Luxury Home Magazine Charleston and the Lowcountry Issue 11.3

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LUXURY HOME LUXURY HOME

South Carolina’s Premier Real Estate & Vacation Rental Company

$5,895,000

$4,850,000

$2,295,000

South Carolina’s Premier Real Estate & Vacation Rental Company

$4,420,000

Alexandre Fleuren Owner
Photography by Patrick Brickman
Photography

The World is Her Roster

Stefany Di Manno Ceccato can’t wait to plan your next trip

You might say that Stefany Di Manno Ceccato’s career has taken her places. A native of Michigan and lover of travel from an early age – “my most memorable moments are trips with my parents and friends,” she says – Di Manno Ceccato decided to venture South after high school to attend the University of Miami, where she double majored in broadcasting and English.

Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer

But life had bigger plans, and she soon took a position as a corporate flight attendant, introducing her to far-flung corners of the globe. While she treasured the perks of in-flight life, the grueling nature of the industry soon inspired her entrepreneurial spirit. “I asked myself, how can I stay connected to travel but have my own company?” she says.

Now a resident of Johns Island, South Carolina and the founder of DMC Travel Tailor, Di Manno Ceccato specializes in tailored trips for her clients – the ideal itinerary and lodging to

create a dream vacation. The company’s name, DMC, references Di Manno Ceccato (Di Manno being her maiden name, which she kept as part of her last name.) At first, Di Manno Ceccato hosted trips for clients along with her husband, who co-founded the company with her. Now, she focuses on planning the trips for her numerous clients rather than hands-on hosting.

Marketing DMC Travel Tailor has been a strategic process. When she started, Di Manno Ceccato already had connections in mind, including the luxury travel network Virtuoso and her host agency, Largay Travel. She notes that, as a small business owner, these networks offer invaluable support. Through Di Manno Ceccato’s website, clients can peruse destinations, accommodations, cruises and flights, even receive hotel perks through Virtuoso.

Planning a vacation begins with a “discovery call” between the client and Di Manno Ceccato after the basic questionnaire is complete. On the call, Di Manno Ceccato establishes a relationship with the new client and learns all about their dream trip. To make things as seamless as possible, she encourages clients to utilize the partner contacts at their desired destination. “I primarily work with partners because it benefits the client – the guides are great, and the companies are vetted. I don’t want my clients to take a chance on their experience,” she says.

Popular destinations include Italy and Europe, Antarctica, Australia, New Zealand, Galapagos, as well as Di Manno Ceccato’s personal favorite, Africa. “My very first safari was gifted to me by a former U.S. president while flying as a corporate flight attendant,” she says. “And I’ve fallen in love with Africa more and more each time I’ve visited – I’ve been to 11 different countries on the continent. I love the animals, adventure, the landscapes and the stars. It’s so peaceful to me.”

To show her love for the land, Di Manno Ceccato gives back five percent of her business income to Talitha Kum, a nonprofit in Kenya that supports children and orphans affected by HIV/AIDS. “Because Africa is important to me, I felt compelled,” she says. “Years ago, I was speaking to one of my husband’s friends in Italy, and he’d volunteered with them. It just came together.”

Tips for booking with DMC Travel Tailor include thinking a year ahead – particularly for “hot” vacations, such as African safaris or cherry blossom season in Japan – and planning a bit more leisure time than you expect you will need. “I have clients who want to book excursions every day, and I try to remind them that they might want down time,” she laughs.

(917) 653-9346 | dmctraveltailor.com

108 Salthouse Lane | Kiawah Island | Private Riverfront Retreat in The Settlement w/ Deep-water Dock

Nestled on approx 1.5 acres of pristine landscape within The Settlement, an enclave of the Kiawah Island Club, showcasing 240° river & marsh views + effortless access to the private River Course & Clubhouse w/ championship golf, tennis & five-star dining. A thoughtfully designed layout maximizes stunning, unobstructed vistas, including a picturesque glimpse of the 17th green, visible from the expansive deck featuring frameless glass railings. Attached & detached guest houses, private pool, porch w/ fireplace, summer kitchen, deep-water dock + more!

$11,995,000 • 10 BR • 11.5 BA • 7,440+ SQFT • KIC Sports Membership is a Condition of Purchase

With over 45 years of experience in island realty, we enjoy sharing our surroundings.

Specializing in resales on Kiawah, Seabrook and Johns Island – with an understanding of each property’s market history, we offer the knowledge and know-how for successful buyer and seller transactions in these niche barrier island markets.

As the area’s population continues to grow, our business practice remains unchanged; personal connections and punctual communications are intrinsic to our business culture.

View Our Listings

Our commitment to patient, comprehensive representation continues to be among our top priorities. We proudly represent the beloved island communities whose beauty, value and legacy endure. 843-768-3635 | info@pamharringtonexclusives.com

Recently Sold by Pam Harrington Exclusives

• $6,350,000 | 415 Estuary Lane | KI - Cassique | Pam H (Seller)

• $3,875,000 | 5146 Southern Pines | KI - The Cape | Debra J (Buyer)

• $3,156,643 | 32 Prioleau St #E | Charleston | Pam H (Buyer)

• $2,795,000 | 151 Augusta National | KI | Pam H (Seller) & Debra J (Buyer)

• $2,460,000 | 182 Belted Kingfisher | KI | Pam H (Seller) & Melissa H (Buyer)

• $1,970,000 | 216 Sea Marsh | KI | Melissa H (Buyer)

• $1,875,000 | 2473 Shipwatch | KI | Pam H (Seller)

• $1,500,000 | 159 Kiawah Island Club Dr | KI | Pam H (Buyer)

• $1,460,000 | 592 Oyster Rake | KI | Pam H/Melissa H (Seller) & James B (Buyer)

• $1,135,000 | 286 Meeting St #J | Charleston | Pam H (Buyer)

• $1,050,000 | 110 Raynor Lane | KI - Cassique | Pam H (Seller)

• $989,000 | 4388 Sea Forest Dr | KI | Debra J (Seller) Under Contract

• $10,500,000 | 36 Ocean Course | KI | Pam H (Buyer)

• $4,850,000 | 212 Chinaberry | KI | Debra J (Buyer)

• $3,649,000 | 21 Ocean Course | KI Homesite | James B (Seller)

• $1,599,000 | 1346/48 Pelican Watch | SBI | Debra J (Buyer)

• $1,200,000 | 81 Salthouse Lane | KI Homesite | Debra J (Buyer)

• $920,000 | 1391 Dunlin Ct | KI | Debra J (Buyer & Seller)

• $885,000 | 507 Cobby Creek | SBI | James B (Buyer)

200 Belted Kingfisher | Kiawah Island | Vanderhorst

Recently renovated w/ lagoon views from nearly every room. Light-filled & open layout, large backyard, expansive deck & screened porch + room to add a pool. Privately situated amid gorgeous live oaks & mature plantings on a 1.23-acre double corner lot.

$6,495,000 • 5 BR • 5.5 BA • 6,026 SQFT • KIC Membership Opp - Golf

83 Blue Heron Pond | Kiawah Island | The Preserve

Stunning marsh & river vistas from this private setting on 3.46-acres, bordered by protected conservancy land. Immaculate residence w/ many notable features inside & out + recent upgrades! Open & covered decks, heated pool, porches, elevator & so much more!

$5,995,000 • 4 BR • 4.5 BA • 3,751 SQFT • KIC Membership Opp - Social

4121

37 Marsh Edge | Kiawah Island | Vanderhorst
Golf Cottage Lane | Johns Island | Brair's Creek

The Art of Listening

A conversation with Alexandre Fleuren

On a sunny day this past fall, I wandered into a small building filled with moving boxes, surrounded by gorgeous white and blue fabrics, furniture, and other decorative items. The backdrop was a neatly organized wall of magazines hailing from a myriad of cities, celebrating the work of esteemed interior designer Alexandre Fleuren.

A quiet confident voice called out to me from a back office. It was a welcoming salutation, offering an immediate invitation to come in and have a seat.

I don’t need to call attention to the rarity of that moment.

My excitement grew as she divulged into her refined world of luxury interiors, passion for her clients, and results that have opened exclusive opportunities by consortium: Thibaut, Century, and Poltrona Frau, all mixed with grace and one of the most genuine smiles I have seen in a long time.

Little did I know the building I wandered into that day belonged to the founder and owner of Alexandre Fleuren Interiors, and the hidden gem of the southern elite for over 24 years.

Q: Your work is celebrated for its refinement, restraint, and soul. When you walk into a space for the first time, what are you instinctively looking or listening for?

Alexandre: The first thing I see in a space is the light, where it comes from and how it moves through the room. I want light to dance and give life to the space. Next, I study the details within the architecture. If those elements are staying, I make sure the design makes sense in the space. Most of all, I listen beyond words and expressions to my clients’ passion, as that’s what guides the design and should be reflected in their space. Their passion becomes the foundation. I care deeply, and that connection naturally blends their spirit with my vision. The result is a space they love, one that feels like them and looks like no one else. People are my passion. Always.

Q: I have always admired how the discovery phase of your process emphasizes truly listening, then forming targeted questions embracing every fiber of the client’s narrative. You always find a way to create the perfect synergy. Would you mind elaborating on this approach?

Alexandre: Understanding what my clients want, what their goals are, and what their hopes are. That becomes my passion for the space, and that inspires the design. It’s important to understand passion is the most important element in our entire framework. The client’s passions drive the design. Understanding their goals and hopes

becomes my passion for the space. When we have that final reveal, I don’t see the design. I see the person. That’s what makes the design successful.

Q: Project management is a significant part of your services. How do you ensure efficiency and maintain your client’s vision throughout the project?

Alexandre: We have consistent internal processes that we follow for every project. The client is aware of timelines and next steps but isn’t burdened with the minutiae. They get to enjoy the creative process and result without the weight of all the details. We provide updates every other week: what happened in the last two weeks, what’s ahead in the next two weeks, and what decisions they need to make. Each team member focuses on their part of the process, and because we handle so much in-house, our communication is excellent. Clients don’t have to chase information and always have direct access to me.

Q: How does team structure contribute to the success of your projects?

Alexandre: My team is critical to the success of Alexandre Fleuren Interiors. We’re unique in having specialists like our soft goods expert who ensures custom goods are fabricated correctly. Having our own installer means clients have the same person in their home throughout the process, not different vendors. This ensures better quality control, efficiency, and a seamless client experience.

Q: What are unique challenges and rewards of working on historic properties, such as the 200-year-old South of Broad property?

Alexandre: The property you mentioned was a multi-property project, and one of my favorites. I was asked to bring in all the team members, including the general contractor and the landscape architect. It was a massive project, and the whole experience was an incredible journey for all of us. My client was from Detroit, but wanted to fully embrace becoming a part of Charleston. I loved the challenge, and I am happy to say they now feel like Charleston is their hometown. Mission accomplished!

It’s been an honor getting to know the beautiful mind of Alexandre Fleuren. I admire how she keeps those she loves and trusts by her side, stays grounded, and shows sincere gratitude in every moment of her day.

On a personal note, one of my favorite glimpses into her true aura came this past May, when I walked up to her beautiful Mount Pleasant home and was greeted by a pair of dancing cactuses at the door and head-to-toe Cinco de Mayo–themed catering, lovingly arranged by her daughter from her dorm room, in celebration of her best friend, trusted marketing thought leader, and confidant, Kim Conger, for her 50th birthday. It’s no wonder she is so deeply embraced by the luxury community of the South.

www.alexandrefleuren.com

100 Coastal Dr, Suite 115 Charleston, SC 29492 P: 843.437.1396 | E: info@designafi.com

31 ANCHORAGE WAY | $3,600,000

Situated on a double lot in a gated, waterfront community. This stunning home offers both tranquility and luxury in one of the most desirable locations in Beaufort. Whether you’re spending time on the water or relaxing on the expansive grounds, this residence is the perfect blend of sophistication and comfort.

Edward Dukes 843.812.5000

PRIVATE ISLAND

101 KINGSTON KEY | $2,950,000

Kingston Key is a 12-acre turnkey paradise of breathtaking views and quiet retreat nestled among one of the most pristine wildlife estuaries along the east coast of South Carolina. There are eight home sites, all with utilities and permits in place, that encircle the island, each ranging from 0.75 to 1.2 acres in size.

Edward Dukes 843.812.5000

390 DISTANT ISLAND | $3,250,000

Situated on a south-facing bluff, this deepwater, award winning contemporary interpretation of Southern vernacular architecture offers the finest in location, quality and design. Featuring four bedrooms and three and one- half baths, this home was designed as three separate structures, connected by hyphens and breezeways, creating private and light- filled distinct spaces. Deepwater with a private dock.

Edward Dukes 843.812.5000

HABERSHAM

29 GRACE PARK | $1,875,000

Located in the award winning Habersham neighborhood this home is Lowcountry living at its finest. Nestled on a corner lot across from the tranquil Mum Grace Park, the main house features 3,748 sq ft of high-end living. There is an additional 480 sq ft studio apartment located above the garage making it perfect for guests or an office.

Lloyd Williams, IV 843.754.4735

131 DATAW DRIVE | $1,900,000

A stunning waterfront home on Jenkins Creek on Dataw Island with incredible views of the creek and across to Polawana Island. You can enjoy the view from everywhere inside the home with the many enormous Anderson windows looking out to the beautiful and colorful landscaping and the water beyond.

Heidi Smith 850.803.1216

1418 GLEASONS LANDING | $1,600,000

This custom-designed home is a true gem, perched on nearly an acre of land, offering breathtaking views of Jenkins Creek. A spacious open floor plan invites you in, with an abundance of windows that flood the living space with warm, natural light and frame the stunning landscape beyond.

Trudy Arthur 843.812.0967

FRIPP POINT ISLANDS OF BEAUFORT

375 FRIPP POINT ROAD | $1,550,000

Modern LowCountry Design - 3 Bedroom, 3 1/2 Bath Home on True Deep Water

This beautifully designed home captures the essence of Modern LowCountry living, offering an unparalleled combination of luxury, comfort, and natural beauty. This beautiful home boasts unobstructed, long-range views of the stunning ACE Basin, Morgan and Coosaw Rivers, Coffin Creek, Morgan Island, and St. Helena Sound.

Trea Tucker 843.812.4852

44 ANCHORAGE WAY | $1,495,000

Enjoy luxury waterfront living on the exclusive Deer Island in the Islands of Beaufort. The award-winning home spans 3,264 heated square feet of luxurious living space, sitting on a generous half acre live-oak filled lot with breathtaking marsh and tidal creek views. Private dock and pool.

Dawn Yerace 843.441.6518

Chip Warley

|

Your Dream Home Deserves Elite

List Price: $2,590,000 / 3 BR / 3 BA / 2,651 SQ FT / Marsh & River Views

Experience timeless elegance and modern luxury in this custom-built home overlooking breathtaking marsh views. Set against the serene backdrop of tidal creeks and Bohicket, this one-of-a-kind home blends classic charm with modern sophistication.

| 843.768.2560 We are your premier Real Estate Resource on Seabrook Island.

Landfall Way, Seabrook

SC

|

5

SULLIVAN’S ISLAND | 1750 Ion Avenue

6 Beds, 5.5 Baths, 6,059 sqft

Originally built on high ground in 1900 by the Army Corps of Engineers, this 6,000 square foot home has been beautifully restored and updated, skillfully blending timeless character with sophisticated modern luxuries to offer the best of Sullivan’s past and present.

SULLIVAN’S ISLAND | 2220 Ion Avenue

3 Beds, 3.5 Baths, 2,614 sqft

Discover the charm of Sullivan’s Island with this beautifully renovated home, situated just two blocks from the beach. The open floor plan offers abundant natural light, featuring shiplap details, tall ceilings, and excellent connectivity to the home’s outdoor living spaces.

SOUTH OF BROAD | 61 Tradd Street

4 Beds, 4.5 Baths, 4,465 sqft

The Jacob Motte House at 61 Tradd Street is a rare blend of 18t h-century charm and modern elegance. Built in 1731 by provincial treasure r Jacob Motte, this meticulously restored Georgian-style home seamlessl y combines its rich colonial history with thoughtful contemporary design e xcellence.

I’ON | 106 W Shipyard Road

4 Beds, 4 Baths, 4,968 sqft

This stunning custom home in the heart of the desirable I’On neighborhood offers a picturesque setting overlooking the community lake, neighborhood green space, and amphitheater.

Joy Ride

Old Village Transportation gets you from A to B in style

When Paul Consolo pondered his next venture after years of being a golf professional, certain moments at Yeamans Hall, a members-only club with a high standard of service, stood out in his mind. He loved arranging excursions for the members and guests; he valued facilitating a relaxing, seamless experience. He decided he would start a transportation business with the same standard of service – but that anyone, not just golfers, could book. “I get satisfaction in bringing people joy,” Paul says now.

Inspired, Paul then called his friend and former colleague, Jeff Fraim, to relay the idea. The two worked together at Yeamans Hall for a year when Paul came on board in 2002, and though Jeff moved to West Palm Beach, Florida in 2003, they kept in touch and maintained mutual connections through the club. Jeff was enthusiastic to hear Paul’s vision for the business, and with that, Old Village Transportation officially took shape.

Named after the historic Mount Pleasant neighborhood where Paul has lived for two decades, Old Village Transportation offers guests myriad options when it comes to travel. Whether they require a chauffeured car ride, boat ride or even a private flight, Old Village Transportation has everything covered with a fleet of sleek SUVs and a partnering network of boats and aircraft.

But they don’t just deal in fancy vacations, graduations and weddings – Paul and Jeff point out that no excursion is too small or too everyday for the service. Old Village Transportation assists with medical appointments, visits between friends and just about any kind of regular errand you can think of.

“Our guests trust us to get them to wherever they’re going in a timely fashion,” Jeff says. “They enjoy a sense of calmness – transportation and travel can be stressful, and we give them a chance to unwind.”

Vehicular transport with Old Village Transportation feels “coastal” thanks to white Jeep Wagoneer SUVs with blue leather interior – a certain model Paul spotted at a dealership during a trip to North Carolina. Now the company’s calling card, the Wagoneers provide an oceanic vibe that matches the Lowcountry, and, as a bonus, are easier to spot in a crowded airport.

Speaking of water, Old Village Transportation can provide anything from a 90-foot yacht to a booze cruise to a fishing charter for guests who want an aquatic adventure, while three brokers scout the best flights for guests who need air travel. “We want the best prices for our clients,” Paul says. “Part of providing joy is saving them money!”

We will drive anywhere — it’s luxury without limits,” Jeff says. “Just call us! “ ”

Though it’s still a growing business, Old Village Transportation has made an impact on both regulars and new clients over the last year and a half. One recent guest, as Jeff recalls, was visiting a dear friend in the D.C. area and decided to stay a longer time than she initially planned. Old Village Transportation drove not only her additional belongings but also her dog, a friendly chow named Romeo, from the Charleston metro to Washington D.C. metro.

(843) 696-4114 | oldvillagetransportation.com

3360 BALDWIN LANE | $2,250,000

8 acres on South Fenwick Island l 350 ft on deepwater l 4 continuous parcels - 2 on deepwater

Just south of Charleston, this remarkable property offers a rare opportunity to own a private island retreat within South Carolina’s ACE Basin. This hidden gem on South Fenwick Island features over 350 feet of deep-water frontage. Positioned at the confluence of the lntracoastal Waterway, the South Edisto River and the Ashepoo River, South Fenwick is remarkably accessible from Edisto Beach, Bennetts Point landing or Saint Helena Sound. The charming cabin features natural ship-lap pine throughout the two bedroom, bath, kitchen, den and loft. The exterior is constructed from the highest quality Hardie Plank. Stay connected with wifi and a state-of-the-art solar energy system. Find total relaxation on the large porches, by the picnic area and fire pit, or on the covered, west-facing dock that premiers one-of-a-kind sunsets every evening. An amazing investment opportunity, the property is made up of four adjacent parcels with no deed restrictions and the flexibility of selling portions of the property separately. Take a short scenic boat ride to view this property with listing agent Marie.

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Luxury Home Magazine Charleston and the Lowcountry Issue 11.3 by Luxury Home Magazine - Issuu