Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce 2021 Annual Report

2021 Annual Report

2 0 2 1

Table of Contents 04 06 14

Leadership Message

Mission, Vision & Values

Awards & Accolades

18 24 36

Your Chamber

Membership, Advocacy & Services

Leadership

50 70

Visitor & Convention Bureau

Public Relations

78 86 92

Communications

Financials

Thank You to Our Members & Community

Table of Contents | HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org

44

Chamber Champions

LEADERSHIP MESSAGE

This year was one for the

2021 was a year for entrepreneurship

Lowcountry to shine, bringing

as many small business owners had the

our region economic prosperity,

opportunity to expand their operations or

investments into our community,

start new ventures. We welcomed over 140

new businesses, and more.

new members, and celebrated 50 ribbon cuttings and groundbreaking ceremonies.

That’s more than both 2020 and 2019.

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Annual Report 2021

honored as the #1 Island in the U.S. by Condé Nast Traveler readers, and the #1 Island in the Continental U.S. by Travel + Leisure readers. It’s the fifth time that the destination garnered these awards in both

We also celebrated the long-awaited

publications. Bluffton had its

opening of the Culinary Institute of the

moment in the spotlight as well,

South that will help keep future chefs and

being named among the Best

hospitality professionals in our area.

Small Towns in the South by Travel + Leisure and garnering other accolades.

This year was not one without challenges.

We continue to play a leadership role in the community, connecting our members and

It was a record-breaking year

residents with unfiltered information via our

for tourism - thanks to you. The

Power Hour Tele-Town Halls, and helping

indicators we use to measure

find solutions to issues such as workforce

its economic impact were up

availability, infrastructure and more.

even compared to 2019. That means more taxes collected from visitors that go right back into our beaches, non-profits, parks and pathways, and more.

It also means cash registers were ringing at our small businesses, restaurants and stores, making way for more opportunities that we all benefit from.

In the following pages, we’ll take a look back on some of the accomplishments of 2021. It was a great year, and we couldn’t have done it without all of your support and encouragement.

Here’s to a prosperous 2022!

Youth in our community had opportunities to start a career like never before. Your chamber partnered with Apprenticeship Carolinas, which helps students learn in a hands-on environment while helping to fill our workforce pipeline.

Bill Miles President & CEO

Susana Cook Chair of the Board of Directors

Leadership Message | HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org

Hilton Head Island was

We welcomed over 140 new members, and celebrated 50 ribbon cuttings and groundbreaking ceremonies.

WHAT WE BELIEVE

Our Mission, Vision & Values

OUR MISSION

Stimulate the regional economy while enhancing quality of life for all.

OUR VISION

A welcoming, world-class community embracing nature, culture and economic vibrancy for residents and visitors.

OUR VALUES

The Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce is a professional, results-driven and innovative organization for our partners and our community by being: Ethical, Accountable, Pragmatic, Visionary, and Compassionate.

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Annual Report 2021

What We Believe | HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org

WHAT WE BELIEVE

Our Five Pillars MEMBERSHIP

EDUCATION

ADVOCACY

Connecting the Community

Helping Businesses Succeed

Working On Your Behalf

1,350+ Members strong 5-Star accredited

Chamber of Commerce by the U.S. Chamber (in the top 1.7% of chambers nationwide)

3-Time National Chamber of the Year Networking

opportunities

Business exposure Seminars and workshop opportunities to learn and grow

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Annual Report 2021

Seminars, workshops and programs

Advocate on the local, state and federal level

SCORE offers free and

Act as the voice of the business community

designed to help your business grow

confidential business advice for new and existing businesses

Leadership program

has been developing our community leaders for over 35 years

Partnership with Apprenticeship Carolinas to reinforce

the workforce pipeline and hands-on education for students and young adults in the area

for business-friendly policies

with lawmakers at the local, state, and federal levels, and meet with lawmakers on behalf of our membership

Formulate a Legislative Agenda annually that

guides our advocacy efforts

TOURISM

RESEARCH

The Backbone of Our Economy

Planning & Results

2.61 million visitors in 2020. Economic impact on Beaufort County from tourism spending is approximately $1.37 billion

17,902 jobs generated

by Hilton Head visitors in 2020 and represents 15.6% of all jobs in Beaufort County

2.7 million website visitors in 2021 with

1.5 million website conversions to partners

One-stop-shop keeper of economic impact

indicators for our region ThinkHiltonHeadIsland.org & ThinkBluffton.org

STR Monthly Reports Destination Metrics/ Inntopia Reports

Partnerships with: USCB /LRITI Clemson/Regional Transactions Concepts, LLC and College of Charleston

$23.4 million net local revenue impact

including hospitality tax, ATAX and beach renourishment fee

Source: Regional Transactions Concepts, LLC & USCB Lowcountry and Resort Island Tourism Institute, VERB Interactive.

WHAT WE BELIEVE

Guiding Principles

Serve as a voice and advocate for the business community

1 1

Make decisions based on long-term perspective

Maintain the highest ethical standards in all we do

7

2 2

6

3

Initiate programs for which there are funding and staffing resources

5 5

Develop and implement programs and services that benefit the economic well-being and common interests of our members

4

Work to preserve and enhance the prudent growth, quality of life and character of our region

Develop collaborative partnerships only in areas where the partnership can accomplish that which our organization cannot do alone

What We Believe | HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org

We’re here to convene, convey, and connect the community.

We’re here to convene, convey, and connect the community.

HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org | What We Believe

We help bolster the business community by connecting, educating, advocating, and conducting research.

SMALL TITLE SMALL TITLE

The Amazing Title Will Go Right Here

AWARDS & ACCOLADES

HILTON H IS THE #1 ISLAND 14

Annual Report 2021

HEAD

#1 ISLAND IN THE U.S. FOR THE 5TH CONSECUTIVE YEAR

#1 ISLAND IN THE CONTINENTAL U.S. FOR 5TH TIME

AW AR Parents.com

Best Vacations for Kids:SMALL Parents’ Travel SMALL TITLE TITLE Awards 2021

Condé Nast Traveler 25 Best Island Beaches in the World

The Amazing Title Will Go Right Here MSN

MSN Tra

25 Most Popular Beaches in America

America’s Seaside To

Travel + Leisure Bluffton: Best Small Towns in the South

MSN Money

Best places to retire on the East Coast

Fox News

Top 10 family-friendly vacation spots in the U.S.

16

D R Forbes.com

South Carolina’s Hottest

Up-And-Coming Food & Drink Destination

avel

Beautiful owns

Travel Pulse

Top U.S. Vacation Destinations for Families in 2021

TripAdvisor 2021 Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards

Men’s Journal

Best Places to Live

PureWow 25 Best Beach Towns in America

YOUR CHAMBER 18

Annual Report 2021

Your Chamber | HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org

R

MEET US

Your Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 2021

Susana Cook

Chris McCorkendale

Chris Corkern

Andrew Schumacher

Chair

Immediate Past Chairman

Vice Chairman, Bluffton Regional Business Council

Vice Chairman, Finance

Palmera Inn & Suites

Hargray Communications

Prudential Insurance

Palmetto Dunes P.O.A.

Jean Beck

Dru Brown

Terry Tadlock

Bill Miles, CCE, IOM

Vice Chairman, Government Relations

Vice Chairman, Small Business

Vice Chairman, Workforce & Education

President & CEO

Hilton Head Area Realtors

Island Time Hilton Head

Correll Insurance Group of Hilton Head

Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce

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Annual Report 2021

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Andrew Carmines

Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks

Greg Kelly

Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport

Jon Rembold

Hilton Head Island Airport

Andrea Bragg

Sonesta Hilton Head Island Resort

Forsythe Jewelers

Mary Lee Carns

Jeremy Clark

Technical College of the Lowcountry

Casey Lavin

Montage Palmetto Bluff

Michael Scioscia

Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa

Ahmad Ward

Mitchelville Preservation Project

Hilton Head Regional Healthcare

Diana McDougall

Coastal States Bank

Jerome Smith

Disney Hilton Head Resort

Steve Wilmot

Heritage Classic Foundation

Alan Wolf

Caleb Graham

Ocean Oak Resort by Hilton Grand Vacations

Dr. Al Panu

University of South Carolina-Beaufort

Steve Stauffer

McGriff Insurance Services

SERG Restaurant Group

Your Chamber | HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org

Chris Bracken

MEET US

Meet Your Chamber Staff EXECUTIVE

FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION

Bill Miles

Connie Killmar

President & CEO

Assistant to the President

Ray Deal

Kelly McCallister

Controller

Assistant Controller

Charlie Clark

Megan Goheen

Hallie Martin

Lilly Strickland

Vice President, Communications

Visual Communications Coordinator

Communications Manager

Visual Content Manager

COMMUNICATIONS

MEMBERSHIP, WORKFORCE, AND EDUCATION

Kelli Brunson

Cathy Havens

Director of Membership

Events Manager

Special Events & Programs Manager

Beverly Maloney

Kim Nelson

Shelby Wielgus

Senior Membership Executive

Membership Administrator

Membership Executive

Laura Higgins Programs Assistant

VISITOR & CONVENTION BUREAU

Linda Lanier

Ariana Pernice

Kayla Boyter

Robin Bridgers

Vice President, VCB Visitor & Convention

Senior Marketing Manager

Group Sales Coordinator

Information Specialist

Seth Richardson

Zack Shedd

Cristian Slaton

Kathy Winings

Director of Sales & Partnership Management

Multi Media Sales Manager

Research & Digital Marketing Coordinator

Information Specialist

Your Chamber | HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org

Michelle Pivik

MEMBERSHI ADVOCACY SERVICES 24

Annual Report 2021

Membership, Advocacy & Services | HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org

IP, &

Membership, Advocacy & Services The membership team is focused on providing benefits, programs, initiatives and services that support, enhance and inform the business community, with a focus on small business. They also play a leadership role in the area’s business education partnership.

1,350+

50+

140+

Members Strong

Ribbon Cuttings & Groundbreaking Ceremonies

New Members in 2021

70+

in-person and virtual networking events, learning seminars, and meetings, reaching 10,000+ people

Re-Accredited 5 Star Accredited Chamber of Commerce We’re in the top 1.7% of 7,000 chambers nationwide in the U.S. have this distinction, according to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

3-Time National Chamber of the Year by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE)

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Annual Report 2021

Thank you Second Helpings for presenting us with the 2020 Founders Award.

Membership, Advocacy & Services | HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org

The Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Visitor & Convention Bureau won two prestigious awards for its Path Forward Readiness Plan, the postCOVID-19 business recovery guidelines:

⊲ Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International: Gold Adrian Award for its “Best Practice Recovery Strategy” ⊲ Carolinas Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives: Communication Excellence award More information on the Path Forward Readiness Plan can be found on www.ThePathForward.org.

MEMBERSHIP, ADVOCACY & SERVICES

Connect & Grow 70+ Virtual & In-Person Events in 2021 We returned to in-person events, including ribbon cuttings, Conversation + Cocktails, Executive Connection, Chamber Young Professionals & more.

70+

EVENTS 28

Annual Report 2021

February 20-27, 2021 54 Participating Restaurants 14,033 visits to our website, chamberrestaurantweek.com (+29% increase over 2020) In tandem with Restaurant Week, we hosted the Taste of the Lowcountry silent auction that offered residents the chance to get Lowcountry culinary experiences.

Local businesses stepped up to provide these certificates, and the program infused $17,170 into 79 local restaurants.

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RESTAURANTS

Chamber Business Golf Classic March 22, 2021 The Golf Club at Indigo Run 128 Players, Two Shotgun Starts

128

PLAYERS

Membership, Advocacy & Services | HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org

Chamber Restaurant Week

“As a chamber member, it is important to participate as much as possible to network for your business and to support our local community. ” - Laurie Brown, Aunt Laurie’s

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Annual Report 2021

HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org | Membership, Advocacy & Services

Chamber Tele-Town Hall 15 Zoom Calls Live, unfiltered updates straight from national, regional, and local leaders.

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Annual Report 2021

Small Business Week May 10-14, 2021 We celebrated the return of our Small Business Week with Pork in the Parking Lot, a Social Media Workshop, Bluffton Block Party, Thankful Thursday, and “PopIns” to local businesses.

HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org | Membership, Advocacy & Services

MEMBERSHIP, ADVOCACY & SERVICES

Small Business, Workforce & Education Named a “Neighborhood Champion”

again for the November 27 Small Business Saturday by American Express.

Hosted a series of small business roundtables with local entrepreneurs as listening sessions so we can find out what issues matter to you the most.

Partnered with SCORE and the SBA to host small business webinars for COVID related loan programs, and Shuttered Venue Operators Grants.

In partnership with Burr Forman Law Firm, LLP, hosted six small business seminars Coffee & Counsel.

Partnered with Apprenticeship Carolinas to host a week-long awareness week, celebrated the signing of its first youth apprentice, and hosted office hours for businesses and youth to get more information about the program.

#Shop Local Lowcountry

LEADERSH 36

Annual Report 2021

“ I learned way more than I ever anticipated learning about our area, our island, and Beaufort County in general. Professionally, I have made so many connections that have grown my business. ”

HIP

Membership, Advocacy & Services | HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org

Kaci Hollingsworth, Bluffton Sales Manager at Weichert Realtors

MEMBERSHIP, ADVOCACY & SERVICES

Leadership We welcomed 19 local professionals to the 2021-2022 class The Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce began its Leadership program in 1985. It was designed to cultivate leadership resources within the community by giving participants the opportunity to study and experience the community.

In the past six class years, leadership classes have raised and invested over $103,000 into the community through annual projects.

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Annual Report 2021

$103,000 into the community

Membership, Advocacy & Services | HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org

We welcomed 39 students in our 20212022 Junior Leadership class from Bluffton High School, Heritage Academy, Hilton Head Christian Academy, Hilton Head High School, Hilton Head Preparatory, John Paul II Catholic School, May River High School, South Carolina Connections Academy, and South Carolina Virtual Charter School.

The class of 2020 celebrated the graduation of 37 students from the Junior Leadership program.

Membership, Advocacy & Services | HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org

Junior Leadership

MEMBERSHIP, ADVOCACY & SERVICES

Advocacy This division serves as the voice and policy advocate for our Lowcountry business community. Our goal is to be a proactive voice for business and facilitate communication between government and the business community and encourage participation in the public policy realm at the local, state and federal level.

State of the Region April 28, 2021 The virtual summit featured an update from Sen. Lindsey Graham, as well as our local mayors.

Rep. Nancy Mace joined us for intimate business roundtables with local leaders, as well as for the Back To Business Seminar with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Hosted the annual S.C. Chamber “Grassroots” meeting to help craft the upcoming state legislative agenda.

Hosted SCDOT officials and provided updates on the U.S. Hwy. 278 Corridor bridge project.

Our goal is to be a proactive voice for business 42

Annual Report 2021

Local

State

Federal

Oppose Police Tax on Hilton Head Island Businesses and

Support renewing efforts on a comprehensive education

Pandemic Relief: To continue advocacy efforts for swift

Residents in its current form.

reform bill to include increasing teacher pay, intervention for failing schools and reviewing testing metrics and procedures.

action on COVID-19 relief and recovery.

Support regional activity and efforts, as well as policy measures, to develop affordable housing for the local workforce.

Collaborate with and support growth at local airports.

Monitor and contribute dialogue toward the U.S. Hwy. 278 Corridor bridge project as it pertains to historic/ cultural preservation, design and aesthetics, and overall function.

Encourage utilization of regional Opportunity Zones to attract business investment, jobs and workforce housing.

Advocate for the passage of a liability protection bill that protects businesses and organizations that plan, prepare, promote and prioritize the health and wellbeing of their employees and customers from COVID-19.

Support grants/forgivable loans to small business and non-profits to fund sustainable business practices, retain employees and purchase essential PPE for safe operations.

Support for new and existing state investments for our state’s vital travel and tourism industry.

Economic Stimulus for Small Businesses, Non-profits and 501c6 organizations.

Advocate for protections on those businesses that received COVID-19 grants and stimulus and face unexpected tax liabilities.

Support continuing federally reimbursed pandemic unemployment compensation.

Urge bi-partisan support of targeted legislation providing for tax credits and incentives for those activities supporting group and business travel, meetings and conventions, business entertainment and meals, and individual/family travel expenditures through the year 2021.

Infrastructure modernization.

Support the solvency of the Highway Trust Fund.

Membership, Advocacy & Services | HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org

Advancing Our Region

CHAMBER CHAMPION 44

Annual Report 2021

Chamber Champions | HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org

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“ One of the reasons we became a Chamber Champion is because of the exposure that we get in the community. It’s high visibility that it affords us as well as advertising opportunities. We know that when first-time visitors are coming to the island, they’re likely to visit the Chamber’s website. It gives us exposure early on to potential customers. ” Robert Welch, Marriott Vacation Club

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Annual Report 2021

Chamber Champions | HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org

Chamber Champions | HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org

VISITOR & CONVENTI BUREAU 50

Annual Report 2021

VCB | HiltonHeadIsland.org | VisitBluffton.org

ION

VCB

Visitor & Convention Bureau

The Visitor & Convention Bureau (VCB) is the destination marketing division of the chamber. This division works to enhance tourism through its marketing efforts cultivating leisure as well as meetings and group business.

The VCB strives to improve awareness and understanding of the economic impact of travel tourism to the region.

The VCB is the official Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) for both the Town of Hilton Head Island and the Town of Bluffton, as well as Southern Beaufort County.

The VCB is accredited by Destinations International (DI), one of less than 200 accredited DMOs in the world.

HIGHLIGHTS As a result of our Path Forward efforts in 2020, which laid the groundwork for our business community to safely reopen and our residents and visitors to once again enjoy our community, this year was a successful one. We were able to welcome visitors back to our region.

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Annual Report 2021

From welcoming guests to all over the country, to hosting marquee events and meetings, Southern Beaufort County continues to be a safe, inviting area.

As a result of that groundwork, a group of travel experts – known as the Travel + Leisure Advisory Board (TAB) – held its first in-person meeting in over a year on Hilton Head Island.

The group is composed of influential travel experts that advise numerous tourism brands across the U.S. and abroad, and is responsible for a combined $14.5 billion in annual sales.

For many participants, it was their first time visiting the Lowcountry, and we had the opportunity to showcase the destination, several partners, and our culture and history.

VCB | HiltonHeadIsland.org | VisitBluffton.org

The VCB is accredited by Destinations International (DI), one of less than 200 accredited DMOs in the world.

HiltonHeadIsland.org | VisitBluffton.org | VCB

Bluffton Vacation Planner The first Bluffton Vacation Planner was produced and published. It can be found online, at Chamber offices, Heyward House, Bluffton hotels, Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, and state welcome centers. The publication features all there is to do in Bluffton, and our partners!

VCB

Shaping the Future of Tourism The VCB finalized, and the Board of Directors adopted, its Destination Management Plan, a 10-year roadmap to shape the future of the Lowcountry. It included extensive input from residents and business leaders in the community and shows partnership with the Town of Hilton Head Island and aligns with their strategic initiatives of holistic and sustainable tourism.

In ensuring one of our goals, we kicked off our first Resident Sentiment Survey on tourism, where over 3,000 local residents responded.

In March, Southwest Airlines launched year-round direct flights between the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) and Baltimore, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, and Nashville, and later expanded direct service to Denver and St. Louis.

American Airlines began seasonal, direct service between the Hilton Head Island Airport and Boston-Logan airport on April 10.

Welcome back to Hilton Head Island Airport (HHH), United Airlines! In May, United Airlines restarted nonstop seasonal service to nine cities: Chicago, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, Indianapolis, Newark, Pittsburgh, St. Louis, and WashingtonDulles. The airline is flying United’s newest aircraft, the CRJ-550, which has room for first class seating.

SOUTHWEST AIRLINES RIBBON CUTTING at the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport

VCB | HiltonHeadIsland.org | VisitBluffton.org

Air Service Expansion

VCB

The Impact of Tourism in 2020

2.61 Million Visitors $1.37 Billion Economic Impact of Hilton Head Island Tourism in 2020 17,902 Jobs

Tourism accounts for 15.6% of all jobs in Beaufort County

$1

invested

$15.90 returned to local economy

ROI For Visitor Spending For every $1 ATAX dollar invested in marketing, $15.90 is returned to the local economy in net local government revenue.

Source: College of Charleston School of Business, Office of Tourism Analysis Note: Numbers pulled from the 2020 Economic Impact Report. The 2021 Economic Impact Report will be available in April 2022.

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Annual Report 2021

Our Partners

Note: Categorized in event order

VCB | HiltonHeadIsland.org | VisitBluffton.org

VCB

2021 Hilton Head Island Website Performance

HiltonHeadIsland.org The website is our virtual front door that serves as the window to our destination and plays an integral part in the traveler’s decision making process. The insight and data taken from this platform allows for us to better serve our partners, anticipate trends, and react to consumer behavior.

3,646,703 Sessions to HiltonHeadIsland.org (+46.16%) 52.1% Website Conversion Rate (Clicks to Partner Sites) 1,572,684 Link Clicks to Partners (+34.46%) Source: Google Analytics Note: Forecasted metrics are based on current performance.

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Annual Report 2021

2021 Bluffton Website Performance

VisitBluffton.org As a stand-alone website, VisitBluffton.org was launched on March 31, 2021. The website has been finely tuned with imagery and a new video series as well as the addition of local advertisers to increase partner referrals and conversions.

133,004 Visitors to VisitBluffton.org 8% Website Conversion Rate 6,060 Link Clicks to Partners Source: Google Analytics Note: Website launced March 31,2021. No website analytics at this time. Forecasted metrics are based on current performance.

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Annual Report 2021

Destination Social Media

HiltonHeadIsland.org | VisitBluffton.org | VCB

Hilton Head Island

59,547

followers (20% increase)

337,581

engagements

231,314

followers (1% increase)

1.2M

engagements

21,842

followers (-.3% decrease)

49,636

engagements

Bluffton

5,825

followers (91% increase)

39,800

engagements

22,951

followers (89% increase)

331,929

engagements

627

followers (1% increase)

621

engagements

YTD October 2021, compared to the same time last year. Source: Sprout Social

VCB

Advertising

Southern Living Bluffton Print Publication Ad

BEACHES

HiltonHeadIsland.org | VisitBluffton.org | VCB

Did you know Loggerhead sea turtles can weigh around 400 pounds and live to be 100 years old. Learn more with HHI’s sea turtle ambassador, Stella C. Turtle.

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H I LTO N H E A D I S L A N D

EST KNOWN FOR ITS spectacular beaches, Hilton Head Island is a favorite among Travel + Leisure readers thanks to its warm hospitality, wide-open spaces, and stress-free pace. A haven for natural beauty, wildlife, and outdoor adventure year-round, it feels miles away from it all—though it’s less than an hour from the Savannah/ Hilton Head International Airport (SAV).

NATURAL WONDERS In this distinctive landscape with its gentle, tree-lined coast, nature beckons in all its unfiltered and calming glory. Birds soar overhead, dolphins frolic in the surf, and endangered loggerhead sea turtles nest on clean and welcoming beaches

from May to October. Enjoy invigorating sunshine and fresh air as you bike or explore more than 60 miles of leisure pathways, and in the evenings, relax under starry skies free from the glare of neon signs.

In the heart of it all, try the ever-popular Folly Field Beach with its wooden boardwalk bridge leading to the sand, or head to Coligny Beach Park, which is just across the street from the new Lowcountry Celebration Park and its spectacular maritime-themed playground. For something quieter, spend a day at Fish Haul Beach Park, where you can watch for migrating birds and wandering crabs, or stroll down the winding boardwalk at Driessen Beach to its wide, spacious stretch of sand.

G O O D E AT S

CULINARY DELIGHTS For those who follow their taste buds to adventure, Hilton Head Island brims with regional flavors and talented chefs—not to mention more than 250 restaurants that are largely locally owned. (Not bad for a place that measures less than 5 miles wide and 12 miles long!) On the impressive culinary checklist, you’ll find everything from briny oysters and shared buckets of peel-and-eat shrimp to signature Lowcountry dishes, such as Gullah rice and gumbo with fried okra.

Along with celebrating fresh ingredients grown and harvested locally, the dining scene has embraced sustainability through initiatives like oyster shell recycling.

Oyster shells are used to “feed” the oyster habitats in quiet estuaries for future harvests. It’s delicious eating you can feel good about.

Did you know Seafood is a yearround point of pride for local food lovers and chefs. Fall and winter bring peak season for Atlantic oysters, sourced fresh from clean creeks and wetlands. For a taste of popular, local varieties, try Blue Point, Baritaria Blade, and Wellfleet.

On the palate, these shellfish delicacies have a crisp texture and a savory flavor profile that pairs beautifully with a refreshing cocktail or white wine—and one of Hilton Head Island’s glowing sunsets. Shuck away!

Travel + Leisure Print Publication Ad

VCB

2021 Year-To-Date Lodging Performance HILTON HEAD ISLAND LODGING

66.2%

$260.28

64.1%

+41.4%

$166.87

+80.2%

Hilton Head Island Hotels

+27.4%

$324.00

+7.8%

$215.00

+38.5%

Hilton Head Island Home & Villa

+28.5%

+45.9%

65.0%

+14.4%

ADR

$301.00

+27.5%

RevPAR

$196.00

OCC

Hilton Head Island 2-Source - Hotel and Home & Villa Combined

Source: Inntopia DestiMetrics, Smith Travel Research. YTD October 2021 compared to the same time last year.

68.2%

+67.1%

$327.39

+36.7%

$223.35

+128.3%

Bluffton Hotels

VCB | HiltonHeadIsland.org | VisitBluffton.org

BLUFFTON LODGING

PUBLIC RELATION 70

Annual Report 2021

Public Relations | HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org

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Public Relations 2,188 Stories and Mentions 12,473,042,625 Impressions $10,926,484 Ad Value YTD November 2021 - Source: Burrells Luce; Weber Shandwick Worldwide

Hosted Journalists & PR Events The destination hosted journalists, influencers and proactively pitched stories to keep Hilton Head Island and Bluffton in the travel news and lifestyle media.

Visiting Influencer Highlights

JQ Louise

Leo Chan

@sweetcarolinaj 199,000 followers

@jqlouise 108,000 followers

@levitatestyle 116,000 followers

Alicia Mara

Mustafa Kacar

Affie Kacar

@aliciammara 11,300K followers

@mustafakacar 263,000K followers

@affiekacar 36,200K followers

Matt Hranek

Yolanda Edwards

Dana Berez

@wmbrownproject 84,800 followers

@yolandaedwards 90,300 followers

@danaberez 119,000 followers

Public Relations | HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org

Caroline Quincy

Public Relations

Great Stories & Mentions

Bluffton featured among “10 Best Small Town Food Scenes in

the United States”

Palmetto Bluff’s Window to the Wild

Bluffton named among “Small Towns That Leave a Big Impression”

Hilton Head Island named among “9 Cool Places You Didn’t Know

You Could Fly on Southwest”

Hilton Head Island featured among “18 Easy but Epic Mini-Moon

Destinations” The “Good Neighbor” segment highlights cancer survivor Allie and UPS driver Al’s friendly and admiring relationship during COVID-19 amidst her cancer diagnosis, and gifts them a trip to Hilton Head Island

Daufuskie Island’s Lighthouse featured in “6 Incredible Lighthouses

You Can Stay In”

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Annual Report 2021

Hilton Head Island featured among “Best Fall Trip Ideas”

The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa and Hilton Head Island featured among “10 Luxury Destinations for a Passport-Free

Honeymoon” The Indigo Spa was named among “Best Spas”

The Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort named among “Best

Beach Hotels and Resorts in Every State”

Poseidon was named among “Best Restaurants In the United States”

Hilton Head Island’s Beach Ambassadors were featured in “The Best

Beach Hacks Recommended by Experts”

Hilton Head Island among its “Best Summer Vacation Spot”

Hilton Head Island featured in “Here’s Where Airbnb Users Are

Looking to Travel This Summer,” as well as ”Fall Beach Trips Are Rising In Popularity This Year, According to VRBO”

Hilton Head Island and Bluffton listed among “Cities Americans Are

Flocking To” and “Great Places To Retire”

Public Relations | HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org

Craig Melvin shared his favorite memories of vacationing on Hilton Head Island this past summer

Sea Pines Country Club’s Executive Chef Brian Coseo is featured in Golf.com’s “The Secret To Perfect Grilling”

Hilton Head Island featured in its article on mini-vacations

Sea Turtle Patrol Hilton Head featured in “A Mysterious Beach

Discovery on Hilton Head” The Inn & Club At Harbour Town was named among the “Best

Hotels in the U.S.”

Hilton Head Island and Bluffton were named among ’s “The 25 Best

Beach Towns in America”

Lowcountry Celebration Park featured

Hilton Head Island and Hilton Head Health was featured in the article,

“Have Vaccine, Will Travel”

Daufuskie Island among the “5 Best Romantic Getaways For Couples.”

Hilton Head Island’s Eddie Days was featured in the company’s web series, “On The Road With FedEx”

A Daufuskie Island home was featured in the article “For These Urban

Refugees, Country Living Isn’t Quite Second Nature”

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Annual Report 2021

“Vacation Home Demand Soars During the Covid-19 Pandemic”

highlights the real estate surge in Bluffton

“16 Thanksgiving Getaways That Are Calling Your Name”

“The Best Luxury Hotel In Every State”

The Octagon named among “11 U.S. Hotels With the Best Restaurants”

“9 Unforgettable Family Vacation Ideas”

“30 Luxurious Spas That Are Worth The Drive”

“Best Places to Travel In June”

“Room Service Is Different Now. Here’s How 14 Hotels Are Doing It Right”

Public Relations | HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org

“Want to Live Near the Shore? Here Are Six Emerging Areas”

COMMUNIC 78

Annual Report 2021

Communications | HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org

CATIONS

Communications

2021 Podcast Series Launched

It’s news for your ears.

The Chamber Channel launched the “5 Questions With” podcast, where we sit down with regional thought leaders on the issues that matter the most to the community.

Find and subscribe to the Chamber Channel on iTunes, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts, or listen online at hhibchamber.podbean.com.

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Annual Report 2021

We recently revamped the chamber website, HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org to make it more user-friendly.

All of the popular features on the website – event listings, member directory, and more – are still there, and we’ve added new ones, too. You will also find newly-expanded resources for living and working in the Lowcountry, the latest business indicator statistics, and much more.

Communications | HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org

Chamber Unveils New Website

HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org | Communications

COMMUNICATIONS

Keeping You Up To-Date & Informed

The chamber continues to keep you informed of what’s happening in the business community and the chamber through its popular Monday Briefing and 3 Things To Know weekly emails.

This year, we also introduced the Lowcountry Lowdown e-newsletter, which is a rundown on all the events happening in the community. We also continue to keep you informed through event emails and announcements.

COMMUNICATIONS

Social Media Growth @hhibchamber 23,803 Total Followers

5,580

followers (31% increase)

37,690 917,355

impressions

12,062

followers (13% increase)

engagements

88,826 engagements 1.3 Million impressions 5,530

followers (1% increase)

5,760 212,822

impressions

631

followers (new in 2021)

4,613 70,393

engagements

engagements impressions

Communications | HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org

FINANCIAL 86

Annual Report 2021

Fiscal Year 2020-2021 | HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org

LS

Fiscal Year 2020-2021 Independent Audit Report The accounting firm Holland, Bromley, Barnhill & Brett, LLP (HBBB) performed the chamber’s annual independent audit in August 2021 and presented the results of the fiscal year 2020-2021 findings at the September 28, 2021 board of directors meeting. The chamber again received an unqualified (clean) opinion from HBBB, which reported that the audit complied with generally accepted accounting principles and revealed no material misstatements, no reportable conditions, no disagreements with management and no management letter.

Financial Result Recap: June 30, 2021 The Change in Unrestricted Net Assets at fiscal year-end show revenues more than expenses of $82,462 compared to a budgeted gain of $1,414, or $81,048 favorable to plan. As a result, retained earnings increased from $636,966 to $719,428.

Fiscal Year 2021-2022 Budget Budgeted for fiscal year 2022, revenues are $7,827,400 and expenses are $7,826,326, representing a change in unrestricted net assets of $1,074.

$8,840,192 Revenue

$8,757,730 Expenses 88

Annual Report 2021

Financials | HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org

TOTAL REVENUE $8,840,192

TOTAL EXPENSES $8,757,730

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Annual Report 2021

FISCAL YEAR 2020-2021

Total Cash increased from $1,415,388 to $2,634,931 during the fiscal year. The chamber’s long-term debt remained at $0 since the mortgage for the building was paid off in June 2018.

Transparency Your chamber is committed to continuing to provide information about its mission, operations, revenue generation, plans and accomplishments in a completely transparent manner. This information, including independent financial audits for the past 10 years, is posted on our website, thinkhiltonheadisland.org.

Financial information is provided to town, county and state officials on an annual basis. Marketing plans are submitted for review and results are reported annually.

Detail as to how accommodations tax dollars are spent is provided each year to elected officials, thus further demonstrating our long-term track record of accountability.

Financials | HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org

Financial Stability

THANK YOU TO OUR MEM & COMMUNI 92

Annual Report 2021

Thank You | HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org

U MBERS ITY

Thank You | HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org

HiltonHeadBlufftonChamber.org | Thank You

@hhibchamber | hiltonheadblufftonchamber.org 1 Chamber of Commerce Drive | Hilton Head Island | 843.785.3673

216 Bluffton Road | Bluffton | 843.757.3673