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free, take one
CULT U R AL ALMANAC
CHARLESTON IN BLOOM talking shop with Toni Reale three local couples share their love stories
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VINTAGE VIBES
a look inside Whitney Stoddard’s tea-stained art collection
ty. Connection. T H E R E S T O R A T I O N H O T E L . C O M Community. Creativi - 1 -
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Get Glowing Experience invigorating treatments that reveal your inner radiance.
Schedule your in-room or spa treatment at 843.518.5116 T H ER E STOR ATION HOT EL .COM
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LETTER FROM
M G the W
elcome to The Restoration! We are honored to have you as our guest.
We hope the start of Spring has you rested and restored. Upon the awakening of Spring life renews itself and Charleston becomes energized and buzzing; hungry for long days, warm breezes and breathtaking sunsets. Spring welcomes a freshness to Charleston and a sense of new life. As the seasons change and Spring is in the air I am always in awe of the scents of Jasmine that fill our cobblestone streets in early April. There is no better place to celebrate the season’s freshest blooms than the streets of our community.
At The Restoration, we love being a part of the newness that Spring offers. Spring is the perfect time to reconnect to your surroundings and enjoy the crisp morning air on a quick bicycle ride or relaxed stroll to The Battery. Along the way, stop and smell the roses (literally!), enjoy the scenic view of White Point Garden and continue the loop passed the colorful antebellum homes as Charleston is just starting to wake. Cap your morning adventure soaking in the sun on one of our many outdoor patios while enjoying a lavender scented honey latte from The Rise Coffee Bar. Relax the day away lounging at our Indigo Pool and indulge in handcrafted libations delivered poolside or submerse yourself in a treatment at The Amethyst Spa. As the late afternoon is just settling in join us for rooftop yoga or a cult classic outdoor movie. Retreat to your room and allow us take care of the dinner details. Just an elevator ride away is The Watch Rooftop Kitchen and Spirits with its award-winning modern cuisine and cocktails, perfect for a pre- or postdinner drink and its unrivaled views of the Charleston sunset. There are so many ways to experience Spring in Charleston, and our entire team at The Restoration is here to help plan your stay and achieve your inner zen. Be Inspired, CHELSEA NIGHTENGALE
Chelsea Nightengale, General Manager
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Gifts Designed to Inspire Celebrated treasures both curated and current at The Restoration.
TheRestorationHotel.com | 843.518.5118 T H E R E S T O R A -T I4 O-N H O T E L . C O Follow M @therestorationhotel
and @shadesofpinck
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All the
s g n i h T Pretty
Hello sunshine! As we shed our winter layers and look forward to the first signs of spring, Nola Johnson, expert curator of The Port Mercantile, shares her must-have items to celebrate the New South’s favorite season. All items available at The Port Mercantile
ZOE CHICCO TURQUOISE + DIAMOND NECKLACE MOLINARD JASMIN FRAGRANCE
KREWE COHN 24K TITANIUM SUNGLASSES
Drawing inspiration from blissful hours spent in the garden, this delicate fragrance boasts notes of jasmine, lemon, rose, orange blossom and sandalwood. $65
Handmade by a dedicated team of artisans in Los Angeles, Zoe Chicco’s elegant, yet simple, designs marry 14 karat gold, diamonds, and semi-precious gemstones. $605
These sleek retro aviators gently frame every face, providing 100% UVA and UVB protection-- perfect for enjoying our iconic Charleston sunsets from your favorite rooftop. $395
MICHELLE QUAN RAINBOW STRIPE DISH Celebrating the perfectly imperfect nature of each handcrafted ceramic piece, this one of a kind stoneware dish celebrates the lighthearted nature of spring with hand painted Rainbow Rings. $70
TEAMI GLOW FACIAL OIL Made with 100% pure plant extracts and natural mineral ingredients, this luxurious facial oil is infused with rose petals and cinnamon bark to promote glowing skin and reduce the signs of aging. $40
FORNASETTI FLORA ROOM SPRAY Created by perfumer Emmanuel Philip, Flora di Fornasetti is a subtle medley of f loral and woody notes including ivy, lily of the valley, iris, jasmine, tuberose, sandalwood and musk. $150
LOUIS SHERRY TRUFFLES Originally introduced by the French master chocolatier in 1881, each array of chocolates is packaged in the traditional Sherry’s tin, a recast of the original, now more than 100 years old. $30 - 5 -
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l i r Ap
4/18 FILM THURSDAY: MAMMA MIA! HERE WE GO AGAIN
4/6
4/1 - 4/30
COOPER RIVER BRIDGE RUN
RUSTICO LEATHER GOODS POP-UP All month long, The Port will be featuring a Rustico Leather Goods pop-up. Rustico is rooted in adventurous and authentic living, with an emphasis on simplicity, and enjoys creating unique pieces using top-grain leather. Come see the inspiring journals, gifts, and lifestyle accessories this family of artists has handcrafted in their Utah workshop. For more information visit www.rustico.com/
4/2 PURE BARRE CHARLESTON Kick off warmer weather with this 50-minute pop-up class on our rooftop! Starting at 5:30pm followed by drinks at The Watch after class!To reserve your spot, visit therestorationhotel.com/happenings
Come experience the 42nd annual Cooper River Bridge Run. With 40,000 participants, this world-class 10K is the third largest in the US. While the race begins in Mt. Pleasant, it ends in downtown Charleston, just steps away from The Restoration. Book a post-run treatment at The Amethyst Spa and receive a 20% Marathon discount.
4/11
4/26
KNITTING UNDER THE STARS
SHAKEN AND STIRRED: DARK & STORMY
Join us for this unique workshop! Learn the simple hand-knitting process to create a super cozy, one-of-a-kind blanket. Requires no needles or knitting experience! Registration includes all materials and a handcrafted cocktail from The Watch. Resgistration information available at therestorationhotel.com/happenings
Join us in The Library from 5pm-6pm to indulge in a Dark and Stormy cocktail. This popular tropical libation is made with dark rum, ginger beer, and sometimes lime, making it the lesser known cousin of the Moscow Mule. Stop by and try this refreshing beverage to see for yourself why it’s the unofficial drink of Bermuda.
Weeklvyents E HAPPENING EVERY MONTH
For more information, visit the Happenings page on our website.
Sing and dance the night away under the stars with the cast of Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again. This musical sequel transports you back to the Greek island of Kalokairi, where recent changes in Sophie’s life encourage her to be a risk-taker like her mother, Donna. For ticket information, visit therestorationhotel.com/happenings
SATURDAYS
STARTING 4/13 CHARLESTON FARMERS MARKET 8AM-2PM
SUNDAYS
TUESDAYS
BRUNCH AT THE WATCH | 10AM-3PM MUSIC SERIES AT THE WATCH | 12PM-3PM
TIKIS + TACOS AT THE WATCH | 4PM-CLOSE
MONDAYS $10 BURGER + BEER NIGHT AT THE WATCH | 4PM-CLOSE
T H ER E STOR ATION HOT EL .COM
WEDNESDAYS 1/2 PRICE WINE + $10 MUSSELS AT THE WATCH | 4PM-11PM ROOFTOP YOGA WITH LULULEMON ON THE KING STREET ROOFTOP 6PM-7PM
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5/12
THE PORT: STEVE WINTERS POP-UP
SECOND SUNDAY ON KING STREET
Visit The Port all month long for a pop-up gallery featuring Steve Winters’ Vintage Framed Swim Caps. Specializing in art and historical items that are high end and rare, Steve Winters takes uncommon items and frames them in handmade shadow boxes, providing a coastal look that’s the perfect addition for any space. To learn more, visit stevewintersdesigns.com
Attend and enjoy Second Sunday on King Street from 1pm-5pm. This delightful monthly event is perfect for locals and travelers alike who want to shop, dine, and enjoy a pedestrian-only afternoon on one of the most prominent streets in Charleston.
Each spring, Spoleto Festival USA brings people together in Charleston’s historic theaters, churches, and outdoor spaces with performances by celebrated artists and emerging performers alike in opera, dance, theater and more. For tickets, visit spoletousa.org
5/31
FILM THURSDAY: THE NOTEBOOK
FLORAL CROWN WORKSHOP
Buttery popcorn, the Charleston skyline, and the love story of Noah and Allie await on the Historic Rooftop. Join us for an unforgettable evening under the stars with The Notebook. For ticket information, visit therestorationhotel.com/happenings
Join us for this unique workshop featuring our floral partner Roadside Blooms from 6pm-7pm, refreshments included. To learn more, visit roadsideblooms.com
Weeklvyents E For more information, visit the Happenings page on our website.
SPOLETO
5/23
5/9
HAPPENING EVERY MONTH
5/24 - 6/9
SHAKEN AND STIRRED: PAPER PLANE This specialty cocktail, concocted by longtime bartender Sam Ross, is made with equal parts bourbon, Aperol, Amaro, and lemon juice. Join us in The Library from 5pm-6pm to taste our very own Paper Plane libation.
SUNDAYS
TUESDAYS
BRUNCH AT THE WATCH | 10AM-3PM MUSIC SERIES AT THE WATCH | 12PM-3PM
TIKIS + TACOS AT THE WATCH | 4PM-CLOSE
SATURDAYS
MONDAYS
CHARLESTON FARMERS MARKET 8AM-2PM
$10 BURGER + BEER NIGHT AT THE WATCH | 4PM-CLOSE - 7 -
WEDNESDAYS 1/2 PRICE WINE + $10 MUSSELS AT THE WATCH | 4PM-11PM ROOFTOP YOGA WITH LULULEMON ON THE KING STREET ROOFTOP 6PM-7PM
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6/1 - 6/30 THE PORT: CAROLINA ANTIQUE MAPS & PRINTS All month long, you can enjoy rare, original pieces from Carolina Antique Maps & Prints at The Port. With authentic prints dating back over 100 years, these special treasures are the ideal addition to any established collection, or the perfect place for an interested antique browser to begin. Learn more at carolinaantiqueprints.com
6/16 FATHER’S DAY BRUNCH AT THE WATCH
6/28
Treat Dad to Father’s Day brunch and an afternoon of live music at The Watch. Indulge in handcrafted cocktails such as our spicy bloody marys and refreshing mimosas, plus mouthwatering mains like our praline french toast and biscuits ‘n gravy. Brunch begins at 10am, and live music at 12pm.
This cocktail was first popularized back in Havana, Cuba in the 1940’s to commemorate Airmail coming to the island. Many years later, this libation is still as popular and delicious as ever, and ready for you to enjoy in The Library from 5pm-6pm. Take a taste of this tempting rum-champagne cocktail blended with lime juice and honey, and transport yourself to warm, sunny Havana days.
6/9
6/27
SECOND SUNDAY ON KING STREET
FILM THURSDAY: JURASSIC WORLD
From 1pm-5pm, take a leisurely stroll through King Street and delight in the inviting atmosphere that is Second Sunday. This vehiclefree event is filled with live music, world-class shopping, and a seemingly endless selection of food for the whole family to enjoy.
Join us under the stars for a screening of Jurassic World. Watch what happens when Chris Pratt has to use his special skills to save a group of travelers off the coast of Costa Rica from a prehistoric attack. For ticket information, visit therestorationhotel.com/happenings.
Weeklvyents E HAPPENING EVERY MONTH
For more information, visit the Happenings page on our website.
SHAKEN AND STIRRED: AIR MAIL
SUNDAYS
TUESDAYS
BRUNCH AT THE WATCH | 10AM-3PM MUSIC SERIES AT THE WATCH | 12PM-3PM
TIKIS + TACOS AT THE WATCH | 4PM-CLOSE
SATURDAYS
MONDAYS
CHARLESTON FARMERS MARKET 8AM-2PM
$10 BURGER + BEER NIGHT AT THE WATCH | 4PM-CLOSE
T H ER E STOR ATION HOT EL .COM
WEDNESDAYS 1/2 PRICE WINE + $10 MUSSELS AT THE WATCH | 4PM-11PM ROOFTOP YOGA WITH LULULEMON ON THE KING STREET ROOFTOP 6PM-7PM
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Classic Elegance Awaits The idyllic venue for your I Do’s. Celebrate your love at The Restoration.
TheRestorationHotel.com/meetings-events | Contact Karen Winn at 843.518.5113 - 9 -
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Meet flourishing florist Toni Reale of Roadside Blooms, a full-service floral-design studio and retail shop located in North Charleston. - - 190 - -
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ith an infectious curiosity to become a changemaker, and alter the way industry leaders plan celebratory events and weddings by “treading lightly on the earth” and promoting eco-friendly initiatives, Toni Reale, owner and lead designer of Roadside Blooms, is making Charleston headlines for her popularized 100% American and locally grown floral company. Initially opening shop in 2012 out of a 1971 British Ice Cream Truck after launching her first ever sustainable events planning company in 2009, Reale noticed a needed space in the market for supporting local and American farmers. According to Reale, their flowers are “fresher,” and it’s important to support neighboring clients. Now, almost seven years later, after turning this once psychedelic treat truck into a mobile flower shop, to a much needed brick and mortar store, and finally to a larger storefront, Reale is showering Charleston locals in alluring blooms while actively spreading the word to promote native farmers. What’s currently in bloom and which flowers do you prefer to work with? April, May and June are amazing months for locally grown flowers. Ranunculus, Star of Bethlehem, Dahlias, Larkspur, to name a few. I’m obsessed with all flowers, particularly the ones that are unique. I’m really into foraged materials because incorporating those into designs creates a unique and unexpected outcome. What is it about the tradition of giving flowers that makes it so special to the people
I love installations that allow us to create something outside of the box, exciting and completely unexpected.
”
MUST HAVE FLORAL TRENDS
who receive them? I think the joy that comes from receiving flowers probably goes back a millennia. It’s natures way of spreading joy.
1. Textured greenery arrangements with pops of neutrals.
What do you love about Charleston florals? We are lucky in that many amazingly beautiful things grow here.
2. Color. Bridal arrangements featuring moody tones including burgundy, deep blues, and purples.
For what occasion do you most enjoy creating flower arrangements? Can you share your most memorable project or installation? Hands down, weddings. Especially weddings in which the client’s give us a lot of freedom to get creative. I love installations that allow us to create something outside of the box, exciting and completely unexpected. One of my favorites was designing florals growing up and wrapping around an ancient oak tree at the Legare Waring House. The Bride was wowed and it brought us so much joy. When sourcing flowers, you focus on sustainability. Tell us about this choice. American and locally grown flowers are a sustainable choice when sourcing flowers. Most florists source their flowers from South America and other countries that have little to no environmental or labor laws. The traditional floral industry that is largely unregulated leaves the groundwater and soil contaminated and the workers at risk. American and locally grown flowers are also fresher. I love being able to support our local and American farmers. My Clients really appreciate this foundation of my business. - 1 01 -
3. Dried foraged elements such as pampas grass, privet berry, and unique pods found in the forest.
TIPS FOR AT HOME ARRANGEMENTS 1. You don’t need fancy flowers to make a beautiful arrangement at home. Get outside in your yard or alongside the road and just trim interesting things that are in bloom and greenery. I love the textured, natural look with interesting finds from foraging in your yard. 2. Don’t overthink it. Follow Mother Nature’s lead when it comes to color and design. She’ll never steer you wrong. Roadside Blooms is the florist for The Restoration and our preferred vendor for events and guests. For more information, visit RoadsideBlooms.com
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GARDENS & ESTATES
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3550 Ashley River Road Acres of beautiful gardens owned by the Drayton Family since 1676. A must see when visiting the Lowcountry!
1235 Long Point Road Visit this working plantation which has produced crops for over 320 years, and served as a filming location for The Notebook.
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4300 Ashley River Road A National Historic Landmark, this plantation is home to 65 acres of America’s oldest landscaped gardens, house museum, working stableyards, and organic farm.
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Make a day of it! Whether you’re on foot, or ready for a road trip, Charleston is full of picturesque homes, gardens and plantations ready to welcome you.
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16 Meeting Street One of the most important pieces of Victorian architecture on the Eastern Seaboard filled with the owner’s personal collection.
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The Calhoun Mansion & Gardens
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Simmons-Edwards House & Garden
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14 Legare Street Locals know it as the Pineapple Gate House. Visit the stunning garden and single home built for Francis Simmons in 1800.
White Point Garden 2 Murray Blvd Located in the heart of the downtown district, this park provides beautiful views of Fort Sumter and the Charleston Harbor. - - 192 - -
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13 miles North of The Restoration
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Aiken-Rhett House
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48 Elizabeth Street Townhouses in a time capsule. Observe antebellum design and architecture firsthand with these perfectly preserved properties.
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Nathaniel Russell House 51 Meeting Street Built in 1808, this historic building is recognized as one of America’s most noteworthy Neoclassical homes.
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17 Chalmers Street One of the oldest and most recognizable homes in Charleston.
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Rainbow Row
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The Pink House
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3380 Ashley River Road A Georgian-Palladian masterpiece that has withstood wars, hurricanes, and earthquakes throughout its rich 200 year history.
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83 E Bay Street 13 brightly colored properties, representing the longest cluster of Georgian row houses in the United States. Very Instagram-worthy!
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87 Church Street Home to Thomas Heyward, Jr., a signer of the Declaration of Independence and host to George Washington during his 1791 visit to Charleston.
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Governor Thomas Bennett House 69 Barre Street Built in 1825, and named to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978.
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Joseph Manigault House 350 Meeting Street A historic house museum and exceptionally maintained example of Adam style architecture.
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If there’s one thing Whitney Stoddard can tell you for certain, it’s that creativity cannot be forced. Coming from a family full of artists, including illustrators and musicians, Whitney is no stranger to the roadblocks that can often hinder the creative process and make impending deadlines feel like unwanted visitors. But staying organized and keeping a tidy workspace helps Whitney keep distractions at bay so she can continue creating. As a self-proclaimed old soul and lover of all things vintage, Whitney’s artwork is greatly inspired by classic design elements. Best known for her original Tea Collection, Whitney begins each of her unique pieces by intentionally staining paper with tea from the Charleston Tea Plantation. Once the organic tea-staining process is complete, the freshly dyed canvases become just as significant to the final pieces as the figures painted on them. The Tea Collection blends unique movement
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and intricate figures using a combination of charcoal and graphite sketch, acrylic paint, and India ink. Through this mixture, Whitney strives to create distinct expressions and sentiment through minimal brush strokes, making her final pieces simple yet stunning. Although she’s based in Charleston, with her art exhibited at The Vault on King Street, Whitney’s work has been featured across the United States as well as internationally. With several upcoming collaborations and art shows in Charleston, Atlanta, Charlotte, and Baltimore, it’s hard to find a time when Whitney isn’t on the go. But rest assured, if she’s not creating, she’s likely looking through a stack of antique photos, getting inspiration for her next piece. See more of Whitney’s artwork, follow her on Instagram @whitneystoddardart or visit her online shop at whitneystoddardart.com
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New Seasonal Handcrafted Drinks Each Month
April
Vanilla Rose Latte
May
Turmeric Chai Tea Latte T H E R E S T O R A- T 1I6O N - HOT EL .COM
June
Iced Raspberry Black Tea
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FARM TO TABLE TASTE Pair our mouthwatering burger with your favorite craft beer for just $10 every Monday, from 4pm to 10pm. TheRestorationHotel.com | 843.518.5115 - 17 -
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CHARLESTON
SOUTHERN LOVE
Meet McKenzie and Elliot, Brett and Stephen, and Cory and Barbara, who are sharing their timeless stories. A southern love story. Is it a storied fairytale paralleling the collection of books told by the Grimm’s brothers? Or is it fanciful journey down Charleston’s memory lane of star-crossed lovers taken from our favorite movies and books? While these words can evoke romantic nostalgias, we see southern love as two souls who instantly connect and make each other’s hearts flutter. They find beauty in one another’s passions and a sense of purpose, aimlessly courting each other through the cobblestone streets, dimly lit harbor, and downtown Broadway Theater of Charleston proper. Between a principal dancer and Broadway actor finding destiny’s wings, to college sweethearts who found love amidst the rugby field, and to a musically inclined power duo who’s building a boutique creative brand, these beloveds define starry eyed romance in our city.
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MCKENZIE & ELLIOT Creative Collaborations and Charming Charleston With McKenzie and Elliot Smith
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synthesis of music and murals brought McKenzie, from Lake Mary, Florida, and Elliot Smith, from Hilton Head, South Carolina, together. Bonding over their appreciation for the arts, at McKenzie’s music and art venue, King Dusko, in Charleston, the Smith’s instantaneously knew, that their two paths were meant to be one.
We are a kickass team. It has always felt that way, but it’s more pronounced now.
Walking down the aisle inside a light box yoga studio, coined Reverb, owned by their friend Ashley Bell, followed by a reception at a local music hall, The Royal American, curated by John Kenney, the Smith’s celebrated an unforgettable occasion with food catered by Embers and Ashes, booze, comedy, heartfelt toasts, and righteously so, live music and “the best DJ set ever.” “Overall, it was a traditional wedding in ways that mattered to us, but we ultimately just wanted to have a meaningful night that celebrated relationships with an authentically joyful party,” said McKenzie.
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After orchestrating this wedding wish come true, the Smith’s now spend time embracing the enchantment of southern love on the lush oak-lined walkways of Charleston, revering in its storied “history, people, and culture.” And when they’re not enjoying this dreamy downtown neighborhood and watching live performances at Charleston Music Hall, the Smith’s find inspiration in their creative collective. Establishing a boutique company, MES creative, which is an amalgamation of music, murals, and large arts and civic engagement events, making a dynamic splash all over town with imaginative projects. “We are a kickass team,” said McKenzie. “It has always felt that way, but it’s more pronounced now.” Experiencing “undeniable alchemy,” the Smith’s found just what they needed on their paths.
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THE BROADWAY HUSBANDS Talking Broadway & Inspiring Artists With New York Transplants Bret Shuford and Stephen Hanna
T H ER E STOR ATION HOT EL .COM
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The city is beautiful, the people friendly, and everything people love about Charleston we just adore. Our hope is to help the performing arts community here in whatever way we can.
B
ret Shuford, a Broadway star from Southeast Texas, and Stephen Hanna, a principal dancer from Pittsburg, found their happily ever after under New York City’s midnight Time Square lights. Hanna, dancing with the New York City Ballet and Shuford, performing in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast on Broadway, first met at Shuford’s Christmas party. Sparks arose, and after watering a blooming friendship, fate came their way at Joe Allen after Shuford’s show. “Funny enough, we were married four years to that date,” said Shuford. Following destiny’s path, Shuford and Hanna co-wrote their own offstage romance, both simultaneously laying roots down on the same block in Astoria, Queens and performing in theaters across the street. “There was something different about us, things were just very easy,” said Shuford. Finding commonalities in their longing for
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marriage and parenthood, Shuford and Hanna tied the knot in 2011, and embarked on their first adventure together to Charleston, where they “could make ends meet and have a slower pace.” “The city is beautiful, the people friendly, and everything people love about Charleston we just adore. Our hope is to help the performing arts community here in whatever way we can,” said Hanna. Today, Shuford and Hanna are making an imprint on Charleston’s theater and dance industry, continuing their successful careers at the College of Charleston Department of Theatre and Dance and Fabyanic’s conservatory in West Ashley. However, when the curtain closes, they seize their blissful southern romance, laughing and supporting each other, and frequenting the “low-key” Folly Beach to watch the sunrise, catching a performance at the Gaillard Center, or wondering the streets near the Dock Street Theatre.
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THE SKIDMORES Traveling Treasures and Parisian Proposals With College Sweethearts Barbara and Cory
I think the one thing that truly makes us a bit different is people will often talk about things they want to do, or places that they want to go and that’s usually where it ends, with talking. We however, buy the tickets.
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n a new world of digital apps and social media platforms, singles looking to find love are heading online. But these Charleston locals and college sweethearts, Barbara and Cory Skidmore, were lucky enough to write their greatest love story on the rugby field at Ohio University. Kindling their sweet romance on the backdrop of pep rally’s, light beer, and mild concussions, the Skidmore’s, while navigating through college life, manifested their future. And after countless first dates and saying “I love you,” Cory knelt down on one knee, and proposed to Barb in Paris on Valentine’s Day. “The trip, originally, was just
for fun and not necessarily so I could propose,” said Cory. “My grandmother wisely asked if I was going to propose, and if I wasn’t, when the hell was I going to, if not in Paris. Boom, romantic Parisian Proposal!” After a whirlwind beginning of macarons, the Eiffel Tower, and snuggles under the Pont-Marie, the Skidmore’s now make it an annual tradition to travel “to some far-off remote country,” enriching their marriage with exotic journey’s around the world. “I think the one thing that truly makes us a bit different is people will often talk about things they want to do, or places that they want to go and that’s usually where it ends,” said Cory. - 22 -
“With talking. We however, buy the tickets.” Whether missing flights, enduring food poisoning, or fulfilling storybook worthy experiences, the Skidmore’s inevitably find a way to send the perfect postcard home, building a backstory of the two of them. Even if it’s down the block to try a new restaurant or brewery. “The good times become great when re-told and the bad ones become funny,” said Cory. But they’ll always find their way back to the quaint streets of Charleston, missing “the weather, the food, the charm.” “Charleston is a phenomenal city,” said Cory.
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SHAKE IT UP:
ROSÉ RETREAT In honor of the thriving cocktail culture here in Charleston, Bar Manager, Darren Fallon, talks inspiration for his latest libation, perfecting the well balanced cocktail, and why rosé is here to stay.
RECIPE: 1.5oz Gin .5oz Vermut Lustau Rojo .5oz Tawney Port 1oz Rosé Syrup .75oz Lime Charged with CO2 and served on draft.
Tell us what inspired this cocktail recipe. Charleston has an immense love of rosé, and I wanted to incorporate that into a cocktail while also elevating the flavor profile. So why not devise a cocktail that utilizes the complex notes of rosé, with gin as the base spirit. By then adding one of my personal favorite vermouths, Vermut Lustau Rojo, Tawny Port and lime juice, I created a light, delicious cocktail that would be crisp and refreshing during a hot spring or summer day. What trends are you seeing for Spring when it comes to cocktails (or drinking in general). A few of the recent trends I’ve been noticing are sustainability, zero waste, health forward cocktails, using fresh vegetable juices, and shrubs. What sustainability means to us is that you are able to use all of your fruit or vegetable products without waste, from peel to fruit. Creating cocktails with ingredients like ginger, turmeric, kale, and herbs for the health conscious who still enjoying the occasional drink has become widely popular within our community. Tell us a little about your background and how you came to be a mixologist. I moved to Charleston in the fall of 2010 to attend culinary school. After graduating, I was working at Oak Steakhouse, and moved up the ranks to Sous Chef by the fall of 2013. Later, I transferred to, sister restaurant, Indaco to become the Pastry Chef at the beginning of 2015. I realized my true passion was in the hospitality industry, and applied to The Watch: Rooftop Kitchen and Spirits, not knowing I would only be serving for about a month. After only a month, I asked if I could be taught to bartend, and both the Bar Manager and Beverage Director were eager to let me try my hand.
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After memorizing a book of classic cocktails, and learning the bar set up and its working components, I was ready to go. I was eager to learn and offered to help out with everything from the liquor orders, stocking, creation of cocktails, scheduling and inventory. Soon after, I was promoted, and now three years later, I’m still here doing what I’ve come to love with a passion. What should the novice bartender know about mixing up the perfect cocktail? Something I think every novice bartender should know about making the perfect cocktail, is that there isn’t just one “perfect” flavor profile. Not everyone is going to like all the drinks you create, but as long as you have a well balanced cocktail, you’ll have someone who enjoys your creation. It all depends on whether you want your cocktail to be more acidic, sweet, or bitter--there’s no limit to what you can use and create. What’s your general approach to the beverage program at The Watch and how is it different than other cocktail bars in Charleston? My general approach for our cocktail and beverage list is to be as fun, creative and unique as we can. In terms of beer, we’ll always have the usual staples, but I also carry a mixture of local beers that I know people will enjoy. With wine, I typically have one of each popular varietal that is up to our standards in quality and taste. At the end of the day, my pride and joy is the cocktail program, and I enjoy using ingredient combinations that have the guests asking questions. From well known fresh fruits and spices, to not so well known liquors and aperitives, our cocktails can have as few as four ingredients and up to eight or more. What are some of your favorite cocktails? Some of my favorite cocktails include the classics; a Whiskey Sour (with egg white of course), an El Diablo, Gold Rush and Clarified Milk Punch.
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FIRESIDE CHATS
CHANGEMAKERS SERIES Our Changemakers Series featuring Chris Winn of Tradesman Brewing and Marcus Amaker, Charleston’s own Poet Laureate, brought visitors and locals together for casual, fireside conversations on how we can all impact change within our respective communities.
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Marcus Amaker
Fireside Friends Gather
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