The Restoration Cultural Almanac | Winter 2019 | Issue 8

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free, take one

C U LT U R AL ALMANAC

CHARLESTON CHANGEMAKERS revolutionizing the city

LONDON IS CALLING start your adventure here

OUR NEW GM introducing chelsea nightengale

SOUTHERN STYLE REINVENTED a new perspective on fashion

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. Change.

Community. Culture - 1 -

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Unwind and enjoy with our handcrafted seasonal drinks at The Restoration.

JANUARY Charcoal Latte

FEBRUARY Red Velvet Hot Chocolate T H ER E STOR ATION HOT EL .COM

MARCH Matcha Latte

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LETTER FROM

M G the W

ith 2019 upon us, we’re excited to embrace and celebrate all things new.

This not only includes the New Year, but also my new role as General Manager of The Restoration. I’m extremely excited to continue developing our company culture and maintain The Restoration’s reputation as a place where our employees enjoy working, and our guests delight in every aspect of their stay.

We welcome and invite visitors from near and far to experience the best of what Charleston

has to offer, starting right here at our property.

Begin your day with us at The Rise Coffee Bar, and taste our tempting seasonal drinks and homestyle pastries before wandering over to The Port Mercantile and perusing this season’s specially curated items. Enjoy our complimentary bicycles and explore the city, and then retreat to The Watch Rooftop to sip a handmade cocktail as you watch the sunset from one of the highest vantage points of Charleston.

If you’d like to slow things down, look no further than The Amethyst Spa, our quaint escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Enjoy a selection of treatments from our Nail Bar, or switch into full relaxation mode with an aromatherapy massage, revitalizing detox facial, or specialized body treatment.

If you’re in the mood for socializing, there’s never a shortage of events happening at The Restoration. One of our newest events I’m most looking forward to is our Charleston Changemakers Series, a sequence of discussions led by the Changemakers featured in this issue.

These men and women are taking initiative to bring awareness to some lesser known parts of Charleston, and these chats will celebrate the community and highlight those who are making an impact throughout the city.

Wherever your Charleston adventure leads, we’re glad you’re here. The entire team at The Restoration would like to wish you all a very happy New Year, and thank each and every one of our guests for creating new memories with us. May we have many more in 2019.

Be inspired,

Chelsea Nightengale, General Manager

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Welcome to our world of creativity, history and style. It’s the perfect setting for bringing people together.

Book your event today.

75 Wentworth Street, Charleston | TheRestorationHotel.com | 843.518.5100 - 4 -

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GET TO KNOW

OUR NEW GM From the Big Apple to the Holy City, Chelsea Nightengale comes to her position with years of unparalleled knowledge, experience, and a true passion for hospitality. As our previous Director of Food & Beverage, Chelsea has been bringing a refreshing energy to our property since her arrival. Fusing her love of food and wine with her enthusiasm for ensuring every guest has an exceptionally memorable stay, Chelsea is more than ready to take on the role of General Manager and continue creating an unforgettable environment for all visitors.

What’s it like being a New Yorker living in Charleston?

It’s different. The quality of life is a lot better for a Charlestonian than it is for a New Yorker.

There’s just more space; more living space and green space. From downtown, you can drive 15 minutes in either direction and be at some of the best beaches in the country or one of the many historic plantations. Winters are also more enjoyable - it’s the best of everything.

Do you find any of your New York influence makes its way into to your work at The Restoration?

Absolutely. Once a New Yorker, always a New Yorker. I’m thankful the first chapter of my career was in Manhattan. I think the grind there is unmatched, and I try and translate that to my daily life here.

How does your extensive background in the food and beverage industry lend itself to your new role as the GM of The Restoration?

Food is something that is a common thread between all cultures; it’s easy to find a link.

Cuisine is a foundation for so many communities, and I can’t think of a better example of this than Charleston. I look forward to using food as a way connect with our guests and team.

How would you best describe your leadership style?

I am very hands on; I want to be on the front

line with our team. I think that’s the best way to find daily teaching moments to help guide.

What is your favorite thing about The Restoration?

Amazing programming. We are a highly programmed hotel that wants our guests to experience the true community of Charleston.

We want them to live like a local and immerse themselves in the culture with us. Our onproperty activations allow us to open that door for them. From yoga and outdoor movies on our Historic Rooftop to a series called ‘CreativeMornings’, we always have something happening that our guests can get involved with.

What is the most memorable experience you’ve had since you started working at The Restoration?

There’s been quite a few. We had a huge New Year’s Eve party last year called Mansion Ball where we took our four grand suites and opened them to the public for a ticketed event hosting 450 guests. Every department was involved. It was amazing to see what we could orchestrate together.

What does a typical work day look like for you?

I usually start my day around 7am. My first stop is The Rise Coffee Bar, of course. After doing a walk-through of the property, I like to head to my office and spend an hour or two checking emails or voicemails as the hotel is - 5 -

just starting to wake up. At 10am, we have an all-staff meeting to go over what the day will look like, and each department presents what their focus will be. After our line-up, I check in with our department heads and we hit the ground running. I try to spend as much time as possible working alongside our team and assisting our guests. My ideal work day ends at 6:30pm, but it can go later with events.

What does working at The Restoration mean to you?

It’s everything. A part of my character is that my work helps define who I am. I’ve been given a voice to lead a team of amazing people, and our goal is to give guests the best possible experience they’ll ever have. That is a responsibility that I don’t take lightly, and a team that I’m very proud to be a part of.

What is something guests can always expect from The Restoration?

Great service. A high level of service is one thing we strive for everyday. We can teach our team how to make a bed or set a table, but what we can’t teach is how to make someone care for another human being. It’s either innately in you, or it’s not. We want to surround ourselves with caring, compassionate people.

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y r a u n Ja 1/9 - 1/20

1/17

CHARLESTON RESTAURANT WEEK

CULTURAL ALMANAC RELEASE PARTY

Travelers, locals, and adventurous foodies alike: prepare to immerse yourself in Charleston’s renowned food scene with prix fixe lunch and dinner menus during Restaurant Week. The Watch Rooftop Kitchen & Spirits will feature special menu items, promotions, and discounts.

Join us at The Watch to indulge in 3 Courses for $30 dollars.

1/24 - 1/27 JAZZ FEST From jazz legends to emerging artists and celebrated local talent, the Charleston Jazz Festival showcases a variety of performances across genres like the blues, swing, salsa, and more.

Join us in The Library from 5-6pm to celebrate the release of our latest Cultural Almanac.

1/25 SHAKEN AND STIRRED: CLARIFIED MILK PUNCH

1/11 - 1/13 20% MARATHON DISCOUNT AT THE AMETHYST SPA Relaxation is always a good idea, especially surrounding a marathon. Book a service at The Amethyst Spa and receive a 20% Marathon discount.

Weeklyts Even HAPPENING EVERY MONTH

We’re welcoming 2019 with a clear mind and a clear cocktail. Gather around the fire in The Library from 5pm-6pm to try our Clarified Milk Punch, a time-honored libation that dates back nearly three centuries.

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1/27

CREATIVEMORNINGS CHARLESTON Join us for CreativeMornings, a free breakfast chat session featuring Charleston-based, award-winning artist Nathan Durfee. Once named Best Local Visual Artist by Charleston City Paper, Durfee has gained notoriety across the Southeast for his compelling, popsurrealist pieces. Reservations required.

Visit creativemornings.com/chs

LOWCOUNTRY OYSTER FESTIVAL Experience the world’s largest oyster festival, named among the ‘Top 20 Events in the Southeast’ by Southeastern Tourism Society. Enjoy everything from oyster shucking and oyster eating contests, to live music, a selection of wine, beer, and local foods, plus a designated children’s area.

SUNDAYS

MONDAYS

WEDNESDAYS

BRUNCH AT THE WATCH | 10AM-3PM

$10 BURGER + BEER NIGHT AT THE WATCH | 4PM-CLOSE

1/2 PRICE WINE WEDNESDAYS AT THE WATCH | 4PM-CLOSE

MUSIC SERIES AT THE WATCH | 12PM-3PM

TUESDAYS TIKI TUESDAYS AT THE WATCH | 4PM-CLOSE

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For more information, visit the Happenings page on our website.

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BACON & BOURBON FESTIVAL

2/9

Indulge in an unlimited sampling of bacon dishes and bourbon tastings at the Charleston Area Convention Center from 7:30pm-11pm, with a special VIP Preview starting at 6:30pm. Additional entertainment will be provided by live music, a bull riding championship, a cigar cabana, and much more. Event proceeds will benefit Charleston Feed The Need.

CHARLESTON CHANGEMAKERS SERIES Introducing our newest event at The Restoration: The Charleston Changemakers Series. Our featured Changemakers will host a sequence of open, community-minded discussions in The Library, and all are welcome to attend and participate.

THE PORT: HIS + HERS Join us at The Port from 10am-6pm for a pre-Valentine’s shopping event featuring DEWDROP Jewelry and Misc. Goods Co. Grab the one you love and peruse the featured collections while enjoying light refreshments.

2/15 - 2/17 SOUTHEASTERN WILDLIFE EXPO Stop into The Port and discover White Wing Bags and Brackish Accessories, which are perfect for SEWE, The Southeastern Wildlife Exposition. With its home base in Charleston, SEWE is a three-day celebration of wildlife and nature through art, conservation education, sporting demonstrations, and more. For additional information, visit sewe.com

Weeklyts Even

2/22

2/28

SHAKEN AND STIRRED: GOLD RUSH Join us in The Library from 5pm-6pm to shake off the winter blues with our whiskey-infused take on the Bee’s Knees cocktail. We’re serving up a mixture of bourbon, lemon, and honey to help cure those winter colds.

CHANGEMAKER: MARCUS AMAKER Gather your friends and join Marcus Amaker, Charleston’s poet laureate, for the first edition of the Changemakers Series in The Library at 6pm.

SUNDAYS

MONDAYS

WEDNESDAYS

BRUNCH AT THE WATCH | 10AM-3PM

$10 BURGER + BEER NIGHT AT THE WATCH | 4PM-CLOSE

1/2 PRICE WINE WEDNESDAYS AT THE WATCH | 4PM-CLOSE

MUSIC SERIES AT THE WATCH | 12PM - 3PM

TUESDAYS

HAPPENING EVERY MONTH

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TIKI TUESDAYS AT THE WATCH | 4PM-CLOSE

For more information, visit the Happenings page on our website.

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h c r Ma 3/30 - 4/7

3/7

Prepare for a week of excitement at the largest women’s-only tennis tournament in North America with more than 100 world class athletes.

CHANGEMAKER: TIMMY FINCH Come together with Bicycle Crash Attorney, Timmy Finch, as he hosts this segment of the Changemakers Series at 6pm in The Library.

Gather your loved ones and head up to the King Street Rooftop for an evening of buttered popcorn, movie candy, a Signature Cocktail, and a night under the stars.

FESTIVAL OF HOUSES AND GARDENS

CHANGEMAKER: TIM HUSSEY Meet Charleston-based artist and muralist, Tim Hussey, in The Library at 6pm.

3/6 - 3/10

3/15 - 3/16

CHARLESTON WINE + FOOD

Celebrate springtime in Charleston with the beauty and splendor of the 72nd Annual Festival of Houses and Gardens. Step inside the private residences and gardens of some of the city’s most extraordinary properties while learning about Charleston’s unique architecture and history. For more information, visit: historiccharleston.org

3/29

CHARLESTON ANTIQUES SHOW

Support Charleston and the Lowcountry’s diverse culinary and hospitality community at the 2019 Charleston Wine + Food Festival.

Grab your forks and raise your glasses to more than 100 culinary experiences with top chefs, winemakers, authors, and artisans. For ticket information, visit charlestonwineandfood.com

HAPPENING EVERY MONTH

FILM THURSDAY: HOW TO LOSE A GUY IN 10 DAYS

3/13 - 4/18 3/14

Weeklyts Even

3/21

VOLVO CAR OPEN TENNIS TOURNAMENT

Enjoy a casual afternoon at the 16th Annual Antiques Show and explore a variety of furniture, art, and jewelry ranging from the 17th century to mid-century. Held at The Gaillard Center, proceeds benefit Historic Charleston Foundation.

SHAKEN AND STIRRED: LAST WORD Get into the swing of Spring with this green hued elixir that first made its debut during the Prohibition era. Meet our Beverage Expert in The Library from 5pm-6pm to take a taste of this gin-based cocktail.

SUNDAYS

MONDAYS

WEDNESDAYS

BRUNCH AT THE WATCH | 10AM-3PM

$10 BURGER + BEER NIGHT AT THE WATCH | 4PM-CLOSE

1/2 PRICE WINE WEDNESDAYS AT THE WATCH | 4PM-CLOSE

MUSIC SERIES AT THE WATCH | 12PM-3PM

TUESDAYS

ROOFTOP YOGA WITH LULULEMON ON THE KING STREET ROOFTOP BEGINNING 3/27

For more information, visit the Happenings page on our website.

TIKI TUESDAYS AT THE WATCH | 4PM-CLOSE

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Celebrated treasures both curated and current at The Restoration.

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Illustration credits: BlueHousePaperie

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Bike Tour DISCOVER CHARLESTON

Conc ord

Welcome to historic Charleston, South Carolina. While we certainly love reminiscing about days gone by, we invite you to delight in the New South, starting at The Restoration. This portable bike map highlights must-see landmarks, distinctive shops, and sought after places of interest that have been hand-selected to make your time in the Holy City truly unforgettable.

THE RESTORATION

8. KING STREET

LUXURY HOTEL 75 Wentworth St / 843.518.5100

WORLD CLASS SHOPPING AND DINING

1. COLLEGE OF CHARLESTON

9. RTW

UNIVERSITY FOR LIBERAL ARTS 66 George St

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S BOUTIQUE 186 King St / 843.577.9748

2. HAMPDEN CLOTHING

10. BILLY REID

DESIGNER CLOTHING FOR WOMEN 314 King St / 843.724.6373

CLOTHING FOR MEN AND WOMEN 150 King St / 843.577.3004

3. M. DUMAS & SONS

11. BERLIN’S

UPSCALE MEN’S BOUTIQUE 294 King St / 843.723.8603

SUITS AND SPORTSWEAR FOR MEN 116 King St / 843.723.5591

4. FINICKY FILLY

12. RAINBOW ROW

LUXURY WOMEN’S BOUTIQUE 303 King St / 843.534.0203

ICONIC COLORFUL HOUSES 83 E Bay St

5. LULULEMON

13. PINEAPPLE FOUNTAIN + WATERFRONT PARK

ATHLETIC APPAREL 279 King St / 843.937.6123

PICTURESQUE FOCAL POINT 1 Vendue Range

6. CANDLEFISH

14. MARIS DEHART

CURATED CANDLES AND GIFTS 71 Wentworth St / 843.371.1434

LUXURY WOMEN’S BOUTIQUE 32 Vendue Range #100 / 843.974.5712

7. WORTHWHILE

15. CITY MARKET

CHIC WOMEN’S BOUTIQUE 1436, 268 King St / 843.723.4418

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COMPLEX WITH OVER 300 VENDORS 188 Meeting St

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Follow @therestorationhotel and @anastasiasouris

Where theour locals go.

We love locals.

Joininusthe at neighborhood, The Restoration If you’re join us take part intocommunity at ThetoRestoration take part in our gatherings andgatherings. special events. community

75 Wentworth Street, Charleston | TheRestorationHotel.com/Happenings | 843.518.5100 75 Wentworth Street, Charleston | TheRestorationHotel.com | 843.518.5115 - 12 -

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Indulge in our scratch-made Lowcountry brunch favorites every Sunday from 10am to 3pm at The Restoration.

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CHARLESTON

CHANGE MAKERS Who (or what) is a changemaker? While this word can hold many meanings, we see a changemaker as someone who alters the common landscape to make their community, and the world, a better place. They seek to inspire, are passionate about what they do, and are constantly evolving their craft. From an established artist advancing Charleston’s creative community, to a poet and musician with a true sense of purpose, a jewelry designer with a philanthropic partnership, and a fierce advocate for the rights of cyclists, this group of trailblazers is truly making a mark in our city.

Meet Tim Hussey, Marcus Amaker, Sydney Pope Long, and Timmy Finch: Charleston Changemakers who are dedicated to creating an impact.

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TALKING ART & INSPIRATION

WITH CHARLESTON-BASED ARTIST

TIM HUSSEY

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Tim Hussey is no stranger to the art world. With his style of outside art meets abstract expressionism, Tim has been creating a body of work for decades that is very much open to interpretation.

Although Tim’s creations have been featured in exhibitions throughout the U.S., he’s found a home for his own art studio in Charleston among an artistic community that he describes as being small, yet extremely close. In addition to his art studio, Tim’s work can be seen on Charleston’s city streets at the corner of Huger and Hanover, with his gripping memorial to the Mother Emanuel Church shooting that devastated the city in 2015.

After the birth of your daughter, you and your wife started Abstract Baby Co. to create original art for children. How did you two come up with that idea and what does the company means to you?

I knew I was going to have a child and I wanted to make sure I didn’t miss a day of this baby time. [One day], I laid out a couple pieces of paper and really quickly put a piece together. Once I got it framed and hung, I really liked it, and it really is about [my daughter]. I just thought that there must be lots of parents out there who would love something different. I thought, what if I gave them the chance to tell me about some of their favorite things they would love to include, but then I got the freedom to choose just a couple of them to still make it my own? So, it’s definitely experimental, but it’s a cute concept and it’s very fulfilling.

What makes Charleston a great home for your art studio?

It has a lot to do with being from here.

I know the community; they all take care of each other. I can trade my paintings for a lot of services, from things like construction to dentistry.

It’s just because we’re all tight. I think that community is coming back in style, and people want a little more of an attachment to something real, and Charleston is that.

The Charleston church shooting was such a horrific tragedy.

Following the massacre, how did you channel what you were feeling into creating the mural that now acts as a memorial?

That whole thing started out as a festival put on by this place called Enough Pie. It was basically just a visual festival with a bunch of murals and no theme. So, I had sketched out something rough, but because of the nature of my work, I kind of improvise as I’m doing it, and literally on the second day, my wife was running, and someone had told her to go home because there had been a shooting. No one could really understand what had happened yet. The next day when I heard everything, [the other muralists and I] all felt like, ‘how can we just do some frivolous, silly mural for a festival when this is going on?’ My piece was already gonna be about mental illness and the lack of knowledge or regard [people] have for how it affects society, and then suddenly, it all made sense.

Mental illness definitely played into [the shooting], so it really was a natural transition to me. The only part that was really blatantly illustrative was when I put an African American profile with nine tears coming out. That was the last part of the mural, to say ‘if you don’t understand what you’re seeing, this is kind of the direction to go.’ But, because my work is usually very abstract, you can translate it however you want. I knew it wasn’t going to be an easy, direct read for anybody, but it was about mental illness because I know that’s such a huge, overlooked part of society.

“I think people want an attachment to something real, and Charleston is that.”

What is the most important lesson you’ve learned throughout your career?

Making a living off your art is not the goal. Don’t rely on making a living from it, or you’ll always be let down.

What is the primary goal you have for your art in Charleston?

I’m most interested in elevating the conscience of the art world in Charleston. I would love for people to be driving down South and say, ‘Let’s go through Charleston, I’ve actually heard some interesting stuff going on there with art.’

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POETRY, PRINCE & PURPOSE

WITH CHARLESTON’S FIRST POET LAUREATE

MARCUS AMAKER Marcus Amaker is a lover of Prince, Joni Mitchell, and The Golden Girls. He also happens to hold the title of Charleston’s first poet laureate, a government-made position that is created to expand literary arts in schools and the city. But aside from his poetry, Marcus is immensely passionate about his music and his graphic design, especially the work he does for a national music magazine entitled No Depression, which focuses on roots music. For a man who is involved in so much, Marcus is sure to make time to nap every single day, and claims this routine is the most important habit he’s adopted throughout his career.

How and when did you first get started in graphic design and music?

Probably when I was 10 years old.

That was the first time I heard Prince.

Seeing his vinyl inspired me at a young age because I wanted to sing like that, I wanted to write like that, I wanted my artwork to look like that. So, I started making music and drawing and singing songs when I was really young; it was always sort of a package deal.

What is it about music that drives your creativity the most?

I believe that with my music, that’s where I’m most free and most authentic because there are no limitations. There aren’t limitations with poetry either, but I’m in this position now, so it’s just a different energy. With music, I can just be as crazy as I want. The whole experimentation part of it is what I really enjoy.

What does it mean to you to be Charleston’s first poet laureate?

I have an opportunity to be a voice not only for poets, but for all types of artists. I think it’s important that artists, and especially sort of funky artists, are at the table when decisions are being made, and have a hand in seeing how things work. That is really important for me. But also, it’s my life’s work to be in schools and for kids to see that you can be a poet and be a ‘rockstar’ (at least to them it feels that way). That to me feels really great because I think we need more

kids to write and express themselves.

Especially boys, but men too. It’s been really cool for me to be able to show them that yeah, it’s cool to cry and to express yourself and be honest.

“It’s important that artists are at the table when decisions are being made.”

Last year, you started Charleston’s first poetry festival: Free Verse.

What is your favorite thing about the festival?

Our ‘Poetry as Public Art’ projects.

We have poems on windows and some murals around town. We do these flyers that are called ‘lost poems’ where you pull a tag with a local phone number on it, and then call to hear a poem.

I’m excited for people to interact with poetry even though they might not know the festival is going on.

Where do you see the Charleston poetry community 5 years from now?

It would be great to have a dedicated space to poetry, rather than us finding places where we fit. I’m very blessed to be able to work with a lot of different - 17 -

venues, but to have a poetry house would be really cool.

What is one piece of advice you think all aspiring poets should hear?

Well, the big thing for me is to not share everything that you create. For instance, I make projects for myself and write poems that I don’t share with other people. It just helps me remember why I got into it and keeps the spirit at its core.

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CHANNELING CHANGE THROUGH THE SEA

WITH OWNER & DESIGNER OF BARRACUDA MOON JEWELRY

SYDNEY POPE LONG

Sydney Pope Long is the brain (and the hands!) behind Barracuda Moon Jewelry, a collection of laid-back, luxury pieces inspired by the sea. Before launching her business, Sydney knew that she wanted to do something to give back to others, so she partnered with and donated a portion of all sales to the Polaris Project, a charity leading the global fight against human trafficking.

Through her coalition with the Polaris Project, Sydney has become even more inspired to keep creating her jewelry in Charleston, where the continued support of her business has given her many opportunities to help people through the nonprofit organization.

How did you first form your partnership with the Polaris Project?

I heavily researched different types of charities and specifically wanted to work with a charity that used the majority of its funding to help its victims rather than using donations for marketing. That’s important too, but I wanted to find a charity that really was helping people. I loved the fact that they not only help victims abroad, but also in the U.S. A lot of people don’t know that there’s so much human trafficking going on in the United States. This charity helps both, and they are also fighting to change the laws that protect victims, so they’re really attacking it on all fronts.

“I want people to feel like they have something they can pass on to their daughters.”

What’s your creative process like when it comes to making new jewelry?

It’s kind of different every time, but I’m really inspired by certain types of design, like 70s jewelry and egyptian jewelry. I love to put a modern take on that and create pieces that people want to wear everyday. I’ll take a picture of something I see or sketch something - 18 -

and then try to make it into my own.

How do you find the sea glass and the materials you use to make your pieces?

I have some secret spots, but I like to go at low tide, especially after a storm.

I try to go to places where I know I can usually find good pieces of sea glass and just make it a whole experience.

Why is Charleston the perfect home for Barracuda Moon?

There are so many people that either are from here or that have moved here and made it home. They absolutely love being near the coast and that’s what embodies the whole vibe of the line.

It’s very sea-inspired, and a lot of pieces I create hoping that people will find a little piece of their love for the ocean, the sea, and being near the coast.

What is your proudest achievement since starting Barracuda Moon?

I would say it’s having someone tell me how much they love their piece and how special it is to them, and that they want to wear it everyday. That’s exactly what I want to do: make people feel like they have something special and unique that they want to keep forever and pass on to their daughters or loved ones.

What’s one piece of Barracuda Moon jewelry that you think everyone should own?

I would say the Sleeping Moon necklace. It’s very simple but still a statement.

You can find Sydney’s jewelry collection at The Port or barracudamoon.com

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PAVING THE WAY FOR CYCLISTS

WITH BICYCLE CRASH ATTORNEY

TIMMY FINCH Timmy Finch believes bicycles - and really good bike infrastructure - can change the world. He also believes that in Charleston, you could live your entire life without a car. After all, he says, “it blows my mind that the first thing people do when they go on vacation is say, ‘hey, let’s go rent a bike and check out this town.’ But why wouldn’t you want to live that way?” As a lawyer and avid cyclist himself, Timmy works to help injured cyclists through Bike Law, a network of independent lawyers and law firms that share a common approach to helping Vulnerable Road Users, like cyclists, who have less protection on the road.

Which bike laws do you believe to be the most beneficial to cyclists?

I think [the most important are] the ones that give cyclists in South Carolina all the rights and responsibilities to be on the road.

These bikes belong, and people on bikes belong. The other is safe passing. It just puts the onus on an automobile driver to make sure that when they are passing [cyclists], it’s safe.

Aside from being a devoted cyclist, why did you choose to specialize in Bike Law? I think as cyclist, you realize how different your relationship is to automobiles and other road users.

Specifically, when you’re in a car crash, you’re encased in this cage that is totally designed for your safety. On the other side of that, when you’re on a bike, you’re in the world. [Once cyclists have gotten hit], they’re looking over their shoulder, they’re nervous, they no longer enjoy riding. So, coming from a place of knowing how people treat cyclists on the road, knowing that we need an advocate for that, that’s what drew me to it.

What’s your favorite bike route in Charleston?

Riding out to the islands is always nice. I used to live here at The Restoration, and I would ride every single day from here out to Folly Beach and back on a bike that had no brakes, no gears. So, it’s kind of nostalgic to do that ride.

In what ways does the law need to change in order to better protect cyclists?

I would love to see an extension of that Vulnerable Road User to put a presumption on a driver. This means if somebody strikes a cyclist or a pedestrian, then we presume - 19 -

it’s the fault of the motor vehicle unless there’s evidence. I think there are other road use laws that would benefit everybody too, like changing the speed limit to 20 miles an hour throughout the peninsula, max 25, and enforcing it strictly. If you are struck by an automobile going 20 miles an hour, your survival rate, even as a pedestrian, is 90 to 95 percent. As speed increases, [survival] plummets.

From a legal standpoint, what’s the best advice you can give to a cyclist if they get injured?

Take it seriously. Make sure the police get your statement. Get info from any witnesses. Take photos.

Resist the urge to explain it away, and go get checked out by a doctor.

What would you say is the primary mission of Bike Law? The primary mission is reducing crashes and fatalities, and making the world a better place for people who choose to ride a bike. If Bike Law was so successful that every cyclist was safe to do what they wanted, and that essentially put me out of business, I’ll take it.

“Bikes belong, and people on bikes belong.”

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MODEL, BUSINESSWOMAN & CREATIVE, VENITA ASPEN

SOUTHERN STYLE

REINVENTED

T H ER E STOR ATION HOT EL .COM

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With a big smile, infectious personality, and a unique style that is truly her own, it’s no surprise that Venita Aspen has been modeling since she was a baby. Classifying her fashion sense as one that’s playful, masculine, and sporty, Venita looks to Janelle Monae as her biggest style icon, an artist who is known for rocking bold ensembles in a mixture of everything from suits and ties to playful dresses. But Venita doesn’t put herself in a box when it comes to fashion. In fact, she personally describes her aesthetic as “ever-changing” and says, “I try not to stick to the same thing.

I dress based off of my feelings for the day.”

What is one style tip that you think everyone should know?

Move to the beat of your own drum. Following trends is - don’t get me wrong, they’re cute - but it’s kind of pointless because you’re gonna have something in your closet that you won’t wear again for 10 years, you know?

What is your personal motto?

Never be afraid of the answer ‘no’. Don’t look at it as a definite answer, look at it as ‘it’s just not meant for me right now.’ Everything comes back full circle; you just have to have enough patience to wait for it.

What is your favorite thing about being a model?

Knowing that I am that person that little girls and women can see and relate to… there’s no better feeling.

What is a trend you’d like to see fade away?

It’s more of a life trend, but being disrespectful.

I would like to see that slip away and see people listen to what others have to say even though it might not necessarily be their beat.

You recently fused your work as a model and stylist to create the Aspen Agency.

What is your main goal with this new venture?

To allow everyone to feel included. So, brands with tighter budgets and brands with bigger budgets will all feel like they’re getting the same worth and practices, even though they’ll be paying a different dollar amount.

What do you love most about being a stylist?

Being the individual that helps bring someone else’s vision to life.

Where are some of your favorite places to shop in Charleston?

Shoes on King, Beckett Boutique, Red Rose Vintage, iBU Movement... the list goes on!

must have trends

1. The clear bag, but that’s something that can’t really go out of style to me.

2. A low heel & loafers are here to stay! The high heel is definitely not in the picture for day-to-day looks anymore.

3.

Straight-leg jeans & skinny jeans will always be around, but straight-leg denim is definitely having a moment.

4. The blazer is back and it’s better than ever!

Throw on a blazer, white button-up, straightleg jeans and a low heel, and you'll have a look!

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tips to reinvent your own southern style

1. Don’t be afraid of mixing patterns (it’ll be the best decision you make - swear.)

2.

Bold colors. Add them into your wardrobe, and don’t be afraid to wear them.

3. Stay true to your authentic self!

For more fashion inspiration, follow @venitaaspen

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ON THE LINE

WITH FOOD & BEVERAGE DIRECTOR

Daniel Nightengale

I

f Daniel Nightengale had to describe himself in three words, it would be energetic, detailed, and organized. But these are just a few of the characteristics that make him such a great chef and Food & Beverage Director. Growing up primarily in Pennsylvania, Daniel spent a lot of time helping his mother and grandmother in the kitchen. Whether they were making cookies or peeling carrots, Daniel was always there to lend a hand, especially as his passion for the culinary arts started to come to life. Once he became a teenager and was able to start working in restaurants, Daniel got a job doing dishes in a kitchen, where he first began

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learning the tricks of the trade. From there, he went on to study at both the Culinary Institute of America and The Ohio State University before moving to New York City and becoming the Executive Sous Chef of Bubby’s in Tribeca, a restaurant Daniel describes as embodying southern hospitality in the heart of New York.

Daniel followed his time at Bubby’s with a stay at Rouge Tomate, and then carried on at The Smith, where he moved from Sous Chef to Executive Sous Chef and finally to Executive Chef all in less than 2 years. Daniel attributes a lot of the positive management style he’s learned to his time at The Smith, where he supervised 85 cooks, prep cooks, and dishwashers in the kitchen, and strived to make them all feel like family.

Now in Charleston, Daniel’s favorite thing about the food and beverage scene in the Holy City is its locality. There are distilleries, breweries, and farms all within a very close radius that each excel at what they do, and Daniel is excited about having the opportunity to showcase their talents. When it comes to working at The Restoration, Daniel’s favorite thing is the culture and the people, particularly because everyone is nice, understanding, approachable, and shares a positive mindset of how daily tasks should be executed. Currently working to transform the menu at The Watch, Daniel is most looking forward to changing the recipe of The Watch Burger, serving duck wings instead of chicken wings, and making The Restoration’s own parmesan gnocchi. When Daniel’s not at work, aside from taking part in the obvious pastime of eating and drinking delectable food and cocktails, he enjoys reading cookbooks and cocktail books, and following both collegiate and professional sports. We’re delighted to have Daniel’s knowledge, energy, and commitment as part of our team at The Restoration, and can’t wait to try all the new recipes he’s been working on at The Watch!

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AN INSIDER’S GUIDE

LONDON IS CALLING

Brilliant news! A new European flight route is touching down in Charleston this April. Starting in the Spring, you’ll be able to get a direct flight from Charleston to London’s Heathrow Airport on British Airways. This means The Royal Family, Big Ben, and world class fish and chips are only an 8-hour flight away! If you’re not ready to travel across the pond just yet, you can still get a British experience right here in Charleston by exploring the rich culture and cuisine of London with a few local hot spots.

TWENTY SIX DIVINE A charming tea room reminiscent of those in the heart of England. Located on upper King Street, husband-and-wife owners and chefs, Jenn and Enan Parezo, created a modern yet traditional take on British classics such as savory tea sandwiches, shepherd’s pie, scones, and apple streusel. Take your place at the table Monday through Saturday from 11:30am-4:30pm. For reservations, call 843.297.8118

THE GRIFFON

THE ORDINARY Stop in for seafood at this King Street oyster hall. Located in an old bank, The Ordinary, which is also an old British term for a place of gathering, features an array of seafood options, including smoked oysters, jumbo lump blue crab toast, and steamed flounder.

Enjoy a dinner rich with classic elegance Tuesday through Sunday, 5pm-11pm.

T H ER E STOR ATION HOT EL .COM

Step inside your quintessential British pub for fish and chips and a variety of draft beer including the local Bricklayer Red Ale from Tradesman Brewery, and cream ale from Revelry Brewing Company. The Griffon, a popular staple in town, has been around for over 20 years. It’s grunge appeal - and dollar bills stapled to the wall - make this dive bar legendary for locals and travelers alike.

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CROGHAN’S JEWEL BOX

THE CHARLESTON MUSEUM The perfect exploration for history buffs, The Charleston Museum was founded in 1773 and features historic collections and permanent exhibitions ranging from archeological artifacts in the Bunting Natural History Gallery, to Civil War era swords, pistols, muskets, and rifles in The Armory. Tour historic houses and uncover artifacts from the British Royal Artillery in the ‘Becoming Americans’ exhibit. For tickets, visit charlestonmuseum.org

Feel like royalty surrounded by beautiful jewels in Croghan’s Jewel Box. In business since the 18th century, Croghan’s offers engravings, repairs, and customizations with a variety of diamonds, pearls, white gold, and more. You’ll find luxurious wedding bands, engagement rings, and vintageinspired jewelry fit for a modern day queen. Oneof-a-kind Charm Bracelet, www.croghansjewelbox.com

BILLY REID Stay warm while looking chic in sophisticated designs from Billy Reid.

Blending traditional and modern styles, Reid’s collection of menswear and womenswear, cozy knit sweaters and jackets will have you set for any season in London or Charleston. Distressed Clayton Jacket, www.billyreid.com

BLUEMERCURY Shop an array of name brand beauty, makeup, and skincare products at Bluemercury on King Street. From perfumes and lotions to cosmetics and candles, you’ll find just what you’re looking for, including products from Jo Malone London.

HAMPDEN MADEWELL Madewell is the perfect place to discover effortless designs. From shoes and accessories to beauty products and home decor, you’ll find hidden gems that are unique, modern, and ideal for an exciting London getaway. Geo-Star Jacquard Scarf, www.madewell.com

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Discover more than 4,000 square feet of luxurious fashions at this charming King Street boutique with a variety of American and European designers, including Stella McCartney and Marc Jacobs.

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Splendor. Serenity. Stillness.

Delight in signature manicures, pedicures, and relaxing treatments at The Restoration.

Make your appointment at 843.518.5116 - 26 -

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THE BEST OF OUR

OYSTER ROAST We recently gathered with friends and family to reconnect through the Lowcountry ritual of an oyster roast. We shucked and celebrated alongside our Community Partners, Lowcountry Oyster Company and the Charleston Waterkeeper, to bring a memorable event to The Watch while honoring local culture with a raw bar, Lowcountry boil, live music, and much more.

The perfect pair

party Let the

begin

Cheers!

Photo credit: Cameron L. Wilder

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Locall

y c

locally aught,

shucke

d

Follow @therestorationhotel and @kc_doubletake

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75 Wentworth Street, Charleston | TheRestorationHotel.com | 843.518.5100 - 2 8 -