2018 Charleston Event Planning Guide by SC Biz News

EVENT PLANNING GUIDE | 2018

You’re Invited What: Event Planning Guide Presented by: The Charleston Regional Business Journal

Details: Event Planning Guide is the go-to publication the years, 18 past the for Presented annually for event planners in the Charleston area. Don’t miss: tools, including checklists and directories. planning great Each edition includes that look at the latest trends. articles includes also The guide In this issue: e event apps; festive fundraisers easy-to-us Planners turn to creative with venues. getting and lead to success;

About our Sponsors

ounded in 1741 by Henry Middleton, the plantation has witnessed wars, hurricanes and an earthquake. The European-style formal gardens encompass azalea-lined garden rooms, water features and camellia allées leading to the Ashley River. The House Museum interprets four generations of the Middleton family. In the Stableyards, witness demonstrations of skilled trades once practiced on the plantation as well as livestock in the fields. Nearly all of this National Historic Landmark can be transformed to fit any group’s needs and The Inn at Middleton Place offers accommodations and meeting facilities. Food service specializing in Low Country cuisine is available from the Middleton Place Restaurant. The Special Group Services team at Middleton Place is there to ensure every detail is covered to create a truly memorable experience for your guests.

roduction Design Associates (PDA) is a locally owned and operated event production company that has become a leader in providing lighting, sound, staging, scenic elements and projection services. Founded in 1991 in Charleston, the company’s success comes from its attention to detail, innovative designs, skilled technicians and expansive inventory. With live events, we only have one chance to get it right. PDA understands this sentiment, and so does their clientele. The White House, CNN, Boeing, NASA, Wine and Food, Biltmore Estate, BMW, Spoleto Festival and Embassy Suite Hotels are just a sampling of the customers and events that have depended on PDA to fulfill their production needs. Contact us today to let PDA transform your event.

atriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, home of the USS YORKTOWN aircraft carrier, includes three ships, 28 historic aircraft, and nearly a million square feet of exhibits. With unmatched views of the Charleston Harbor and Charleston city skyline, the USS YORKTOWN at Patriots Point also makes for an unforgettable event location – a setting where history is the backdrop for special occasions. From corporate parties to weddings and formal dinners, Patriots Point can accommodate a variety of events. The museum offers more than 20 different spaces for groups of 15 to 3,500. With attentive service and flexible catering options, Patriots Point makes every event easy to plan and hard to forget.

About the cover: The Alley of the Oaks at Pineland Club Plantation is one of many beautiful Lowcountry settings perfect for a memorable outdoor event. (Photo/Danielle Hulsey, Ooh! Events) Event Planning Guide 2018

contents 2018

Corporate Meetings & Conventions

Sponsored by

16 Business Events & Fundraisers

Sponsored by

Executive Editor - Andy Owens aowens@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3142 Senior Copy Editor - Beverly Barfield bbarfield@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3115 Staff Writer - Liz Segrist lsegrist@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3119 Staff Writer - Patrick Hoff phoff@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3144 Editor, Custom Publishing - Steve McDaniel smcdaniel@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3123 Assistant Editor, Digital Media - Ashley Sprouse asprouse@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3145 Research Specialist - Melissa Verzaal mverzaal@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3104 Senior Graphic Designer - Jane James jjames@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3118 Graphic Designer - Andrew Sprague asprague@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3128

24 Lifestyle

Lists & Directory

Assistant Graphic Designer - Jessica Stout jstout@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3113 Assistant Graphic Designer - Joel Travis jtravis@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3124 ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Senior Account Executive - Sue Gordon sgordon@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3111 Senior Account Executive - Robert Reilly rreilly@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3107

Account Executive - Sara Cox scox@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3109

To create an event 26 | Enjoy your day while your identity, start with event planner takes the ‘why’ care of the details

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Holly Fisher, Licia Jackson, Jenny Peterson, Barry Waldman

South Carolina’s Media Engine for Economic Growth

President and Group Publisher Grady Johnson gjohnson@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3103 Vice President of Sales - Steve Fields sfields@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3110 Creative Director - Ryan Wilcox rwilcox@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3117

NWS Company LLC A portfolio company of BridgeTower Media

Events Director - Kathy Allen kallen@scbiznews.com • 864.720.1225 Audience Development & IT Manager Kim McManus kmcmanus@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3116 Accounting Manager - Vickie Deadmon vdeadmon@scbiznews.com • 803.726.7541

South Carolina’s Media Engine for Economic Growth The entire contents of this newspaper are copyright by NWS Company LLC with all rights reserved. Any reproduction or use of the content within this publication without permission is prohibited. SCBIZ and South Carolina’s Media Engine for Economic Growth are registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

Event Planning Guide 2018

CUSTOM MEDIA DIVISION Director of Business Development Mark Wright mwright@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3143 Business Development Executive Elizabeth Hodges lhodges@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3105

Photo/File

Charleston it’s not just for tourists

he accolades keep rolling in for Charleston as one of the world’s top destinations. While that isn’t news to most anyone who pays attention in the Lowcountry, it’s a reminder that people all over the planet are looking to Charleston and the surrounding environs as a place to visit, live or host an event. Travel and Leisure magazine has once again anointed the Holy City as the No. 1 tourist destination in the U.S. and No. 10 worldwide, something we have become accustomed to here. And it’s not just tourists who are flocking through Charleston International Airport and eastbound on I-26 to see Middleton Place, Rainbow Row, Charles Towne Landing, the USS Yorktown and all of the other landmarks that make this place special. Many folks are coming here with a specific event circled on their

calendar. Whether it is a wedding, family reunion or corporate outing, the growing number of events being held here is testament to the Lowcountry’s increasing popularity. Of course, with that popularity comes crowds and competition. Wedding venues are frequently reserved a year or more in advance, planners and their staff are challenged by high demand for their services, and hotel projects have appeared in just about any direction you care to look. Weddings in the Charleston area accounted for nearly $160 million in spending in 2017 alone. The average wedding cost almost $27,500 and just over 5,800 happy unions took place here last year. Hotel revenue in Charleston was up 6.2% over 2016, a pace that surpasses the national and regional averages. Since 2012, when the country was just beginning to

shake off the effects of the Great Recession, hotel RevPAR (revenue per available room) has increased by an impressive 41%. All of these numbers illustrate clearly that more and more people visit the Lowcountry every year. Event planning in Charleston has become a multimillion-dollar industry, and the growth shows no signs of slowing in the near future. Those whose job it is to plan and implement the complexities of pulling off a successful gathering of dozens, hundreds or even thousands of people must constantly find new ways make an event stand out. Area businesses are actively trying to establish themselves in the event industry. Restaurants, bars, breweries and hotels are upgrading or adding event space to their property; new multimillion-dollar, amenity-rich hotel projects are including elaborate event

By Steve McDaniel

venues; and large, multiuse complexes with professional staff have come to the Charleston peninsula, Mount Pleasant and Summerville. While the Charleston landscape continues to undergo this rapid change from tucked-away coastal city to cosmopolitan destination for millions, what doesn’t change is what people expect when they arrive – a memorable, unique experience that will leave a lasting impression. In this annual guide, you’ll find helpful advice from local experts in every aspect of event planning. The back of the issue is filled with lists of the various services you need to stage an event, from florists to caterers to audio-visual technicians. We hope you find the 2018 Event Planning Guide a useful and informative planning tool, whatever your role in this burgeoning industry might be. EPG Event Planning Guide 2018

corporate meetings & conventions

Photo/File

6 Attracting and engaging sponsors is a multilayer approachs 8 Reports of the death of business cards greatly exaggerated

Event Planning Guide 2018

11 Technical worksheet for events 14 Corporate event planning checklist 15 Emergencies - just everyday occurrences in event planning

Sponsored by

Corporate Meetings & Conventions

Event Planning Guide 2018

Corporate Meetings & Conventions

Attracting and engaging

event sponsors is a multilayer approach By Steve McDaniel

vents typically canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t happen without the financial support of sponsors. Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a charity fundraiser, a milestone celebration, a corporate convention or anything in between,

sponsorships are vital to ensuring a successful event. Showing a potential sponsor the value of attaching their brand to your particular event is the most important part of the negotiation. Businesses are increasingly aware of the importance of aligning themselves with worthy causes and important issues, and event sponsorship is an ideal way to get a companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name in front of thousands of people quickly.

Event Planning Guide 2018

Corporate Meetings & Conventions Rick Jones is CEO of FishBait Marketing in Charleston. With clients that include the Atlantic Coast Conference, Werner Ladders and Capital One, Jones has plenty of experience finding partners for various events and causes. His team has a detailed approach to finding sponsors that are the best fit for a particular event. “We go through an extensive comprehensive, 12-step process for selling sponsorships,” Jones said. “We identify perfect fits for each property, with specific prospect targets and ideas for activation for each targeted prospect to solve a business problem or maximize an opportunity for the prospect.” Once viable candidates for sponsorships are identified, Jones says it’s important to find the key decisionmakers within those companies. He typically tries to find a mutual contact who can help set up an introduction, and will get in touch with the decision-maker through an email. Getting a foot in the door is just the first step, however. A potential sponsor must be convinced to attach their name and brand to an event, something Jones says is primarily a case of matching the prospect with an audience that will find mutual value in the partnership. “It’s no longer about names and identification,” he said. “But rather why

“Planning starts with the sponsor identifying the end goals of the partnership and then building a plan to reach that finish line.” –

Rick Jones CEO of FishBait Marketing

the audience is important to the prospect and how to meaningfully engage with that audience through a partnership with the event or property.” Once a sponsor is on board, it’s important to keep them in the loop during the planning and implementing stages of the event. An open line of communication between the planner and sponsors during the planning stages of an event is crucial. Sponsors will feel more comfortable when they are kept regularly informed on developments, and inevitable hiccups that occur are easier to cope with if sponsors know as far in advance as possible. “You must build in planning as part of the process,” Jones said. “Planning starts with the sponsor identifying the end goals of the partnership and then building a plan to reach that finish line.” EPG

Tips on engaging event sponsors From Rick Jones, CEO, FishBait Marketing in Charleston WHAT TO DO: o Identify perfect fits for each event with specific prospect targets

o Find and contact the key decision-maker

or makers within a company

o Make clear to prospects how important

the event’s audience is to them

o Build in event planning as part of the sponsorship process o Schedule followup meetings immediately after the event WHAT NOT TO DO:

o Put a sponsor with the wrong audience o Fail to provide real value to the event’s audience o Fail to provide adequate resources to allow the sponsor

to actively market the event from their point of view Event Planning Guide 2018

Corporate Meetings & Conventions

Reports of the death of business cards greatly exaggerated By Barry Waldman

ack in days or yore, say 2002, office workers kept rotating file devices, commonly known by the brand name Rolodex, filled with business cards. Ancient business people working with primitive computers would flip through the file devices to find phone numbers of other business people whom they had met in person, and call them using now-obsolete desk phones. Or they might email. Back then, people read their emails. Imagine! To obtain the business cards generally required actual human interaction. Occasionally, they were included as part of a package sent by — no kidding — snail mail. That’s back when snail mail was called, simply, mail. Today, of course, physical file devices are laughably quaint. Business people keep all their contacts, electronically, inside their phones. Business cards are hopelessly passé.

Event Planning Guide 2018

Photo/File

Except … they’re not. Not quite. Event planners and tour operators say business cards still serve an important purpose. They’re great leavebehinds. They can lead to business. But they’re not what they used to be.

European merchants first employed business cards with their current purpose in the 17th century. Those cards were more like hand-held advertisements. According to Statistic Brain Research Institute, 10 billion business

cards will be printed this year. Eightyeight percent of them will be thrown out within a week. Lauren Fox of Fox Events doesn’t own a Rolodex-type file device, and she doesn’t hand out as many business cards as she used to, and now only prints a new batch about every three years. Most people generally have her name, contact information and much more from her website, Facebook page or other online sources. She does spend some money on beautiful cards that represent her upscale brand, and she accepts them when offered. But like most people, she enters the information into her company’s computer system and then no longer needs the card. Lisa Thomas of Ooh! Events says making contacts is critical in the event planning business, and she prints business cards with the intention of handing them out when they’re requested. But she admits she rarely has them on

Event Planning Guide 2018

Corporate Meetings & Conventions her when she needs them, which is during the setup of events when she is dressed down for the physical labor required. Most event planners appreciate beautiful aesthetics because they help create them. Thomas says she comments on distinctive cards, but after she enters the information into her phone, doesn’t generally keep them. “The days of stapling it into a Rolodex are gone,” she said. Melanie Murphy, owner of By Invitation Only Event Planning and Design in Columbia, is asked for a business card at every wedding she plans. She put time and effort into creating beautiful cards, even going so far as to hire a company to design a crest for her business. Murphy says her events often have an elegant Kate Spade aesthetic and that her business cards reflect that. They are designed to create an impression using letter pressed with copper foil on thick paper stock and handpainted with a green edge and calligraphy lettering.

Event Planning Guide 2018

“I asked him if we had met. He said, ‘You’re the guy with the 20-dollar bill business card.’” – “Captain Bob” Hellebush

Cards like that are meant to make a statement and draw a lot of compliments, she says. They cost lot of money too. “The other planner had to be on board for two years before she got her own card,” she said, jokingly. Business cards serve different purposes in other cultures. In Japan, one of the world’s most technologically advanced countries, the exchanging of business cards is a revered ritual. It is considered an honor to receive someone’s card, which is always

presented face up and turned toward the receiver, with the presenter’s fingers at the top two corners. The receiver grasps the card by the bottom two corners and reads the card out loud, making particular note of the person’s name and rank. The receiver then bows and verbally accepts the card with thanks. In the U.S., people rarely even note each other’s cards, except when they are exceptional. Bob Hellebush knows all about that. “Captain Bob,” as he is known

in connection with his limo and tour guide service, sports a special business card. It looks and feels like a foldedup 20-dollar bill. On the front are the two ends of a real bill. The back includes his name and contact information for his Charleston Town Car business. It always draws comments, he said. Some people refuse to take it at first because they mistake if for real money. Others ask for it just to show friends. For all that, Hellebush acknowledges that the card itself has never won him business. It’s usually one element in his integrated marketing communication strategy. After three years, about a quarter of his business is referrals from people who received his card. His most vivid experience of the power of the card came when his transmission went out and the tow truck operator called him by name. “I asked him if we had met. He said, ‘You’re the guy with the 20-dollar bill business card,’” Hellebush said. EPG

Corporate Meetings & Conventions

Technical Worksheet for Events Accounting for all the audiovisual needs for your meeting or event can be daunting. Use this form to help clarify your needs and communicate with your selected production company. Organization or individual name: • What kind of event are you planning? • How many people are expected? • What is the event date? • Where do you plan to hold the event? • What is your audiovisual budget? Event Details • Load-in date and time: • Rehearsal date and time: • Doors open to guests: • Show start:

• • • • • • • • •

Show end: Does your event have a theme or color scheme? Do you have a show flow or timeline? Will the event take place in more than one location? At what times will you move from one location to another? Do you have a room diagram for the event? Does the venue provide staging? If not, do you need a stage? If so, what size? Is the venue a union house? If so, what are the rules?

Electricity • What are your power needs? • Do you have a band that needs to tie into a power distro? • Are you familiar with the power available at the venue? • If not, do you have a contact person at the venue? • Does the venue charge for power? Lighting • What elements would you like to use lighting for? • Do you have a logo for projection onto walls, floor or façade? • Do you need a stage wash for your speaker? • Can you hang lighting from the ceiling or does it need to be ground supported?

Event Planning Guide 2018

Corporate Meetings & Conventions

• If you rig from ceiling, what are the rigging policies? • Does the venue have a lift? Is so, are you allowed to use it? Is there a charge? • Are you planning entertainment that will require lighting? • If so, is there a rider available with entertainers’ specific needs? Audio • How many people will be speaking? • What kinds of microphones will be needed? • Wired HH/Quantity: • Wireless HH/Quantity: • Wireless LAV/Quantity: • Wireless Headset/Quantity: • Other: • The speakers will address the audience from: (circle one) Wired mic stand Head table mic stand Upright podium Tabletop podium Video • What is the purpose of having video as an element of the event? • Do you already have content you would like to present in video? • If so, what media and media source are used? (online/DVD/USB) • Do you have a backup of your media? • What size screen(s) would you like to use? • If so, would you like front or rear projection? • Should screens be ground-supported or suspended from ceiling? • Do you have specific camera work needs for the event? General Tips • Always strive to have a least one full-rehearsal with all elements — it’s not a full rehearsal unless you run videos, have speakers, talent, etc. present. It’s your moment to shine — take the time to practice. • Use a reputable production company — would you trust your important event to an unknown or lowest bidder? You only have one shot to get it right — it’s live. • If you have multiple vendors — coordinate their load-ins/outs — nothing is worse than having vendors fighting over the loading dock or elevators. • When budgeting, always allow for unexpected extra costs. Things happen — the elevator is stuck, your talent is late for rehearsal, etc. There are many things that can increase your costs beyond your control. EPG Information provided by Production Design Associates, www.pdastage.com

Event Planning Guide 2018

Corporate Meetings & Conventions

Corporate Event

Planning Checklist BEFORE THE EVENT o Determine event goals and objectives. This is especially important with client events and sales meetings, as it will help you stay on track. o Identify possible dates for the meeting. Thinking ahead and checking with others on possible conflicts can limit the inconvenience for all parties. o Prepare a preliminary agenda and guest list to help set the criteria for the venue. o Prepare a preliminary budget. Unless you manage your corporate event closely, the budget can grow unexpectedly. Send meeting requirements to selected sites with requests for o written proposals.

Hot tip: Communication is a huge key to your event’s success. Strive for clear communication with attendees, sponsors, vendors and the venue representative. o Conduct site visits as required. This is important when you’re using the facility for the first time. o Negotiate hotel rates and blocks. If you use hotel meeting rooms for the event, you could get a significant discount on sleeping rooms. o Determine preliminary food and beverage requirements and negotiate menus and prices. o Add any deadlines and other requirements to the timetable.

Hot tip: Plant the seeds of social media early by promoting a hashtag before the event to generate buzz.

60 TO 90 DAYS BEFORE THE EVENT o Form committees as required. Organizations that have regular events should consider forming standing committees that meet regularly. o Develop a promotional strategy. o Do some public relations for the event. Calendar notices, press releases and interviews may all be appropriate. o For nonprofit or charity events, line up sponsors. o If you are charging admission to the event, establish

Event Planning Guide 2018

registration fee structures and policies, and be sure to include clear cancellation policies. o Invite and confirm key speakers. This includes people within your organization. o Obtain audiovisual needs from speakers and presenters, and order all necessary equipment. o Review, update and confirm final event budget. o Identify and communicate on-site responsibility areas for committees and volunteers. Set up training for volunteers and educate them about your expectations. o Select and order speaker gifts and awards. o Order special decorations for the event. o Prepare and order signs. This is another opportunity to build your brand. o Arrange for travel and housing of all staff and VIPs.

THE DAY OF THE EVENT o Have a staff and volunteer meeting to review responsibilities, procedures and overlap areas such as registration. o Confirm and monitor pickup of all rental equipment and supplies.

Hot tip: Use your leverage to get the best out of your vendors. Explain that the event’s audience is invaluable to their business. “Here is what I am bringing you.”

IMMEDIATELY AFTERWARD o Pack and inventory all material. Many of your collateral materials are reusable — and they’re a big investment. o Do financial reconciliation. Gather the invoices and make sure you have been billed correctly and that you pay in a timely fashion. Watch expense reports for other costs. o Write and mail thank-you letters. o Collect and organize data for final meeting reports. Get evaluations from staff, volunteers and consultants to determine what went right and what needs improving.

Hot tip: Address any problems that need to be handled after the event is over. Take notes for future events if there are things that need to be done differently.

Corporate Meetings & Conventions

Emergencies I f you plan events, one thing you know is that something will go wrong. More likely, multiple things. Good event planners have back-ups to their back-up plans. Weather is always a wild card, even for indoor events. People have to get there and walk to the door, often dressed to the nines. “You mitigate the risk by being ready,” said Ben Toy of On Purpose Adventures on James Island. An allpurpose event planner, his company specializes in adventure-based events. They planned a 90-person teambuilding event outdoors when the ice storm of 2014 hit. Because the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition was underway, they couldn’t find an unused hotel ballroom. High school basketball had every local gym tied up. The team scrambled to move the event to the loading docks of Striped Pig Distillery in Charleston. Protected from the wind, rain and ice, the event

just everyday occurrences in event planning By Barry Waldman

Weather isn’t the only variable. Lisa Thomas and her crew at Ooh! Events in Charleston discovered three hours before an event that the building’s power wasn’t accessible. The band, caterer and others needed electricity. But she knows area vendors and quickly arranged for generators. Guests never knew the difference. “You fix the problem and sort it out later,” she said. At one wedding catered by DuPre Catering and Events in Columbia, the person delivering the wedding cake dropped it, breaking it in half. His Photo/File staff rescued the good half, cut it up went on with an hour of preparation. Consultants in Columbia. Owner and placed the slices on plates. He met Some parts of the original event Nancye Bailey had arranged for a valet the bride as she arrived. “We said ‘everything is beautiful had to be scrapped, but others were company, but only two valets showed up for 500 people. Cars were backed but the cake.’ We showed her the platadded. “People were none the wiser, and up around the block. Among those ed slices. She broke out laughing and they had a blast,” Toy said. “Now we stuck in the line were the night’s hon- said ‘don’t worry about it,’” he said. have that idea in our toolbox.” orees, so Bailey sent staff to park their The vendor charged her half. Weather wreaked havoc on a black- cars for them and give them umbrellas “If the bride smiles everyone is tie event organized by Carolina Event for the walk inside. happy,” he said. EPG

Event Planning Guide 2018

business events & fundraisers

Photo/File

18 To create an event identity, start with the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;whyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 20 Venues off beaten path give event planners palpitations 16

Event Planning Guide 2018

22 When what you wear means business 23 Food for thought

Sponsored by

Business Events & Fundraisers

Event Planning Guide 2018

Business Events & Fundraisers

KLH Group created an event (above and inset) for a client in Florida where 800 of its staff assembled meals for poor children and disaster victims. (Photos/KLH Group)

To create an event identity,

start with the ‘why’ By Holly Fisher

harleston-area event planner Hope Caldwell has found a way to turn private corporate events into philanthropic endeavors that leave an indelible mark on participants. After more than a decade of working in the luxury event industry, Caldwell launched KLH Group in 2016 as a way to create social impact experiences for her clients. Clients always want the “wow” factor and over time, it becomes more challenging to dream up those “wow” ideas, Caldwell said. For her, the real impact comes down to the heart of the event. “By connecting our clients to the

Event Planning Guide 2018

community and moving their heart at an event, that’s what makes it memorable,” she said. “The wine is important, the food and the ambiance, but what they remember is how their heart shifted and was moved at the event. That’s our No. 1 goal. How can we shift their heart at one of our events?” KLH Group handles the event logistics while coordinating a service project that aligns with the company’s culture and employee interests. For a client in Florida, Caldwell was tasked with finding a project for 800 team members — and one that could be done in a two-hour window. She gathered everyone in a hotel and

they assembled 110,000 meals for disaster-stricken areas and schoolchildren in developing countries. “Everyone showed up with their hair nets on. We had a DJ, and every 1,000 meals, we rang a gong,” Caldwell said. “It was good energy.” Locally, KLH Group works on The Needtobreathe Classic, a golf tournament and musical event benefiting OneWorld Health, which builds health care facilities to provide affordable accessible health care around the globe. Caldwell herself has gone on mission trips with OneWorld Health, so she’s able to work on this fundraiser that puts the organizational story

front and center. “Come back to storytelling,” she said. “What’s at the heart of the event? Tell that story. Why are you even doing this event? What’s the ‘why’ behind it?” Consumers want to know that story. They want to why they spent money on an event ticket or fundraiser, Caldwell said. She recommends sharing that story with consumers from the moment they make a purchase or buy a ticket. Maybe it’s a personal video message thanking them for their support or a video story of someone they’re helping by donating to the cause.

Business Events & Fundraisers Don’t lose the ‘why’ Sharing a visual story is also important to Ashley Russell who ran her own event planning business for 10 years. She recommends homing in on a visual identity that can filter into marketing and advertising as well as the overarching design of the event. Don’t forget the target audience of an event either, Russell said. Knowing who’s attending can help you develop special trends to set the event apart from other similar gatherings in your market. “Move away from the traditional or current trends,” Russell said. “It’s like a fashion show. You’re always thinking ahead and trying to create your own trend. Figure out what’s different and outside the box.” Yet don’t get so wrapped up in the details that you lose sight of the main event, Russell cautions. “Know who the event is for and why,” she said. “You start planning and lose focus of the ‘why.’ You have to bring it back around.” EPG

Events must feature a unique or memorable theme to stand out (above). Kim Van Horn and Hope Caldwell (inset, left and right) lead the KLH Group, an event management company that creates social-impact events for clients. (Photos/KLH Group)

Event Planning Guide 2018

Business Events & Fundraisers

Venues off beaten path give event planners palpitations

here was the last corporate event you attended? A ballroom at the Charleston Area Convention Center, with its 150,000 square feet of meeting space, its central location and proximity to the 277-room Embassy Suites Hotel? Sure, that’s a go-to venue for large Lowcountry events. How about The Belmond Charleston Place Hotel, with its elegant meeting rooms, grand lobby and staircase, and its location in the heart of downtown Charleston? Another tried-and-true venue that event planners can rely on. Or maybe you were at another event stand-by — Lowndes Grove in Mount Pleasant, the Francis Marion Hotel across from Marion Square, the Crowne Plaza Airport Convention

Event Planning Guide 2018

By Barry Waldman

them. For event planners, and their clients who want something different and interesting, the old reliable venues might feel flat. They might be seeking something novel, something their clients haven’t seen before. For Lauren Fox of Fox Events the well-used venues offer peace of mind. The staff know the business and don’t need to be educated about the complex fundamentals of event hosting. They have all the accommodations and equipment, and know what questions to ask. If something isn’t on-site, they often have relationships with BevCon 2017 participants view the total solar eclipse in Charleston. vendors who can provide it quickly. (Photo/Angel Postell) The trade-off is, the same old Center, the historic William Aiken Ocean Tank. same-old. They’re all great choices, as are House or the S.C. Aquarium with “With a new venue, you’re creatits terrace overlooking the river and many other venues. That’s why you’ve ing something new and fresh. You’ve its auditorium in front of the Great probably attended events at all of often got an open design and it frees

Business Events & Fundraisers you to create,” she said. Angel Postell, owner of Home Team Public Relations and creator of BevCon, the beverage industry convention hosted around Charleston, is constantly on the prowl for quirky new locations. She drives around town looking at buildings and checks the online for ideas. Her own initiative comes into play too. When Postell discovered Charlestowne Landing was selling property to the Historic Charleston Foundation, she contacted them about the potential for events on site. Nancye Bailey of Carolina Event Consultants employs different strategies to find interesting new places. She scans the Convention and Visitors Bureau website to see what’s new. She watches where others have located their events. She keeps in mind all the challenges using a new venue might entail. Employing those strategies led her to City Art, a Columbia art gallery and supply store with a main gallery available for wedding receptions, parties and dinners. An old, restored building

with exposed brick, concrete floors, exposed pipes and HVAC in the 20-foot ceilings and an 1848 piano provides a throwback industrial feel to the contemporary art adorning the walls. The party there was well-received, she says, but it kept her on her toes. For event planners, new venues come with unknowns, which keep them up at night. Fox knows about unknowns all too well. An allergic reaction at a dinner convinced her to carry an EpiPen to all her events. The device autoinject a single dose of epinephrine to prevent anaphylactic shock and buy time until an individual suffering an allergic reaction can get treatment. It recently came in handy when an attendee failed to mention a peanut allergy and ate something cooked with peanut oil. The venue was not equipped but Fox was. Before the allergic guest’s throat could completely close, they received an injection from Fox’s EpiPen. “I don’t do anything without it,” she said. Often, a new venue means new

everything, say event planners. For example, many interesting outdoor locations are simply blank canvases. That’s great for the creative juices of the planners, but staging an event there often means building all of the infrastructure necessary for the event. Many event planners say they have essentially built temporary structures from the ground up to stage an event at some beautiful outdoor spot. That means bringing in generators for electricity and laying down floors in case rain soaks the ground. A selection of equipment, such as lighting, might have to be imported to the site. Bailey produced the USMC Mud Run at a farm. In that case, getting muddy is the point. But so much else had to be conjured from nothing. It took two weeks to set up. “Starting gates, fencing, bathrooms, a place for the after-party. In a place like that you’re working with fire department, police, EMS, Highway Patrol. You have to provide every bit of electricity and water. We had huge tents, and one year a major

BevCon, created in Charleston in 2015, moved to Los Angeles for 2018, where it will also be held in 2019 and 2020. (Photo/Angel Postell)

thunderstorm came through. I had the weatherman on speed dial. He was telling me when lightning strikes were coming,” she said. It can be expensive. It can be overwhelming. It can be immensely rewarding. “You want guests to go, ‘Wow, this is really cool,’” Bailey said. EPG

Event Planning Guide 2018

Business Events & Fundraisers

When what you wear

means business tips to stay cool and correct By Licia Jackson

Photos/File

hen you’re dressing for an event in Charleston, there are two things to consider: what’s proper for the work or social occasion, and what fits the weather. One consideration may certainly affect the other, because much of the year is warm, and summer heat and humidity in the Lowcountry can get oppressive. Lightweight fabrics should be ready in your closet all year, because it’s not unusual to have an 80-degree day in February or November. The last thing you want is to arrive dripping with perspiration at an important company event. So, stay with us here for some ideas that will help keep you cool and collected. Remember that dressing for warm temperatures does not mean dressing more casually or wearing a skimpy outfit. You still need to look professional at business events. Here are some tips for work and business meetings. Women • Think layers. You can wear a sleeveless blouse or dress, but add a jacket or dressy cardigan. The top layer can come in handy if the air conditioning is turned down,

Event Planning Guide 2018

•

as it often is when men are wearing suits. Neutral colors in lighter fabrics are a good choice for skirts, slacks and jackets. Add a blouse in an accent color. You can change the look by changing the blouse and accessories. White, tan, taupe, pale gray or navy are good color selections for warm weather business attire. Dresses should be lightweight fabric but conservatively cut for business meetings. Make sure the fabric is wrinkle-resistant. If you have questions about what to wear, follow the lead of female supervisors in your company. Keep a goes-with-anything jacket, a string of faux pearls or beads and a scarf in your office or car. With these, you can dress up any outfit if need be. Wear heels in a neutral color, or dressy sandals – but no flip-flops. If your toes are going to show, make sure your nails are manicured.

•

an event at an unfamiliar company, err on the side of dressing up (a dark suit, white shirt and conservative tie). To keep cool, choose a suit in a tropical-weight fabric, neutral in color. To brighten up neutrals, add a silk tie in a bold color. But don’t go too splashy. Look for a linen blend suit. Pure linen can be cool, but it wrinkles easily. For a business casual event, it’s good to wear a jacket, though it can be a blazer and need not be part of a suit. If you get there and find most guests aren’t wearing jackets, you can always remove yours. Wear dress shoes and – sorry, this is important – socks.

Here are some DON’TS for warm weather business occasions: • For men: No short-sleeve dress shirts – and never wear them with a tie. • For women: No plunging necklines, spaghetti straps or strapless Men tops. • Fit your dress to the culture of your company. If you’re attending • Don’t wear loud prints or dress •

head to toe in bright colors. • If you’re not sure a garment is appropriate, it’s probably good to wear something else. And one more thing: Like most Southern climates, Charleston’s weather can change at any moment. Be prepared for a sudden shower, stiff breeze or drop in temperature. EPG Sources: Forbes.com, Macon Magazine, Boston.com, Businessinsider.com

Business Events & Fundraisers

Food for thought

Picking the right food options for your event

By Jenny Peterson

hether it’s a formal sit-down dinner, a conference lunch or simply catching a bite at a networking event, there’s an appropriate food option that can complement any event. Jessica Smithson, the catering sales manager/wedding specialist at the Charleston Place Hotel, has spotted several trends. She said many food providers are opting for different food offerings according to the needs of the event, while making the meal an important event unto itself, whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner. “Dinner menus vary, but group events with fun and creative food stations are definitely becoming more and more popular,” Smithson said. “For corporate meetings, people love all-day break packages, which begin with continental breakfasts and transition to include all-day beverage service and usually an afternoon snack break.” Lunch buffets are a popular option, as they offer a wide variety from which guests can choose, Smithson said. “Especially popular is a deli buffet where guests can choose a salad or two, make their own sandwich and enjoy a nice dessert,” she said. For events that include networking, passes of appetizers are the best

option, so people don’t have to go to a food service area while connecting with others. “Small, non-greasy bites that are easy to eat while having a beverage in one hand are best,” Smithson said. “Reception stations are (also) conducive to network-style events where the companies may want the guests to continue interacting with each other.” A seated dinner is ideal for more formal events where everyone needs to pay attention to a planned presentation or awards ceremony. If you want to break up the seating format, offer dessert in a buffet style so people can mingle after their meal. Be sure to note that some in the audience may have food allergies that will need to be addressed when planning for a seated meal. With a buffet station, they can just skip the dishes that would be a problem for them. Jillian Thompson, conference services manager at Wild Dunes, said that for outdoor events, buffet and reception-style stations work best. “You don’t want to have planned, seated meals for anything outside because you don’t have a kitchen outside,” she said. For events that include an activity, such as a golf tournament or an outing for employees, boxed lunches are an excellent choice to keep people moving.

Local flare It’s easy to incorporate Charleston Lowcountry cuisine into the food menu for an event. The most famous of the Charleston dishes, shrimp and grits, is a mainstay on most event menus. “People always want shrimp and grits,” Thompson said. At the Charleston Place Hotel, the two most popular “Southern” dishes are shrimp and grits and Carolina crab cakes, Smithson said. She said a popular new favorite is their gourmet lobster mac-and-cheese, usually served at a station. More easy Southern dishes include short ribs and a variety of fresh, local vegetables. Just remember to think about the time of year for what’s the freshest option for fruits and vegetables. Stay within a budget Sit-down meals generally cost more because you are paying for the additional labor costs for the event’s service staff, said Steve Baller, an event planner with Event Charleston. If holding an event off-site, it helps to work with a planner who

On the menu

Picking the right food can make or break an even t. Here are some tips for which foo d options you should serve : Sit-down dinner – awards banque t, formal presentation s Food stations – receptions, corporate lunches , outdoor events Boxed lunches – for events involving physica l activity such as golf tournaments Passed hors d’oe uvres – networking, happ y hours, etc.

knows what vendors can offer, often at discounted prices, while still maintaining a high quality. Baller said he frequently comes up with ways to save money on food costs, which can solidify a valuable partnership between vendor and client. “If you’re bringing a group of people into a restaurant, for example, and you can show them that there will be 80 new faces experiencing the food, then (for the restaurant) that’s 80 new potential clients,” he said. EPG

Event Planning Guide 2018

lifestyle

Photo/File

26 Enjoy your day while your event planner takes care of the details

29 Weddings on a shoestring

Event Planning Guide 2018

Charleston style

31 Guide to dressing for social occasions Calendar of events

Lifestyle

Event Planning Guide 2018

Lifestyle

Enjoy your day

while your event planner takes care of the

details By Licia Jackson

Photo/File

ant to enjoy your special day free from worry while somebody else takes care of the details? You can make that happen by hiring an event planner. In the Charleston area, famous for destination events, it’s especially helpful to hire someone who knows the area. “We usually start working with a couple a year and a half out,” says Mary Kathryn McConaghy of Ooh! Events in Charleston. Their services start with the invitations and include 35,000 square feet of rental items from linens to tents to furniture. “We take care of the details, taking the weight off the couple,” she explains. “After all, this is their first and only wedding.” In general, event assistance can come in many forms, from a certified

Event Planning Guide 2018

event planner to planning assistance from your caterer. An experienced planner will have expertise in putting on events and will have time to follow up on every detail. Event planners are creative people and they enjoy translating your vision of the event into reality. A good planner will spend time listening to your ideas and answer questions. That’s just how Betsey Lupton of Pop the Bubbly starts out working with a client. Her company mostly plans bachelor and bachelorette weekends in the Charleston area. “We can customize their weekend,” Lupton says. “We feel out what they want to do. If it’s a bachelorette weekend, do they want to go out on the town or would they like to be more relaxed and pampered, with a

spa experience?” She offers various EVENT PLANNER’S packages on her website that are a good starting place for planning. As a popular location, CharlesHere are some of the tas ton has many event planners availks an eve able. A list of them is included in nt planner can assist wit h: this guide. Many event planners o Research specialize in a particular kind of event, and you can find out more o Event design about them via their websites. o Finding a site At the initial meeting, be clear o Arranging for food, décor about what you want. The event and entertainment planner will guide you through o Planning transportation the things you need to consider: venue, invitations, flowers, food, o Sending invitations etc. Then the planner will provide o Arranging accommodations a detailed proposal. o Coordinating activities An experienced planner can and personnel often save you money in such areas as catering and decorations. o Supervising at the site They will usually have business Source: Entrepreneur magazin e relationships with preferred

TASKS

Lifestyle

EVENT

SUPPORT

Here are vendors and ser vices you may need for your eve nt:

“And lighting. If it’s a nighttime event, people forget about that.” – Mary Kathryn McConaghy, Ooh! Events

Photo/File

vendors who give discounts to their customers. “We work with a wide variety of vendors,” McConaghy says. “There are so many talented people in Charleston.”

The planner will need to have good communication skills to coordinate the various vendors and the overall schedule of the event. Expectations on all sides should be clear and should be spelled out in the contract.

Another source of planning help may be the event venue itself. Often the location you choose will have a planner who can help you think through all the

o Catering o Display equipment rental o Tables, linens, service ware ren tal o Photography/videography o Audiovisual o Florist o Decor o Production/staging o Security o Parking valet o Registration o Printing o Transportation

Event Planning Guide 2018

Lifestyle

“We can customize their weekend. We feel out what they want to do. If it’s a bachelorette weekend, do they want to go out on the town or would they like to be more relaxed and pampered, with a spa experience?” – Betsey Lupton, Pop the Bubbly Photo/File

services needed. Their help may be limited in scope, but will help make sure you don’t forget an important aspect of the event. They will also help schedule vendors on the day of your event, from equipment rentals to audiovisual. Event planners may offer several different packages of services. Ooh! Events offers any level from full service — anything the bride needs — to design and coordination of local services. “We can take someone’s vision and expand on that, or for someone who’s not into details, we can design from scratch,” McConaghy says. An experienced planner can help

you avoid pitfalls. For example, Lupton advises clients to allow plenty of time if they’re traveling from place to place for a bachelor or bachelorette weekend. Restaurant reservations need to be made early. And if the group is large, she advises them to hire a private chef for dinner because many Charleston restaurants can’t accommodate 15 or 20 people on a weekend night. Lupton can recommend certain vacation rentals that work well for these events. But if the group wants to spend a lot of time downtown, she advises them to stay downtown rather than driving back and forth to the beach.

“There are so many different things to do, and there are always new things to do,” she says. McConaghy always reminds clients to prepare for bad weather, with an alternative plan in case a storm moves in. Other things a bride might not think about are elevators and loading zones at the venue, time and noise ordinances, air conditioning and restrooms. “And lighting,” she says. “If it’s a nighttime event, people forget about that.” The event planner will also help you avoid impossibly busy times, when the venue, hotel rooms and services might be unavailable, such

as Spoleto and the Food and Wine Festival. As many guests are coming to Charleston from somewhere else, Lupton’s firm takes care of details such as decorating the vacation rental and providing goodie bags. “Everyone is traveling from out of town. This makes it more relaxing,” she says. Once you settle on your event planner, then trust them to take care of details. “You have to have a level of trust in the coordinator and their team,” McConaghy says. “When you hire us, don’t try to do it on your own. Remember it’s a happy occasion. Don’t get too caught up in the details.” EPG

Photo/File

Event Planning Guide 2018

Weddings on a shoestring 1. Double duty. Save on paper costs by combining information onto one item, such as having guest seating assignment cards that include the menu on the back. Or have centerpieces as guest takeaways. 2. Use photos of the couple or old photos of the couples parents’ wedding celebrations as decorations on the tables. It not only personalizes the event, but it’s costeffective and all you need are a few frames. 3. Choose to get married during an off-season, such as January and 5. Bring in your own vendors. February or July and August. Choose a venue that lets you 4. Holding the wedding on a Friday bring in your own food and bevor Sunday is a much cheaper operage vendors, which can save you tion than Saturday, the most popmoney by not requiring you to hit ular day to hold a wedding. minimum amounts.

Lifestyle

Ways to save money on your big day

in one of those prime Lowcountry venues. 7. Stay in one location. Combining the wedding ceremony and reception at one location saves on transportation costs for the wedding party. 8. Have a designated after-party location. That way the bride and groom won’t be tempted to extend the reception time. 9. Offer “bride” and “groom” liquor drinks rather than have an open bar. 10. Consider a planner. While plan6. Use creative lighting. You can ners do cost money, they often get create a unique atmosphere with discounted rates from vendors. EPG lighting, such as illuminated leaves and patterns on tents and walls to look like large oak trees or moss, if Sources: Cindy Zingerella, Engaging you cannot afford to hold the event Events; Christina Baxter, Cibi Events

Event Planning Guide 2018

Lifestyle

Charleston Ten ideas to make your wedding or event truly Charleston

Style

Add a distinctly Charleston activity to the weekend, such as an oyster roast for the rehearsal dinner.

2 Go local with the spirits. Offer guests uniquely Lowcountry spirits like Firefly sweet tea vodka, wine from a local vineyard or beer from a local brewery.

For the wedding party, have the groom and groomsmen dress in seersucker or khakis to get a Southern look. Add in a bowtie to complete the look!

Place a palmetto rose on each table.

6 Go rustic and get a relaxed Southern feel with mason jars, farm tables, local flowers and lanterns.

5 7. Have Charleston gift bags with Charleston items such as benne wafers or pralines. 8. Hire a bluegrass band or bring in a dance instructor to teach guests the shag. 9. Use local decorations such as greens, Rewined Candles, sweetgrass baskets or prints from a local artist. 10. Have guests sign a distinctly Charleston item, such as a joggling board (a rocking chair bench), at the reception.

Event Planning Guide 2018

Serve Lowcountry cuisine such as shrimp and grits, she crab soup, crabcakes or Lowcountry boil.

Lifestyle

Guide to dressing for social occasions

ou’re in Charleston. The party is going to be beautiful, but the weather may not. The Lowcountry’s weather is changeable; one minute it may be breezy, the next pouring rain. But one thing is true for much of the year: it’s going to be hot. But you needn’t be uncomfortable at that fancy event. Here are some tips for dressing well and dress comfortably:

Men • If you aren’t sure what the proper dress for the occasion is, ask the host. If you’re not comfortable doing that, ask someone else who is going. • Wear a summer weight suit, especially if the event is outdoors. Make sure your shirt and tie look sharp, because odds are you’ll be removing that jacket at some point.

Photo/File

• A seersucker jacket with plain slacks is a good choice for a casual outing. • Keep your hair neatly trimmed short for the warm months. • Keep your shirt tucked in. • Wear good-quality, classic style shoes – with socks.

Women • Choose lightweight, wrinkle-resistant fabrics. • Match your dress length to the occasion, but most of the time, cocktail length is fine. • Instead of a scarf or wrap, wear a statement necklace or bracelet.

• Take along a silky wrap or lightweight dressy sweater. The men wearing jackets will be asking for the air conditioning to be turned down, and you may need an extra layer. • Keep a shorter hair style neatly trimmed. If your hair is long, wear it up in a style that keeps it off your neck and shoulders. • Stash some long earrings and/or a sparkly scarf in your bag so you can dress an outfit up if needed. • At a wedding, don’t wear all white unless you’re the bride.

A few DON’Ts for warm weather social occasions: • • • •

Don’t wear shorts. Don’t wear all black. No heavily decorated fabrics. Don’t wear denim unless the event is very casual. EPG

Sources: Forbes.com, Macon Magazine, RealSimple.com

Event Planning Guide 2018

Lifestyle

Opening ceremonies at the annual Spoleto Festival USA. (Photo/Spoleto Festival USA)

Events Calendar of

JANUARY Happy New Year, Charleston Dec. 31, 2018-Jan. 1, 2019 This is a time to celebrate as only the Lowcountry knows how. There will be crowds everywhere as Charlestonians and visitors welcome the New Year at venues all over the area. Folly Beach and Sullivan’s Island host “Polar Bear plunge” events, where hundreds of people jump into the frigid Atlantic Ocean.

Event Planning Guide 2018

Lowcountry Oyster Festival January, 2019 (date TBA, usually end of the month) www.charlestonrestaurantassociation. com Each January, 80,000 pounds of oysters are brought in for the annual Lowcountry Oyster Festival at Boone Hall Plantation, named one of the top 20 events in the Southeast. The oystereating crowds follow. Avoid this date if planning an event in the Mount Pleasant area, where Boone Hall Plantation is located.

Charleston is a busy city — there’s always a race, festival or tour of homes going on. And sometimes, when you add thousands of extra visitors to heavy tourist traffic, it’s hard to get around. If it’s a month that has an “R” in it, there must be oysters; if it’s spring, there must be a race over the bridge. You can count on it. While these events are wonderful to attend with family and friends, you may want to avoid planning a large conference or wedding on those dates so you don’t compete for parking and space. Or if you’d like to piggyback your event onto those events, they can be additional built-in fun. To help you with planning, we’ve compiled a list here of the most crowded events, with the help of the Charleston Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. Here are some of the main events that shape our year.

FEBRUARY Southeastern Wildlife Exposition Feb. 13-15, 2019 www.sewe.com Known for its original art, diverse exhibits and animal demonstrations, the annual Southeastern Wildlife Exposition brings 500 artists, exhibitors and wildlife experts to venues throughout Charleston for a long weekend. The exhibition also draws 40,000 visitors.

Charleston Wine and Food Festival March 6-10, 2019 www.charlestonwineandfood.com This annual festival celebrates the culinary history and culture of the Lowcountry. Marion Square is the center of the action that includes seminars, food tastings, a dine-around, a culinary village and thousands of visitors.

Lifestyle MARCH Charleston Fashion Week March, 2019 (dates TBA) www.charlestonfashionweek.com This week showcases emerging designers and modeling talent under the tents on Marion Square. More than 35 runway shows are featured. It will mean a busy time downtown. Spring Festival of Houses and Gardens March 13-April 18, 2019 www.historiccharleston.org This month-long event opens some of Charleston’s finest historic gardens and private houses for touring. Tour venues vary in the Old & Historic District, so check the schedule before planning an event in the historic parts of town. Charleston Antiques Show March 15-17, 2019 www.historiccharleston.org Each March, collectors and enthusiasts are treated to an array of English, European and American antiques from dealers across the country. Visitors can learn through educational presentations and purchase antiques that include fine art, furniture, vintage jewelry and more. Held at the Gaillard Center, the show brings a crowd downtown. Volvo Car Open March 30-April 7, 2019 www.volvocaropen.com The state-of-the-art Family Circle Tennis Center brings the largest women’sonly tennis tournament in the world to Daniel Island. Extraordinary tennis stars compete for the coveted title. The weeklong tournament includes lots of entertainment and action over nine days. APRIL Summerville Flowertown Festival April 5-7, 2019 www.flowertownfestival.org The three-day event showcases the beautiful blooming azaleas, wisteria and dogwoods in Summerville, a suburb of Charleston. The festival, organized by the Summerville Family YMCA, brings a host of artisans, food

vendors, children’s activities and musical performances. Because of this event and the Cooper River Bridge Run and Volvo Car Open tennis tournament, early April draws big crowds. Cooper River Bridge Run April 6, 2019 www.bridgerun.com The run starts in Mount Pleasant and goes across the Cooper River on the expansive Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, winding up in downtown Charleston. Don’t even think about scheduling your event the weekend of this world-class 10K race that is capped at 40,000 runners and walkers – and all the friends they bring along with them. Lowcountry Cajun Festival April 7, 2019 www.ccprc.com Bringing Louisiana to the Lowcountry, this festival is a full day of Zydeco music, Cajun and Creole foods, kids activities, and all-around ragin’ Cajun fun and beautiful James Island County Park! Savor the tastes of authentic Cajun and Creole fare - jambalaya, alligator, etouffe, andouille sausage and of course, crawfish. DIG SOUTH April 24-26, 2019 DIG SOUTH is the Southeast’s interactive festival celebrating innovation in technology, business and culture featuring more than 150 high-level speakers, 100 investors and 3,000 total festival attendees at several locations in the Charleston area. The three-day festival includes a Wild Pitch event, creative industry expo, dine around events, craft beer gardens and unlimited networking opportunities. Blessing of the Fleet and Seafood Festival April 28, 2019 www.tompsc.com The town of Mount Pleasant holds its annual Blessing of the Fleet with a boat parade and ceremony centered in Memorial Waterfront Park on the Cooper River. There will be seafood samplings from restaurants, a shrimp-eating contest, an arts and crafts show, live music, shag dancing and other activities.

MAY and JUNE North Charleston Arts Fest May 1-5, 2019 northcharlestonartsfest.com Over five days in May, North Charleston showcases artists and performers from all over the country in workshops, exhibitions and performances at various venues. That would make it a tough time to plan a major event in North Charleston. Spoleto Festival USA May 24-June 9, 2019 www.spoletousa.org For 17 days and nights, Spoleto Festival USA takes over Charleston’s historic theaters, churches and outdoor spaces with more than 120 performances by renowned artists. With its little sister festival, Piccolo Spoleto (see below), it fills up the city. It’s a wonderful time to visit Charleston, but not an easy time to hold additional events. Piccolo Spoleto USA May 24-June 9, 2019 www.piccolospoleto.com This festival, running concurrently with Spoleto Festival USA, focuses primarily on artists from the Southeast, offering theater, music, visual arts, dance, ethnic culture presentations, comedy, crafts and film. It takes place at a variety of locations around Charleston. JULY Fourth of July All over the area www.patriotspoint.org Fireworks launched from the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Yorktown at Patriots Point’s Fourth of July Blast and a shore-side party with beach music make Independence Day fun in Charleston. Communities all over the area have their own celebrations. The events draw hundreds of visitors and beachgoers.

SEPTEMBER Charleston Beer Week September 2019 (Dates TBA) www.charlestonbeerweek.com The Charleston area boasts more than a dozen breweries (and counting!) with several beer-focused pubs and stores. Charleston Beer Week celebrates the city’s beer community, from brewer to bartender. Unique events are held at bars and breweries around Charleston over nine days. MOJA Arts Festival Through early October 2018 www.mojafestival.com In late September through early October, the MOJA Arts Festival celebrates African American and Caribbean arts. Featured are music, visual arts, storytelling, performances, crafts and children’s activities at various venues around Charleston. OCTOBER Fall Tour of Homes and Gardens Oct. 4-28, 2018 www.thefalltours.org Charleston’s historic homes and gardens welcome visitors on a rotating basis through most of October. If you are planning an event in a historic area, you will want to check to see whether nearby properties are on tour that day. NOVEMBER and DECEMBER Annual Holiday Festival of Lights Nov. 9, 2018- Jan. 1, 2019 www.ccprc.com Thousands of visitors experience the spirit of the holidays with millions of sparkling lights at James Island County Park. The display opens the second week of November and continues through New Year’s Day. There are more than 600 light displays, many reflected in the park’s waterways. EPG

AUGUST No events to schedule around. Why? Because it’s HOT in Charleston in August. So schedule away at venues where you can keep cool.

Event Planning Guide 2018

lists & directory

Photo/File

36 Audiovisual

43 Photography/Videography

Golf Courses

44 Production/Staging/Trade Show Display Vendors

Hotel with Meeting Facilities

Booking Agencies/Entertainment

37 Breweries/Distilleries 38 Corporate Gifts/Promotional Products

Party Supply Sales

46 Transportation

Tour Companies - Bus

Restaurants with Banquet Facilities

39 Event Decor Service/Event Rentals

Tour Companies - Carriage

Event Planners

Tour Companies - Other

Alternative and Outdoor Venues

40 Florists

Tour Companies - Walking

Exhibition Convention Centers

Food Trucks

Tour Companies - Water

Full-Service Caterers

Mobile Restrooms

Event Planning Guide 2018

Lists & Directory

Audiovisual AV Connections 1012 St. Andrews Blvd. Charleston, SC 29407 843-573-1174 avrentals@avconnectionssc.com Specialization: Professional audio, video, lighting rental and production services. www.avconnectionssc.com Complete Weddings & Events 1376 Downsberry Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29466 843-856-7177 wayne@completecharleston.com Specialization: Weddings and special events services; reception and ceremony DJs, ceremonies, officiants, photography, videography, photobooth, lighting, week-of coordination. completeweddingcharleston.com Darby Events Coleman Boulevard Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-779-6224 info@darbyevents.com Specialization: Event production, entertainment, lighting, photo booths and rentals. www.darbyevents.com Innovative Event Services 4238 Scott St. Charleston, SC 29405 843-410-9888 info@iesproductions.com Specialization: Lighting design and audio visual installations for all kind of events, including weddings, corporate Christmas parties, and more. www.iesproductions.com Lowcountry Music Service LLC 2659 Lake Myrtle Drive Charleston, SC 29414 843-297-8160 anthony@lowcountrymusicservice.com Specialization: Live entertainment booking agency specializing in bands, soloists, DJs and performers for weddings, corporate events, lounges and private events www.lowcountrymusicservice.com

Event Planning Guide 2018

Malphrus Video Productions 1833 W. Canning Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29466 843-813-1704 info@malphrusvideo.com Specialization: Video production, weddings, business promotions www.malphrusvideo.com OtherBrother Entertainment 180 Spring St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-225-5621 otherbrother@me.com Top Local Officials: Trey Hanchey, Bryan Mahanes Specialization: Provides quality entertainment, which includes bands, DJs, and specialty acts for weddings, private parties, corporate events. Also, provide production including audio, lighting, and video services. www.otherbrotherent.com PDA — Production Design Associates 2799 Three Lakes Road North Charleston, SC 29418 843-554-3466 info@pdastage.com Specialization: Full service audio/visual production company. Services include lighting, staging, audio, video projection etc. We also offer custom scenic design/build services, with more than 25 years of experience. Our clients include Boeing, The White House and CNN. www.pdastage.com Skyline Exhibits & Design 1043 East Montague Ave. North Charleston, SC 29405 843-606-2152 shoffman@skylinexd.com Specialization: Modular trade show exhibits trade show rentals, exhibit design, graphic design, exhibit management show service and logistics coordination. Worldwide installation and dismantle services, booth staff training, trade show ROI /Measurement www.skylineXD.com

Booking Agency/Entertainment Archer Music Service LLC 108 Pinecrest Blvd. Summerville, SC 29483 843-871-4460 david@archermusic.com Specialization: Musicians for weddings, receptions, and corporate events. www.archermusic.com Cigar Row Events 1527 Sam Rittenberg Blvd., Suite 202B Charleston, SC 29407 843-607-4423 inquire@cigarrowevents.com Specialization: Cigar rolling’s and cigar tastings for special events and customized cigar gift packs for corporate or social groups. We are also vendors at the Charleston City Market. Year established locally: 2003 www.cigarrowevents.com Darby Events Coleman Boulevard Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-779-6224 info@darbyevents.com Top Local Official: Stephen Darby Specialization: Event production, entertainment, lighting, photo booths and rentals. www.darbyevents.com Entertainment Charleston 10 Trachelle Lane Charleston, SC 29407 843-693-0004 andrew@entertainchs.com Specialization: Charleston’s professional classical artists for hire performing Mozart to pop music. We provide DJs, jazz bands, and ceremony officiants for weddings, as well as private parties and corporate events throughout the Lowcountry. www.entertainmentcharleston.com

Lists & Directory

Gracie & Lacy 520 Folly Road, 25-170 Charleston, SC 29412 843-259-8872 info@gracieandlacy.com Specialization: Corporate and special event entertainment festival entertainment venue and music series entertainment. www.gracieandlacy.com Island Paradise Balloon Art 28 30th Ave Isle of Palms, SC 29451 843-442-7299 info@islandparadiseballoonart.com Specialization: Balloon twisting, magic, facepainting, pirate appearances, history lectures and storytelling. www.IslandParadiseBalloonArt.com Lowcountry Music Service LLC 2659 Lake Myrtle Drive Charleston, SC 29414 843-297-8160 anthony@lowcountrymusicservice.com Specialization: Live entertainment booking agency specializing in bands, soloists, DJs and

performers for weddings, corporate events, lounges and private events. www.lowcountrymusicservice.com OtherBrother Entertainment 180 Spring St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-225-5621 otherbrother@me.com Specialization: Provides quality entertainment which includes bands, DJs, and specialty acts for weddings, private parties, corporate events. Also, provides production including audio, lighting and video services. Year established locally: 2004 www.otherbrotherent.com

Breweries/Distilleries Cannon Distillery 813 Savannah Highway, Suite A Charleston, SC 29407 843-996-4110 www.distillerycannon.com Charleston Distilling Co. 501 King St. Charleston, SC 29403

843-718-1446 www.charlestondistilling.com Charles Towne Fermentory 809 Savannah Highway Charleston, SC 29407 843-641-0431 www.chsfermentory.com Coast Brewing 1250 2nd St. North North Charleston, SC 29406 843-343-4727 www.coastbrewing.com Commonhouse Aleworks 4831 Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Hear Ave. North Charleston, SC 29405 843-471-1400 commonhousealeworks.com Cooper River Brewing Co. 2201-B Mechanic St. Charleston, SC 29405 843-830-3681 www.cooperriverbrewing.com

Event Planning Guide 2018

Lists & Directory

Edmond’s Oast 1018 Morrison Drive Charleston, SC 29403 843-727-1145 edmundsoast.com

Holy City Brewing 4155 C Dorchester Road Charleston, SC 29412 Phone: 843-225-6089 www.holycitybrewing.com

Fat Pig Brewing Co. 3690 State Road S-10-1024 Johns Island, SC 29455 843-640-3256 www.fatpigbrewing.com

Lo-Fi Brewing 2038 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29405 828-582-2175 lofibrewing.com

Fatty’s Beer Works 1436 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29405 843-974-5330 www.fattysbeerworks.com

Low Tide Brewing 4808, 2863 Maybank Highway Johns Island, SC 29455 843-501-7570 www.lowtidebrewing.com

Firefly Distillery 6775 Bears Bluff Road Wadmalaw Island, SC 29487 843-559-6867 www.fireflyvodka.com

Munkle Brewing Co. 1513 Meeting Street Road Charleston, SC 29405 843-789-3109 www.munklebrewing.com

Freehouse Brewery 2895 Pringle St. North Charleston, SC 29406 www.freehousebeer.com

Snafu Brewing Company 3280 Industry Drive Charleston, SC 29418 843-767-4121 www.snafubrewingcompany.com Striped Pig Distillery 2225 Old School Drive, Suite A North Charleston, SC 29405 843-276-3201 www.stripedpigdistillery.com Tradesman Brewing 1647 King Street Extension Charleston, SC 29405 843-410-1315 www.tradesmanbrewing.com Twisted Cypress Brewing Co. 1897 Sam Rittenberg Blvd. Charleston, SC 29407 843-608-1899 www.twistedcypressbrewingco.com

Frothy Beard Brewing 1401 Sam Rittenberg Blvd. Charleston, SC 29407 843-872-4201 www.frothybeard.com

One Love Kombucha 760 Bronson Road, Suite 107 Johns Island, SC 29455 832-373-9600

Two Blokes Brewing 547 Long Point Road, Suite 101 Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-654-4561 twoblokesbrewing.com

Ghost Monkey Brewery 522 Wando Lane Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-352-3462 ghostmonkeybrewery.com

Palmetto Brewing 289 Huger St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-937-0903 www.palmettobrewingco.com

Westbrook Brewing Co. 510 Ridge Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-654-9112 www.westbrookbrewing.com

Hardscoop Distillery 2030 Wambaw Creek, Suite 101 Charleston, SC 29492 843-936-3626 www.hardscoop.com

Pawleys Island Brewing Co. 2688 Industrial Ave. North Charleston, SC 29405 843-225-8292

Corporate Gifts and Promotional Products

High Wire Distilling Co. 652 King St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-755-4664 www.highwiredistilling.com

Oak Road Brewery 108 E. 3rd North St. Summerville, SC 29483 843-695-9886 www.oakroadbrewery.com

Rusty Bull Brewing Co. 3005 W. Montague Ave., Suite 110 North Charleston, SC 29418 www.rustybullbrewing.com

Event Planning Guide 2018

Revelry Brewing 10 Conroy St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-870-0010 www.revelrybrewingco.com

ABC Trophies Inc. 10750 Dorchester Road Summerville, SC 29485 843-871-4629 Specialization: Trophies, plaques, medals, glass and crystal, sandblasting, laser engraving, custom invitations, signage and name tags. www.abctrophies.com

Lists & Directory

All American Awards 1039-F Anna Knapp Blvd. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-884-7808 Specialization: Corporate awards, plaques, trophies, engraving, banners, signs, name badges, rubber stamps, bronze castings, sculptures, crystal awards, corporate awards, promotional products, embroidery and nametags. www.awardsguy.com Bernstein Lash Marketing 1124 Sam Rittenberg Blvd., Suite 4 Charleston, SC 29407 843-747-7767 Specialization: Graphic design, branding specialist, promotional products distributor, print and sign broker. www.bernsteinlash.com

Halo Branded Solutions 170 N. Shelmore Blvd. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 770-853-1590 Specialization: Promotional products branded apparel trade show display and accessories, corporate gifts and awards, employee recognition, logo work wear and logo golf products. www.halo.com Image Branding Group LLC 5809 North Rhett Ave. Hanahan, SC 29410 843-554-3840 Specialization: Custom embroidered and screen-printed apparel, uniforms, promotional products, customer and employee appreciation, holiday gifts, awards, art and design. www.imagebrandinggroup.com

Darby Events Coleman Boulevard Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-779-6224 Specialization: Event production, entertainment, lighting, photo booths, rentals. www.darbyevents.com Duvall Catering & Events 2816 Azalea Drive Charleston, SC 29405 843-763-9222 Specialization: Catering, bar and more. www.duvallevents.com Events by Reagan 284 King St., Suite A Charleston, SC 29401 843-302-2001 Specialization: Full-service, special event and wedding planning. eventsbyreagan.com

Carolina Promotions 2470 Mall Drive, Suite G Charleston, SC 29406 843-744-8787 Specialization: Screen printing, embroidery, offset printing, pad printing and engraving, decals, labels, calendars, corporate apparel, t-shirts, awards, event displays, business gifts and promotional products. halo.com/linda-carrow

Karst 3436 Rivers Ave. North Charleston, SC 29405 843-884-4280 Specialization: Branded merchandise, promotional products, online stores, decorated and custom apparel, graphic design, and logo design. karstpromo.com

Charleston Shucker Co. 1224 Colfax Court Mount Pleasant, SC 29466 843-819-9070 Specialization: Personalized gifts and promotional items www.charlestonshuckerco.com

Event Decor Service and Event Rentals

Innovative Event Services 4238 Scott St. Charleston, SC 29405 843-410-9888 Specialization: Specialize in lighting design and audio visual installations for all kind of events, including weddings and corporate parties. www.iesproductions.com

Branch Design Studio 1090 Johnnie Dodds Blvd. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-847-7996 Specialization: Floral and event decor, including weddings and corporate events. Floral and event decor are a great way to liven up any event. www.branchdesignstudio.com

Justin Wham Weddings and Events 2004 Wappoo Drive Charleston, SC 29412 843-225-4540 Specialization: Floral, decor, day-of coordination, planning, event design, sympathy design. jwweddingsandevents.com

Data Imaging Inc. 3 Gamecock Ave., Suite 310 Charleston, SC 29407 843-300-0091 Specialization: Full-service, branding and marketing destination for a companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s logo with tradeshow booths, give-a-ways, employee incentives, uniforms, safety programs and client gifts all through promotional products, and apparel. ASI and PPAI qualified. www.dataipromo.com

Charleston Uplighting LLC 248 Summers Drive Summerville, SC 29485 843-494-9708 Specialization: We specialize in lighting for any type of event or occasion using LED uplighting fixtures, cafe/string lighting for inside/ outside or tent use, video projections, cake/ floral pin spotting, chandeliers and more. www.charlestonuplighting.com 843-762-1118

Little White Box Photo Booth 1488 Milldam Pass Johns Island, SC 29455 304-841-4370 Specialization: An 1974 VW photo bus and Shasta-style camper with a photo booth inside. Custom photo strips, custom backdrop, tons of props, and lots of laughs. www.lilwhitebox.com

Event Planning Guide 2018

Lists & Directory

Lowcountry Creole Culinaire LLC Catering And Events 5600 Rivers Ave. North Charleston, SC 29406 843-425-9965 Specialization: Mobile food service and catering www.lowcountrycreoleculinaire.com PDA - Production Design Associates 2799 Three Lakes Road North Charleston, SC 29418 843-554-3466 Specialization: Full-service audio/visual production company; services include lighting, staging, audio, video projection etc. We also offer custom scenic design/build services, with more than 25 years of experience. Our clients include Boeing, The White House and CNN. www.pdastage.com Skyline Exhibits & Design 1043 East Montague Ave. North Charleston, SC 29405 843-606-2152 Specialization: Modular trade show exhibits, trade show rentals, exhibit design, graphic

Event Planning Guide 2018

design, exhibit management, show service and logistics coordination, worldwide installation and dismantle services, booth-staff training, trade show, ROI/measurement. www.skylineXD.com Tiger Lily Florist 131 Spring St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-723-2808 Specialization: Full-service florist specializing in weddings, corporate events, hotel and restaurant designs. www.tigerlilyflorist.com www.tigerlilyweddings.com

Branch Design Studio 1090 Johnnie Dodds Blvd. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-847-7996 Specialization: Floral and event decor from weddings to corporate events, floral and event decor are a great way to liven up any event. www.branchdesignstudio.com

Florist

CC Bloom LLC 956 Cottingham Drive Charleston, SC 29464 843-607-2161 Specialization: CC BLOOM specializes in custom florals for lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s special moments and just because. www.ccbloomflorals.com

Belvaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Flower Shop 1409-B Stuart Engals Blvd. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-884-9576 Specialization: Weddings, funerals, traditional and modern custom designed arrangements for all seasons. www.belvasflowershop.com

Charleston Florist Inc. 709 St. Andrews Blvd. Charleston, SC 29407 843-577-5691 Specialization: Everyday bouquets, events, weddings. www.charlestonflorist.com

Lists & Directory

Country & Lace Florist 610 Schooner Road Charleston, SC 29412 843-762-1118 Specialization: Weddings, receptions and events of all sizes. www.countryandlaceflorist.com Duvall Catering & Events 2816 Azalea Drive Charleston, SC 29405 843-763-9222 Specialization: Catering, bar and more. www.duvallevents.com French Quarter Floral 839 Wellington Drive Charleston, SC 29412 843-779-0440 Specialization: Wedding and corporate event floral design. frenchquarterfloral.com Justin Wham Weddings and Events 2004 Wappoo Drive Charleston, SC 29412 843-225-4540 Specialization: Floral, decor, day-of coordination, full planning, event design, and sympathy design. jwweddingsandevents.com Keepsakes Florist 2024 Wappoo Drive Charleston, SC 29412 843-766-7807 Specialization: Floral decor for events and all occasions. www.keepsakesflorist.net Ooh! Events 2532 Spruill Ave. Charleston, SC 29405 843-881-7576 Specialization: Daily floral deliveries, wedding florals, bridal bouquets, ceremony pieces and boutonnieres. www.oohevents.com

Roadside Blooms 4610 Spruill Ave., Suite 102 Charleston, SC 29405 843-225-7277 Specialization: Event florals and everyday delivery. www.roadsideblooms.com Tiger Lily Florist 131 Spring St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-723-2808 Specialization: Full-service florist specializing in weddings, corporate events, hotel and restaurant designs. www.tigerlilyflorist.com www.tigerlilyweddings.com

Food Trucks

Chucktown Beach Dog www.chucktownbeachdog.com Cooking Carolina Pit Bar-B-Que 843-297-5690 www.cookingcarolina.com Cory’s Grilled Cheese 843-641-7377 www.corysgrilledcheese.com Cuban Gypsy Pantry 843-872-5487 cubangpysypantry.com Dashi 843-284-6804 www.dashichs.com/truck

Area 51 Foods www.area51foodtruck.com

E.M.S Food Truck emsfoodtruck@gmail.com

Bac’n me Crazy 843-952-3033 bacnmecrazy.com

Food Box 770-401-6093 foodboxthetruck.com

Blachenese Soul Food Hibachi Truck 843-425-9965 www.blackenesehibachi.com

Greekin’ Out 843-996-0543 www.greekinoutsc.com

Braised in the South Food Truck 843-737-2174 braisedinthesouthfoodtruck.com

Grill Force One 772-913-4000 grillforce.one

Brava Bowls 603-686-3014 bravabowls.org

Happy Thai Food Truck 843-760-1619 happythai.com

Brazilianuts  843-793-3586 www.brazilianuts.com

Jonny Poppers 843-712-9966 www.jonnypoppers.com

Cast Iron Food Truck 843-697-2644 www.castiron-foodtruck.com Charleston Caribbean Creole Food Truck 843-576-9847 charlestoncaribbeancreole.com Charleston Festival Foods 843-991-0705 www.charlestonfestivalfoods.com

Just Eat This! 843-868-1367 www.justeatthis.com King of Pops 843-996-4480 kingofpops.com Krystyna’s Authentic Polish Food Truck 843-751-9526 krystynaspolishfood.com Event Planning Guide 2018

Lists & Directory

Lowcountry Creole Culinaire LLC Catering And Events 843-425-9965 www.lowcountrycreoleculinaire.com Lowcountry Sweet Eats 843-747-1100 lowcountryeats.com MOMO Gastrotruck 843-998-3080 www.momocharleston.com Pep Rolls 843-345-3721 streetfoodfinder.com/peprolls Platia Food Truck 843-822-7443 www.platiagreekfood.com Rebel Taqueria 843-619-0104 www.rebeltaqueria.com Roadside Seafood 843-754-5890 www.roadsideseafood.com Rolled Quesadillas 843-269-4228 rolledquesadillas.com Root Note Food Truck 706-270-2607 Scram 843-633-2829 www.scramchs.com Short Grain Food Truck 843-321-3035 shortgrainfoodtruck.com Squeals On Wheels 843-696-6297 Sweet Lulu’s Bakery on Wheels 843-792-7377 www.sweetlulusbakery.com

Event Planning Guide 2018

The Charleston Bird 843-990-8586 The Holy City Cupcake 843-695-7213 theholycitycupcakes.com The Immortal Lobster 843-633-1088 www.theimmortallobster.com The Mac Daddy Food truck 843-884-1177 cravekitchenandcocktails.com/mac-daddy-foodtruck Towin’ the Dough 518-810-5799 Wich Cream 843-513-7071 www.wichcream.com Wings-n-Things 843-475-8649 Wraps Around The World LLC 843-619-9246

Mobile Restrooms United Site Services DBA Nature’s Calling Inc. 4152 Azalea Drive North Charleston, SC 29405 843-529-1399 Specialization: Rental of portable restroom trailers, mobile shower trailers, portable toilets and dumpsters. www.naturescallinginc.com Waste Services LLC 2014 Jacksonville Road North Charleston, SC 29415 843-277-2800 Specialization: Provides portable toilet, handwash station, and holding tank rentals for large special events and corporate functions. www.wasteservicesllc.com

Party Supply Sales 42 Pressed 6617 Maybank Highway Wadmalaw Island, SC 29487 843-364 -8823 info@42pressed.com Specialization: Named after the late Dodgers great, whose number was 42, Jackie is first and foremost a designer, with a love of type and a strong design sense. Jackie designs wedding invitations that stand out from the rest, with each design embracing a specific storyline — country wedding, mountain wedding, garden wedding, etc. www.42pressed.com Ascend Entertainment 1111 Bowman Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-991-8000 Specialization: DJ services, emcee and hosts, entertainment, musicians, lighting, music and music production, photo booths. www.ascenddj.com Carolina Promotions 2470 Mall Drive, Suite G Charleston, SC 29406 843-744-8787 Specialization: Screen printing, embroidery, offset printing, pad printing and engraving, decals, labels, calendars, corporate apparel, t-shirts, awards, event displays, business gifts and promotional products. Charleston Cotton Exchange 1758 Ashley River Road Charleston, SC 29407 843-763-0740 Specialization: Promotional items and apparel, screen printing, embroidery, promotional products for businesses, corporate and individual events. www.charlestoncottonexchange.com

Lists & Directory

Grand Ideas Inc. 14 Lord Ashley Drive Charleston, SC 29407 843-852-5264 Specialization: Custom branded promotional products, merchandise, event mementos, employee recognition items, corporate gifts, decorated apparel, sponsorship/campaign materials. www.grandideas.net Hughes Rental Center Inc. 1345 Bowman Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-881-7368 Specialization: Tents, tables,chairs, china, glassware, wedding accessories, booths, conventions, staging,risers, linens, props, themes, party CAD event design, outdoor amusement, portable air conditioning, delivery. www.hughesrental.com Lowcountry Party Flavors 843-732-4777 Specialization: Your partyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s personal food cart with all of your favorite flavors. lowcountrypartyflavors.com OK Florist & Gifts Inc. 131 W. Luke Ave. Summerville, SC 29483 843-873-3681 okflorist@gmail.com Specialization: Weddings and special events, fresh flowers, sympathy design, gifts, wedding gown consignment boutique. www.okfloristevents.com Party City 5900 Rivers Ave. North Charleston, SC 29406 843-745-1030 Specialization: Birthday party supplies, custom invitations, candy, custom banners. www.partycity.com Party Paper and More 1076 Johnnie Dodds Blvd. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-971-9911 Specialization: Party, catering, gift wrapping, wedding supplies and invitations. paperpartyandmore.com

Party Plan-It 847 Houston Northcutt Blvd. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-388-9236 partyplanit@birch.net Specialization: Party supplies for any occasion such as Halloween costumes, props and supplies. partyplanitsc.com

Artistic Eye Productions LLC 178 Thames Ave. Summerville, SC 29485 843-214-5968 ben@artisticeyeproductions.com Specialization: Video recording/editing for live events, weddings, seminars and corporate/ marketing videos. www.artisticeyeproductions.com

Post No Bill Inc. 1051 Morrison Drive Charleston, SC 29403 843-577-1071 info@postnobills.com Specialization: Strategic marketing, branding, events, promotions and environmental decor. www.postnobills.com

Bell Digital Media 99 Fishburne St. Charleston, SC 29403 877-249-6891 Specialization: Full-service, professional video production. www.BellDigitalMedia.com

Photography/Videography

*including social media capability AccuPhotoLab & Studio 1757 Savannah Highway, Unit A Charleston, SC 29407 843-571-4817 info@accuphotolab.com Specialization: Complete photo and studio services; restoration, enlargement, digital, film and video archiving and custom framing and mounting. www.accuphotolab.com Action Media Inc. P.O. Box 80892 Charleston, SC 29416 843-412-0725 Specialization: Video production, commercials, marketing videos, weddings, real estate marketing, graphic design, web streaming, television production. www.actionmediacorp.com Andy Hunt Creative Group 3305 Cameron Blvd. Isle of Palms, SC 29451 843-708-8288 Specialization: High-definition video production; full-service, high-definition editing suite; producing and directing; concept creation, weddings. www.andyhuntcreative.com

Charleston Photobooth and DJ 28 Fitzroy Drive Charleston, SC 29414 843-901-0335 Specialization: Photobooths and DJs www.charlestonphotoboothdj.com Chris and Cami Photography LLC 200 Sugar Magnolia Way Charleston, SC 29414 843-324-8900 chrisandcami@comcast.net Specialization: Corporate events, weddings, business photos, annual reports, head-shots, awards ceremonies, company meetings, banquets, galas, executive portraits, aerial drone photography, and professional sports. www.chrisandcami.com Coleman Photography LLC 538 King St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-577-9090 Specialization: Sales conferences, trade shows, conventions, golf tournaments, corporate parties, same-day slideshows, on-site printing, green-screen computer backgrounds, specialty prints and corporate gifts.

Event Planning Guide 2018

Lists & Directory

Complete Weddings & Events 1376 Downsberry Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29466 843-856-7177 Specialization: Weddings and special events services â&#x20AC;&#x201D; reception and ceremony DJs, ceremonies, officiants, photography, videography, photobooth, lighting and week of coordination. completeweddingcharleston.com Darby Events Coleman Boulevard Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-779-6224 Specialization: Event production, entertainment, lighting, photo booths and rentals. www.darbyevents.com King Street Photo Weddings 1225 Blakeway St., Suite 1303 Charleston, SC 29492 843-810-6698 Specialization: Corporate, fashion, engagement, bridal portrait, weddings, commercial, architectural, family portrait. www.kingstreetphotoweddings.com LeightonD LLC 1815 Dogwood Road Charleston, SC 29414 757-572-6807 Specialization: Fine art, wedding portraiture, head shots. www.leightond.com Little White Box Photo Booth 1488 Milldam Pass Johns Island, SC 29455 304-841-4370 Specialization: A 1974 VW photo bus and Shasta-style camper with a photo booth inside. Custom photo strips, custom backdrop, tons of props, and lots of laughs. www.lilwhitebox.com

Event Planning Guide 2018

M. Rummler Studio 1498 Old Williamston Court Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-881-1936 Specialization: Family, children, high school seniors and executives. www.mrummlerstudio.com Smoak Stack Studios 1720 Carlisle Road Charleston, SC 29412 843-224-8555 Specialization: Architecture, people, events, advertising, corporate, fine art, editorial, weddings, and industrial. www.smoakstackstudios.com Stello Photography LLC 164 Market St., Suite 225 Charleston, SC 29401 843-425-9902 Specialization: Art, commercial, weddings, portraits, food, real estate, intimate photography. www.stellophotography.com

Production/Staging/Trade Show Display Vendors A + E Digital Printing 517 King St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-853-5066 Specialization: Full-service, graphic design department, services include menu designs, printing, Trade show displays, signs, display walls, retractable banners, wall/window/floor graphics, custom marketing material, wedding invitations, programs, escort cards. www.anedigital.com AV Connections 1012 St. Andrews Blvd. Charleston, SC 29407 843-573-1174 Specialization: Professional audio, video, lighting rental and production services. www.avconnectionssc.com

Bernstein Lash Marketing 1124 Sam Rittenberg Blvd., Suite 4 Charleston, SC 29407 843-747-7767 Specialization: Graphic design, branding specialist, promotional products distributor, print and sign broker. www.bernsteinlash.com Darby Events Coleman Boulevard Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-779-6224 info@darbyevents.com Specialization: Event production, entertainment, lighting, photo booths and rentals. www.darbyevents.com Data Imaging Inc. 3 Gamecock Ave., Suite 310 Charleston, SC 29407 843-300-0091 Specialization: Full-service, branding and marketing destination for logos with tradeshow booths/give-a-ways, employee incentives, uniforms, safety programs and client gifts all through promotional products/apparel. ASI and PPAI qualified. www.dataipromo.com Duncan Parnell Inc. 3150 W. Montague Ave. North Charleston, SC 29418 843-747-6033 Specialization: Signs, banners, other printing services. www.duncanparnell.com Halo Branded Solutions 170 N. Shelmore Blvd. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 770-853-1590 Specialization: Promotional products branded apparel trade show display and accessories, corporate gifts and awards, employee recognition, logo work wear and logo golf products.

Lists & Directory

Innovative Event Services 4238 Scott St. Charleston, SC 29405 843-410-9888 info@iesproductions.com Specialization: Specialize in lighting design and audio visual installations for all kind of events. Weddings, corporate, Christmas parties. www.iesproductions.com Karst 3436 Rivers Ave. North Charleston, SC 29405 843-884-4280 Specialization: Branded merchandise, promotional products, online, decorated and custom apparel, graphic design, logo design. karstpromo.com PDA — Production Design Associates 2799 Three Lakes Road North Charleston, SC 29418 843-554-3466 info@pdastage.com Specialization: Full-service, audio/visual production company; services include lighting, staging, audio, video projection, etc. Also offer custom scenic design/build services, with over 25 years of experience. Our clients include Boeing, The White House and CNN. www.pdastage.com Skyline Exhibits & Design 1043 East Montague Ave. North Charleston, SC 29405 843-606-2152 Specialization: Modular trade show exhibits, trade show rentals, exhibit design, graphic design, exhibit management, show service and logistics coordination, worldwide installation and dismantle services, booth-staff training, trade show ROI/measurement. www.skylineXD.com

Tour Companies — Bus Adventure Sightseeing 1030 Fort Sumter Drive Charleston, SC 29412 843-762-0088 Specialization: Fleet of vans and buses that can do narrated city tours and provide transportation to and from hotels. www.adventuresightseeing.com

Charleston Convention & Group Services Inc. 1 Carriage Lane Charleston, SC 29407 843-571-5882 Specialization: Full-service destination management company and receptive tour operator. www.destinationcharlestonsc.com Charleston Pirate Tours 79 Cumberland St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-442-7299 Specialization: Pirate, ghost, children’s tours, event entertainment and speaking programs with authentically costumed guides. Private, customized tours available. www.charlestonpiratetour.com Going Coastal Transportation 5900 Rivers Ave., Suite Y North Charleston, SC 29406 843-216-8483 info@ridegct.com Specialization: Chauffeured services, sedans, mini- and motor-coach special events, corporate travel and sports teams. goingcoastaltransportation.com Gray Line of Charleston 375 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-722-4444 Specialization: Offering a 90-minute guided tour of historic Charleston, as well transportation services in the greater Charleston area for special events (weddings, corporate meetings and more). Eight, 20 to 25-passenger mini-buses available. www.graylineofcharleston.com

Tour Companies — Carriage Charleston Carriage Works 20 Anson St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-779-1279 Specialization: Horse-drawn carriage tours of Charleston’s residential historic district. www.mycharlestoncarriage.com

Old South Carriage Co. 14 Anson St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-723-9712 www.oldsouthcarriage.com Palmetto Carriage Works Ltd. 8 Guignard Street Charleston, SC 29401 843-723-8145 Specialization: One-hour historic residential carriage tours. www.palmettocarriage.com

Tour Companies — Other Adventure Sightseeing 1030 Fort Sumter Drive Charleston, SC 29412 843-762-0088 Specialization: Fleet of vans and buses that can do narrated city tours and provide transportation to and from hotels. www.adventuresightseeing.com Barrier Island Eco Tours 50 41st Ave. Isle of Palms, SC 29421 843-886-5000, www.nature-tours.com Bulldog Tours Inc. 40 N. Market St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-722-8687 www.bulldogtours.com Charleston Outdoor Adventures 1871 Bowens Island Road Charleston, SC 29412 843-795-0330 charlestonoutdooradventures@gmail.com Specialization: Eco tours, nature tours, outdoor adventure, rental services, equipment rentals. www.charlestonoutdooradventures.com

Event Planning Guide 2018

Lists & Directory

Charleston Pirate Tours 79 Cumberland St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-442-7299 info@charlestonpiratetour.com Specialization: Pirate, ghost, children’s tours, event entertainment and speaking programs with authentically costumed guides. Private, customized tours available. www.charlestonpiratetour.com On Purpose Adventures 727 Hitching Post Road Charleston, SC 29414 843-580-3757 info@onpurposeadventures.com Specialization: Adventure tourism www.onpurposeadventures.com Sandlapper Water Tours 10 Wharfside St. Charleston, SC 29413 843-849-8687 bryan@sandlappertours.com Specialization: Charter boat, water tours www.sandlappertours.com SpiritLine Cruises and Events 360 Concord St., Suite 201 Charleston, SC 29401 843-722-2628 sales@spiritlinecruises.com Specialization: SpiritLine Cruises and Events operates four vessels in scenic Charleston Harbor. These vessels provide the perfect venue for all types of events. www.spiritlinecruises.com Tour Charleston LLC 2A Cumberland St. Charleston, SC 29413 843-723-1670 julian@tourcharleston.com Specialization: Walking tours, convention and group services, The Ghosts of Charleston Tour, The Ghosts of Charleston Book, The Story of Charleston History Book, book events, prelaunch book parties, author signings, book seller. www.buxtonbooks.com

Event Planning Guide 2018

Tour Companies — Walking Charleston Pirate Tours 79 Cumberland St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-442-7299 info@charlestonpiratetour.com Specialization: Pirate, ghost, children’s tours, event entertainment and speaking programs with authentically costumed guides. Private, customized tours available. www.charlestonpiratetour.com Tour Charleston LLC 2A Cumberland St. Charleston, SC 29413 843-723-1670 julian@tourcharleston.com Specialization: Walking tours, convention and group Services, The Ghosts of Charleston Tour, The Ghosts of Charleston Book, The Story of Charleston History Book, book events, prelaunch book parties, author signings, book seller. www.buxtonbooks.com

Tour Companies — Water Charleston Outdoor Adventures 1871 Bowens Island Road Charleston, SC 29412 843-795-0330 charlestonoutdooradventures@gmail.com Specialization: Eco tours, nature tours, outdoor adventure, rental services, equipment rentals. www.charlestonoutdooradventures.com Sandlapper Water Tours 10 Wharfside St. Charleston, SC 29413 843-849-8687 bryan@sandlappertours.com Specialization: Charter boat, water tours. www.sandlappertours.com

SpiritLine Cruises and Events 360 Concord St., Suite 201 Charleston, SC 29401 843-722-2628 sales@spiritlinecruises.com Specialization: SpiritLine Cruises and Events operates four vessels in scenic Charleston Harbor. These vessels provide the perfect venue for all types of events. www.spiritlinecruises.com

Transportation Carolina’s Executive Limo Line 164 Market St., Suite D172 Charleston, SC 29401 843-564-3456 info@celimoline.com Specialization: Charleston’s premier luxury car and limousine service provider. Offering airport service, wedding transportation and corporate event shuttles. www.celimoline.com Going Coastal Transportation 5900 Rivers Ave., Suite Y North Charleston, SC 29406 843-216-8483 Specialization: Chauffeured services, miniand motor-coach, special events, corporate travel and sports teams. goingcoastaltransportation.com Gray Line of Charleston 375 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-722-4444 Specialization: Offers a 90-minute guided tour of historic Charleston, as well transportation services in the greater Charleston area for special events (weddings, corporate meetings and more). Eight, 20 to 25-passenger minibuses available. www.graylineofcharleston.com

Lists & Directory

Golf Courses

Ranked by USGA Slope Rating* from Back/Pro Tees

Course/Club Name The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort Kiawah Island, SC 29455 Ocean Winds Golf Course Seabrook Island, SC 29455

Phone / Website Email

Slope Rating* / Course Rating** / Head Pro

Holes / Par Yardage

Type of Course Green Fees

Tournaments in 2018

Course Designer(s) / Superintendent / Year Opened

843-266-4670 kiawahresort.com reservations@kiawahresort.com

144 77.3

18 72 7,356

Public, resort, with event facilities Seasonal

Pete Dye, Alice Dye Brian Gerard, Jeff Stone, Stephen Youngner 1991

843-768-2529 www.discoverseabrook.com golf@discoverseabrook.com

144 73.1

18 72 6,765

Private, with event facilities $115-$170

Willard Byrd Sean Hardwick 1973

Rees Jones Wayne Sellers 1989

843-884-4653 www.charlestonnationalgolf.com frontdesk@charlestonnationalgolf.com

142 74.7

18 72 7,064

Semiprivate $45-$95

Sr. Member Member Ladies Member Member Jr. Club Championship Match Play Member Member Club Championship

Crooked Oaks Golf Course Seabrook Island, SC 29455

843-768-2529 www.discoverseabrook.com golf@discoverseabrook.com

141 72.7

18 72 6,754

Private, with event facilities $120-$175

Robert Trent Jones Sean Hardwick 1981

RiverTowne Country Club Mount Pleasant, SC 29466

843-849-2400 www.rivertownecountryclub.com ldavidson@rivertownecountryclub.com

141 74.8

18 72 7,188

Semiprivate, with event facilities Seasonal

Arnold Palmer Lacy Davidson, Rob Daniels 2001

Turtle Point at Kiawah Island Golf Resort Kiawah Island, SC 29455

843-266-4050 www.kiawahresort.com reservations@kiawahresort.com

141 74.2

18 72 7,061

Public, resort, with event facilities Seasonal

Jack Nicklaus Steve Agazzi, Brian Gerard, Mark Schaffer 1982

Crowfield Golf Club Goose Creek, SC 29445

843-764-4618 www.crowfieldgolf.com tsanders@cityofgoosecreek.com

140 75.5

18 72 7,005

Semiprivate, public $26-$48

Bob Spence Troy Sanders, Todd Biegger 1990

864-583-1246 www.thecarolinacountryclub.com tkelly@thecarolinacountryclub.com

139 74.5

18 72 7,069

Private, with event facilities $75 weekend, $65 weekday

Tom Jackson Jeff Reynolds 1984

The Golf Club at Wescott Plantation Summerville, SC 29485

843-871-2135 wescottgolf.com lmonroe@wescottgolfclub.com

138 74.3

27 72 7,210

Public, with event facilities $56-$48

North Charleston Amateur

Michael Hurdzan Lindsey Monroe, Perry Green, Jason Narwold 2000

The Preserve at Verdae Greenville, SC 29607

864-676-1500 www.thepreserveatverdae.com info@thepreserveatverdae.com

138 73.7

18 72 7,103

Public, resort, with event facilities Varies

Willard Byrd Adam Charles, Paul Albert 1993

843-971-3555 www.danielislandclub.com -

138 71.8

18 72 6,457

Private, with event facilities $95

Rees Jones Greg Keating 2006

864-877-9279 www.greercountryclub.com greercountryclub@yahoo.com

137 71.4

18 72 6,350

Semiprivate, with event facilities $34

Martin Tooke Steven R. Gay 1955

843-821-4077 www.legendoaksgolf.com info@legendoaksgolf.com

135 73.5

18 72 7,011

Semiprivate, with event facilities Seasonal

Scott Poole Jim Chickarello 1994

843-763-1817 www.charlestongolfweddings.com epeper@stonoferrygolf.com

135 72.8

18 72 6,756

Semiprivate, with event facilities $50-$90

Ron Garl Michael Eargle, Greg Wood 1989

843-266-4640 www.kiawahresort.com reservations@kiawahresort.com

135 73.3

18 72 6,932

Resort, with event facilities Seasonal

Tom Fazio Steve Miller, Brian Gerard, Ric Ferguson 1988

Charleston National Golf Club Mount Pleasant, SC 29466

The Carolina Country Club Spartanburg, SC 29306

Ralston Creek at Daniel Island Club Daniel Island, SC 29492

Greer Golf & Country Club Greer, SC 29651

Legend Oaks Golf & Tennis Club Summerville, SC 29485

The Links at Stono Ferry Hollywood, SC 29449 Osprey Point at Kiawah Island Golf Resort Kiawah Island, SC 29455

*Slope rating is a ratio ranging from 55 to 155 that represents the difficulty of a course for bogey golfers relative to the course rating. The higher the slope, the more difficult the course plays for bogey golfers. A slope rating of 113 is considered average. **Course rating is the approximate number of strokes it should take scratch golfers to complete a course. USGA=U.S. Golf Association. Because of space constraints, only the top-ranked companies are printed. For a full list of participating companies, visit www.scbiznews.com/data. Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy, errors sometimes occur. Email additions or corrections to lists@scbiznews.com,

Researched by Business Journal staff

Event Planning Guide 2018

Lists & Directory

Hotels with Meeting Facilities

Properties in the Charleston Area, Ranked by Square Footage of Event Space Event Capacity

Company

Phone / Website

The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort 1 Sanctuary Beach Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455

843-768-6000 www.kiawahresort.com reservations@kiawahresort.com

Francis Marion Hotel 387 King St. Charleston, SC 29403

843-722-0600 www.francismarioncharleston.com info@thefrancismarion.com

Hotel Bennett 404 King St. Charleston, SC 29403

General Manager / Year Founded

Event Space/ Meeting Rooms

Bill Lacey 2004

750

50,000

550

290

50,339 sq. ft. 15

Gayle Karolczyk 1924

550

400

430

300

20,000 sq. ft. 14

844-835-2625 www.hotelbennett.com info@hotelbennett.com

2018

670

610

279

12,000 sq. ft. 9

North Charleston Marriott 4770 Goer Drive North Charleston, SC 29406

843-747-1900 www.marriott.com/chsmn lacey.pannell@marriott.com

2016

700

400

600

300

12,000 sq. ft. 12

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Suites Charleston, SC - Historic District 181 Church St. Charleston, SC 29401

843-577-2644 www.charlestondoubletree.com CHSCS_DT_Guest@hilton.com

Brad Harvey 1998

350

250

400

220

10,000 sq. ft. 10

Hotel Indigo Mount Pleasant 250 Johnnie Dodds Blvd. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-884-6000 mountpleasantlyindigo.com smordente@northph.com

Sara Mordente 2018

300

210

250

175

6,000 sq. ft. 6

Because of space constraints, only the top-ranked companies are printed. For a full list of participating companies, visit http://www.scbiznews.com/buy-business-lists. Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy, errors sometimes occur. Email additions or corrections to lists@scbiznews.com.

Reception Banquet Theater Classroom

Event Planning Guide 2018

Researched by Business Journal staff

Lists & Directory

Hotels with Meeting Facilities

Properties in the Charleston Area, Ranked by Square Footage of Event Space Event Capacity

Company

Phone / Website

Town & Country Inn and Suites 2008 Savannah Highway Charleston, SC 29407

843-571-1000 www.thetownandcountryinn.com sales@thetownandcountryinn.com

The Dewberry Hotel 334 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29403

843-558-8000 thedewberrycharleston.com sales@dewberryhotels.com

Hilton Garden Inn Charleston/Mount Pleasant 843-606-4600 www.charlestonmtpleasant.hgi.com 300 Wingo Way Jennifer.maxwell@hilton.com Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

General Manager / Year Founded

Reception Banquet Theater Classroom

Event Space/ Meeting Rooms

Demetrius Palassis 1984

200

300

180

6,000 sq. ft. 6

Joseph Polito 2016

300

150

190

5,600 sq. ft. 3

Jennifer Colangelo 2015

210

175

230

5,000 sq. ft. 7

Tides Folly Beach 1 Center St. Folly Beach, SC 29439

843-588-6464 www.tidesfollybeach.com sales@tidesfollybeach.com

Matt Zengerle 1985

300

240

320

165

4,000 sq. ft. 5

Holiday Inn Charleston Riverview 301 Savannah Highway Charleston, SC 29407

843-556-7100 www.holiday-inn.com/chs-riverview emanley@hiriverview.com

Howard Letts 1971

150

100

3,270 sq. ft. 3

Mike Glass 2014

120

140

2,500 sq. ft. 3

Wyndham Garden Charleston Mount Pleasant 843-352-5100 www.wyndhamgardenmtpleasant.com 1330 Stuart Engals Blvd. mmanson@wyncmtp.com Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

Researched by Business Journal staff

Event Planning Guide 2018

Lists & Directory

Hotels with Meeting Facilities

Properties in the Charleston Area, Ranked by Square Footage of Event Space Event Capacity

Company

Phone / Website

Courtyard by Marriott Charleston-Mount Pleasant 1251 Woodland Ave. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-284-0900 www.marriott.com/chscm juliana.shores@marriott.com

Cheryl Craven 2007

125

100

120

2,125 sq. ft. 5

Hilton Garden Inn Charleston Waterfront 45 Lockwood Drive Charleston, SC 29401

843-637-4074 www.charlestonwaterfrontdowntown.hgi.com chsdw-salesadm@hilton.com

Charles Reed 2014

150

2,000 sq. ft. 3

Ron Jaicks 2008

130

100

2,000 sq. ft. 1

Tom Limehouse 2012

300

120

1,600 sq. ft. 3

Wingate by Wyndham at Charleston Southern 843-553-4444 University www.charlestonwingate.com 9280 University Blvd. anikay@charlestonwingate.com North Charleston, SC 29406

General Manager / Year Founded

Event Space/ Meeting Rooms

Woodlands Mansion 125 Parsons Road Summerville, SC 29483

843-875-2600 www.woodlandsmansion.com stay@woodlandsmansion.com

Courtyard Charleston Waterfront 35 Lockwood Drive Charleston, SC 29401

843-722-7229 www.marriott.com/chscy chscy@jhmhotels.com

Mark Thomas 1997

1,428 sq. ft. 2

French Quarter Inn 166 Church St. Charleston, SC 29401

843-722-1900 www.fqicharleston.com frontdesk@fqicharleston.com

Carlo Carroccia 2002

1,254 sq. ft. 2

Reception Banquet Theater Classroom

Event Planning Guide 2018

Researched by Business Journal staff

Lists & Directory

Hotels with Meeting Facilities

Properties in the Charleston Area, Ranked by Square Footage of Event Space Event Capacity

Company

Phone / Website

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Charleston - Ashley Phosphate 7670 Northwoods Blvd. North Charleston, SC 29406

843-553-1600 www.hiexpress.com/chastni-26 gm@hiexpressnorthwoods.com

Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham Charleston/ West Ashley 2455 Savannah Highway Charleston, SC 29414

General Manager / Year Founded

Reception Banquet Theater Classroom

Event Space/ Meeting Rooms

1999

1,140 sq. ft. 1

843-225-4411 www.hawthorn.com charlestonhawthornsuites@gmail.com

Paul Multani 2007

1,000 sq. ft. 1

Cambria Hotel Mount Pleasant Charleston 1472 U.S. Highway 17 N. Mount Pleasant, SC 29466

843-849-9677 www.cambriamountpleasant.com nicole.delaney@cambriahotelmp.com

Daniel Peterson 2018

100

936 sq. ft. 1

Wentworth Mansion 149 Wentworth St. Charleston, SC 29401

843-853-1886 www.wentworthmansion.com wm-concierge@charminginns.com

Noreen Marchant 1998

900 sq. ft. 2

Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott North Charleston 2600 Elms Center Road North Charleston, SC 29406

843-414-2700 www.marriott.com/chsne cpersin@hotelequities.com

Andrea Nicholson 2002

880 sq. ft. 1

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Charleston Airport- Convention Center 2600 Elms Center Dr. North Charleston, SC 29406

843-414-2600 www.marriott.com cpersin@hotelequities.com

Andrea Nicholson 2002

800 sq. ft. 1

Researched by Business Journal staff

Event Planning Guide 2018

Lists & Directory

Hotels with Meeting Facilities

Properties in the Charleston Area, Ranked by Square Footage of Event Space Event Capacity

Company

Phone / Website

Holiday Inn Express 3025 West Montague Ave. North Charleston, SC 29418

843-554-2100 www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/hotels/ chsfdexpress@lowcountryhotels.com

Fulton Lane Inn 202 King St. Charleston, SC 29401

843-720-2600 www.fultonlaneinn.com -

Kings Courtyard Inn 198 King St. Charleston, SC 29401

General Manager / Year Founded

Event Space/ Meeting Rooms

Aaron Wilkins 2012

725 sq. ft. 1

Noreen Marchant, Lisa Anderson 1994

713 sq. ft. 1

843-723-7000 www.kingscourtyardinn.com kci-concierge@charminginns.com

Noreen Marchant 1980

713 sq. ft. 1

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Mount Pleasant 350 Johnnie Dodds Blvd. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-375-2600 www.hiemountpleasant.com mlytton@charlestownehotels.com

Drue Ford 2009

700 sq. ft. 1

Springhill Suites 245 Magrath Darby Blvd. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-284-5250 www.marriott.com donna.ladd@marriott.com

Tommy Loeber 2016

650 sq. ft. 1

HarbourView Inn 2 Vendue Range Charleston, SC 29401

843-853-8439 www.harbourviewcharleston.com gm@harbourviewcharleston.com

Chris Harvey, Jessica Bowman, Mark Henry 1998

546 sq. ft. 1

Reception Banquet Theater Classroom

Event Planning Guide 2018

Researched by Business Journal staff

Lists & Directory

Restaurants with Banquet Facilities Ranked by Maximum Capacity for a Seated Event

Event Capacity

Private Banquet Rooms

Graham Flanary

1,200

$75

Specializing in Lowcountry cuisine, seafood and filet mignon

843-768-2749 www.kiawahresort.com bryan_hunter@kiawahresort.com

Amanda Bentley, Megan Herholtz

502

$105

Crispy shrimp at Atlantic Room, awardwinning macaroni and cheese, slow-cooked brisket at Cherrywood, roasted oysters/whole, roasted pig at Mingo Point

Relish Distinctive Catering 1700 RiverTowne Country Club Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29466

843-849-2412 www.relishdistinctivecatering.com ldavidson@rivertownecountryclub.com

Lacy Davidson

300

$35

Custom food and bar with carving stations, including Lowcountry barbecue and boils, shrimp and grits

Snee Farm Country Club 1200 Club Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-884-8571 www.sneefarmcc.com ldavidson@rivertownecountryclub.com

Michael Ashton, Lacy L Davidson

180

$35

Shrimp and grits, Cajun butter sauce fried chicken and waffles, bacon maple syrup crab cakes, Cajun remloude

Circa 1886 149 Wentworth St. Charleston, SC 29401

843-853-7828 www.circa1886.com circa1886@charminginns.com

Ginny Severs

$60

Southern dishes, featuring local and seasonal foods

Laura Alberts, Tasteful Options 891 Island Park Drive Charleston, SC 29492

843-881-4711 lauraalberts.com lauraalbertsinfo@gmail.com

Christy Barnard

$30

Fried green tomatoes, pesto pimento cheese, fruit chutney, remoulade sesame crusted ahi tuna salad, bok choy slaw, almonds, asian vinaigrette, wasabi aioli, Laura's barbecue shrimp and grits cake

Parcel 32 442 King St. Charleston, SC 29403

843-722-3474 parcel32.com gather@parcel32.com

Jackie Roberts

$50

Refined and relaxed spaces inside this 1837 Charleston single on Upper King include contemporary dining room, bar, sunroom, and second-floor space.

Wild Wing Cafe Catering 830 Lowcountry Blvd., Suite 200 Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

9803125885 www.wildwingcafe.com sharyn@wildwingcafe.com

Sharyn M. Hooks

$15

Wings, wraps, and sides

82 Queen 82 Queen St. Charleston, SC 29401

843-723-7591 www.82queen.com info@82queen.com

Jonathan Kish, Steve Kish, Trista M. Hoffman

$75

Lowcountry and Southern foods; fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits; she crab soup

The Establishment 28 Broad St. Charleston, SC 29401

843-789-4028 establishmentchs.com info@establishmentchs.com

Betsy Brabham

$90

Seafood, duck and beef dishes

Company

Phone / Website Email

Manager(s)

Charleston Grill 224 King St. Charleston, SC 29401

843-577-4522 charlestongrill.com margeaux.gwynne-vaughan@belmond.com

Kiawah Island Golf Resort One Sanctuary Beach Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455

Avg. Cost (3-course meal) Menu/SignatureDishes

Researched by Business Journal Staff

Event Planning Guide 2018

Lists & Directory

Event Planners

Ranked by No. of Event Planners in the Charleston Area Event Planners / Employees

Day-of Coordinator Available

Lisa Thomas 1996

9 40

Flowers, furniture rentals, event design and coordination, tent rentals and corporate events; planning and coordination; on-staff makeup artist

843-822-4885 eastonevents.com easton@eastonevents.com

Dawson Haynes 1998

4 4

Dedicated to crafting refined, elegant and memorable weddings, private and corporate events for both domestic and international clientele

Fox Events 1304 Erckmann Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-732-0006 www.afoxevent.com lauren@afoxevent.com

Lauren Fox 2013

4 4

Weddings

Loluma Distinctive Events 6 North Atlantic Wharf Charleston, SC 29401

843-723-1365 www.loluma.com shasha@loluma.com

Sha Sha Harnik 1997

4 10

Decorations, designs, lighting, floral creations

Reynolds Treasures 520 Folly Road, Suite P128 Charleston, SC 29412

843-460-3565 reynoldstreasures.com reynoldstreasures@gmail.com

Andrea Easterday 2011

4 5

Wedding packages, wedding officiants, wedding planning and coordination

Trio Solutions Inc. 505 Belle Hall Parkway, Suite 202 Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-216-0442 www.trio-solutions.com info@trio-solutions.com

Jessica Munday 2001

4 13

Special events, fundraisers, conferences; event marketing and PR; event websites, registration

Wedding Event Design LLC 123 Spring St. Charleston, SC 29403

843-722-9333 www.designedbyWED.com ellen@charlestonevent.com

Ellen Cohn Robinson 1999

4 5

Weddings, rehearsal dinners, corporate and nonprofit events

Charleston Grill 224 King St. Charleston, SC 29401

843-577-4522 charlestongrill.com margeaux.gwynne-vaughan@belmond.com

Graham Flanary 1987

3 50

Full-service destination management, dinners, wedding receptions, holiday parties, fundraisers, bar Mitzvahs; event design

Cibi Events 164 Market St. Charleston, SC 29401

843-749-2807 cibievents.com cibi@cibievents.com

Christina Baxter 2006

3 3

Full-service planning and design

inventivEnvironments 1996 Davant Circle Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-475-8113 www.inventivenvironments.com jacqueline@inventivenvironments.com

Jacqueline Lawrence, Greer Thompson, Shelby Konold 2010

3 6

Production design, decor, draping; custom lighting, floral styling, a la carte services

A. Caldwell Events 1544 Appling Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-814-0202 acaldwellevents.com info@acaldwellevents.com

Ali Fisher 2010

2 3

Destination weddings, locally and internationally

Boutique Planning 205 Grove St. Charleston, SC 29403

843-437-4760 www.boutiqueplanning.com ashley@boutiqueplanning.com

Ashley Wenz, Brooke S. Miller 2014

2 2

We offer wedding and event design with a personal touch. We bring elegance and creativity to every event, from an intimate evening to a grand affair

Engaging Events LLC 235 Huger St. Charleston, SC 29403

843-724-9010 engagingeventscharleston.com cindy@engagingeventscharleston.com

Cindy A. Zingerella 2004

2 10

Event coordination and design

Company

Phone / Website Email

Person In Charge / Year Founded

Ooh! Events 2532 Spruill Ave. Charleston, SC 29405

843-881-7576 www.oohevents.com info@oohevents.com

Easton Events 0 George St. Charleston, SC 29401

Event Planning Guide 2018

Specialization

Researched by Business Journal staff

Lists & Directory

Event Planners

Ranked by No. of Event Planners in the Charleston Area Event Planners / Employees

Day-of Coordinator Available

Reagan Barnes 2012

2 2

Full-service special event and wedding planning company serving Charleston and destination clientele.

843-990-8100 nikekern@gmail.com

Nike G. Kern 1994

2 2

Corporate events

On Purpose Adventures LLC 334 East Bay St., Suite 214 Charleston, SC 29403

843-580-3757 www.onpurposeadventures.com info@onpurposeadventures.com

Ben-Jamin Toy 2011

2 13

Corporate team-building, scavenger hunts, adventure bachelor and bachelorette parties and customized adventures, combat archery

Pure Luxe Bride 3464 Maybank Highway, Suite D Johns Island, SC 29455

843-640-3074 www.pureluxebride.com francesca@pureluxebride.com

Francesca DiSalvo Follmer, Blake Bush 2009

2 4

Wedding planning, event design, styled elopements

Lawson Roberts Events 37 Barre St. Charleston, SC 29401

843-709-5050 www.lawsonroberts.com lawson@lawsonroberts.com

Lawson Roberts 2007

2 2

Weddings, corporate events, social galas, fundraisers, birthdays; private in-home dinners; entertainment

Touchpoint Communications 522 King St. Charleston, SC 29403

843-296-2033 www.touchptcom.com info@touchptcom.com

Colleen Troy, Kerry Welch, Cristy Armstrong, Emily Portoghese, Michael Stettner 2005

2 5

PR or product launches that require a deft, branded touch.

Buckley Events LLC 2089 Chilhowee Drive Charleston, SC 29455

843-371-0179 www.buckleyevents.com kathleen@buckleyevents.com

Kathleen Buckley 2008

1 3

We specialize in month-of and day-of coordination and working with nonprofits

Pop the Bubbly Events 460 King St., Suite 200 Charleston, SC 29403

843-406-5645 www.popthebubblyevents.com info@popthebubblyevents.com

Betsey C Lupton 2015

1 1

Bachelor/bachelorette party planning, wedding planning and vacation weekend planning

Charleston Wedding Planner LLC 664 Atlantic St. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-442-8599 charlestonweddingplanner.com mikeawinship@gmail.com

Michael Winship 2003

1 1

All celebrations, including weddings, bar mitzvah, bat mitzvah, sweet 16, private parties

Cruz Coordination 3245 Glenn McConnell Parkway, Suite 209 Charleston, SC 29414

843-509-5020 www.cruzcoordination.com Jessica@cruzcoordination.com

Jessicia Cruz 2015

1 5

Partial planning, decor design, layout and timeline creation

Durant Consulting Inc. 519 Clearview Drive Charleston, SC 29412

305-785-3393 www.durantconsulting.com alex@durantconsulting.com

Alex Durant 2007

1 1

Management, production of small-scale events for individuals; marketing events for small businesses

Event Talent Resources P.O. Box 30936 Charleston, SC 29417

843-819-7444 www.etrplanning.com craig@etrplanning.com

Craig Delk 2007

1 1

Entertainment planning and execution for corporate and special events

Kenda Sweet Events Inc. 1473 Goblet Ave. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-881-1959 kendasweetevents@gmail.com

Kenda M. Sweet 1996

1 1

Full-service event planning company

Port + President, LLC 3581 Bayou Road Johns Island, SC 29455

843-540-1655 www.portandpresident.com portandpresident@gmail.com

Melissa Medford Haynie 2014

1 1

Boutique style- and-design firm offering tailored styling services for person, port and print

Company

Phone / Website Email

Person In Charge / Year Founded

Events by Reagan 284 King St., Suite A Charleston, SC 29401

843-302-2001 eventsbyreagan.com reagan@eventsbyreagan.com

Nike Kern Public Relations 334 East Bay St. Charleston, SC 29401

Specialization

Researched by Business Journal staff

Event Planning Guide 2018

Lists & Directory

Alternative and Outdoor Event Venues Ranked by Maximum Capacity Company

Top Local Official(s)/ Year Founded

Max. Capacity / Outdoor Capacity / Reception Capacity

Exchange Park 9850 U.S. Highway 78 Ladson, SC 29456

843-572-3161 www.exchangepark.org denise@exchangepark.org

Michael Carney, Denise Carner 1979

50,000 50,000 1,575

Venue buildings, open land with pond, 70 acres of indoor and outdoor event space and 100 acres of parking space.

N Y Y

McAlister Field House 171 Moultrie St. Charleston, SC 29409

843-953-2665 www.citadel.edu/events reservations@citadel.edu

Allison Bringardner 1939

6,000 0 6,000

6,000-seat multipurpose facility and home to the Citadel's basketball, volleyball and wrestling teams.

Y N N

Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum 40 Patriots Point Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-881-5989 www.patriotspoint.org info@patriotspoint.org

Mac Burdette, Bobby Kotlowski, Chris Hauff 1975

3,500 3,500 1,500

North Charleston Performing Arts Center 5001 Coliseum Drive North Charleston, SC 29418

843-529-5002 www.northcharlestoncoliseumpac.com Frank Lapsley 1999 -

Summerville Country Club 400 Country Club Blvd. Summerville, SC 29483

843-873-2210 www.summervillecountryclub.com sblanton@knology.net

Bo Blanton Jr., Bufort Blanton 2009

800 800 500

Kiawah Island Golf Resort One Sanctuary Beach Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455

843-768-2749 www.kiawahresort.com bryan_hunter@kiawahresort.com

Amanda Bentley, Megan Herholtz 1976

676 800 -

In-house Catering? Outside Cater OK? Tents OK?

Phone / Website Email

Event Planning Guide 2018

2,341 -

Description

With unmatched views of the harbor and Charleston city skyline, the USS Yorktown aircraft carrier carrier offers competitive pricing and more than 20 venues for groups. The North Charleston Performing Arts Center is a 2,300 seat proscenium theater. Since its opening in 1999, the Performing Arts Center has hosted a variety of events, including major concerts, family shows, ballets and symphonies and art festivals. Outdoor covered pavilion, prep kitchen, lighting, portable bars, wireless PA system, dance floor, tables, chairs; new outdoor patio extension suitable for oyster roasts, fundraisers

Y N -

Offers diverse indoor and outdoor meeting and event space ranging from core convention space to clubhouse and hotel lawns to elegant boardrooms.

Y N Y

Y Y Y

Researched by Business Journal staff

Lists & Directory

Alternative and Outdoor Event Venues Ranked by Maximum Capacity

In-house Catering? Outside Cater OK? Tents OK?

Company

Phone / Website Email

Top Local Official(s)/ Year Max. Capacity / Outdoor Founded Capacity / Reception Capacity Description

The Golf Club at Wescott Plantation 5000 Wescott Club Drive Summerville, SC 29485

843-871-2135 wescottgolf.com lmonroe@wescottgolfclub.com

Lindsey Monroe, Perry Green, Jason Narwold 2000

600 500 500

Antebellum-style clubhouse with wraparound porch, hardwood floors, twin fireplaces, vaulted ceilings; 6,000-square-foot tented patio for outdoor events

Y N Y

Lowndes Grove Plantation 266 St. Margaret St. Charleston, SC 29403

843-853-1810 www.pphgcharleston.com hello@pphgcharleston.com

Amber Cote 2007

600 600

Waterfront views of the Ashley River; 1786-era architecture and period furnishings; expansive piazza; grand lawn framed by live oaks and private dock

Y N Y

Beresford Creek course at Daniel Island Club 600 Island Park Drive Daniel Island, SC 29492

843-971-3555 www.danielislandclub.com diinfo@danielislandclub.com

Greg Keating 1999

500 500

Nationally ranked Tom Fazio layout available on a limited basis for membersponsored charity and corporate events when course is closed for member play.

Y N Y

Charleston Fun Park 3255 U.S. Highway 17 N. Mount Pleasant, SC 29466

843-971-1223 www.charlestonfunpark.com info@charlestonfunpark.com

Brian N. Lee, Melissa A. Benner 2006

500 500

Corporate meetings, corporate events, team building, birthday parties, group events, school functions.

Y N Y

Daniel Island Club 600 Island Park Drive Daniel Island, SC 29492

843-971-3555 www.danielislandclub.com info@danielislandclub.com

Greg Keating 1999

500 500

Laurel Hill County Park 1400 N. Hwy 41 Mount Pleasant, SC 29466

843-795-4386 www.ccprc.com/2005/LaurelHill-County-Park customerservice@ccprc.com

David Bennett 2015

500 500 -

Private country club featuring two championship golf courses; 7,100 square foot ballroom, dividable; private board room; outdoor venues; full-service catering options. Popular for weddings, corporate events and fundraising events. Features an oak allee, large open meadows, and gorgeous backdrops; Laurel Hill can handle very large groups up to 500 people, but is still intimate enough for a small private function. Limited amenities available.

Y N Y

N Y Y

Researched by Business Journal staff

Event Planning Guide 2018

Lists & Directory

Alternative and Outdoor Event Venues Ranked by Maximum Capacity Company Old Towne Creek County Park 1400 Old Towne Road Charleston, SC 29407

843-795-4386 ccprc.com/1728/Old-TowneCreek-County-Park customerservice@ccprc.com

David Bennett 2011

500 500 500

Ralston Creek at Daniel Island Club 600 Island Park Drive Daniel Island, SC 29492

843-971-3555 www.danielislandclub.com -

Greg Keating 2006

500 500

The Cedar Room 701 East Bay St., Suite 200 Charleston, SC 29403

843-793-4103 thecedarroom.com gervin@theindigoroad.com

Graham Ervin 2015

500 200 500

The William Aiken House 456 King St. Charleston, SC 29403

843-853-1810 www.pphgcharleston.com hello@pphgcharleston.com

Amber Cote 2000

500 500

Johnson Hagood Stadium - Club Level 68 Hagood Ave. Charleston, SC 29403

843-953-6703 www.tinyurl.com/ stadiumclublevel reservations@citadel.edu

Allison Bringardner 2006

SpiritLine Cruises and Events 360 Concord St., Suite 201 Charleston, SC 29401

843-722-2628 www.spiritlinecruises.com sales@spiritlinecruises.com

Ian Harris 1961

450 20,000 450 400 350

Event Planning Guide 2018

In-house Catering? Outside Cater OK? Tents OK?

Top Local Official(s)/ Year Max. Capacity / Outdoor Founded Capacity / Reception Capacity Description

Phone / Website Email

West Ashleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Old Towne Creek County Park is an in-town country setting for weddings, corporate picnics, or any occasion needing a convenient and secluded location; features large open meadows, marsh views. Construction/ renovations set for late 2019. Nationally ranked Rees Jones layout available on a limited basis for membersponsored charity and corporate events when course is closed for member play. The Cedar Room at the Cigar Factory is an open space featuring historic wood columns, blonde reclaimed wood floors from the original space and rustic elements of the circa 1881 building. 1810 National Historic Landmark in downtown Charleston; indoor and outdoor spaces with period artwork, piazzas and private grounds with manicured lawns, bluestone courtyards, reflection pool and Gothic-style carriage house.

N Y Y

Y N Y Y N Y

Y N Y

Two outdoor terraces available with 500-person capacity each.

Y N Y

Available for corporate meetings and outings, private cruises and charters and for all types of group tours; offering onsite event planners; additionally, an executive chef to make your next event one to remember.

Y Y N

Researched by Business Journal staff

Lists & Directory

Alternative and Outdoor Event Venues Ranked by Maximum Capacity Company Edmund's Oast 1081 Morrison Drive Charleston, SC 29403

843-727-1145 Scott Shor www.edmundsoast.com edmundsoast@edmundsoast.com 2014

St. Christopher Camp and Conference Center 2810 Seabrook Island Road Johns Island, SC 29455

843-768-0429 www.stchristopher.org info@stchristopher.org

Bob Lawrence, Ned Collins, Will Henry Lawrence 1938

340 -

Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site 1500 Old Towne Road Charleston, SC 29407

843-852-4200 www.charlestownelanding.travel ctlandingsp@scprt.com

Rob Powell, Jason Robinett 1970

300 200 300

Charleston County Park & Recreation Commission 861 Riverland Drive Charleston, SC 29412 Covered Shelters at James Island County Park 871 Riverland Drive Charleston, SC 29412

In-house Catering? Outside Cater OK? Tents OK?

Top Local Official(s)/ Year Max. Capacity / Outdoor Founded Capacity / Reception Capacity Description

Phone / Website Email

350 130 300

Accommodating 130 guests inside, the interior features an open kitchen with chefâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s counter seating for an upclose view of the action and house cured meats hanging overhead; there is an expansive bar and communal tables; parking onsite is plentiful. Waterfront facility with beach access; large multipurpose building; large conference room; several small, intimate conference areas; 2 chapels; cabins and lodge rooms. Site of first permanent English settlement in the Carolinas; historically significant property that is host to three special event venues, animal forest zoo, replica cannons and the adventure cargo vessel

Y N Y

Y Y Y N Y Y

843-795-4386 Bennett www.charlestoncountyparks.com David 1968 customerservice@ccprc.com

300 -

County parks department, with facilities and programs throughout the county.

843-795-4386 Randy Woodard, www.charlestoncountyparks.com Kevin Gillum customerservice@ccprc.com 1990

300 300 300

N Y Y

Covered Shelters at Wannamaker County 843-795-4386 Edmonds Brown Park www.charlestoncountyparks.com 1995 8888 University Blvd. customerservice@ccprc.com North Charleston, SC 29406

300 300 300

Picnic Center Porch, 768 sq. ft./capacity 75; Wando and Stono shelters, 1,600 sq. ft./capacity 200 each; Wappoo Shelter, 2,100 sq. ft./capacity 300 Cottonwood, 1840 sq. ft., capacity 200; Tupelo, 2575 sq. ft., capacity 300; Magnolia, 1585 sq. ft., capacity 100; picnic tables, grills, electricity, fans, horseshoe pit

N Y Y

Researched by Business Journal staff

Event Planning Guide 2018

Lists & Directory

Alternative and Outdoor Event Venues Ranked by Maximum Capacity

Max. Capacity / Outdoor Capacity / Reception Capacity

Company

Top Local Official(s)/ Year Founded

The Creek Club at I'On 44 Saturday Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-606-2083 www.ioncreekclub.com info@ioncreekclub.com

Mike Russo, Peggy Thomas 1999

300 300 300

Located on Hobcaw Creek in the award winning I'on community; host to weddings, receptions and corporate events; spectacular views and sunsets.

Y N Y

Cypress Hall at Wannamaker County Park 8888 University Blvd. North Charleston, SC 29406

843-795-4386 www.charlestoncountyparks.com customerservice@ccprc.com

Edmonds Brown 1998

300 400 300

Eight-acre meadow; kitchen, stage, dressing room, sand volleyball court, horseshoe pit; climate-controlled facility with 25 tables,200 chairs, A/V equipment

N Y Y

Edisto Hall at James Island County Park 843-795-4386 www.charlestoncountyparks.com 871 Riverland Drive customerservice@ccprc.com Charleston, SC 29412

Randy Woodard, Kevin Gillum 1989

300 400 300

Climate-controlled meeting site with stage, kitchen, catering entrance, PA system; microphone by request

N Y Y

Located along the Ashley River; furniture; audiovisual system; catering kitchen; free parking

N Y Y

Founders Hall 1500 Old Towne Road Charleston, SC 29407

843-849-8091 Julie Ann Oldham www.foundershallcharleston.com julieann@lowcountryparkvenues.com 2009

300 300 300

Founders Hall 1500 Old Towne Road Charleston, SC 29407

843-556-6871 www.foundershallcharleston.com ctleventvenues@scprt.com

Rob Powell, Jason Robinett 1970

300 300 300

The Island House 2658 Swygert Blvd. Johns Island, SC 29455

843-647-4362 www.islandhouseevents.com info@islandhouseevents.com

Lynn Gottleib, Paul Speights 2009

300 300 300

In-house Catering? Outside Cater OK? Tents OK?

Phone / Website Email

Event Planning Guide 2018

Description

With state-of-the-art features, Founders Hall complements the natural and historical beauty of Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site, while offering guests every modern convenience. On a private island on the banks of the Stono River, with a 180-degree view of the river and a constant island breeze; 3,200-square-foot tent included in rental.

N Y Y

Researched by Business Journal staff

Lists & Directory

Alternative and Outdoor Event Venues Ranked by Maximum Capacity

Company

Phone / Website Email

Top Local Official(s)/ Year Founded

James Island County Park 871 Riverland Drive Charleston, SC 29412

843-406-6990 www.charlestoncountyparks.com/jicp customerservice@ccprc.com

Randy Woodard, Kevin Gillum 1990

In-house Catering? Outside Cater OK? Tents OK?

Max. Capacity / Outdoor Capacity / Reception Capacity 300 -

643-acre county park; playground, camping facilities, picnic areas, water park, meeting and event facilities; walking/biking trails, sprinkler play area, dog park

Y Y Y

N Y Y

Description

Woodlands Mansion 125 Parsons Road Summerville, SC 29483

843-875-2600 www.woodlandsmansion.com stay@woodlandsmansion.com

Tom Limehouse 2012

300 300

Boardroom accommodates up to 12 people with in-room fireplace, flat-panel TV, private bath, terrace; private dining room accommodates up to 14, fireplace and private reception area; pavilion with over 1,400 square feet with open-air porches.

The American Theater 446 King St. Charleston, SC 29403

843-853-1810 www.pphgcharleston.com hello@pphgcharleston.com

Amber Cote 2008

275 250

8,000-square-foot event venue; Art Deco architecture, Hollywood glamour; grand ballroom, vintage marquee, stateof-the-art cinema with stadium seats

Y N N

Snee Farm Country Club 1200 Club Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-884-8571 Michael Ashton, www.sneefarmcc.com Lacy L Davidson ldavidson@rivertownecountryclub.com 1970

260 300

Private country club with newly remolded clubhouse and ballroom featuring 18-hole George Cobbdesigned golf course, 18 tennis courts, three swimming pools

Y N Y

Cannon Green 103 Spring St. Charleston, SC 29403

843-817-6299 www.cannongreencharleston.com events@cannongreencharleston.com

250 250

1,500 sq. ft. garden room or historic 3,000 sq. ft. trolley Room offer comfortable elegance and privacy for corporate entertaining, rehearsal dinners, full-day retreats, luncheons and evening receptions.

Y N Y

Bradon Davis 2014

Researched by Business Journal staff

Exhibition and Convention Centers Ranked by Maximum Capacity

Top Local Official / Year Founded

Capacity/ Event Space/ Meeting Rooms

Michael Carney, Denise Carner 1979 Allison Bringardner 1939

50,000 56,000 sq. ft. 6 6,000 15,000 sq. ft. 1

6,000-seat multipurpose facility and home to The Citadel's basketball, volleyball and wrestling teams.

843-881-5989 www.patriotspoint.org info@patriotspoint.org

Mac Burdette, Bobby Kotlowski, Chris Hauff 1975

3,500 75,000 sq. ft. 22

With unmatched views of the harbor and Charleston city skyline, the USS Yorktown aircraft carrier carrier offers competitive pricing and more than 20 venues for groups.

843-724-5212 gaillardcenter.org info@gaillardcenter.org 843-820-5094 www.tridenttech.edu/ conferenceservices.htm trish.bryce-jacobs@tridenttech.edu 843-724-1196 www.memmingerauditorium.com info@memmingerauditorium.com 843-953-6703 www.tinyurl.com/stadiumclublevel reservations@citadel.edu

Steve Bedard 2015

1,850 16,000 sq. ft. 7

Comprised of intimate lobby spaces, a uniquely styled Grand Ballroom with a stunning view of the terrace lawn and the Gaillard Centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s park and gardens

Trish Bryce-Jacobs 2005

1,200 20,000 sq. ft. 8

Flexible meeting space with audio visual and lighting equipment

Spoleto Festival 2008 Allison Bringardner 2006

900 10,000 sq. ft. 0 450 6,200 sq. ft. 3

843-740-5550 northcharlestonfiremuseuem.org msterling@northcharleston.org

Max Sterling, Renee Frye 2007

350 2,000 sq. ft. 1

Fire Museum is available for semi-private meetings, private meetings and private events rentals. All rentals include admission to museum for guests.

843-606-2083 www.ioncreekclub.com info@ioncreekclub.com 843-849-8091 www.foundershallcharleston.com julieann@lowcountryparkvenues.com

Mike Russo, Peggy Thomas 1999

300 4,500 sq. ft. 1 300 6,000 sq. ft. 2

Located on Hobcaw Creek in the award-winning I'on community; host to weddings, receptions and corporate events; spectacular views and sunsets.

Company

Phone / Website Email

Exchange Park 9850 U.S. Highway 78 Ladson, SC 29456 McAlister Field House 171 Moultrie St. Charleston, SC 29409

843-572-3161 www.exchangepark.org denise@exchangepark.org 843-953-2665 www.citadel.edu/events reservations@citadel.edu

Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum 40 Patriots Point Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Charleston Gaillard Center 95 Calhoun St. Charleston, SC 29401 The College Center at Trident Technical College 7000 Rivers Ave. North Charleston, SC 29406 Memminger Auditorium 56 Beaufain St. Charleston, SC 29401 Johnson Hagood Stadium - Club Level 68 Hagood Ave. Charleston, SC 29403 North Charleston Fire Museum and Education Center 4975 Centre Pointe Drive North Charleston , SC 29418 The Creek Club at I'On 44 Saturday Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Founders Hall 1500 Old Towne Road Charleston, SC 29407

Julie Ann Oldham 2009

Description Venue buildings, open land with pond, 70 acres of indoor and outdoor event space and 100 acres of parking space.

Multiuse space available year-round with 2,500 square feet of storage space, catering setup and backstage needs; banquet room-style partition wall available and six dressing rooms Two outdoor terraces available with 500-person capacity each.

Historically significant property along the banks of the Ashley River; furniture; audiovisual system; catering kitchen; free parking Researched by Business Journal staff

Event Planning Guide 2018

Lists & Directory

Full-Service Caterers Ranked by Largest Event Catered in 2017

Largest Event 2017 / Employees / Avg. meal Catering Services

Company

Phone / Website / Email

Person in Charge / Year Founded

Duvall Catering & Events 2816 Azalea Drive Charleston, SC 29405

843-763-9222 www.duvallevents.com info@duvallevents.com

Leigh Smalley 1978

2,500 105 $38

Catering, bar, floral and decor

Mosaic Catering & Events 2872 Azalea Drive North Charleston, SC 29405

843-388-1490 www.mosaiccateringevents.com info@mosaiccateringevents.com

Michael R. Routzahn 1997

2,000 50 $50

We offer both express and full-service catering and event services, diverse menu options from boxed lunches to full seated galas, online ordering as well as full catering support

Beyond Expectations 2487-2 Ashley River Road Charleston, SC 29414

843-573-0012 www.beyondxpectations.com byndexpectations@aol.com

Ron Murray 1996

600 25 $35

Full-service catering and event planning, bar service, ice sculptures; weddings, special events, BBQ's, corporate events and lunches

Flute Bar Service 1033 Wappoo Road, Suite B Charleston, SC 29407

843-225-0082 www.flute-charleston.com hello@flute-charleston.com

Heather R. Pangburn 2014

500 5 $12

Services include weddings and intimate get togethers

Tristan Catering + Events 7671 Northwoods Blvd., Units I & J North Charleston, SC 29406

843-534-2155 www.tristanevents.com sunday@tristanevents.com

Sunday D. Tuk 2014

500 20 $40

Tristan Catering provides events with exclusive and refined cuisine, including the finest, upscale cuisine and casual fare

Event Planning Guide 2018

Researched by Business Journal staff

Lists & Directory

Full-Service Caterers Ranked by Largest Event Catered in 2017

Largest Event 2017 / Employees / Avg. meal Catering Services

Company

Phone / Website / Email

Person in Charge / Year Founded

The Golf Club at Wescott Plantation 5000 Wescott Club Drive Summerville, SC 29485

843-871-2135 wescottgolf.com lmonroe@wescottgolfclub.com

Lindsey Monroe, Perry Green, Jason Narwold 2000

450 60 $35

Full-service catering including setup, food, bar and cleanup

Serve! Catering 404 Cabrill Drive Charleston, SC 29414

843-324-7401 www.servecharleston.com servecharleston@hotmail.com

Lauren Moniz 2012

400 14 $25

Creating custom menus for weddings, social and corporate events

Wild Wing Cafe Catering 830 Lowcountry Blvd., Suite 200 Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

9803125885 www.wildwingcafe.com sharyn@wildwingcafe.com

Sharyn M. Hooks 1990

400 75 $15

Full-service catering; off-site or at the restaurant; buffet or plated service

Brick Lane Catering 38 Romney St. Charleston, SC 29403

843-323-2696 www.bricklanecatering.com info@bricklanecatering.com

Christy Roper 2011

300 6 $34

Specializes in creating custom menus that are specific to your personal tastes and budget; from Southern to international and everything in between

Relish Distinctive Catering 1700 RiverTowne Country Club Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29466

843-849-2412 www.relishdistinctivecatering.com ldavidson@rivertownecountryclub.com

Lacy Davidson 1998

300 40 $35

Linens, glassware, flatware, china, full setup and breakdown are included in the cost

Researched by Business Journal staff

Event Planning Guide 2018

Lists & Directory

Full-Service Caterers Ranked by Largest Event Catered in 2017

Largest Event 2017 / Employees / Avg. meal Catering Services

Company

Phone / Website / Email

Person in Charge / Year Founded

Snee Farm Country Club 1200 Club Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-884-8571 www.sneefarmcc.com ldavidson@rivertownecountryclub.com

Michael Ashton, Lacy L Davidson 1970

300 40 $35

Full service caterer, bar and food services, included in fees are glassware, flatware, china, tables, chairs and white linens

BlackJack Barbecue 2816 Azalea Drive Charleston, SC 29405

843-763-9222 x13 www.foodforthesouthernsoul.com amanda@duvallevents.com

Amanda McCarthy 2002

250 10 $22

Fresh, local seafood and other dishes; family suppers, casual rehearsal dinners; Southern fare

Three Little Birds Cafe and Catering 65 Windermere Blvd. Charleston, SC 29407

843-225-3065 www.threelitllebirdscafe.com threelittlebirdscafe@gmail.com

Meridith Swygert 2007

200 15 $30

Full-service catering for all events

Charleston Grill 224 King St. Charleston, SC 29401

843-577-4522 charlestongrill.com margeaux.gwynnevaughan@belmond.com

Graham Flanary 1987

36 50 $75

Full-service caterer, providing all china, glassware, silverware, tables, chairs, linens included in menu price

Event Planning Guide 2018

Researched by Business Journal staff