10 Years Apart, One Twin Story

Some places stay with you – not just in photos, but in the way they make you feel. For identical twins Lejla and Sejla Hodzic, the Harbour Town Lighthouse on Hilton Head Island is one of those places.

Born and raised in Richmond, Virginia, Lejla and Sejla are first-generation Americans with deep Bosnian roots – both of their parents immigrated to the United States. They first visited Hilton Head when they were around 8–9 years old. This spring break, they returned at 18, and one thing was immediately clear: they had to recreate the memories.

A Return that Felt Like Coming Back

When Lejla and Sejla think back to their first trip, they remember the kind of moments that define a family vacation – stunning views, dolphins in the water, and the beaches that make Hilton Head feel effortless and welcoming.

Coming back 10 years later, they were surprised by how much still felt the same.

“The environment and the fun, welcoming energy of the island” was exactly as they remembered, they shared. If anything, the hospitality stood out even more this time – especially in the people they met along the way.

The Captain Hats, The Climb, and the Photo

The return trip itself was a last-minute spring break plan – the kind that often turns into the best story. And for Lejla and Sejla, it came with a mission: recreate a favorite photo from their first visit.

Back then, one of their favorite memories was taking a picture in captain hats on a dolphin tour boat. This time, they found captain hats at the lighthouse – and it felt like fate.

They climbed to the top of the Harbour Town Lighthouse twice.

“We didn’t originally plan on going all the way up,” said Lejla, “but we are so glad we did because it gave us the chance to recreate our photo.”

Side by side, the two photos – taken 10 years apart – capture more than a fun throwback. They capture growing up.

Growing Up Together

“When we look at the two photos side by side, what stands out most is how much we have grown together while still sharing the same love for traveling and spending time together,” said Sejla.

Like most siblings, they admit they don’t always get along. But being identical twins has shaped their lives in a way they wouldn’t trade.

“Being identical twins is such an amazing experience, and neither of us would want to change that,” said Lejla.

If they could say one thing to their younger selves – standing at the lighthouse again after all these years – it would be simple and powerful:

“Always look at the positive side of life. If you only focus on the negative, you will miss all the good things life has to offer.”

A Bosnian Connection – and a Hilton Head Island Welcome

One of the most meaningful parts of their return wasn’t planned.

During their visit, Lejla and Sejla met Harbour Town Lighthouse General Manager Nadia Wagner – and the connection was immediate. They spoke together in Bosnian, and the moment became one they’ll never forget.

“We will never forget the smile on her face when we spoke in our native Bosnian language,” said Sejla. “She was incredibly kind and outgoing, and she shared her beautiful life story with us.”

For the Hodzic twins, that shared language and background represents something bigger.

Their family’s story – with parents and relatives born and raised in Bosnia before immigrating to the United States during difficult times – is one of resilience and pride. Being first-generation Americans means carrying opportunity and heritage at the same time.

“That connection means everything to us,” said Sejla. “It is not just about heritage, but about identity, community, and understanding the journey that brought our family here.”

And travel, for them, is part of how that story stays alive.

“No matter where we go, there is always a chance to meet someone who shares our background,” Lejla added. “That is something truly meaningful.”

What They’d Tell First-Time Visitors

If you’re visiting Harbour Town for the first time, Lejla and Sejla have a simple recommendation: take your time.

Walk around. Explore the shops. Notice the flowers. Meet the people.

And of course, they agreed, you must climb to the top of the lighthouse to take in the amazing view.

Looking Ahead – and Planning to Return

In the next decade, Lejla and Sejla are looking forward to a milestone they’ve been working toward together: graduating as first-generation college students from Randolph-Macon College.

They’ve gone to school side by side since kindergarten, and graduating together will likely be the last major milestone they complete in tandem before their careers take them in different directions.

But some traditions are worth keeping.

They still plan to travel together – and they already know they’ll be back.

Follow along and tag them in your own “then and now” Harbour Town Lighthouse photos: @lejla_hodzic07 and @sejla_h0dzic.