Greenville’s newest wine shop and bar, there’s an immediate sense that this space is more than a place to grab a great bottle of wine. It’s a neighborhood gathering spot, a classroom for curious wine lovers, and, in many ways, a reflection of its founder, Liz Dowty Mitchell -- grounded, approachable and full of heart. Liz, a mom of two young boys, has built Camino not only from her expertise in wine but also from her heart for family and community. As a mom-owned business in Greenville , Camino is quickly becoming a hub for connection. And this month, Ducklinks is thrilled to host our Anniversary Celebration here — and even more excited to spotlight the mom behind it all. Interview with Liz Dowty Mitchell, owner of Camino Wine Merchant + Mother of Two What inspired you to open Camino Wine Merchant, and what does the name “Camino” mean to you personally? It’s been my dream to have a place of my own where I can share my love, joy and knowledge for the thing that I’ve dedicated my life to with others. The Camino is a pilgrimage that humbles its explorers and learning about wine is very similar. No matter how long you’ve been a student of wine, you can never know it all and there’s always something new to learn. My goal at Camino is to make wine less intimidating and more approachable to everyone. You’ve lived in different cities — what made Greenville feel like the right place to plant roots and start this chapter? My husband is from Travelers Rest so we’ve visited many times over the years and I’ve been paying attention to the transformation happening in Greenville and it just felt like the right time for a place like Camino to open. Additionally, it felt like the right move for our family and to raise our 2 young boys. What has surprised you most about opening a new business here in Greenville? Everyone’s eagerness and willingness to do whatever they can to help me succeed. The kindness and generosity of strangers has been so so heartwarming. This was truly a group effort and I couldn’t have done this without countless people. You’ve mentioned on Instagram that opening Camino was truly a family affair. What did that look like in real life? From your boys pitching in to the ways your family supported the journey, how did you make it something you all built together? Of course my husband helped a great deal (as he is in the business as well), but also, many family members contributed their time and skills to build things, assemble and move furniture and so much more. My sister is helping with social media and another family member helped make the wine retail signs as well as many other finishing touches. As a mom of two boys, how has motherhood shaped the way you approach business and community? I realize how much a village is necessary to do this. I am so grateful because when we first moved here we found our village immediately from our neighborhood, the elementary school my son goes to and then our community pool. I made instant connections with a few mom friends and it’s been the key to our happiness in our new home. When you’re not at Camino, what are some of your favorite kid-friendly spots or activities in Greenville that you and your boys love most? What does a “perfect weekend” in Greenville look like for you and your family? We love going to the Main St. farmer’s market on Saturday mornings. We love going to hike at Paris Mtn. State Park and/or going to Unity Park. My boys like to be outside and fishing so we try to do that as much as possible. I also love going to the Brevard and Hendersonville area for hiking, apple and peach picking and the gorgeous scenery. Moms often juggle a thousand things — how do you find balance between raising kids and running a new business? Right now there isn’t much balance lol. I’m all in on Camino but this past year, while I was getting Camino open, I was able to pick up both of my boys from school every day and spend a lot of time with each of them including keeping my then 2yr old home with me over the summer between changing daycares. So I felt like I set up a very good foundation for them so now that I have stepped away a bit, they are okay. My husband has picked up a lot of the dropping off and picking up from school and is home with them most nights. But ask me again in 6 months when things are a little more settled at Camino and I hope that I will have found some balance then. Ducklinks is all about helping families discover experiences that make life easier and more meaningful. What kinds of moments or outings feel most special to you as a mom? Doing activities that the whole family enjoys like hiking or going to the pool or a lake to swim + have fun! Balance is something all moms chase — how do you create those little pauses or memory-making moments with your kids, even in the middle of busy seasons? Reading to them at night is the best time to connect with my boys. That’s when they tend to open up more and tell me about their days. I also don’t try to overschedule our lives with too many activities. A non-stop calendar stresses me out so I try to avoid that. You’ve shared on Instagram about how much the Greenville community means to you — how do you hope Camino becomes part of that neighborhood fabric? The most touching thing so far since opening is all of the regulars that we have already from the neighborhood. It’s amazing! Everyone is so cool and so grateful for us being here. My main purpose in opening Camino was to have a super comfortable place where people could come to connect with their friends and family and feel really good about the time spent here. And I think that I am achieving that goal! What do you love most about the Greenville food and wine scene, and how does Camino add to it? It’s already a very sophisticated and open-minded community so I am just grateful to be a part of it now. Everyone has been so supportive, welcoming and kind. I look forward to contributing the educational component to it. I will be offering courses and classes from certified wine organizations that I have a feeling many wine enthusiasts will be excited about to enhance their wine knowledge. If Camino Wine Merchant were to be remembered for one thing, what would you want it to be? Educating and de-mystifying wine. I think that wine can be intimidating and people feel awkward describing what they do and don’t like and my goal is to help give people language and confidence to communicate what they like and why. Wine is the most real product in the world because you can actually trace it back to a place and a person and it is a living breathing thing. In today’s world that is very unique and special and it needs to be cherished and appreciated. My goal is to help foster that appreciation and love. We heard you’re a big Taylor Swift fan — what’s your go-to song to dance it out with your kids after a long day? “22” of course!! Followed by New Romantics! If you could pair one glass of wine with “mom life,” what would it be? 😉 Definitely a dry Manzanilla or Fino sherry! My husband and I got married there so it instantly brings me back to all of the memories of that magical week. It’s also such a comforting and nostalgic smell and taste for me so it’s calming in the midst of chaos! What’s one piece of advice you’d share with other moms who dream about starting something of their own? Try your best to ignore timelines. I firmly believe that things happen when they are supposed to. I tried to open this business many times before in New Orleans and it just wasn’t meant to be and each time I was so discouraged, but I never gave up on this dream. Also, the most important thing is having a partner who is supportive. I couldn’t have done this without the unwavering love and support from my husband who kept encouraging me and believing in me. Why Ducklinks is Celebrating Here Camino isn’t just a wine shop — it’s a neighborhood hub, created by a mom who understands the balance of raising kids, chasing dreams, and creating community. It’s exactly the kind of place where Greenville moms can gather, unwind, and feel connected. It's also exactly why Ducklinks is proud to celebrate our one-year anniversary with Liz and Camino Wine Merchant. We're not only toasting to this milestone moment, we're celebrating inspiring moms like Liz that are raising families, building businesses, and creating community right here in Greenville, SC.

Grace Herlong Loveless, Greenville Realtor + Mother of two At Ducklinks, we believe moms deserve to be celebrated—not just for how they care for their families but for how they’re shaping our community in big, bold ways. That’s why we’re thrilled to spotlight Grace Herlong Loveless , the powerhouse Realtor and Greenville native behind Homes with Grace . Grace isn’t just selling homes—she’s building community. As a mom of two and one of Greenville’s go-to Realtors for families, she knows firsthand what it means to juggle schedules, school drop-offs, and soccer practice while  helping parents find the perfect place to put down roots. Her superpower? Blending her elevated, professional brand with her authentic, real-life mom voice. On Instagram, Grace shares the messy, magical truth of motherhood (the kind that makes you laugh, cry, and nod your head in solidarity). In real estate, she brings that same honesty and heart—guiding families toward homes and neighborhoods where both parents and children can thrive. So whether you’re new to Greenville or ready for your family's next chapter, Grace is the kind of guide every parent wants by their side: knowledgeable, approachable, and rooted in what matters most. It's why we purposefully chose her as our exclusive real estate partner . She embodies all that Ducklinks looks for in a community collaborator, and more. We sat down with Grace to hear her perspective on family life in Greenville, the neighborhoods she loves, and what makes this city such a special place to call home. Interview with Grace Herlong Loveless, Greenville Realtor + Mother of Two As a Greenville native (or expert), how would you describe the city’s vibe to a family considering a move here? Greenville has that perfect blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. It’s welcoming, walkable, and filled with activities that bring families together, from Saturday mornings at the Farmers Market to evenings along the Swamp Rabbit Trail. There’s a true sense of pride here, and families quickly feel like they’ve always belonged. What are some of the top reasons families choose to settle down in Greenville? Families love Greenville for its strong sense of community, award-winning public schools, endless parks and playgrounds, and year-round events that cater to all ages. From food truck festivals to outdoor concerts, there’s always something fun to do together. Are there particular neighborhoods or areas you find especially family-friendly? What makes them stand out? Augusta Road, North Main, and the communities around Five Forks are consistently family favorites. They have tree-lined streets, walkability to parks or schools, and active neighborhood activities. How has Greenville evolved over the years to become more appealing to families? Greenville has invested heavily in green spaces, safe biking/walking trails, and family-focused events. Downtown has transformed into a vibrant hub with playgrounds, splash pads, and family events making it just as enjoyable for children as for adults. What local amenities or hidden gems do you and/or your clients with children get most excited about? We love the Swamp Rabbit Trail for bike rides, the Children’s Museum of the Upstate for indoor fun, and Paris Mountain for hiking adventures. The library system here is fantastic, and the seasonal events, like Fall for Greenville and Artisphere, are a big hit. How does the sense of community play into the decision-making process for families buying a home in the Greenville area? For many families, the deciding factor is how connected they’ll feel to their neighbors. Greenville’s neighborhoods often have an old-fashioned “know-your-neighbors” feel, with block parties, school fundraisers, and porch drop-offs of homemade cookies. As a Realtor and parent, what are your must-haves when helping families find the right fit? Proximity to parks and schools, and a home layout that works for busy family life are top priorities What advice would you give to a family relocating to Greenville for the first time? Take time to explore — walk Main Street, visit different neighborhoods, and talk to local parents. Greenville is a city of connected pockets, and finding the one that matches your lifestyle makes all the difference. What makes the Greenville real estate market unique compared to other Southern cities? Greenville offers incredible quality of life for the value, and its growth is steady but still feels approachable. It’s rare to find a city with this level of amenities, outdoor beauty, and cultural experiences without losing its friendly, hometown feel. Why do you personally love helping families find their home in Greenville? There’s nothing better than seeing a family settle into a home where you know they’ll make lifelong memories. Helping them find not just a house, but a community, is deeply rewarding — and in Greenville, that sense of “home” comes naturally. Grace reminds us of something we deeply believe at Ducklinks: when families thrive, communities thrive. Greenville isn’t just about beautiful homes or award-winning schools. It’s about belonging. It’s block parties, bike rides, park playdates, and neighbors who feel like family. Grace doesn’t just understand that; she lives it. If you’re dreaming about your next chapter in Greenville—whether it’s your first home, your forever home, or something in between —Grace will be there to help you find more than a house... she’ll help you find a home. Follow Grace on Instagram at @homeswithgrace  for family-friendly real estate inspiration, honest mom moments, and local gems you won’t want to miss. Here’s to moms supporting moms, building families, and finding homes with grace.

January might be the calendar’s “official” new year, but let’s be honest. September is the real  reset button for moms. The kids are back in school. Routines are finding their rhythm. The coffee is (mostly) hot again. The air feels crisp and full of possibility. It’s that back-to-school energy, the fresh notebooks, the clean slate feeling that makes you want to breathe deep and start again. And if summer felt a little scattered, full of activity but short on productivity, you’re not alone. We felt it too. Why Moms Need a September Reset Motherhood is a beautiful, exhausting balancing act. We want to give our kids the world: the best experiences, the most magical memories, the childhoods they’ll cherish forever. But between juggling school schedules, soccer practice, meal planning, laundry piles, and maybe even carving out five minutes for ourselves, it can feel overwhelming. That’s why the September reset matters. It’s a chance to pause, breathe, and reimagine how we want this next season to look. It’s a moment to say: this time, I’m not doing it alone. The Ducklinks Pause (and Why We're Back Stronger) We’ll be honest with you, mama. We needed a pause this summer too. Just like you, we’re moms first. And building this memory-making business is personal. The pause gave us clarity. Instead of scribbling on planners and stacking sticky notes, instead of juggling screenshots and saved posts, we leaned into the very thing we’ve been building for you all along: parent tech designed to make life easier. Ducklinks isn’t just an app. It’s a community. It’s by moms, for moms. It’s your wing woman to help you uncover the very best Greenville has to offer families without the endless scrolling, searching, or second guessing. A New Mission: Make Life Lighter This fall, we’re embracing a new tradition and a clear mission: to help you never miss a beat. Because you deserve to soak up the moments without the overwhelm of planning stealing your joy. Ducklinks is here to deliver the good stuff — events, activities, hidden gems, and family fun — right to your fingertips. So you can get back to what matters most: making magic with your people. Your Fresh Start is Here So let’s flip the calendar together. Let’s press reset. September is here, mama, and your fresh start is waiting. And here’s the best part: you don’t have to figure it all out alone. Consider Ducklinks your trusted sidekick, your go-to guide, your mom-friend who always knows what’s happening in Greenville. Tell us in the comments . . . What do you want Ducklinks to find for your family this fall? We’re ready to make it happen. Dive in to the Ducklinks difference, and let's start transforming "what are we going to do today" into "that was the best day ever". Become a Ducklinks member free for 30 days.

At Ducklinks, we love to support and celebrate local parents who create meaningful experiences for families, by families. It’s why we spotlight local, quality experiences that are thoughtfully designed with real family life in mind—ones that reflect the rhythm, joy, and beautiful chaos of raising good humans. Introducing Musical Chess , a standout new program for young learners created right here in Greenville, South Carolina by mom-preneur and creative educator, Adrienne Tellier.  With roots in both music and strategy, this program brings together movement, melody, and the art of chess—all in a playful, developmentally rich environment for kids ages 2½ to 7. Musical Chess isn’t just innovative—it’s intentional. Adrienne brings both professional expertise and lived parenting experience into every element of her classes — a blend of brilliance that we at Ducklinks love most. This week, we connected with Adrienne to learn more about her journey, the “why” behind Musical Chess, and how she’s shaping something beautiful for families in our community. Interview with Adrienne Tellier, Musical Chess Founder Adrienne, share your Greenville story. What brought you here—and what’s helped you feel at home? I moved to Greenville from New York City, where I spent years working in education and the arts. My husband and I were ready for a place that felt welcoming and vibrant but also offered a slower, more connected pace of life to start our family. Greenville was exactly that. As a mom, I love how easy it is to find community here. Whether it’s meeting other parents at the park, exploring local shops, or just running into familiar faces at events, Greenville feels both accessible and close-knit. It’s been the perfect place to plant roots, raise my son, and launch Musical Chess. Outside of your business, what do you and your family love doing together around town? We love getting outside and exploring all the local parks. Some of our favorites are Unity Park, Trailblazer Park, and Runway Park. We also enjoy walking around the lake at Furman. When we have more time, we’ll head out for hikes at Paris Mountain for the convenience or venture to Table Rock and Jones Gap. Greenville has such a great food scene. We love finding new spots to eat— Hey Day and Other Lands are both family-friendly favorites (and fun fact: they’ll be hosting Musical Chess classes this fall!). When we’re not outside, you can usually find us at classes at The Bunny Hive , at the library for storytime, or just on a playdate with friends. There’s always something happening here for families. What inspired you, as a local mom and creative educator, to create Musical Chess? Musical Chess was really born from the blending of many parts of my life and experience—my love for working with children, my background in the arts and music, my time teaching chess to young kids, and the entrepreneurial skills I developed while wearing many hats at an educational startup. While working as a teaching artist in New York City, I saw firsthand how much confidence, focus, and joy kids could gain when chess was introduced in a playful, approachable way. Becoming a parent deepened that passion. I felt an even stronger pull to create something that supported the whole child—not just academically, but emotionally and socially as well. After several years of living here, Greenville felt like the kind of place where something like Musical Chess could truly thrive—a community full of creative families, supportive local businesses, and a genuine excitement for new ideas. I believe children are born loving to learn—it’s our job to nurture that innate spark. I wanted to build a program that felt fresh and accessible, where kids could move their bodies, be themselves, and grow in meaningful ways. Watching it come to life here has been such a gift. How is Musical Chess different from other children’s programs in Greenville? From the beginning, I wanted Musical Chess to fill a unique space—one that supports early childhood development with both intention and imagination. There are so many wonderful options for kids in Greenville, and I saw an opportunity to add something new to the mix: a program that blends creative expression with meaningful skill-building in a way that feels natural and joyful to young children. What makes Musical Chess refreshing is how intentional it is. Every song, movement, and concept is designed with the whole child in mind—cognitively, physically, and emotionally. We’re not rushing kids to master the rules. We’re helping them build focus, coordination, social-emotional skills, and confidence in a way that’s meaningful and developmentally appropriate. We also take care to make our classes feel warm and welcoming. There's no pressure to perform or "get it right." It’s about exploration, joy, and seeing each child for who they are. The result is that kids surprise themselves with what they can do—and they have a blast doing it. How has parenting in Greenville shaped how you designed the program? Becoming a parent changed how I see everything—including how children learn and what they truly need to thrive. Experiencing Greenville as both a mom and an educator has helped me design Musical Chess in a way that feels realistic, thoughtful, and deeply supportive of young families. I understand the rhythm of life with small kids—the ups and downs, the transitions, the need for flexibility, and the magic of small moments. That perspective shows up in everything from the length of our classes to the structure of our curriculum. I wanted families to feel like they could show up as they are and have a meaningful experience—without needing a background in music or chess, or a perfectly behaved toddler. Pairing that lived experience with my professional background in arts education and curriculum development allows me to approach Musical Chess with both heart and strategy. Every activity is rooted in child development and designed to feel like play, while also laying a strong foundation for skills like critical thinking, self-regulation, and confidence. What can families expect from a Musical Chess class? A Musical Chess class is full of movement, music, and discovery. In just the first lesson, kids learn how the king moves—and by the end of our 7-week Act One, they’ll confidently know how every piece on the board moves. Act Two puts it all together to learn how to play an actual game of chess. From there, moving into Act Three and on, students will explore concepts such as opening and end game strategy, middle game tactics, and so on. Each class blends imaginative play with real skill-building. We sing original songs in a circle, march like chess pieces across a life-sized board, giggle through silly games, and tackle age-appropriate chess challenges on the board. It’s active, joyful learning—designed to spark curiosity and grow confidence with every move. Musical Chess is beginner-friendly. How do you help families feel at ease? We keep it light, playful, and totally beginner-friendly—with familiar songs, goofiness, and thoughtfully crafted challenges designed just for early learners. Parents can feel confident that their child will have a good time, no matter how well they “sit still” or how much they already know. We meet kids where they are and help them shine. Tell us more about the different formats you offer. Flexibility is key for families today, and we’ve structured Musical Chess to reflect that. Our community “Acts” follow a progressive path and give families a consistent rhythm to follow week by week. Musical Chess Jams offer a more casual, drop-in option—perfect for practicing skills, exploring at your own pace, or just adding a little extra fun to the week. Private lessons allow for one-on-one or small group learning tailored to each child’s pace and interests, while our school-based programs bring the experience directly into kids’ daily routines—making it easy and accessible for busy families. No matter the format, our goal is to meet families where they are and make meaningful learning part of their lives. How has the Greenville community responded? The response has been heartwarming. Greenville families have welcomed Musical Chess with so much enthusiasm and curiosity—it’s clear that there was a desire for something fresh and meaningful for young learners. We’ve seen kids light up with pride after mastering a new piece or solving a challenge, and parents often share how their children come home singing songs from class or “teaching” them how the knight moves. One of my favorite moments was when a 3-year-old looked down at her black and white polka-dot dress, swayed side to side, and said, “The bishops would love me.” She had just learned how one bishop moves on black and one on white—and she saw herself in that moment. It was funny, sweet, and showed exactly what we hope to create: joyful connection and confidence. The community has also embraced us through partnerships with local businesses, schools, and parent networks. It’s been incredible to see how quickly Musical Chess has become a part of Greenville’s growing family landscape. What’s next for Musical Chess? I’d love to continue deepening Musical Chess’s roots in Greenville—partnering with more schools, expanding class offerings, and connecting with even more families who are excited about imaginative, whole-child learning. Long-term, I’d love to see Musical Chess in communities across the Southeast and beyond—anywhere kids can discover how much they’re capable of through music and play. I have a few other ideas up my sleeve but you'll just have to follow along to see how those reveal themselves. But for now, I’m focused on growing thoughtfully—right here in a city that’s already given us so much support and inspiration. Ready to make your move? Explore Musical Chess classes on the Ducklinks Dashboard Public classes are available at convenient Greenville locations. Private lessons and school-based programs are also offered. Learn more at www.musicalchessgvl.com

A personalized platform built by parents, Ducklinks empowers Greenville families to plan meaningful moments—without the mental overload. If you've ever found yourself lost in a sea of screenshots, juggling too many open tabs, or scrolling through saved posts trying to remember what that one event was ... you're not alone. We've all been there. And it's exactly why Ducklinks  exists—to empower parents  with a tool that does the heavy lifting for you. What is Ducklinks?! Ducklinks is a tech-powered platform designed to simplify how parents and caregivers discover fun, enriching, family-friendly activities in Greenville, SC. We take the guesswork out of what to do  with your kids and empower you with a smarter, simpler, more joyful way to plan for your family's next adventure. At the core of our experience is the Ducklinks Dashboard  — your personalized, ad-free, parent-powered planning tool that gives you: Smart event recommendations based on your child's age, interests, schedule, budget and more Insider tips from local families (like where to park, where to potty, and whether it’s stroller-friendly) Exclusive member benefits from beloved local businesses This isn’t another digital distraction. It’s a parenting solution —designed to restore your time, your confidence, and your ability to say yes  to moments that matter. Built for Parents. Backed by Technology. We believe that empowering parents doesn’t mean adding more noise. It means offering tools that are thoughtful, efficient, and deeply human. For parents. By parents. Ducklinks combines the ease of smart technology with the wisdom of real local parents. Because we know that planning shouldn’t feel like guesswork. We know what it’s like to crave connection. We know what it feels like to want more for your weekends, and to just need one less thing to figure out. Your Dashboard isn’t just a feed of events—it’s a smarter, more supportive way to plan your day, your week, or even your next 30 minutes. More Than a Membership—It’s a Mindset Our mission is rooted in community: To lighten the invisible load parents carry To make everyday moments easier to say yes to To help you find your people  in the process As one member shared: “I didn’t realize how much mental energy I was spending until Ducklinks gave me back my bandwidth.” Say Goodbye to the Scroll and Say Hello to the Ducklinks Difference With Ducklinks, spend less time figuring it out and more time living it out—with the people who matter most. Because your kids won’t remember how hard you worked to plan the perfect day. They’ll remember that you showed up for it. Join the Flock  -- Because your next best memory is already on the dashboard! Join the Flock + Start Exploring Because we believe so deeply in our difference, we’re offering new families a FREE 3-Month Trial  to experience all that our Ducklinks Membership entails—no strings attached. Use promo code 3MONTHSFREE to unlock your free trial at checkout.

Greenville, S.C. – Ducklinks is excited to announce the launch of Music Adventure with Ducklinks , a Montessori-inspired music class series for families, taking off this summer at HeyDay GVL, a local parent-owned craft sandwich and cocktail eatery. Created in collaboration with local parent and beloved musician Ms. Lynne Holcombe, this series is part of Ducklinks' ongoing mission to build community and connect families through meaningful and quality experiences designed for parents–by parents. Music Adventure invites families with children ages 0-7 to explore rhythm, sound, and movement in a joyful, hands-on environment – while caregivers enjoy a complimentary coffee and a chance to connect and recharge. "We're passionate about building community through enriching family-friendly experiences," says Ducklinks Co-Founder & CEO Allison Rogers. "By partnering with local parents like Ms. Lynne and the team at HeyDay, we're able to offer something truly special – because as fellow parents, we understand what families need." Community Event Series Held in the front garden of HeyDay, Music Adventure with Ducklinks is open to all families — no membership required. Tuesday, June 3, 11:00 AM Tuesday, June 24, 11:00 AM Tuesday, July 1, 11:00 AM Tuesday, July 15, 11:00 AM Tuesday, July 22, 11:00 AM Tuesday, July 29, 11:00 AM Register via ducklinksgvl.com/events $15 per child • $8 per sibling Ducklinks Members-Only Series Complimentary Class for Ducklinks Members Only In addition to their Community Event Series, Ducklinks is also offering exclusive, complimentary classes to its members once a month. Space is limited. Wednesday, June 11 • 11:00 AM Wednesday, July 9 • 11:00 AM About Ducklinks Ducklinks  is a community-driven platform that connects families in Greenville, SC with fellow parents, a personalized list of local kids' activities, and exclusive member benefits. From time-saving tools to quality family experiences, Ducklinks helps caregivers feel supported, seen, and celebrated in every season of family life. To learn more visit, www.ducklinksgvl.com . About Music Adventure with Ms. Lynne Music Adventure  is a hands-on, playful music class for young children led by Ms. Lynne Holcombe , a Greenville-based singer-songwriter, Montessori educator, and mom with over 20 years of musical experience. Ms. Lynne brings warmth, spontaneity, and early childhood insight to every session—making music accessible, joyful, and fun for the whole family. To learn more, visit: facebook.com/musicadventureforkids About HeyDay GVL HeyDay Sandwiches & Cocktails  is a family-friendly restaurant and community space located at 2510 Poinsett Highway in Greenville, SC. Owned and operated by local parents Paul and Sarah Klaassen and Michael Olbrantz of KO Restaurant Group, HeyDay was created as a place where families can gather, relax, and enjoy great food and meaningful connection. With a full kitchen and bar, HeyDay offers gourmet sandwiches, fresh salads, and handcrafted cocktails, plus indoor and outdoor seating, live music, and lawn games. Its name reflects the spirit of celebration — a nod to life’s prime time, filled with flavor, fun, and family. To learn more, visit: heydaygvl.com

The 'QUACK' around the city... Ducklinks is thrilled to be featured in GVLtoday’s Founderville series , spotlighting local startups helping shape Greenville’s growing innovation scene. The Ducklinks Dashboard • Our time-saving technology that empowers parents and caregivers to discover local kids' activities in Greenville, South Carolina April Interview with Allison Rogers, Ducklinks Co-Founder & CEO Founded: Founded in April 2024, app launched in September 2025 Employees + hiring: Two full-time + four part-time While we aren’t hiring, we are looking to take on additional community partners whose missions align with ours. Elevator pitch: Greenville has an overwhelming number of children’s events and activities, but finding the right opportunities for your family and your kids is hard! The Ducklinks Dashboard provides members with curated recommendations based on family schedules, children’s ages and interests, and provides parents with an engaged and vibrant parent community. Our goal is to help parents make the most of their precious time with their young children. Why Greenville? Because I live here! Also, it has a strong startup ecosystem and a large young family demographic. What do you need? As an early-stage start up, we would certainly welcome money, but really, we want to get Ducklinks in the hands of as many parents in Greenville. How has Greenville’s entrepreneurial ecosystem supported your growth? I’m certain that if I started Ducklinks in a larger market, I would not have received the amount and quality of support I benefited from in Greenville. Several incredible people have been extremely generous with their time and resources, and we would not be where we are without them. What sets your business apart from others in the same industry? There are many ways to learn about kids’ events and activities in Greenville, but this requires the parent to do all the work. If you are relying on Instagram, you need to cross-reference your calendar, click through to find out more details — e.g., is it age-appropriate, what is the cost, do you need to sign up in advance, etc., and then remember to go! Ducklinks provides these details and a whole host of other critical details — like whether it’s stroller-friendly + whether the restrooms are clean — in a clean, easy-to-use platform, complete with calendar integration and event reminders. Who inspires you? Bonus points if they’re local. Nicole Johnson of Boyd Cycling has become my friend and informal mentor. From our initial introduction at the NextGEN Summit in 2023, Nicole has shown me that a mother of young children can be a successful startup founder. I am often, if not always, a minority in the room (whether it be speaking with developers, potential investors, or other technology leaders), and knowing that Nicole has navigated these waters successfully gives me the confidence to stand tall in these rooms. I’ll also mention that we are a women-led business, with 5 out of our six employees being women. How do you see yourself contributing to Greenville South Carolina’s future as a thriving entrepreneurial hub? My goal is to become a success story for Greenville entrepreneurs. I want to inspire and help bring along other eager entrepreneurs, as so many have done for me. As the feature above shares, Ducklinks was born out of one big, shared parenting pain point: trying to plan fun, meaningful things to do with your kids without spending hours scrolling social media or digging through newsletters. Founder and mom of three, Allison Rogers, knew there had to be a better way—so she built one. “Ducklinks is a web-based app that helps busy parents discover and plan local, kid-friendly activities—without the stress. It makes personalized recommendations based on your family’s interests, schedule, and budget.” Being recognized alongside other Greenville startups doing amazing work is a huge honor. And as we continue to grow, we’re more motivated than ever to serve families in the Upstate with the tools, connections, and experiences that make parenting a little easier (and a lot more fun). Ready to give Ducklinks a try?! Join the flock! Start your 30-day free trial  and see what local adventures are waiting for your family.

Greenville, S.C. – Ducklinks, an AI-driven, web-based application with mobile-accessibility, launched today transforming the way parents locate events and activities for their children. Ducklinks uses a proprietary matching algorithm to curate and deliver child-friendly activity suggestions directly to users’ fingertips. Founded by Greenville full-time mother and attorney, Allison Rogers, the Ducklinks app seeks to redefine the way parents plan out their activities for their children. The app allows parents to receive information on customized child-friendly activities and events in the Greenville area by using search criteria tailored to their child’s age, interests, and schedule, as well as family’s cost considerations and location. The platform’s robust database is updated in real time with access to educational, cultural, athletic and community events. The touch of a single search bar connects busy families to a streamlined, curated list of enriching experiences for their children. Additionally, users can automatically integrate the selected events into their Google Calendar, and share with friends and other caregivers. “Parents today are busier than ever trying to manage all aspects of their family, juggle a career, and on top of it all, complete the grocery list. It’s a constant struggle to do it all. As a mom of three and attorney, I would spend countless hours searching and planning events for my family trying to make the most of our time together,” said Allison Rogers, Co-Founder and CEO of Ducklinks. “The Ducklinks app gives parents a quick and stress-free method of planning their days with their kids- letting them stress less and focus on making memories.” To provide users with exclusive insights and personalized event notifications, Ducklinks is a subscription-based application. The online platform uses patent-pending technology and AI-driven personalization to deliver curated recommendations that are specific to the user’s interests, location preferences and family identity. For a limited time, new users can signup for 30 days’ free. Members can sign up for Ducklinks at www.ducklinksgvl.com. and learn more about the Ducklinks app and its capabilities. Follow them on social @ducklinksgvl, to be the first to hear about additional features and market rollouts. About Ducklinks Ducklinks is a subscription-based application designed to effortlessly connect parents of children to hyper-local events and activities in their community. With the touch of finger, parents can efficiently access relevant and engaging activities for their entire family. Founded by Greenville mom of 3 and attorney, Allison Rogers, Ducklinks is poised to transform the way parents plan their daily adventures. To learn more visit, www.ducklinksgvl.com.

via Greenville City Economic Development Corporation – Greenville, S.C. families are getting their ducks in a row with guidance from a home-grown startup. Ducklinks Co-founder and CEO Allison Rogers, a practicing attorney and mother of three, created the service to streamline schedules. "I've had multiple screens up with newsletters, websites, my kids' schedules and I'd try to piece it all together," Rogers says. "It wasn't fun. I didn't always make the right choices. We would go to an event that wasn't age appropriate or we might not get the timing right." Rogers found support and created an app that does the work for you. Ducks. Row. Done. #greenvillesc families are getting their ducks 🦆 in a row with guidance from a home-grown startup. Ducklinks Greenville founder and CEO Allison Rogers, a... | By Greenville City Economic Development Corporation | Facebook Video Transcript: "Greenville is fantastic because we have so many things that you could do on any given day with your children, but picking and choosing and knowing what's best for your family can be overwhelming. Ducklinks is a platform that helps parents in Greenville find and plan activities for their children, tailored to their interests and schedules. We partner with local businesses and organizations to offer exclusive perks and events for our members, making it easier for families to connect and enjoy what our community has to offer. Our goal is to simplify family life by providing a centralized hub for discovering, planning, and sharing kid-friendly activities in Greenville." Greenville families are busy — and with so much to do in our vibrant city, it can feel like a full-time job just figuring out how to spend quality time together. That’s where Ducklinks comes in. We created Ducklinks because we believe planning family fun shouldn’t be stressful. Our platform helps parents discover local kids’ activities tailored to their children’s age, interests, and schedule. From weekend events to after-school adventures, Ducklinks is your go-to guide for family-friendly experiences in the Upstate. What makes Ducklinks special? We don’t just list activities — we build relationships. Through thoughtful partnerships with local businesses and community spaces, we’re able to offer exclusive member perks and access to events you won’t find anywhere else. It’s all about helping families feel more connected, supported, and in the know. Our goal is simple: to help you spend less time scrolling and more time making memories. With Ducklinks, you’ve got everything you need to plan your next outing — all in one place. Ready to join the flock? Your next adventure starts here.

via NextGEN – Founded by Greenville attorney and full-time mother Allison Rogers, Ducklinks is redefining how parents plan enriching activities for their children. With a mission to simplify family life and provide tailored recommendations for events and activities, Ducklinks launched in Greenville on September 9, 2024. In just a few months, Allison’s vision has grown into a vibrant startup with a team of three full-time and three part-time employees, all based locally in Greenville, SC. New to the startup world, Allison partnered with co-founder Andy Humen and joined the NextGEN and #StartupGVL communities to immerse themselves in Greenville’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Early in 2024, the duo connected with Worthwhile Venture Studio, which played a pivotal role in turning their idea into reality helping them create a web-based application MVP (Minimum Viable Product). Ducklinks also became one of SCRA’s newest member companies, further solidifying its place in South Carolina’s innovation landscape. Andy Humen & Allison Rogers • Ducklinks Founders About the founders Andy is a former aerospace executive who led mid market companies providing avionics components and systems for military and commercial applications. He began his career as an electrical design engineer focussed on electromagnetic products and held positions including engineering management, program management, business development and general management. Allison is an attorney with 6 years in private practice and 6 years as in-house counsel for a national transportation and logistics company. During her tenure as in-house counsel, she contributed to the company’s significant growth and diversification.   Challenges and (good) surprises Allison has expressed both surprise and gratitude for the extensive resources and vibrant tech community in Greenville, which enabled them to progress rapidly. Within six months, they transitioned from an initial idea to a product concept, and another six months brought them from concept to MVP—a timeline that exceeded their expectations. However, the team acknowledged challenges brought on by a shifting venture capital landscape, particularly in the Southeast. This climate prompted them to temper their investment expectations and adjust the pace of their product development and marketing efforts accordingly. Leaving the nest Since launch, Ducklinks has focused on engaging its initial customers and gathering valuable feedback to enhance the platform’s user experience. “We’re committed to learning from our members and continually improving to better serve families in the new year,” says Allison. One of the most heartwarming moments of 2024 for Allison was during the Ducklinks launch party when her three little ducklings (her children) waddled into the room mid-speech. “They are the ‘why’ behind Ducklinks,” she shares. “Having them there to celebrate was incredibly special.” As Ducklinks heads into 2025, the team is excited to expand its reach, enhance its product, and continue building connections within Greenville’s thriving startup community. They are very active on social media, have a regular newsletter that goes out to their subscribers, and have been featured on multiple podcasts. Ducklinks has been diligent in utilizing many of our services like office hours, workshops, and participating in Match Day as part of Next Venture Summit! We are grateful they chose #StartupGVL to start and scale their business.

via Access Carolina – Finding fun, enriching activities for your kids shouldn’t be stressful — and thanks to Ducklinks, it no longer is! In a recent segment on Access Carolina, Co-founder & CEO Allison Rogers shared how Ducklinks is revolutionizing the way parents and caregivers plan family time in the Greenville area. What is Ducklinks? Ducklinks is a web-based app that helps parents discover local activities and events tailored to their family’s unique needs. From STEM and arts to outdoor play and music, Ducklinks delivers curated recommendations based on your child’s age, interests, location, and even budget. It’s like having a personal planner for your family — but smarter. “Every Sunday, I’d be on Instagram and newsletters trying to piece together a plan for my kids. It just wasn’t sustainable,” says Rogers, mom of three. “Ducklinks takes out the guesswork and does the legwork for you.” Real-Time Recommendations, Real-Life Help One of the biggest advantages? Ducklinks stays up to date — so when an event is postponed or canceled (like Fall for Greenville was), the app reflects those changes in real time. That way, you’re never showing up to a closed gate or missing out on a fun opportunity. The app also offers practical parent intel you won’t find on typical listings: • Is it stroller-friendly? • Are the restrooms clean? • Can I bring my own snacks? Because when it comes to going out with kids, details matter. Local Love, One Event at a Time Ducklinks doesn’t just highlight big-ticket events. It brings attention to local gems you might not even know exist — like M. Judson’s Storytime on the Steps or Ms. Lynn’s Music Adventures at Swamp Rabbit Café. It’s about helping families tap into everything Greenville has to offer — from the popular to the perfectly tucked away. For Families, By Families Launched in September, Ducklinks is proudly homegrown. Allison and her team live in Greenville and understand what local families need. Right now, all new users get 30 days free, with the option to keep the experience going for just $4.99/month. Ducklinks is also actively partnering with local businesses and kid-focused venues to host exclusive events and offer member perks. Interested in becoming a feathered friend of the flock (Ducklinks community partners)? Send us a quack. Ready to Join the Flock? Become a Ducklinks Member to start planning your next adventure — without the stress.