Columbia: The Heart and Soul of Hidden Gems
As the sun peeks through the early foggy skies of Columbia, SC, the day is predicted to warm up nicely, hitting a pleasant high of 83°F. With light winds gently blowing, it’s the perfect weather for exploring the vibrant side of this often-overlooked city.
Meet Ken Walker: From Hot Dogs to Social Media Stardom
One familiar face that has taken the Columbia scene by storm is none other than Ken Walker. This local influencer and realtor has become a go-to guide for showcasing the city’s best-kept secrets. With over 60,000 followers on Instagram and a whopping 650,000 likes on TikTok, it’s safe to say Ken knows his stuff.
But Ken’s journey to fame wasn’t as straightforward as one might think. He started his career as a hot dog stand owner, which eventually morphed into a food truck business where he served up delightful seafood. After opening The Twist on Two Notch Road, he didn’t just settle; he aimed for the stars—literally! In 2019, Ken became a Guinness World Record holder for the most expensive crab cake. Yes, you read that right—a $310 crab cake made with king and lump crab meat, plated with luxury in mind.
Transitioning to Real Estate and Beyond
Ken has always been a man of many talents. Though his history is rich in culinary achievements, something shifted. He grew a bit weary of the food scene. “I was tired of food because I had been in it my whole life,” he admits. So, he made the leap into real estate, using social media to market himself in an untraditional but effective way. That strategy even landed him a spot on the popular show HGTV’s “House Hunters”!
His career took a fun turn when a friendly bet with a friend sparked the idea of vlogging Columbia. “I started vlogging only because my best friend at the time told me I couldn’t find a place in Columbia she had never heard about,” Ken explained. Turns out, they were both wrong, and his first video in 2022, showcasing a local treasure called Molto Vino, kicked off his journey into the sphere of local influencers.
Spotlighting Columbia’s Hidden Treasures
What makes Ken special is his determination to highlight the hidden gems of Columbia, from quirky restaurants to bustling festivals. “I found that people who live here often take things for granted,” Ken said. His goal? To help both locals and visitors see the opportunities for fun and excitement that Columbia has to offer.
With around 320 festivals celebrated annually, there’s something happening almost every weekend! “Our festivals are underrated,” he adds. “When I bring my friends from Atlanta, they can’t believe how much is going on.” It’s true, Columbia has a lively scene just waiting to be explored!
Join the Community! Discover What Columbia Has to Offer
As Ken dives headfirst into sharing and celebrating the spirit of Columbia, he encourages others to explore. He believes that many people don’t appreciate the city until they see it through an outsider’s eyes. “Now it’s a cool thing to go around and showcase all it has to offer,” he mentions. “I hear from people who grew up here that they had no idea about the events or places I showcase. It’s rewarding.”
So, whether you’re a local or a visitor, it’s a great time to join Ken on his journey. You can catch his adventures on TikTok @kenwalkershow or Instagram @kenwalkertherealtor. You might just uncover something new about Columbia that you never knew existed!
Wrapping Up with a Ray of Sunshine
Remember, Columbia isn’t just a city; it’s a treasure chest of experiences waiting to be opened. Ken Walker is doing his part in revealing its magic, one video at a time. So, let the sun shine and get out there to explore! Trust us, you haven’t seen it all yet.
