2013 Event Planning Guide

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What: Event Planning Guide

Presented by: The Charleston Regional Business Journal Details: Presented annually for the past 16 years, the Event Planning Guide is the go-to publication for event planners in the Charleston area.

Don’t miss: Each edition includes great planning tools, including checklists and directories. The guide also includes articles that look at the latest trends.

In this issue: Negotiating event costs; making technology work for you.

About our Sponsors D

esigned as a versatile venue for events of all shapes and sizes, Montague Terrace promises to host your next function in style. Montague Terrace’s blend of chic interiors, state-of-the-art capabilities, innovative catering, and exceptional services will accent your event with the modern elegance it deserves. Montague Terrace is LEED Silver Certified by the U.S. Green Building Council, making it one of the largest LEED certified special event venues in the Charleston area.

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ounded in 1741 by Henry Middleton as the headquarters for his network of South Carolina rice plantations, Middleton Place has witnessed Revolution, Civil War, hurricanes and an earthquake, and today serves as a testament to the refined tastes of colonial Low Country planters and the hard work and sacrifice of the men and women, both slave and free, who built our nation. The French-style formal gardens — the oldest landscaped gardens in America — are as breathtaking as ever, encompassing intimate, azalea-lined garden rooms, water features, artistic statuary and long camellia allées leading to the Ashley River. The House Museum is filled with objects of acute elegance, and interprets four generations of the politically-active Middleton family. In the Plantation Stableyards, interpretive artisans demonstrate the skilled trades once practiced by the plantation’s enslaved population and heritage-breed livestock roam the fields. Nearly all 65 acres of this National Historic Landmark can be transformed to fit the needs of any group or wedding reception, and the nearby Inn at Middleton Place provides relaxing accommodations and full service meeting facilities in an atmosphere of unsurpassed natural beauty. Complete food service specializing in Low Country cuisine and classic Southern cocktails are available from the Middleton Place Restaurant. Clients can rely on the Special Group Services team at Middleton Place to ensure every detail is covered and every expectation met to create a truly memorable experience for your guests.

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roduction Design Associates (PDA), is a locally owned and operated event production company that has become a leader in providing lighting, sound, staging, set design and projection services. Founded in 1991, PDA’s growth has guided the company into three main disciplines - event production, custom scenic decor and hotel A/V. The company’s success comes from its attention to detail, innovative designs, skilled technicians and expansive inventory. PDA believes that continued success is based on a drive to develop long-lasting business relationships through a commitment to quality work and excellent customer service. With live events, you only have one chance to get it right. PDA understands this sentiment, and so does their clientele. The White House, G8 Summit, CNN, Boeing, National Governor’s Conference, BMW, Spoleto Festival, Senators John Kerry and John McCain, Governor Mitt Romney, Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge Gala and Embassy Suite Hotels are just a sampling of the customers that have depended on PDA to fulfill their event needs. Find out why clients trust PDA to handle the technical details. One company, many solutions.

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Contents epg

4 Corporate Meetings & Conventions

Event Planning Guide Editor - Licia Jackson ljackson@scbiznews.com • 803.726.7546

18 Business Events & Fundraisers

Managing Editor - Andy Owens aowens@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3142 Senior Copy Editor - Beverly Barfield bbarfield@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3115 Staff Writer - Liz Segrist lsegrist@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3119 Senior Graphic Designer - Jane Mattingly jmattingly@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3118 Graphic Designer - Andrew Sprague asprague@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3128 Account executives Senior Account Executive - Sue Gordon sgordon@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3111 Senior Account Executive - Robert Reilly rreilly@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3107 Account Executive - Sara Cox scox@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3109 Account Executive - Bennett Parks bparks@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3126

26 Lifestyle

34 List & Directories

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South Carolina’s Media Engine for Economic Growth

2013 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

Event Planner - Jacquelyn Fehler jfehler@scbiznews.com • 864.235.5677, ext. 113 Accounting Manager - Vickie Deadmon vdeadmon@scbiznews.com • 864.235.5677, ext. 100 Custom media division Director of Business Development - Mark Wright mwright@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3143 Account Executive - Reneé Piontek rpiontek@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3105

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corporate meetings & conventions Negotiating event costs 5 Proper attire: a pictorial guide to dressing appropriately 8 How to make your business event work for you 10 New technology 11 Technical worksheet 12 Corporate event planning checklists 13 Emergency kit 17 Convention planning checklists 16

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2010 Event Planning Guide | www.gsabusiness.com 2013 www.charlestonbusiness.com

Corporate Meetings & Conventions

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Building relationships: Being flexible keeps corporate meeting budgets on track

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reating a thorough budget and being prepared for the unexpected are two key pieces of advice for event planners organizing corporate meetings and conventions.

Nicole Garrigan, an independent meeting planner based in Charleston, recommends finding a budget template online and creating a baseline budget that accounts for as many costs as possible.

“Keep those fundamental basics intact and have a contingency fund for the unexpected,” she said.

Make sure to ask for all-inclusive pricing that includes taxes, gratuities and any fees. Find out if your event needs a permit – a good bet for an

By Holly Fisher outdoor event – and if you need to secure insurance or additional security.

You don’t want to be caught off guard by these unexpected expenses – or even a fine if you haven’t secured the necessary permits.

Sponsorships can help offset many of the costs associated with conventions, meetings and conferences. Garrigan recommends working closely with the marketing and development team to brainstorm companies that are a good fit for a sponsorship.

“Companies have resources that can benefit you and your conference,” she said. “There might be a company that wants to sponsor your event, and they have a great rela-

tionship with a beverage company so they want to sponsor all the food and beverage for the conference.”

Garrigan said the trick is having a great line of communication with the development team so it can express the event needs to potential sponsors. “Share the event plan and budget with the team and they’ll have that in mind as they are looking for prospective sponsors,” she said.

Developing solid relationships with vendors is another way to ensure you’re getting a fair price and quality service.

“Seek out vendors who you feel can become part of your team and have a great relationship with those people,” Garrigan said. “If they’re fa-

miliar with your project and you’ve spent time investing in those relationships, they will be more willing to work with you on costs.”

This is particularly important for an ongoing event. Vendors who know you’ll need their services year to year may be inclined to offer better deals on pricing, Garrigan noted.

Those good relationships also mean less negotiating on your end because you know you’re getting a fair price, she said.

At the same time, especially for a first-time event or if you’re entering a new market, do your research and know the fair market value for a service, Garrigan said. She even calls her counterparts in the industry to

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find out what they are paying.

Another piece of building relationships is rewarding good service.

When planning larger corporate events and conferences, Garrigan makes notes of people who have been particularly helpful, such as bartenders or the hotel staff that sets up the rooms. Knowing her client has budgeted for additional gratuities, Garrigan can make recommendations on who should get a bonus.

“Particularly if you’re trying to build something sustainable, you have to budget for those gratuities and know that you’ve thanked people and appreciate their hard work,”

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Garrigan said. “You want to build that rapport.”

Other local event specialists suggest using event planners and coordinators to keep the budget in check. Their experience in planning events can be useful when it comes to making sure you’ve covered all the bases.

Plus, because of the volume of work they do, event planners have more negotiating power with vendors, pointed out Lauren Fox, owner of Fox Events.

“When you have a planner helping you stay in your budget, it will help you save,” she said.

2013 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

Maryann Hoyt, owner of The Event Cooperative, said many people do the planning and negotiating on their own but end up comparing “apples to rotten oranges.”

You have to assess each estimate carefully to ensure they are truly the same and meeting your event needs.

“You have to weigh the pros and cons of each estimate,” Hoyt said.

“Do you want to be handheld by vendors or have them just walk in and walk out?”

Being flexible is another way to cut event costs without sacrificing the overall program.

Consider the time of year.

Charleston, for example, is busy with tourists in July and August, but not as busy for events. Fox noted summer is a good time to book a venue or hotel for an event and get some lower rates. The same goes for January and February, which are slower event months so hotels, venues and caterers are more likely to negotiate.

Also thinking outside the box when it comes to event space is helpful. Garrigan suggests looking to colleges and universities for venues, which are often less expensive than hotels.

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Proper Attire Follow these guidelines to ensure you are appropriately dressed, whether you’re attending a formal wedding, a business dinner or an oyster roast.

WHITE TIE

FESTIVE ATTIRE

Men: Black tailcoat; matching trousers with a single stripe of satin or braid; white pique wing-collared shirt with stiff front; white vest; white bow tie; white or gray gloves; black patent leather shoes; black dress socks Women: Formal, floor-length evening gown

Men: Seasonal sport coat or blazer in color of choice; slacks; open-collar shirt or shirt with festive or holidaythemed tie Women: Short cocktail dress; long, dressy skirt and top; or dressy pants outfit

BLACK TIE

DRESSY CASUAL

Men: Black tuxedo jacket and matching trousers; formal (pique or pleated-front) white shirt; black bow tie (silk, shiny satin or twill); vest or black cummerbund to match tie; dressy suspenders to ensure a good fit (optional); black patent leather shoes; black dress socks; no gloves. In the summer or on a cruise: white dinner jacket; black tuxedo trousers; and other black-tie wardrobe.

Women: Formal, floor-length evening gown or short, dressy cocktail dress

Men: Seasonal sport coat or blazer; slacks; open-collar shirt Women: Street-length dress; skirt and dressy top; or dressy pants outfit

BLACK TIE-OPTIONAL

SPORT CASUAL

Men: Either a tuxedo (see “Black Tie”) or a dark suit; white shirt; conservative tie Women: Formal, floor-length evening gown; short, dressy cocktail dress; or dressy separates

Men: Khakis or clean, pressed jeans; plain T-shirt (no slogans), polo shirt or casual button-down shirt Women: Khakis or clean, pressed jeans; plain T-shirt (no slogans), polo shirt or casual button-down shirt

CREATIVE BLACK TIE

BEACH CASUAL

Men: Tuxedo combined with trendy or whimsical items such as a black shirt or a matching colored or patterned bow tie and cummerbund; black patent leather or dressy black leather shoes; black socks Women: Formal, floor-length evening gown; short, dressy cocktail dress; or dressy separates, any of which can be accessorized with items such as a feather boa, colorful shawl or colorful jewelry

Men: Khakis or shorts (cargo or Bermuda); knit or polo shirt; sport jacket (optional); or sweater Women: Sundress, khakis or shorts (cargo or Bermuda); open-collar, knit or polo shirt; lightweight jacket or sweater

SEMIFORMAL Men: Dark, dressy business suit (usually worsted wool) with matching vest (optional); white shirt; conservative tie; dressy leather shoes; dark dress socks Women: Short afternoon or cocktail dress; or long dressy skirt and top

A Black Tie - Gwynn’s of Mount Pleasant B Black Tie Optional - Gwynn’s of Mount Pleasant C Festive Attire - Gwynn’s of Mount Pleasant 8

Photography by Leslie Burden

A Formal, floor-length evening gown

BUSINESS CASUAL Men: Seasonal sport coat or blazer; slacks or khakis; opencollar shirt Women: Skirt, khakis or slacks; open-collar shirt, knit shirt or sweater (no spaghetti straps or low-neck tops)

B

HOLIDAY CASUAL Men and women: Same as “Business Casual” with some holiday colors or designs.

For formal wear, keep cufflinks simple and elegant. Stick to silver, black and/or white.

D Business Casual - Grady Ervin & Co E Semiformal - Gwynn’s of Mount Pleasant F Sport Casual - Grady Ervin & Co

2013 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

Dark suit; white shirt; conservative tie

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To accessorize a formal or semiformal dress, carry an evening purse just big enough for car keys, cash, business cards and lip gloss.

Match your belt to your outfit. Men’s casual fashion pants work best with matte leather belts in brown or black, or woven belts in navy, tan or brown.

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Get the most out of a networking event

By Holly Fisher

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ometimes business is all about who you know – so make the most of business settings to make new connections and develop relationships to grow your network: • What can you offer to the person you’re meeting? Too many people focus on selling themselves or their business, but approach each encounter as a two-way street.

• Bring plenty of business cards. It seems obvious, but all too often people attend networking events with just a few business cards and then have no quick and easy way to share their contact information.

• Connect via social media after the event.

Follow the person on Twitter or send a thank-

you message and connection request via LinkedIn. • Have an elevator pitch that explains who you are, what you do and how you can help the person you’re meeting. Some vague corporate jargon plucked from your company website isn’t as engaging as a personalized statement about your role in the company and what you have to offer.

• Don’t take up too much time. Be mindful of how much time you spend talking to each new contact. Remember people are there to meet a variety of people, so don’t monopolize their time.

• Our natural tendency at events is to gravitate to people we know. But if you really want to

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network, talk to someone who is standing alone or intentionally sit at a table with people you don’t know.

• If you see someone you’ve met just once before, ask them a question to help reconnect. For example, ask how a project turned out or whether they are enjoying the new community.

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Turn to the web: Apps for assistance in conventions, meetings

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By Holly Fisher

orporate meetings, shipping, mobile ticketing, donation conventions and other large- collection and the ability for on-site scale business functions ticket sales.

• Square (squareup.com) – Atrequire keeping track of speakers, registrations and payments. Turn tach this pint-size card reader to an to online tools and apps that can iPhone, iPad or Android device and take some of the headaches out of you’re set to collect Visa, MasterCard, the planning and American Express organization. and Discover at your • Eventbrite next event. Square After the (eventbrite.com) – charges 2.75% per Create an event web conference, gather swipe, and the page and manage Square Reader is online feedback ticket sales and event free. registrations online • SurveyMoneasily with with this tool. Using key (surveymonkey. the Eventbrite mobile SurveyMonkey’s com) – After the app, guests can check conference, gather free surveys, in with their phones online feedback rather than printing a easily with Surpolls and paper ticket. veyMonkey’s free questionnaires.

• Brown Paper surveys, polls and Tickets (brownpapquestionnaires. Use a template or create ertickets.com) – Sell event tickets via this site, which in- your own tools. Basic service is free, cludes credit card processing fees unlimited costs from $17 to $65 per in the pricing. Brown Paper Tickets month. also offers free ticket printing and See Technical Worksheet, Page 12

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Technical Worksheet General Event Information

Organization or individual name: ___________________ What kind of event are you planning? ________________ How many people are expected? ___________________ What is the event date? __________________________ Where do you plan to hold the event? ________________ What is your audiovisual budget? ___________________

Event Details

Load in date and time: ___________________________ Rehearsal date and time:_________________________ Doors open to guests: ___________________________ Show start:___________________________________ Show end: ___________________________________ Does your event have a theme or color scheme? _______ Do you have a show flow or timeline? _______________ Will the event take place in more than one location?

At what times will you move from one location to another? _ Do you have a room diagram for the event? ___________ Does the venue provide staging? ___________________ If not, do you need a stage? If so, what size? __________ Is the venue a union house? If so, what are the rules? ____ ___________________________________________

Power

What are your power needs? ______________________ Do you have a band that needs to tie into a power distro? _ Are you familiar with the power available at the venue? __ If not, do you have a contact person at the venue? ______ Does the venue charge for power? __________________

Accounting for all the audiovisual needs for your meeting or event can be daunting. Use this form to help clarify your needs and communicate with your selected production company.

Lighting

What elements would you like to use lighting for? _______ Do you have a logo for projection onto walls, floor or building façade? _____________________________________ Do you need a stage wash for your speaker? __________ Can you hang lighting from the ceiling or does it need to be ground supported? _____________________________ If you rig from ceiling – what are the rigging policies?

Does the venue have a man lift? Is so, are you allowed to use it? Is there a charge? ___________________________ Are you planning entertainment that will require lighting? _ If so, is there a rider available with entertainers’ specific needs? ______________________________________

Audio

How many people will be speaking? _________________ What kinds of microphones will be needed? ___________ Wired HH/Quantity: _____________________________ Wireless HH/Quantity: ___________________________ Wireless LAV/Quantity: ___________________________ Wireless Headset/Quantity: _______________________ Other: _______________________________________ The speakers will address the audience from: (circle one) Wired mic stand Head table mic stand Upright podium Tabletop podium

Video

What is the purpose of having video as an element of the event? ______________________________________ Do you already have content you would like to present in video? ______________________________________

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If so, what media and media source are used? (PC/DVD) __ ___________________________________________ Do you have a backup of your media? _______________ What size screen(s) would you like to use? ____________ If so, would you like front or rear projection? ___________ Video screens: ground support or suspended from ceiling? _ Do you have specific camera work needs for the event?___

General Tips

Always strive to have a least one full rehearsal with all elements – it’s not a full rehearsal unless you run videos, have speakers, talent, etc, present. It’s your moment to shine – take the time to practice.

Use a reputable production company – would you trust your important event to an unknown or lowest bidder? You only have one shot to get it right – it’s live.

If you have multiple vendors,coordinate their load ins/outs.

Nothing is worse than having vendors fighting over the loading dock or elevators.

When budgeting, always allow for unexpected extra cost.

Things happen – the elevator is stuck, your talent is late for rehearsal, etc. There are many things that can increase your cost beyond your control.

If the event is outside, have a rain plan.

Remember – a live event is like a jigsaw puzzle. There are many components, so the more pre-planning, the better.

Information provided by Production Design Associates, www.pdastage.com

Corporate Meetings & Conventions

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

Communication is a huge key to your event’s success.

Strive for clear communication with attendees, sponsors, vendors and the venue representative.

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

o Conduct site visits as required. This is important when you’re using the facility for the first time. o Negotiate hotel rates and blocks. If you use hotel meeting rooms for the event, you could get a significant discount on sleeping rooms. o Determine preliminary food and beverage requirements and negotiate menus and prices. o Add any deadlines and other requirements to the timetable.

When you choose the menu, look for crowd-pleasing choices.

Consider allergies and the need for a vegetarian option. Stay away from seafood, spicy and out-of-season options.

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60 to 90 days before the event o Form committees as required. Organizations that have regular events should consider forming standing committees that meet regularly. o Develop a promotional strategy. o Do some public relations for the event. Calendar notices, press releases and interviews may all be appropriate. o For nonprofit or charity events, line up sponsors. o If you are charging admission to the event, establish registration fee structures and policies, and be sure to include clear cancellation policies. o Invite and confirm key speakers. This includes people within your organization. o Obtain audiovisual needs from speakers and presenters, and order all necessary equipment. o Review, update and confirm final event budget. o Identify and communicate on-site responsibility areas for committees and volunteers. Set up training for volunteers and educate them about your expectations. o Select and order speaker gifts and awards. o Order special decorations for the event. o Prepare and order signs. This is another opportunity to build your brand. o Arrange for travel and housing of all staff and VIPs.

The day of the event o Have a staff and volunteer meeting to review responsibilities, procedures and overlap areas such as registration. o Confirm and monitor pickup of all rental equipment and supplies.

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

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

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Convention

planning checklist The formula for a successful convention requires a well-established plan. You will need clearly defined goals and objectives; organized volunteers; solid financial administration; and functional committees for accommodations, public relations/advertising and finance.

Accommodations Committee checklist o Find out date of arrival and departure for the majority of the group. o Make a tentative booking of rooms. o Obtain information on the hotel and rates to send with promotional material. o Have emergency housing available for latecomers. o Record expected time and date of each attendee’s arrival. o Maintain regular liaison with the hotel regarding reservations. o Get information on exhibit locations and storage for exhibit materials.

Public Relations/ Advertising Committee checklist o Prepare email materials to promote attendance. o Prepare write-ups for newsletters and association publications. o Send advance information to the media and invite the media to the event. o Set up a press table or a separate pressroom, if appropriate. o Obtain copies of all speeches in advance to give to the media and arrange for the speakers to be available for interviews. o Arrange for a photographer. o Provide news releases and photos of the speakers for their hometown papers.

Finance Committee checklist o Find out when payment is due for various functions. o Decide on ticket prices. o Determine policy on accepting checks and giving refunds. o Find out when payment is due to speakers and extra help. o Determine the cost and number of meals as well as guarantee on number of meals. o Determine whether VIP accommodations will be paid for by your organization.

For a list of hotels with meeting facilities, see page 48.

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emergency kit & TIPS When you’re at the venue, needs will come up that you don’t expect. Pack this emergency kit to avoid wasting time on a trip to the store.

Snacks for staff, volunteers Water Tape Scissors Marker pens Safety pins

KEEP AN EYE ON THE WEATHER: Lauren Fox of Fox Events was planning an outdoor event and the client did not want to pay for a tent – despite her recommendation. Inclement weather arrived just hours before the event and no tents were available in Charleston. Fox had to call a company in Savannah to bring a tent to Charleston pronto. “You really do need to look at the weather 48 hours in advance,” she said. “I’d rather be safe than sorry.”

PREPARE FOR SERIOUS EMERGENCIES: Nicole Garrigan, independent event planner, has encountered her share of emergency situations. The best outcomes come with being prepared, she says. She has a pre-convention meeting with venue staff and pertinent vendors. She establishes a protocol for life-and-death situations: call 9-1-1 first and then call her. For other emergencies, call her first.

She recommends having someone on the security team trained in basic first aid and CPR. Anytime you have a large group of people together, anything can happen. But, Garrigan said, if you have emergency plans in place, it won’t be as bad as it could be.

Wet wipes Paper towels Adhesive bandage Sunscreen

(for outdoor events)

CHECK AND DOUBLE CHECK: When a transportation vendor didn’t send its normal followup confirmation, Maryann Hoyt of The Event Cooperative reached out on the day of the event and discovered no driver was scheduled for her event. So she used her connections and found a replacement. “Relationships in this industry can go a long, long way,” she said.

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Business Events & Fundraisers Negotiating and planning event costs 22 Creative fundraiser events for nonprofits 19 New technology: mobile phone bidding; social media; texting 23 Charleston’s busy calendar: Something to think about 24

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Business Events & Fundraisers

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Nonprofits can get creative when raising money

By Holly Fisher

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harleston is a generous community.

The area has many nonprofit organizations raising money for a host of worthy causes. And that’s where the need for some creativity comes in – think food trucks or face painting – to add some spice to event planning.

People are continually playing in golf tournaments, bidding on auction items and attending any number of galas, parties and fundraisers. Individuals and businesses are genuinely interested in supporting good causes.

But, at the same time, they can be overwhelmed with sponsorship requests and pleas from friends to buy event tickets or donate auction items.

So nonprofits need to think out-

side the banquet hall when it comes to fundraising – whether that’s creating partnerships, finding ways to cut costs or using free tools like Facebook and Twitter to raise both awareness and funds.

Leigh Ann Garrett, events/publicity manager for the Center for Women, said nonprofits should consider “mission match” when organizing a fundraiser. The center recently hosted a Be Brave Bash in celebration of Women’s Equality Day. That sort of event makes perfect sense for an organization focused on helping women be successful.

It’s the same thinking that has the Lowcountry Food Bank hosting an annual Chefs’ Feast – both are foodrelated, Garrett said. When planning

a fundraiser, think about themes and events that match the organization’s mission and goals.

Businesses are frequently asked to sponsor events or to provide inkind goods or services, so nonprofits need to be sensitive to the fact a business can’t give away everything. Garrett suggests asking two businesses to split a service like catering so one isn’t donating all the food.

This is when that mission match kicks in and nonprofits focus on businesses that are most likely to support their cause. Also, look first to the supporters you already have.

Garrett said if there’s a caterer who is an active member of the Center for Women, she gives that person first dibs on being involved in an event.

The power of social media Nonprofits should harness the power of social media – it’s a free and a powerful way to spread a message or fundraising campaign.

Jordan Freeman is interactive marketing specialist for TRIO Solutions, which works with a number of nonprofits. Her take: “Social media provides a unique opportunity for today’s fundraisers. Many donor platforms now incorporate social sharing and social fundraising functionality – allowing anyone who gives to not just showcase their giving habits but encourage their extended networks to join and share in their cause. There can be friendly competitive aspects to this as well.”

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Freeman said social media is also a great place to thank supporters, sponsors or donors. “We’re big believers in keeping constituents delighted and aware of their impact,” she said.

She encourages nonprofits to try new social media platforms and be creative in their efforts. “Even something as simple as creating a ‘thank you’ image to share on Instagram and tag followers who have given can go a long way.”

Get creative with your events Here are some ideas for creating a fundraising event that’s out of the ordinary: • Food trucks have exploded onto the Charleston food scene, so instead of catering a lunch or dinner, have a food truck rodeo. You may be able to work out a deal (such as a limited menu for a discounted price) or ask guests to pay for their own meal and drop the admission price a few dollars.

• Host a breakfast event. The

cost of coffee and pastries – or even a breakfast buffet – is less than a steak dinner. Plus, morning events are often easier for people to attend because they can come on their way to the office.

• Work with your caterer to cre-

face painter or carnival games, to a casual event.

• If fundraising for an arts group, have performers provide the entertainment.

• Bring in a speaker who’s unexpected. An example: One school fun-

“Social media provides a unique opportunity for today’s fundraisers. Many donor platforms now incorporate social sharing and social fundraising functionality.”

Jordan Freeman, Interactive marketing specialist for TRIO Solutions ate unusual food offerings, such as a grilled cheese bar or fresh french fries.

• Use point of sale opportunities at businesses. Is there a business related to your cause? Ask them to ask for donations at the checkout or see if they will donate a portion of one day’s sales to your organization.

• Add a fun activity, such as a

20 2013 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

draiser’s speaker was the voice actor who does the talking for some of the characters in “Dora the Explorer.”

• Make a professional video starring the person to show at a banquet that honors a top award winner. It’s a great way to showcase the winner’s attributes without giving a long speech.

•

Tips for planning a successful charity event: • Start the planning well ahead of time and look for potential conflicts, such as other large events or fundraisers.

• Use social media to promote the event and ask your partners to promote on their social media outlets too.

• Provide a coupon or giveaway; the dollar value doesn’t matter as much as the perceived value.

• Develop a “hook” for the event. That could be the location, giveaways, the charity itself or the entertainment – something that will get people’s attention.

• Check in with your event partners so they understand their roles and responsibilities. The organizer should be in charge of maintaining a steady stream of communication.

• Report on the success of the event.

People like to see photos, know how much money was raised and other positive outcomes.

— Ken Calabro Jr. and staff at Sweet CeCe’s Frozen Yogurt & Treats

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Business Events & Fundraisers

Sponsorships, creative thinking can keep budgets under control

W

hether you’re planning a business luncheon, a fundraiser or a networking happy hour, the event is most likely ruled by a budget. No event organizer wants to receive a final bill that exceeds ticket sales or leaves the nonprofit in the red.

Often, one of the best ways to offset costs is with sponsorships.

Businesses that want to get in front of your event audience will pay for a couple of minutes at the podium, signage or an ad in the program.

Claire Hart, member programs and events director for the Charleston Trident Association of Realtors, has developed relationships with industry partners who want the attention of local real estate professionals for their products and services.

“Our members benefit because they learn about services that could help their businesses, the sponsors benefit because they get in front of their target audience, and the event benefits because we have a little

By Holly Fisher more revenue to enhance the menu, décor, and keep the ticket price low for attendees,” Hart said.

Nicole Garrigan, an independent meeting planner in Charleston, recommends getting the entire event team involved in the planning and budgeting process so everyone is thinking of sponsorships and creative ideas to keep the budget in check.

If the members of the team understand the budget needs and event specifics, they can keep those in mind as they approach potential sponsors, Garrigan said.

Many business luncheons or fundraising dinners have a keynote speaker as the focus. Hiring a nationally known speaker can mean a hefty fee, not including personal travel costs. To keep that cost down, look for a local or even a regional speaker who may charge a smaller fee or donate the time. That person may be willing to speak for the cost of a dinner or a night’s stay in the hotel.

“Local business leaders or professors from

22 2013 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

nearby universities can end up being more interesting to our audience because they are familiar with our area,” Hart said. “Charleston has a great pool to pull from.”

If your event requires entertainment, check with local schools or universities for talented musical groups who perform for free or a small fee.

When it comes to fundraising events, communicating with attendees beforehand can keep them informed about the event and, if you’re having an auction, ready to bid.

Meredith Repik, executive director of the March of Dimes Lowcountry Division, said her organization gathers names, email addresses and phone numbers for attendees coming to the annual Signature Chefs Auction.

This way, March of Dimes can send information out to guests before and after the event. It also saves the cost of printed tickets because guests can simply give their name at check-in. And guests receive a preview of the live auction items three

days before – getting them excited and ready to spend.

“It really allows us to prep our guests before they get to the event,” Repik said. “It’s a night of giving.

We’re asking you to give when you get there and we’re communicating that before.”

March of Dimes also preschedules a “thank you” email that goes out to attendees immediately following the event. “It gives our guests an added level of customer service,” she said.

One other budget-buster can be added fees and taxes. Hart recommends asking for inclusive pricing from vendors – whether that’s catering or hotels. There’s nothing worse than receiving the final bill and realizing you didn’t budget for taxes, gratuities or set-up fees.

“I learned early on that tax, gratuity and other fees can add hundreds or thousands of dollars to the bottom line of an event,” Hart said. “We always ask for the inclusive per-person price or total price of the event before signing a contract.”

•

Business Events & Fundraisers

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Business events, fundraisers going mobile

By Holly Fisher

P

aper tickets, printed guest lists and long lines at the silent auction checkout tables are becoming a thing of the past thanks to a slew of online tools and mobile technology. It’s becoming much easier to sell tickets, manage auction fundraisers and collect payments at events of all sizes. Check out some of these tools to make your event planning a little easier.

• Qtego (Qtego.com) – This program offers mobile phone bidding for silent auctions so event organizers or nonprofits can raise money before, during and after the event. This platform allows guests to register for the auction by entering name, phone number and credit card, and then they are ready to start bidding. Text messages alert a bidder when outbid, and bids can be sent from anywhere.

• ClickBid (clickbidonline.com) – Go paperless with your silent auction. Guests use their mobile phones to check in, place bids and check out once the auction is over. Information is stored in the cloud so it can be accessed from any computer.

• Eventbrite (eventbrite.com) – Create an event webpage and manage ticket sales and event registrations online with this tool. Using the Eventbrite mobile app, guests can check in with their phones rather than printing a paper ticket.

• Brown Paper Tickets (brownpapertickets.com) – Sell event tickets via this site, which includes credit card processing fees in the pricing.

Brown Paper Tickets also offers free ticket printing and shipping, mobile ticketing, donation collection and the ability for on-site ticket sales.

• Square (squareup.com) – Attach this pint-size card reader to an iPhone, iPad or Android device and you’re set to collect Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover at your next event. Square charges 2.75% per swipe, and the Square Reader is free.

• Social media – At the most basic level, event organizers should use their own Facebook page to promote the event, including creating an event listing so your supporters and customers can invite their Facebook friends. Also, create an event hashtag to use across various social channels – Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, for example. This way you and your guests can easily access information prior to the event and the great photos taken during the fundraiser or party.

•

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Business Events & Fundraisers

Charleston’s Calendar

C

harleston is a busy city – there’s always a race, festival or tour of homes going on. And sometimes, when you add thousands of extra visitors to heavy tourist traffic, it’s hard to get around.

If it’s January, there must be oysters; if it’s spring, there must be a race over the bridge. You can count on it. While these events are wonderful to attend with family and friends, you may want to avoid planning a conference or wedding on those dates. If your event brings a hundred or more folks to Charleston, you will be competing for space with those crowds.

To help you with planning, we’ve compiled a list here of the most crowded events, with the help of the Charleston Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. Here are some of the main events that shape our year.

For more information go to www.charlestoncvb.com

JANUARY

Happy New Year, Charleston

Dec. 31, 2013-Jan. 1, 2014 This is a time to celebrate as only the Lowcountry knows how. There will be crowds everywhere as Charlestonians and visitors welcome the New Year at venues all over the area.

Lowcountry Oyster Festival

Jan. 26, 2014 www.charlestonrestaurantassociation.com Each January, two tractor trailer loads of oysters are brought in for the annual Lowcountry Oyster Festival at Boone Hall Plantation. The oyster-eating crowds follow. Avoid this date if planning an event in the Mount Pleasant area, where Boone Hall Plantation is located.

FEBRUARY

Southeastern Wildlife Exposition

Feb. 14-16, 2014 www.sewe.com Known for its original art, diverse exhibits and animal demonstrations, the annual Southeastern Wildlife Exposition brings 120 artists and more than 350 exhibitors to venues throughout Charleston for a long weekend. The exhibition also draws 40,000 visitors.

MARCH

Charleston Wine and Food Festival

March 6-9, 2014 www.charlestonwineandfood.com Starting in late February and continuing into early March, this festival celebrates the culinary history and culture of the Lowcountry. Marion Square is the center of the action that includes seminars, food tastings, a dine-around, a culinary village and thousands of visitors.

Charleston Fashion Week

March 18-22, 2014 www.charlestonfashionweek.com This week showcases emerging designers and modeling talent under the tents on Marion Square. More than 30 runway shows are featured. It will mean a busy time downtown.

•

Charleston Antiques Show

March 21-23, 2014 www.historiccharleston.org Each March, collectors and enthusiasts are treated to an array of English, European and American antiques from dealers across the country. Visitors can learn through educational presentations and purchase antiques of many kinds.

Held at Memminger Auditorium, 56 Beaufain St., the show brings a crowd downtown.

Spring Festival of Houses and Gardens

March 20-April 19, 2014 www.historiccharleston.org Starting in late March, this monthlong event opens some of Charleston’s finest historic gardens and houses for touring.

Tour venues vary during this monthlong celebration in the Old & Historic District, so it would be advisable to check the schedule before planning an event in the historic parts of town.

APRIL

Summerville Flowertown Festival

April 5-7, 2014 www.flowertownfestival.org The three-day event showcases the beautiful blooming azaleas, wisteria and dogwood in Summerville, a northern suburb of Charleston. The festival, organized by the Summerville Family YMCA, brings a host of artisans, food vendors, children’s activities and musical performances. Because of this event and the next two below, early April draws big crowds.

Cooper River Bridge Run

April 5, 2014 www.bridgerun.com The run starts in Mount Pleasant and goes across the Cooper River on the expansive Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, winding up in downtown Charleston.

Don’t even think about scheduling your event the weekend of this world-class 10K footrace featuring tens of thousands of runners and walkers – and all the friends they bring along with them.

24 2013 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

Family Circle Cup

March 29-April 6, 2014 www.familycirclecup.com A partnership between the city of Charleston and Family Circle magazine helped build a state-of-the-art tennis center that brings this weeklong women’s tournament to Daniel Island each late March/early April. It’s more than a tournament with lots of entertainment and action over nine days.

Blessing of the Fleet

April 27, 2014 www.tompsc.com The town of Mount Pleasant holds its annual Blessing of the Fleet with a boat parade and ceremony centered in Memorial Waterfront Park. There will be seafood sampling from restaurants, an arts and crafts show, shag dancing and other activities. Information mentions shuttle buses, so that’s a clue to the crowds that day.

MAY and JUNE

North Charleston Arts Festival

May 2-10, 2014 northcharlestonartsfest.com Over nine days in May, North Charleston showcases artists and performers from all over the country in workshops, exhibitions and performances at various venues. That would make it a tough time to plan a major event in North Charleston.

Spoleto Festival USA

May 23-June 8, 2014 www.spoletousa.org For 17 days and nights each late spring, Spoleto Festival USA takes over Charleston’s historic theaters, churches and outdoor spaces with more than 120 performances by renowned artists. With its little sister festival, Piccolo Spoleto (see below), it fills up the city. It’s a great time to visit Charleston, but not an easy time to hold additional events.

Piccolo Spoleto USA

May 23-June 7, 2014 www.piccolospoleto.com This festival, running concurrently with Spoleto Festival USA, focuses primarily on artists from the Southeast, offering theater, music, visual arts, dance, ethnic culture presentations, comedy, crafts and film. It takes place at a variety of locations around Charleston.

Sweetgrass Cultural Arts Festival

June 6-7, 2014 sweetgrassfestival.org Gullah cuisine, music, traditions and, of course, sweetgrass baskets are featured at this two-day festival in Mount Pleasant’s Memorial Waterfront Park.

It’s yet another part of this busy time for the Charleston area.

JULY

Fourth of July

All over the area www.patriotspoint.org Fireworks launched from the flight deck of an aircraft carrier at Patriots Point’s 4th of July Blast and a shore side party with beach music make Independence Day in Charleston fun. Communities all over the area have their own celebrations. The events draw hundreds of visitors and beachgoers.

AUGUST

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

SEPTEMBER Taste of Charleston

Sept.26-28, 2014 www.charlestonrestaurantassociation.com In late September, Boone Hall Plantation in Mount Pleasant becomes the place to eat, as 50 of the Lowcountry’s favorite casual and fine dining restaurants serve sample-size portions and beer and wine. There’s also live entertainment, a Waiters’ Race and a special children’s area. It will be a busy time in the area around Boone Hall.

MOJA Arts Festival

Sept. 25-Oct. 5, 2014 www.mojafestival.com In late September through early October, the MOJA Arts Festival celebrates African American and Caribbean arts. Featured are music, visual arts, storytelling, performances, crafts and children’s activities at various venues around Charleston.

OCTOBER

Fall Tour of Homes and Gardens

Oct. 3-27, 2013 (Oct. 2-26, 2014) www.preservationsociety.org Charleston’s historic homes and gardens welcome visitors on a rotating basis, through most of October. If you are planning an event in a historic area, you will want to check to see whether nearby properties are on tour that day.

NOVEMBER and DECEMBER

Annual Holiday Festival of Lights

Nov. 8-Dec. 31, 2013 (Next year’s dates: Nov. 14, 2014-Jan. 1, 2015) www.ccprc.com Thousands of visitors experience the spirit of the holidays with millions of sparkling lights at James Island County Park. The display opens the second week of November and continues through New Year’s. There are more than 600 light displays, many reflected in the park’s waterways. A word to the wise about holiday traffic in this area.

LIFESTYLE How to get the best for your budget 28 How to make your wedding uniquely Charleston 31 How to choose the photographer who fits your needs 32 Technology for the wedding 33

This section is sponsored by

26 2013 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

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Lifestyle

Prioritize your event needs to decide

on the splurges and sacrifices

By Holly Fisher

Photos by Libby Williams, libbywilliamsphotographs.com

I

n 2012, couples spent an average of more than $28,000 on weddings and related activities, according to wedding website TheKnot.com. Not everyone has $30,000 to spend on one event, so how do you keep costs under control without sacrificing the wedding of your dreams?

One idea is to spend some money on a wedding planner who can probably save you even more money in the long run. Lauren Fox, owner of Fox Events, said an event planner can help clients stay within their budgets – and they have the ability to negotiate with their longstanding vendors in a way regular customers can’t.

“Event planners are here to help,” Fox said. “They will make sure you

can stay in the budget.”

That same survey from TheKnot.com placed reception venues at the top of the expenditure list, with couples spending an average of almost $13,000.

So with venues for wedding receptions – and even family reunions and other social occasions – such a large part of an event budget, it

28 2013 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

makes sense to consider planning for the off season.

Charleston’s event season is a bit different from other areas, Fox noted. Even though July and August are busy months for tourism, they aren’t busy months for events. That means you can strike a good deal on a venue, unlike trying to book a wedding reception in May or even

October, Fox said.

January and February are also good months to plan a social event.

Hotel, venue and catering rates tend to be lower, Fox said. The winter season is usually mild and there’s still plenty to do, making those off-season winter months a budgetfriendly option. (For a Calendar of Events for the Charleston area, please see Page 24.)

When it comes to event décor, sometimes a little can go a long way. Fox recommends relying on candlelight, which can be beautiful and cost effective. Or go simple with flowers, such as using one lily in a vase rather than 10 hydrangeas, she said.

Maryann Hoyt, owner of The Event Cooperative, said ultimately

people need to assess their event and determine what’s most important to them. For some people, the food and the bar are top priorities. For others, it’s the band or entertainment.

By prioritizing the elements of your event, you can most easily prioritize your budget.

Hoyt offers these additional tips for being cost conscious: • Limit the guest list. Items like food and bar service are based on the number of attendees, so if you can trim the guest list, you can trim the expense.

• Be conscious of the length of your event.

Big dreams, small budget: 10 ways to save on your wedding

H

ere are some suggestions for saving on some of the expenses for your special day.

1. Choose a nontraditional venue, such as a park or civic building.

Check to find out whether rates are lower in less popular months.

2. Set the date for any day other than Saturday, the most popular day for weddings.

3. Shop sample sales for a dress, or rent one. Or you may be able to borrow a dress or buy one secondhand.

4. Have a brunch or lunch reception rather than a dinner.

5. Serve a signature cocktail,

Most vendors base pricing on a three-hour event, so think carefully about whether you really need that fourth or fifth hour.

• Weigh the pros and cons of each estimate you receive. Just because one vendor is the lowest, does that mean it’s the best choice? Think about the kind of customer service you need the day of your event and realize a cheaper price may not include the level of service you want.

• Indoor events are typically easier on the budget because you don’t have the added expense of bringing in tents, trash receptacles, generators and restroom facilities.

or keep the beverages to wine and beer.

6. Buy a small decorated cake for the cutting ceremony and have a large sheet cake in the kitchen for serving. Or buy a plain cake and make the topper yourself.

7. Use seasonal, local flowers.

Work with your florist on making simple reception centerpieces. Use single blooms in vases, or borrow your relatives’ heirloom bowls.

•

8. Keep the bridal party small, with a few close friends or relatives.

9. Ask talented friends for help.

A good friend may provide beautician or musical services as a wedding gift.

10. Skip the favors. They are an added expense and often never make it out of the guest’s car.

Sources: realsimple.com, marthastewartweddings.com

Lifestyle

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Beach music, shrimp and grits, and sweetgrass 10 tips on on how to make your wedding/family event uniquely Charleston

1

Serve Lowcountry cuisine such as shrimp and grits or crabcakes for dinner.

2

Place a Palmetto rose on each dinner plate.

3

Wrap the wedding favors using a deep cobalt blue ribbon with a white shell instead of a bow.

4

Use locally made products for décor, such as Rewined candles, sweetgrass baskets or prints from a local artist.

5

Find a Charleston-themed tote bag for out-of-town guests and fill it with brochures on area attractions.

6

Charleston foods like Benne Wafers make great tabletop treats or items for inclusion in a gift basket.

7

Within the stationery suite, include custom maps of the peninsula and surrounding areas that help express the beauty of the area and get guests excited about their visit.

8

Send the party home with your guests with a bottle of Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka, wine from Irvin House Vineyards, or Fat and Juicy Bloody Mary Mix.

9

Build in time to explore. Don’t overload your event so much that your guests don’t have an opportunity to see Rainbow Row, walk on the beach or take photos at a plantation.

10

Invite a dance instructor to teach your guests how to do the state dance, the shag.

Sources: Ellen Robinson with Weddings Elegantly Designed, Caitlin Sullivan of Calder Clark Designs and Emilie Dulles of Dulles Designs

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Lifestyle

Select a photographer who matches your style

N

o matter the level of planning, coordination or budget, at the end of an event the food will have all been eaten, the flowers will be wilted and the music will be over. Photos are the one item left to be enjoyed for years to come.

Investing in professional photography for your wedding, family reunion or other social occasion can be a large part of the overall budget, so it’s important to make sure you select the right photographer for your event. Plus, you could be looking at those photos for decades — so make sure you will like them.

Photographers’ styles vary widely from traditional to contemporary.

There’s no professional license or regulating organization, so that means individuals have to do their homework, noted Chris Smith of Chris & Cami Photography.

Smith recommends looking at photographers’ websites and social

media pages to get a sense of their photography style. Then narrow down your favorites and schedule an interview. Smith said an in-person meeting is best — but if that’s not possible, at least schedule a phone interview or a video chat.

Photographer Libby Williams agrees. The photographer will be around for the entire event, interacting with guests and capturing personal moments. “You want to make sure they fit your personality and you fit theirs,” she said.

The interview also gives you a chance to ask more detailed questions and share your vision for the event photos.

“If they don’t tell me what they want, I might not do that,” Williams said. “The level of what’s important to you needs to be discussed in that first interview.”

Williams and Smith offer up additional tips for selecting the right

photographer: • If the price seems too high, give the photographer your budget and see if he or she can work with you.

Maybe you can eliminate a couple of hours from the photo shoot and bring the price down.

• Get a breakdown of what the price includes. Does the package come with prints or digital images?

Those might be extra charges you need to factor into your budget.

• Find out how many hours the photographer will work and what’s included in the price. If you want him or her to stay until the last guest leaves, that could impact your cost.

• Ask around for recommendations. Check with friends and inquire on social media.

• Evaluate the photographer’s experience. “Not every click of the shutter will be a winning, gallery image, so to improve your chances, experience is important,” Smith said.

Plus, experienced full-time photographers are ready to handle any unexpected situations (such as a pop-up thunderstorm during a wedding reception).

For all the “dos” of hiring a photographer, Smith has one “don’t” – don’t hire based on price alone.

Although price is important, he said, the worst thing people can do is make a decision solely on the final price.

“If you spend $500 on a photographer and you get your pictures back and your heart sinks, then you have overpaid,” he said. “That $500 was wasted if the pictures aren’t a reflection of the excitement and beauty of the wedding day.”

•

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CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA 800.538.0003 843.762.9200 843.762.6040 FAX www.FOODFORTHESOUTHERNSOUL.com HOME OF TIDEWATER CATERING AND BLACKJACK BARBECUE 32 2013 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

Lifestyle

T

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Before you say ‘I do,’ head to the iPad

hese days, even wedding planning is high-tech. From apps to build-your-own websites, couples have a wealth of resources and tools at their fingertips.

These are just a few of the many tech resources available to assist in the planning.

• TheKnot.com – This site has become the go-to resource for brides. It has lists of local vendors and ideas for everything from the dress to the cake. Use this site to create your own free wedding website to share event details and accept online RSVPs. • Hitch’d (hitchedbydesign.com) – Organize your favorite wedding blogs, articles and inspirational photos with the bookmarking tool. Also create wedding stationery (save-thedate cards, table numbers and more) and connect with online printers.

• Weduary.com – Create a customizable wedding website with options for inviting guests via Facebook and email. The site also has a social

component so guests can connect prior to the wedding.

• Twenty Pages (twentypages. com) – Create a 20-page magazine to give guests as a program or as part of a wedding goodie bag. Select from three designs, upload your own content and photos and receive a printed magazine highlighting your personal story and wedding details. You can even visit partner site Prequels.net to have a professional write the story of how you met.

• WeddingWindow. com – Build your own wedding website, get inspiration and ideas for your big day and browse the dozens of DIY ideas to get creative at your wedding.

• Ultimate Wedding Planner – This is a free iPhone/iPad app from The Knot. Use it to count down the days until your wedding, create checklists and budgets, store photos and access local wedding vendors.

• Pinterest – An excellent tool

for saving online images of dresses, flowers, cakes and favors. Organize your virtual bulletin boards and follow other wedding-related users for even more inspiration.

For even more wedding tech ideas, check out this article with 100 resources at the following link: http://bit.ly/KsmkMn

•

TheKnot.com in use.

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lists & directories Audiovisual 36 Booking Agencies 36 Event rentals 36 Florists 37 Invitations/paper providers 38 Photography 39 Production/staging 39 Tour companies 40 Transportation 40 Videography, including social media capability 42 Charleston area golf courses 43 Charleston area hotels with meeting facilities 44 Charleston area restaurants with banquet facilities 49 Charleston area event planners 51 Charleston area alternative/outdoor event venues 54 Charleston area exhibition/convention centers 60 Charleston area full-service caterers 61

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2010 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com 34 2013

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Lists & Directories

Audiovisual Absolutely Charleston P.O. Box 80489 Charleston, SC 29416 843-884-9505 www.absolutelycharleston.com info@absolutelycharleston.com Transportation solutions for corporate, association and social groups featuring motorcoaches and a fleet of Classic American Trolleys; LSVs provide affordable, eco-friendly electric vehicles to vacationers, businesses and event managers All Occasions - Parties and Events By AAA Rentals 3555 Meeting Street Road North Charleston, SC 29405 843-554-6334 www.alloccasionsparty.com partyinsc@aol.com Complete decor services for both social and corporate events; table top design featuring custom linen and floral; other event rentals needs such as tables, chair, tents, lighting, band stands, dance floors AV Connections 1012 St. Andrews Blvd.

Charleston, SC 29407 843-529-1449 www.avconnectionssc.com avrental@avconnectionssc.com Comprehensive audiovisual rental and staging services company Coleman Photography LLC 538 King St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-577-9090 www.colemanphotography.com garyc@colemanphotography.com Sales conferences, trade shows, conventions, golf tournaments, corporate parties, same-day slideshows, on-site printing, green screen computer backgrounds, specialty prints and corporate gifts Haus Tents 2220 Old School Drive Charleston, SC 29405 843-407-0473 www.haustents.com alex@eventdrscharleston.com Unique tents, flooring, lighting, climate control, fabric treatments and portable power

Lee Edwards Entertainment 811 Savannah Highway Charleston, SC 29407 843-556-1614 www.leeedwardsentertainment.com lee@leeedwardsentertainment.com DJs For wedding receptions, corporate events, karaoke services, PA support

Stage Presence Event Rentals 2201 Mechanic St. North Charleston, SC 29405 843-225-5631 www.stagepresencellc.com greg@stagepresencellc.com Event lighting, audio and rentals

UniMedia 4 Carriage Lane, Suite 205 Lowcountry Music Service Charleston, SC 29407 1201 Chesterfield Road 843-884-5056 North Charleston, SC 29405 www.unimediasolutions.com 843-297-8160 ralmes@unimediasolutions.com www.lowcountrymusicservice.com Video, web, interactive, graphic anthony@lowcountrymusicservice.com design, webcasting, mobile, aerials Live entertainment booking agency and live event production specializing in bands, soloists, DJs and performers for weddings; Booking Agencies corporate events, lounges and Classical Charleston private events 1612 Woodcrest Ave. Lawrence A. Monteith Photographer 307 Royal Palm Blvd., Suite 104 Charleston, SC 29407 843-556-1462 www.lawrenceamonteith.com larrymonteith@mac.com Advertising, architectural, hotel, food, portrait and weddings OtherBrother Entertainment 49 Calhoun St., Stuite C Charleston, SC 29401 843-225-5621 www.otherbrotherent.com otherbrother@me.com Providing great quality live music, bands, DJs, and other great entertainment for weddings, private parties, corporate events, Bar and Bat Mitvahs; production services, including sound, light and video PDA - Production Design Associates 2799 Three Lakes Road North Charleston, SC 29418 843-554-3466 www.pdastage.com info@pdastage.com Full service production company that can handle all of technical needs; lighting, audio, video projection, video production, power distribution, staging and scenic elements; serving the event industry for over 20 years our clients include - CNN, Mercedes, the White House, the Biltmore Estate, the College of Charleston, Lifetime Networks, and numerous Presidential Campaigns

36 2013 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

Charleston, SC 29407 843-693-0004 www.classicalcharleston.com info@classicalcharleston.com Charleston’s top string musicians and jazz ensembles for weddings, private parties and corporate events EastCoast Entertainment 1039-D Anna Knapp Blvd.

Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-856-9922 www.eastcoastentertainment.com/ charleston info@eastcoastentertainment.com Weddings, private parties, corporate events and festivals Lowcountry Music Service 1201 Chesterfield Road North Charleston, SC 29405 843-297-8160 www.lowcountrymusicservice.com anthony@lowcountrymusicservice.com Live entertainment booking agency specializing in bands, soloists, DJs and performers for weddings; corporate events, lounges and private events Nature Adventures Outfitters 483 W. Coleman Blvd.

Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-568-3222 www.kayakcharlestonsc.com nao@att.net Kayak, canoe and paddleboard event tours and rentals; 3 miles from downtown Charleston on Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant

OtherBrother Entertainment 49 Calhoun St., Stuite C Charleston, SC 29401 843-225-5621 www.otherbrotherent.com otherbrother@me.com Providing great quality live music, bands, DJs, and other great entertainment for weddings, private parties, corporate events, Bar and Bat Mitvahs; production services, including sound, light and video

Event Rentals Absolutely Charleston P.O. Box 80489 Charleston, SC 29416 843-884-9505 www.absolutelycharleston.com info@absolutelycharleston.com Transportation solutions for corporate, association and social groups featuring motorcoaches and a fleet of Classic American Trolleys; LSVs provide affordable, eco-friendly electric vehicles to vacationers, businesses and event managers All Occasions - Parties and Events By AAA Rentals 3555 Meeting Street Road North Charleston, SC 29405 843-554-6334 www.alloccasionsparty.com partyinsc@aol.com Complete decor services for both social and corporate events; table top design featuring custom linen and floral;other event rentals needs such as tables, chair, tents, lighting, band stands, dance floors Atlantic Tent Inc. 1720 Signal Point Road Charleston, SC 29412 843-795-4013 www.atlantictent.net atlantictent@gmail.com Tents, tables, chairs, bars, arbors, specialized lighting, flooring and staging; linens and more AV Connections 1012 St. Andrews Blvd.

Charleston, SC 29407 843-529-1449 www.avconnectionssc.com avrental@avconnectionssc.com Comprehensive audiovisual rental and staging services company

Lists & Directories Bloom at Charleston Place 150 Market St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-937-9033 www.bloomatcharlestonplace.com bloom@charlestonplace.com Custom floral design and event planning A Charleston Event 4040 Babbitt St. Charleston, SC 29414 843-568-5769 www.acharlestonevent.com info@acharlestonevent.com Wedding, event design and planning; floral design, custom draping and prop rentals Classic Carriage Works LLC 10 Guignard St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-853-3747 www.classiccarriage.com Horse drawn carriage service Duvall Events 2816 Azalea Drive North Charleston, SC 29405 843-763-9222 www.duvallevents.com info@duvallevents.com Creative catering and design; custom menus and decor; full service event coordination Event Drs 2220 Old School Drive Charleston, SC 29405 843-407-0473 www.eventdrscharleston.com info@eventdrscharleston.com Exclusive assortment of fine china, flatware, custom design farm tables, chairs, cigar lounge furniture, specialty items; event rentals, specialty design Haus Tents 2220 Old School Drive Charleston, SC 29405 843-407-0473 www.haustents.com alex@eventdrscharleston.com Unique tents, flooring, lighting, climate control, fabric treatments and portable power Lowcountry Music Service 1201 Chesterfield Road North Charleston, SC 29405 843-297-8160

www.lowcountrymusicservice.com anthony@lowcountrymusicservice.com Live entertainment booking agency specializing in bands, soloists, DJs and performers for weddings; corporate events, lounges and private events

www.stagepresencellc.com greg@stagepresencellc.com Event lighting, audio and rentals

Florists

All Occasions - Parties and Events By AAA Rentals 3555 Meeting Street Road Ooh! Events North Charleston, SC 29405 2532 Spruill Ave. 843-554-6334 Charleston, SC 29405 www.alloccasionsparty.com 843-881-7576 partyinsc@aol.com www.oohevents.com Complete decor services for both info@oohevents.com social and corporate events; table Rentals, chandeliers, fabric, antique top design featuring custom linen tables, chairs, lounge furniture, set and floral; other event rentals design, dance floor and staging; needs such as tables, chair, tents, custom work lighting, band stands, dance floors Party Plan-It 847 Houston Northcutt Blvd.

Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-388-9236 partyplanitsc.com partyplanit@birch.net Party supplies for any occasion such as Halloween costumes; props and supplies PDA - Production Design Associates 2799 Three Lakes Road North Charleston, SC 29418 843-554-3466 www.pdastage.com info@pdastage.com Full-service production company; lighting, audio, video projection, video production, power distribution, staging and scenic elements Sandlapper Water Tours 10 Wharfside St. Charleston, SC 29413 843-849-8687 www.sandlappertours.com captnbryan@aol.com Charter boat, water tours SpiritLine Cruises and Events 360 Concord St., Suite 201 Charleston, SC 29401 843-881-7337 www.spiritlinecruises.com sales@spiritlinecruises.com Event boats Stage Presence Event Rentals 2201 Mechanic St. North Charleston, SC 29405 843-225-5631

Bloom at Charleston Place 150 Market St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-937-9033 www.bloomatcharlestonplace.com bloom@charlestonplace.com Custom floral design and event planning Buy the Bunch 280 W. Coleman Blvd., Suite O Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-881-4888 www.buythebunch.com buythebunch@earthlink.net Full-service florist specializing in weddings and events Charleston Florist Inc. 184 King St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-577-5691 www.charlestonflorist.com Everyday bouquets, events, weddings Country and Lace Florist 610 Schooner Road Charleston, SC 29412 843-762-1118 www.countryandlaceflorist.com debjo@knology.net Florist for weddings, receptions, events Flowers by Frankie 108 Gleneagles Drive Summerville, SC 29483 843-296-4252 www.flowersbyfrankie.com Flowers for weddings and special events

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Fox Events LLC 530 Klein Street Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-732-0006 www.afoxevent.com lauren@afoxevent.com Specialized unique gifts and giveaways; modern florals; contemporary and modern dĂŠcor Gathering Floral and Event Design 747 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-723-3387 www.gatheringevents.com info@gatheringevents.com Floral design, event planning, consulting, coordination, lighting, furniture rentals The Greenery Florist 240 Calhoun St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-577-5394 www.greeneryfloristofcharleston.com greeneryfloristcharleston@comcast.net Flowers for bridal parties, receptions, funerals, church events Keepsakes Florist 2000 Wappoo Drive, Suite A Charleston, SC 29412 843-766-7807 www.keepsakesevents.com keepsakesflorist@knology.net Weddings and event decorations OK Florist and Gifts Inc. 131 W. Luke Ave. Summerville, SC 29483 843-873-3681 www.okfloristevents.com okflorist@gmail.com Weddings and special events; fresh flowers, sympathy design, gifts; wedding gown consignment boutique Out of the Garden 113 Pitt Street Charleston, SC 29424 843-856-3585 www.oohevents.com info@oohevents.com Rentals, chandeliers, fabric, antique tables, chairs, lounge furniture, set design, dance floor, staging; custom work

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Lists & Directories

Tiger Lily Florist 131 Spring St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-723-2808 www.tigerlilyflorist.com contact@tigerlilyflorist.com High-end floral design services with locations downtown and Kiawah Island

Invitations/ Paper Providers 42 Pressed 6617 Maybank Hwy. Wadmalaw Island, SC 29487 843-364-8823 www.42pressed.com info@42pressed.com Customized wedding invitations All Occasions - Parties and Events By AAA Rentals 3555 Meeting Street Road North Charleston, SC 29405 843-554-6334 www.alloccasionsparty.com partyinsc@aol.com Complete decor services for both social and corporate events; table top design featuring custom linen

and floral; other event rentals needs such as tables, chair, tents, lighting, band stands, dance floors Bernstein Lash Marketing 1124 Sam Rittenberg Blvd., Suite 4 Charleston, SC 29407 843-747-7767 www.bernsteinlash.com tlash@bernsteinlash.com Customized invitations and promotional products Concorde LLC 786 Johnnie Dodds Blvd., Suite C Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-849-8414 www.concordesc.com marianne@concordesc.com Imprinted promotional products including koozies, pens, notebooks, USBs, keychains, drinkware, napkins, balloons, displays, banners, mugs, leather items, shirts, corporate uniforms, ballcaps

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Dulles Designs Exquisite Stationery 89 Church St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-805-7166 www.dullesdesigns.com contact@dullesdesigns.com Custom invitations, exquisite stationery, unique gifts, engraving, letterpress, embossing and more JMC Charleston 2220 Old School Drive, Suite B North Charleston, SC 29405 843-577-1100 www.jmccharleston.com mitchell@jmccharleston.com Event production and destination management company; producing events with traditional and modern; decor, design, music, lighting, tours, gifts; corporate services including transportation, event production management, invitation design, personal concierge Karst Promotional Marketing P.O. Box 60850 North Charleston, SC 29419 843-884-4280 www.karstonline.com

info@karstinc.com Creative promotional marketing, brand logo design, screen-printed and embroidered apparel; custom novelties, trade show and event promotional products Linning House 38 Romney Street Charleston, SC 29403-3825 843-729-9001 linninghouse1976@gmail.com Etiquette and wording specialist for engraved invitations and social paper; traditional fine invitations and more Minuteman Press 108 Central Ave., Suite 9 Goose Creek, SC 29445 843-553-7176 www.goosecreek.minutemanpress.com orders@charlestonminuteman.com Graduation and wedding invitations; Christmas cards, programs, letterhead, envelopes, forms, business cards, promotional items, banners

Lists & Directories Party Plan-It 847 Houston Northcutt Blvd.

Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-388-9236 partyplanitsc.com partyplanit@birch.net Party supplies for any occasion such as Halloween costumes, props, supplies

Photography Absolutely Charleston P.O. Box 80489 Charleston, SC 29416 843-884-9505 www.absolutelycharleston.com info@absolutelycharleston.com Transportation solutions for corporate, association and social groups featuring motorcoaches and a fleet of Classic American Trolleys; LSVs provide affordable, eco-friendly electric vehicles to vacationers, businesses and event managers AccuPhotoLab & Studio 1757 Savannah Highway, Unit A Charleston, SC 29407 843-571-4817 www.accuphotolab.com info@accuphotolab.com Complete photo and studio services; restoration, enlargement, digital, film and video processing; archival and framing Banner Photography 2052 Medway Road Charleston, SC 29412 843-406-9432 www.bannerphotography.com Banner@bannerphotography.com Portrait photography, wedding photography, event photography Captured by Kate Photography 57 Cannon St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-442-0802 www.capturedbykate.com Commercial, editorial and wedding photography Chi Photography LLC 4552 Ladson Road Summerville, SC 29485 843-813-0174 www.chiphotographyofcharleston.com chi@chiphotographyofcharleston.com Weddings, portraits, children and events

Chris and Cami Photography LLC 1305 White Tail Path Charleston, SC 29414 843-324-8900 www.chrisandcami.com chris@chrisandcami.com Weddings, corporate events, award banquets, executive portraits, professional sports and business headshots Civil War Walking Tour 108 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-270-2417 www.civilwarwalk.com Civil War walking tour of Charleston Coleman Photography LLC 538 King St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-577-9090 www.colemanphotography.com garyc@colemanphotography.com Sales conferences, trade shows, conventions, golf tournaments, corporate parties, same-day slideshows, on-site printing, green screen computer backgrounds, specialty prints and corporate gifts Lawrence A. Monteith Photographer 307 Royal Palm Blvd., Suite 104 Charleston, SC 29407 843-556-1462 www.lawrenceamonteith.com larrymonteith@mac.com Advertising, architectural, hotel, food, portrait and weddings On Purpose Adventures LLC 915 Folly Road, Suite 90 Charleston, SC 29412 843-405-5173 www.onpurposeadventures.com info@onpurposeadventures.com Corporate team building, bachelor parties, bachelorette parties, birthday parties Rick Rhodes Photography Inc. 1842 Belgrade Ave. Charleston, SC 29407 843-766-7425 www.rickrhodesphotography.com rickr@knology.net Architectural, aerial, advertising, fine art copy, reproduction, digital scanning, digital wide-format printing, giclee printing, studio and event space rental

Rick Dean Photography 164 N. Market St., Suite 322 Charleston, SC 29401 843-822-0371 www.rickdeanphotography.com rick@rickdeanphotography.com Weddings and family portraiture Ring Photography 526 Stratton Ferry Court Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-881-1936 www.ringphotography.com pat@ringphotography.com Weddings, family and individual portraits on location or in studio Robbin Knight Photography LLC 162A Wentworth St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-364-5773 www.rkdp.com customerservice@rkdp.com Event and wedding photography Robin Joseph Photography 45 Gadsden St., Suite B Charleston, SC 29401 843-224-0502 www.robinjosephphotography.com rmjphoto@aol.com Special events, family portraits, maternity, bridal portraits, family reunions, parties, corporate events Marni Rothschild Pictures LLC P.O. Box 21463 Charleston, SC 29413 843-345-2190 www.marnipictures.com Weddings and portraits Smoak Stack Studios 1720 Carlisle Road Charleston, SC 29412 843-224-8555 www.smoakstackstudios.com John@SmoakStackStudios.com Architecture, people, weddings, advertising, corporate, events, fine art, editorial and industrial Stello Photography LLC 164 Market St., Suite 225 Charleston, SC 29401 843-425-9902 www.stellophotography.com stellophoto@gmail.com Art, commercial, weddings, portraits, food, real estate, events and intimate photography

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Tumbleston Photography 940 St. Andrews Blvd.

Charleston, SC 29407 843-766-9400 www.tumblestonphotography.com amy@tumblestonphotography.com Corporate, weddings and events; families and children Leigh Webber Photography 164 Market St., Suite 253 Charleston, SC 29401 843-697-0376 www.leighwebber.com leigh@leighwebber.com Weddings, events, children and portraiture

Production/Staging Absolutely Charleston P.O. Box 80489 Charleston, SC 29416 843-884-9505 www.absolutelycharleston.com info@absolutelycharleston.com Transportation solutions for corporate, association and social groups featuring motorcoaches and a fleet of Classic American Trolleys; LSVs provide affordable, eco-friendly electric vehicles to vacationers, businesses and event managers All Occasions - Parties and Events By AAA Rentals 3555 Meeting Street Road North Charleston, SC 29405 843-554-6334 www.alloccasionsparty.com partyinsc@aol.com Complete decor services for both social and corporate events; table top design featuring custom linen and floral; other event rentals needs such as tables, chair, tents, lighting, band stands, dance floors AV Connections 1012 St. Andrews Blvd.

Charleston, SC 29407 843-529-1449 www.avconnectionssc.com avrental@avconnectionssc.com Comprehensive audiovisual rental and staging services company

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Lists & Directories

EastCoast Entertainment 1039-D Anna Knapp Blvd.

Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-856-9922 www.eastcoastentertainment.com/ charleston info@eastcoastentertainment.com Weddings, private parties, corporate events and festivals Haus Tents 2220 Old School Drive Charleston, SC 29405 843-407-0473 www.haustents.com alex@eventdrscharleston.com Unique tents, flooring, lighting, climate control, fabric treatments and portable power JMC Charleston 2220 Old School Drive, Suite B North Charleston, SC 29405 843-577-1100 www.jmccharleston.com mitchell@jmccharleston.com Event production and destination management company; producing events with traditional and modern; decor, design, music, lighting, tours,gifts; corporate services including transportation, event production management, invitation design, personal concierge Ooh! Events 2532 Spruill Ave. Charleston, SC 29405 843-881-7576 www.oohevents.com info@oohevents.com Rentals, chandeliers, fabric, antique tables, chairs, lounge furniture, set design, dance floor and staging; custom work OtherBrother Entertainment 49 Calhoun St., Stuite C Charleston, SC 29401 843-225-5621 www.otherbrotherent.com otherbrother@me.com Providing great quality live music, bands, DJs, and other great entertainment for weddings, private parties, corporate events, Bar and Bat Mitvahs; also provide production including sound, light and video services

PDA - Production Design Associates 2799 Three Lakes Road North Charleston, SC 29418 843-554-3466 www.pdastage.com info@pdastage.com Full-service production company; lighting, audio, video projection, video production, power distribution, staging and scenic elements Stage Presence Event Rentals 2201 Mechanic St. North Charleston, SC 29405 843-225-5631 www.stagepresencellc.com greg@stagepresencellc.com Event lighting, audio and rentals Tour Charleston, LLC P.O. Box 22604 Charleston, SC 29413 843-723-1670 www.tourcharleston.com jghost@tourcharleston.com Walking tours; convention and group services; The Ghosts of Charleston Tour, The Ghosts of Charleston Book, The Story of Charleston History Book UniMedia 4 Carriage Lane, Suite 205 Charleston, SC 29407 843-884-5056 www.unimediasolutions.com ralmes@unimediasolutions.com Video, web, interactive, graphic design, webcasting, mobile, aerials and live event production

Tour Companies Absolutely Charleston P.O. Box 80489 Charleston, SC 29416 843-884-9505 www.absolutelycharleston.com info@absolutelycharleston.com Transportation solutions for corporate, association and social groups featuring motorcoaches and a fleet of Classic American Trolleys; LSVs provide affordable, eco-friendly electric vehicles to vacationers, businesses and event managers

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Civil War Walking Tour 108 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-270-2417 www.civilwarwalk.com Civil War walking tour of Charleston Classic Carriage Works LLC 10 Guignard St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-853-3747 www.classiccarriage.com Horse drawn carriage service Coastal Yacht Charters P.O. Box 1725 Charleston, SC 29402 843-557-5805 www.coastal-yacht-charters.com sales@coastal-yacht-charters.com Yacht charters in Charleston Harbor and surrounding waterways Gray Line of Charleston 360 concord St. #201 Charleston, SC 29401 843-722-4444 www.graylineofcharleston.com grayline@bellsouth.net Transportation services in the greater Charleston area; eight 20-25 passenger mini-buses available Gullah Tours 375 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-763-7551 www.gullahtours.com info@gullahtours.com Gullah Tours explores the sites, history, and culture of AfricanAmericans in Charleston Nature Adventures Outfitters 483 W. Coleman Blvd.

Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-568-3222 www.kayakcharlestonsc.com nao@att.net Kayak, canoe and paddleboard event tours and rentals; 3 miles from downtown Charleston on Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant Sandlapper Water Tours 10 Wharfside St. Charleston, SC 29413 843-849-8687 www.sandlappertours.com captnbryan@aol.com Charter boat, water tours

SpiritLine Cruises and Events 360 Concord St., Suite 201 Charleston, SC 29401 843-881-7337 www.spiritlinecruises.com sales@spiritlinecruises.com Event boats Tour Charleston, LLC P.O. Box 22604 Charleston, SC 29413 843-723-1670 www.tourcharleston.com jghost@tourcharleston.com Walking tours; convention and group services; The Ghosts of Charleston Tour, The Ghosts of Charleston Book, The Story of Charleston History Book

Transportation Above & Beyond Services LLC 411 Huntington Road Summerville, SC 29483 843-875-9318 www.aboveandbeyondtransportation.com abovebeyondlimo@yahoo.com All forms of luxury transportation Absolutely Charleston P.O. Box 80489 Charleston, SC 29416 843-884-9505 www.absolutelycharleston.com info@absolutelycharleston.com Transportation solutions for corporate, association and social groups featuring motorcoaches and a fleet of Classic American Trolleys; LSVs provide affordable, eco-friendly electric vehicles to vacationers, businesses and event managers Charleston Black Cab Co. 2019 Cherry Hill Lane Charleston, SC 29405 843-216-2627 www.charlestonblackcabcompany.com concierge@charlestonblackcabcompany.com Offering the only authentic London black cabs Charleston Coach P.O. Box 30756 Charleston, SC 29417 843-709-0988 www.charlestoncoach.com carriagerides@charlestoncoach.com Horse and carriage Service for weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, and romantic outings anywhere in the Lowcountry

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Lists & Directories Classic Carriage Works LLC 10 Guignard St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-853-3747 www.classiccarriage.com Horse drawn carriage service Coastal Yacht Charters P.O. Box 1725 Charleston, SC 29402 843-557-5805 www.coastal-yacht-charters.com sales@coastal-yacht-charters.com Yacht charters in Charleston Harbor and surrounding waterways DBH Limo 5675 Woodbine Ave. North Charleston, SC 29406 843-303-4761 www.dbhlimo.com info@dbhlimo.com Transportation services in the Charleston area Gray Line of Charleston 360 concord St. #201 Charleston, SC 29401 843-722-4444 www.graylineofcharleston.com grayline@bellsouth.net Transportation services in the greater Charleston area; eight 20-25 passenger mini-buses available JMC Charleston 2220 Old School Drive, Suite B North Charleston, SC 29405 843-577-1100 www.jmccharleston.com mitchell@jmccharleston.com Event production and destination management company; producing events with traditional and modern; decor, design, music, lighting, tours, gifts; corporate services including transportation, event production management, invitation design, personal concierge SpiritLine Cruises and Events 360 Concord St., Suite 201 Charleston, SC 29401 843-881-7337 www.spiritlinecruises.com sales@spiritlinecruises.com Event boats

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Videography Artistic Eye Productions LLC 178 Thames Ave. Summerville, SC 29485 843-821-4294 www.artisticeyeproductions.com ben@artisticeyeproductions.com Corporate and social events; edit to DVD or web delivery of testimonial videos and slide show presentations AV Connections 1012 St. Andrews Blvd.

Charleston, SC 29407 843-529-1449 www.avconnectionssc.com avrental@avconnectionssc.com Comprehensive audiovisual rental and staging services company Lawrence A. Monteith Photographer 307 Royal Palm Blvd., Suite 104 Charleston, SC 29407 843-556-1462 www.lawrenceamonteith.com larrymonteith@mac.com Advertising, architectural, hotel, food, portrait and weddings On Purpose Adventures LLC 915 Folly Road, Suite 90 Charleston, SC 29412 843-405-5173 www.onpurposeadventures.com info@onpurposeadventures.com Corporate team building, bachelor parties, bachelorette parties, birthday parties PDA - Production Design Associates 2799 Three Lakes Road North Charleston, SC 29418 843-554-3466 www.pdastage.com info@pdastage.com Full-service production company; lighting, audio, video projection, video production, power distribution, staging and scenic elements UniMedia 4 Carriage Lane, Suite 205 Charleston, SC 29407 843-884-5056 www.unimediasolutions.com ralmes@unimediasolutions.com Video, web, interactive, graphic design, webcasting, mobile, aerials, live event production

Lists & Directories

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Golf Courses

Ranked by USGA Slope Rating* from Back/Pro Tees Phone / Website Email

Slope Rating* / Course Rating** / Head Pro

Holes / Par / Yardage

Head Pro

Course Designer(s) / Superintendent / Year Opened

843-971-3555 www.danielislandclub.com INP

147 76.9 Matt Smith

18 72 7,446

Private, with event facilities $90

Rees Jones Bobby Donnellan 2006

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

144 77.3 Stephen Youngner

18 72 7,356

Resort, with event facilities Seasonal

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

Ocean Winds Golf Course 3772 Seabrook Island Road Seabrook Island, SC 29455

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

144 73.1 Brian Thelan

18 72 6,765

Private, with event facilities $115-$170

Willard Byrd Sean Hardwick 1973

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

843-971-3555 www.danielislandclub.com INP

141 74.9 Matt Smith

18 72 7,195

Private, with event facilities $90

Tom Fazio Bobby Donnellan 1999

Crooked Oaks Golf Course 3772 Seabrook Island Road Seabrook Island, SC 29455

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

141 72.7 Brian Thelan

18 72 6,754

Private, with event facilities $115-$170

Robert Trent Jones Sr. Sean Hardwick 1981

Turtle Point at Kiawah Island Golf Resort 1 Turtle Point Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455

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

141 74.2 Mark Schaffer

18 72 7,061

Resort, with event facilities Seasonal

Jack Nicklaus Steve Agazzi, Brian Gerard, Mark Schaffer 1982

Cougar Point Golf Club, Kiawah Island Golf Resort 1 Sanctuary Beach Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455

843-266-4020 kiawahresort.com mike_vegis@kiawahresort.com

138 74.0 Ric Ferguson

18 72 6,875

Resort, with event facilities Seasonal

Gary Player Brad French, Ric Ferguson, Brian Gerard 1976

843-871-2135 wescottgolf.com pamelahuff@bellsouth.net

138 74.3 Steven Rudd

27 72 7,210

Public, with event facilities $89/$69 seasonal; discounts for tri-county residents

Michael Hurdzan Pamela Huff 2000

843-266-4100 kiawahresort.com mike_vegis@kiawahresort.com

137 72.4 Scott Ammon

18 72 6,701

Resort, with event facilities $72-$121

Clyde Johnston Lance Stone, Brian Gerard, Scott Ammon 1989

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

136 74.5 Chase Wells

18 72 7,064

Semiprivate $45-$93

Rees Jones Wayne Sellers 1989

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

135 73.3 Jim Kelechi

18 72 6,932

Resort, with event facilities Seasonal

Tom Fazio Steve Miller, Brian Gerard 1988

843-821-4077 www.legendoaksgolf.com INP

132 73.5 Joey Bradley

18 72 7,011

Semiprivate, with event facilities Seasonal

Scott Poole Jim Chickarello 1994

Shadowmoss Plantation Golf Club 20 Dunvegan Drive Charleston, SC 29414

843-556-8251 www.shadowmossgolf.com golfpro@shadowmossgolf.com

131 72.3 Chris Short

18 72 6,701

Semiprivate, with event facilities $33-$52

Russell F. Breeden Wayne Stonaker 1972

Wild Dunes Resort Harbor Course 5881 Palm Blvd.

Isle of Palms, SC 29451

843-886-2004 www.wilddunes.com reservations@wilddunes.com

131 71.4 Jeff Minton

18 70 6,359

Public, resort, with event facilities Seasonal, $80-110

Tom Fazio Jeff Minton 1980

Wild Dunes Resort Links Course 5757 Palm Blvd.

Isle of Palms, SC 29451

843-886-2002 www.wilddunes.com reservations@wilddunes.com

127 73.1 Jeff Minton

18 72 6,722

Semiprivate, public, resort, with event facilities $135-$155, Seasonal

Tom Fazio Scott Ferguson 1980

843-873-2210 www.summervillecountryclub.com INP

124 69.0 Bray Blanton

18 71 6,004

Semiprivate, with event facilities $39 weekends; $32 weekdays

Eddie Riccoboni Lee Ray, Bray Blanton 1925

843-761-4653 www.berkeleycc.com berkeleycc@homesc.com

122 71.7 Bob Merryman

18 72 6,691

Semiprivate $35-$40

George W. Cobb Sr. Bob Merryman 1967

843-795-6517 www.charleston-sc.gov/golf INP

71 70.9 Marshall Ormond

18 72 6,432

Public $10-$37

Johnny Adams Herb Whetsell 1929

Club/Course Ralston Creek at Daniel Island Club 600 Island Park Drive Daniel Island, SC 29492 The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort 1000 Ocean Course Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455

The Golf Club at Wescott Plantation 5000 Wescott Club Drive Summerville, SC 29485 Oak Point at Kiawah Island Golf Resort 4394 Hope Plantation Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455 Charleston National Golf Club 1360 National Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29466 Osprey Point at Kiawah Island Golf Resort 1 Sanctuary Beach Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455 Legend Oaks Golf Club 118 Legend Oaks Way Summerville, SC 29485

Summerville Country Club (Miler Golf Course) 400 Country Club Blvd.

Summerville, SC 29483 Berkeley Country Club at Exeter Plantation 772 Exeter Plantation Road Moncks Corner, SC 29461 Charleston Municipal Golf Course 2110 Maybank Highway Charleston, SC 29412

*Slope rating is a ratio ranging from 55 to 155 that represents the difficulty of a course for bogey golfers relative to the course rating. The higher the slope, the more difficult the course plays for bogey golfers. A slope rating of 113 is considered average. **Course rating is the approximate number of strokes it should take scratch golfers to complete a course.

USGA=U.S. Golf Association. INP=Information not provided. Because of space constraints, only the top-ranked companies are printed. For a full list of participating companies, visit www.scbiznews.com/data. Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy, errors sometimes occur. Email additions or corrections to lists@scbiznews.com, fax to 803-726-7404 or go to www.tinyurl.com/joinourlists.

Researched by Elizabeth Fonte

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Lists & Directories

Hotels with Meeting Facilities

Properties in the Charleston Area, Ranked by Square Footage of Event Space Company Kiawah Island Golf Resort 1 Sanctuary Beach Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455 The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort 1 Sanctuary Beach Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455 Charleston Marriott 170 Lockwood Blvd.

Charleston, SC 29403 Charleston Place 205 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29401 Embassy Suites Airport/Convention Center 5055 International Blvd.

North Charleston, SC 29418 Wild Dunes Resort 5757 Palm Blvd.

Isle of Palms, SC 29451 Francis Marion Hotel 387 King St. Charleston, SC 29403 The Boardwalk Inn at Wild Dunes Resort 5757 Palm Blvd.

Isle of Palms, SC 29451 The Village at Wild Dunes 5757 Palm Blvd.

Isle of Palms, SC 29451 Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina 20 Patriots Point Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Radisson Hotel Charleston Airport 5991 Rivers Ave. North Charleston, SC 29406 The Mills House Wyndham Grand Hotel 115 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29401 InnPlace Charleston Airport Hotel 4770 Goer Drive North Charleston, SC 29406 DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Suites 181 Church St. Charleston, SC 29401 Radisson Hotel Charleston Airport 5991 Rivers Ave. North Charleston, SC 29406 Courtyard by Marriott Charleston Historic District 125 Calhoun St. Charleston, SC 29401 Market Pavilion Hotel 225 East Bay St. Charleston, SC 29401 Crowne Plaza Charleston Airport Convention Center 4831 Tanger Outlet Blvd.

North Charleston, SC 29418 Town & Country Inn & Suites 2008 Savannah Highway Charleston, SC 29407 Holiday Inn Charleston - Mount Pleasant 250 Johnnie Dodds Blvd.

Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Hilton Garden Inn Charleston Airport 5265 International Blvd.

North Charleston, SC 29418 Embassy Suites Historic Charleston 337 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29403 Tides Folly Beach 1 Center St. Folly Beach, SC 29439 Holiday Inn Express - Summerville 120 Holiday Drive Summerville, SC 29483

Phone / Website 800-654-2924 www.kiawahresort.com INP 843-768-6000 www.kiawahresort.com INP 843-723-3000 www.marriottcharleston.com mhrs.chsmc.sales@marriott.com 843-722-4900 www.charlestonplace.com INP 843-747-1882 www.embassysuitescharleston.com INP 843-886-6000 www.wilddunes.com groupsales@wilddunes.com 843-722-0600 www.francismarioncharleston.com info@thefrancismarion.com 888-845-8880 www.wilddunesmeetings.com INP 866-499-7142 www.wilddunesmeetings.com INP 843-856-0028 www.charlestonharborresort.com reservations@charlestonharborresort.com 843-744-2501 www.radisson.com/charlestonsc_airport INP 843-577-2400 www.millshouse.com INP 843-747-1900 www.innplacehotels.com/locations/charleston one.stop@prismhotels.com 843-577-2644 www.charlestondoubletree.com INP 843-744-2501 www.radisson.com INP 843-805-7900 www.courtyard.com/chshd pollyann.elliott@charlestonhotel.com 843-723-0500 www.marketpavilion.com INP 843-744-4422 www.crowneplaza.com/charlestonsc INP 843-571-1000 www.thetownandcountryinn.com sales@thetownandcountryinn.com 843-884-6000 www.himtpleasant.com INP 843-308-9330 www.charlestonairport.stayhgi.com INP 843-723-6900 www.historiccharleston.embassysuites.com INP 843-588-6464 www.tidesfollybeach.com INP 843-875-3300 www.hiexpress.com/summervillesc INP

Event Space/ Meeting Rooms

Reception Banquet Theater Classroom

General Manager / Year Founded

50,339 sq. ft.

15

750

50,000

550

290

Bill Lacey, Roger Warren 1976

50,339 sq. ft.

15

750

50,000

550

290

Bill Lacey 2004

50,000 sq. ft.

15

1,100

800

975

650

Patrick Rogers 2007

40,000 sq. ft.

32

1,800

1,200

1,600

1,000

Paul Stracey 1987

37,000 sq. ft.

22

2,500

2,500

3,000

1,300

Peter Steketee 2000

36,500 sq. ft.

18

600

296

528

306

Frank Fredericks 1972

20,000 sq. ft.

14

550

400

420

300

Gayle Karolczyk 1924

17,000 sq. ft.

15

500

350

350

175

Frank Fredericks 2006

17,000 sq. ft.

15

500

350

350

175

Frank Fredericks 2008

12,400 sq. ft.

9

2,000

350

200

150

Oliver Rooskens 1997

12,000 sq. ft.

6

375

250

325

200

Marzena Wyszynska 1977

11,000 sq. ft.

10

600

400

350

200

John Edwards 1853

10,249 sq. ft.

14

1,000

500

800

475

John Wong 1983

10,000 sq. ft.

10

400

280

480

250

Michael Perry 1998

9,000 sq. ft.

7

325

250

300

150

Mitul Patel INP

7,800 sq. ft.

6

150

125

125

100

Polly Ann Elliott 2011

7,500 sq. ft.

4

350

108

100

64

Gary Cohen 2002

7,000 sq. ft.

4

450

270

475

321

Mark Mitchell 2010

6,000 sq. ft.

6

300

200

350

175

Demetrius Palassis 1984

5,100 sq. ft.

8

300

200

275

175

Brian Rafferty 1988

5,000 sq. ft.

7

250

160

200

130

Marcus Rogers 2002

4,900 sq. ft.

8

400

250

260

110

Donna Ford 1996

4,000 sq. ft.

5

400

240

320

165

Ken Merkel 1985

3,800 sq. ft.

5

160

160

200

100

Cristy Sanders 1981

INP=Information not provided. Because of space constraints, only the top-ranked companies are printed. For a full list of participating companies, visit www.scbiznews.com/data. Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy, errors sometimes occur. Email additions or corrections to lists@scbiznews.com, fax to 803-726-7404 or go to www.tinyurl.com/joinourlists.

44 2013 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

Event Capacity

Researched by Melissa Verzaal

epg

Lists & Directories

Hotels with Meeting Facilities

Properties in the Charleston Area, Ranked by Square Footage of Event Space Company Woodlands Mansion 125 Parsons Road Summerville, SC 29483 Homewood Suites by Hilton Charleston Convention Center/Airport 5048 International Blvd.

Charleston, SC 29418 Holiday Inn Charleston Riverview 301 Savannah Highway Charleston, SC 29407 Holiday Inn Charleston Airport & Convention Center 5264 International Blvd.

North Charleston, SC 29418 The Inn at Middleton Place 4290 Ashley River Road Charleston, SC 29414 The North Charleston Inn 2934 W. Montague Ave. North Charleston, SC 29418 Hampton Inn & Suites Charleston/West Ashley 678 Citadel Haven Drive Charleston, SC 29414 Courtyard by Marriott Charleston-Mount Pleasant 1251 Woodland Ave. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Holiday Inn Charleston Historic Downtown 425 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29403

Phone / Website

Event Space/ Meeting Rooms

Event Capacity Reception Banquet Theater Classroom

General Manager / Year Founded

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

3,600 sq. ft.

3

400

INP

120

56

Tom Limehouse 1906

843-735-5000 www.charlestonairport.homewoodsuites.com INP

3,374 sq. ft.

4

96

64

110

42

Cori Lovern 2008

3,270 sq. ft.

3

175

100

50

25

Jeremy McCauley 1971

843-556-7100 www.holiday-inn.com/chs-riverview INP 843-576-0300 www.holidayinn.com/chastnairport INP 843-556-0500 www.theinnatmiddletonplace.com INP 843-744-8281 www.northcharlestoninn.com jsiebold@charlestownehotels.com 843-573-1200 www.charlestonwestashleysuites.hamptoninn.com INP

3,000 sq. ft.

5

150

120

175

75

Daniel Blumenstock 2006

3,000 sq. ft.

1

250

200

250

250

Abigail Martin 1987

3,000 sq. ft.

2

INP

100

175

100

Jimmy Siebold 1973

2,500 sq. ft.

3

120

120

120

100

Chris Wernham 2001

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

2,125 sq. ft.

4

125

110

140

100

Cheryl Craven 2007

843-718-2327 www.stayincharleston.com sales@hihistoric.com

2,100 sq. ft.

3

160

130

160

70

David Nimmo 2013

INP=Information not provided. Because of space constraints, only the top-ranked companies are printed. For a full list of participating companies, visit www.scbiznews.com/data. Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy, errors sometimes occur. Email additions or corrections to lists@scbiznews.com, fax to 803-726-7404 or go to www.tinyurl.com/joinourlists.

46 2013 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

Researched by Melissa Verzaal

Lists & Directories

epg

Hotels with Meeting Facilities

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

Phone / Website

Event Space/ Meeting Rooms

Residence Inn Charleston Airport 5035 International Blvd.

North Charleston, SC 29418

843-266-3434 www.marriott.com/chsno INP

2,000 sq. ft.

4

60

40

50

24

John Masters 2004

Wingate by Wyndham at Charleston Southern University 9280 University Blvd.

North Charleston, SC 29406

843-553-4444 www.charlestonwingate.com gm@charlestonwingate.com

2,000 sq. ft.

3

130

130

150

115

Ron Jaicks 2008

843-722-2345 www.plantersinn.com INP

1,800 sq. ft.

2

100

100

150

100

Nick Saltmarsh 1912

843-534-0300 www.renaissancecharlestonhotel.com INP

1,700 sq. ft.

6

200

150

160

108

Brian Wander 2001

Courtyard Charleston Waterfront 35 Lockwood Drive Charleston, SC 29401

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

1,428 sq. ft.

1

75

70

70

55

J.R. Korst 1997

French Quarter Inn 166 Church St. Charleston, SC 29401

843-722-1900 www.fqicharleston.com INP

1,254 sq. ft.

2

75

50

50

42

Brent Gresham 2002

843-571-1711 www.marriott.com/chssh julie.gerthoffer@fowlerhospitality.com

1,250 sq. ft.

2

75

64

75

60

Jennifer Hill 1999

843-881-6950 www.charlestonmtpleasant.homewoodsuites.com chshw_gm@hilton.com

1,145 sq. ft.

2

75

60

80

42

Jennifer LaRue 2002

Company

Planters Inn 112 N. Market St. Charleston, SC 29401 Renaissance Charleston Hotel Historic District 68 Wentworth St. Charleston, SC 29401

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Downtown/Riverview 98 Ripley Point Drive Charleston, SC 29407 Homewood Suites by Hilton, Charleston / Mount Pleasant 1998 Riviera Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

INP=Information not provided. Because of space constraints, only the top-ranked companies are printed. For a full list of participating companies, visit www.scbiznews.com/data. Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy, errors sometimes occur. Email additions or corrections to lists@scbiznews.com, fax to 803-726-7404 or go to www.tinyurl.com/joinourlists.

Reception Banquet Theater Classroom

General Manager / Year Founded

Researched by Melissa Verzaal

2013 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

47

epg

Lists & Directories

Hotels with Meeting Facilities

Properties in the Charleston Area, Ranked by Square Footage of Event Space Phone / Website

Event Space/ Meeting Rooms

843-553-1600 www.hiexpress.com/chastni-26 INP

1,140 sq. ft.

1

75

50

65

60

1,100 sq. ft.

2

50

40

50

30

1,100 sq. ft.

2

INP

INP

50

45

1,080 sq. ft.

2

60

60

75

50

Vicki Wilkins 2010

1,080 sq. ft.

2

50

72

75

50

Marsha Ellsworth 2010

843-856-3900 www.charlestonisleofpalmssuites.hamptoninn.com erica.davis2@hilton.com

1,056 sq. ft.

3

60

60

100

70

John Boyd 1999

843-735-7500 www.northcharlestonuniversityblvdsuites.hamptoninn.com INP

1,040 sq. ft.

2

0

48

80

40

Anthony Smith 2009

843-720-2600 www.fultonlaneinn.com INP 843-856-8817 www.choicehotels.com qisales@hgmhotels.com

1,000 sq. ft.

2

50

40

50

35

975 sq. ft.

2

40

40

50

30

932 sq. ft.

2

0

0

34

24

Company Holiday Inn Express & Suites Charleston - Ashley Phosphate 7670 Northwoods Blvd.

North Charleston, SC 29406 Kings Courtyard Inn 198 King St. Charleston, SC 29401 Shem Creek Inn 1401 Shrimp Boat Lane Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Hyatt Place Charleston Airport/Convention Center 3234 W. Montague Ave. North Charleston, SC 29418 Hyatt Place North Charleston 7331 Mazyck Road North Charleston, SC 29406 Hampton Inn & Suites Mount Pleasant/Isle of Palms 1104 Isle of Palms Connector Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Hampton Inn & Suites North Charleston/University Blvd.

2688 Fernwood Drive North Charleston, SC 26406 Fulton Lane Inn 202 King St. Charleston, SC 29401 Quality Inn & Suites at Patriots Point 196 Patriots Point Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Fairfield Inn & Suites Charleston Airport/Convention Center 4841 Tanger Outlet Blvd.

North Charleston, SC 29418 Wentworth Mansion 149 Wentworth St. Charleston, SC 29401 Hampton Inn Daniel Island 160 Fairchild St. Charleston, SC 29492 Residence Inn by Marriott Charleston Riverview 90 Ripley Point Drive Charleston, SC 29407 Hampton Inn Charleston North 7424 Northside Drive North Charleston, SC 29420 Holiday Inn Express & Suites Mount Pleasant 350 Johnnie Dodds Blvd.

Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Holiday Inn Express Charleston Downtown - Ashley River 146 Lockwood Blvd.

Charleston, SC 29403-5123 Courtyard Charleston Coliseum 2415 Mall Drive North Charleston, SC 29412 Residence Inn Charleston North 7457 Northside Drive North Charleston, SC 29420 HarbourView Inn 2 Vendue Range Charleston, SC 29401 Aloft Charleston Airport & Convention Center 4875 Tanger Outlet Blvd.

North Charleston, SC 29418 Holiday Inn Express - North Charleston 2435 Elms Center Road North Charleston, SC 29406 Residence Inn by Marriott Charleston Mount Pleasant 1116 Isle of Palms Connector Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-723-7000 www.kingscourtyardinn.com INP 843-881-1000 www.shemcreekinn.com rhemmen@charlestownehotels.com 843-302-8600 www.charlestonairport.place.hyatt.com INP 843-735-7100 www.northcharleston.place.hyatt.com adrienne.jones@hyatt.com

843-300-3100 www.marriott.com/chscs INP

Event Capacity

General Manager / Year Reception Banquet Theater Classroom Founded Cheryl Clark 1999 Lisa Anderson 1980 Robbi Hemmen 1986

Lisa Anderson 1994 Andrew Rhyne 1999 Dawn Wells 2010

843-853-1886 www.wentworthmansion.com INP 843-216-6555 www.charlestondanielisland.hamptoninn.com INP

900 sq. ft.

2

50

40

50

20

Noreen Marchant 1998 Jennifer Colangelo 2001

820 sq. ft.

2

70

48

70

45

843-571-7979 www.marriott.com/chsri julie.gerthoffer@fowlerhospitality.com

767 sq. ft.

1

30

30

40

30

Rick Buggle 2000

843-820-2030 www.charlestonnorth.hamptoninn.com INP 843-375-2600 www.hiemtpleasant.com INP

740 sq. ft.

1

40

25

40

24

INP 1999

700 sq. ft.

1

45

45

55

45

Steve Lavelle 2009

843-722-4000 www.charlestonhiexpress.com gm@charlestonhiexpress.com

688 sq. ft.

1

50

50

INP

45

Rebecca Ruttiger 2013

843-747-9122 www.marriott.com/chscn INP

637 sq. ft.

2

40

40

35

35

Kevin Rhoton 1999

843-300-3636 www.residenceinncharlestonnorth.com INP

600 sq. ft.

1

INP

INP

INP

INP

Bill Carter, Candace Pengra 2012

530 sq. ft.

1

25

35

25

25

Karen Warley 1998

526 sq. ft.

1

40

0

40

30

Steve Spear 2008

520 sq. ft.

1

40

40

40

40

Amanda Pouyat INP

500 sq. ft.

1

40

32

40

24

Jennifer Bagwell 2002

843-853-8439 www.harbourviewcharleston.com INP 843-566-7300 www.aloftcharlestonairport.com sales@aloftcharlestonairport.com 843-569-3200 www.hiexpress.com/charleston-n gm@hiexpresshwy78.com 843-881-1599 www.marriott.com/chsmp ashley.miller@marriott.com

INP=Information not provided. Because of space constraints, only the top-ranked companies are printed. For a full list of participating companies, visit www.scbiznews.com/data. Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy, errors sometimes occur. Email additions or corrections to lists@scbiznews.com, fax to 803-726-7404 or go to www.tinyurl.com/joinourlists.

48 2013 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

Researched by Melissa Verzaal

Lists & Directories

epg

Restaurants with Banquet Facilities Ranked by Maximum Capacity for a Seated Event Company Old Village Post House 101 Pitt St. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Embassy Suites Catering 5055 International Blvd.

North Charleston, SC 29418 Charleston Place Events 205 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29401 A&P Catering 17 Lockwood Drive Charleston, SC 29401 82 Queen 82 Queen St. Charleston, SC 29401 Good Food Catering 17 Lockwood Drive Charleston, SC 29413 Relish Distinctive Catering 1700 RiverTowne Country Club Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29466 Trotters Restaurant 2008 Savannah Highway Charleston, SC 29407 Southend Brewery and Smokehouse 161 East Bay St. Charleston, SC 29401

Phone / Website Email 843-388-8935 www.oldvillageposthouse.com srunkle@mavericksouthernkitchens.com 843-747-1882 embassysuitescharleston.com rebecca.harris@jqh.com 843-724-8410 www.charlestonplace.com gmatesi@charlestonplace.com 843-224-0529 www.varietystorerestaurant.com mclaltine@gmail.com 843-723-7591 www.82queen.com info@82queen.com 843-723-7952 goodfoodcatering.net info@goodfoodcatering.net 843-849-2400, ext. 7 www.relishdistinctivecatering.com INP 843-571-0027 www.thetownandcountryinn.com sales@thetownandcountryinn.com 843-853-4677 www.southendbrewery.com events@southendbrewery.com

Private Avg. Cost Event Banquet (3-course Capacity Rooms meal)

Menu / Signature Dishes

Manager(s)

140,145

3

INP

Crispy fried oysters and Post House shrimp and grits

Susannah Runkle

4,000

23

$30

Diverse catering menu with offerings from different cultures

Joanie Cole

1,200

29

$85

Specializing in Lowcountry cuisine, seafood and filet mignon

Geno Matesi

800

2

$25

Beef, seafood and chicken

Mike Altine, Richard P. Ritter

200

11

$42

Lowcountry and southern foods; fried green tomatoes, chicken and waffles; shrimp and grits; she crab soup

200

6

$35

Menu ranges from French and Asian flavors to classic Charleston recipes and everything in between

200

7

$30

Customizable offering Lowcountry barbecue, shrimp and grits; mashed potato bar

Lacy Davidson

200

5

$30

Lowcountry cuisine

Stephen P. Clarke

150

2

$35

Specializing in barbecue, seafood and brick oven pizzas

Jana Hodge

INP=Information not provided. View this list online at www.scbiznews.com/data. Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy, errors sometimes occur. Email additions or corrections to lists@scbiznews.com, fax to 803-726-7404 or go to www.tinyurl.com/joinourlists.

Jonathan Kish, Steve Kish, Stefanie Charles Jenna DeSavino, Jennifer Payne, Tristan Whisnant

Researched by Melissa Verzaal

2013 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

49

epg

Lists & Directories

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

Phone / Website Email

Private Avg. Cost Event Banquet (3-course Capacity Rooms meal)

Menu / Signature Dishes

Manager(s)

$47

Down south egg roll, Parmesan crusted flounder and shellfish over grits

Patricia Pettus

1

$35

Grilled pork chop, braised grouper and pecan-encrusted chicken breast

Tristan Whisenant

100

2

$58

Inventive cuisine fresh from the farm

Sunday D. Tuk

843-534-2155 www.tristandining.com info@tristandining.com

100

4

$55

Five or seven course chef's tasting menus with wine pairings, a la carte; risotto prepared from scratch, beet salad, scallops, duck breast, house made pastas

Rachael Kay Rose

The Boathouse at Breach Inlet 101 Palm Blvd.

Isle of Palms, SC 29451

843-886-8000 www.boathouserestaurants.com manager@boathouserestaurants.com

80

1

$38

Spicy shrimp and grits; petite lobster tails and local fresh fish

Colleen O'Connor

Cypress Lowcountry Grill 167 East Bay St. Charleston, SC 29401

843-727-0111 www.magnolias-blossom-cypress.com INP

72

2

$50

Almond fried brie, crisp wasabi tuna, charcuterie and Steak Diane

Patricia Pettus

Fish Restaurant 442 King St. Charleston, SC 29403

843-722-3474 www.fishrestaurantcharleston.com info@fishrestaurantcharleston.com

70

1

$45

Classic French cuisine with Asian finesse

Jennifer Goldman

High Cotton 199 E. Bay St. Charleston, SC 29401

843-724-3815 www.highcottoncharleston.com jmaynard@mavericksouthernkitchens.com

64

2

$50

Buttermilk fried oysters, bacon wrapped stuffed rabbit loin and Lowcountry broil

Jill Maynard

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

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

60

3

$30

Prime cuts of meat, local seafood and seasonal vegetables prepared in Lowcountry style

Karen M. Elsey

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

843-216-7601 www.wildwingcafe.com phil@wildwingcafe.com

60

0

$20

Wings, grilled chicken and barbecue

Philip Knight

Alley Charleston 131 Columbus St. Charleston, SC 29403

843-818-4080 www.thealleycharleston.com charleston@bowlthealley.com

50

3

$15

Braised pork belly sandwich, meat pie pizza and green salad with roast chicken

Carrie Steinmeyer

Fork Fine Gourmet Catering & Events 2408 Ashley River Road Charleston, SC 29414

843-769-0300 www.forkfinegourmet.com forkfinegourmet@knology.net

50

1

$30

Pimento cheese and she-crab soup

Wendall Edwards

Virginia's on King 412 King St. Charleston, SC 29403

843-735-5800 www.virginiasonking.com info@virginiasonking.com

50

1

$25

Shrimp and grits; southern fried chicken and Carolina bouillabaisse

Whittney Prasek

Carolina's 10 Exchange St. Charleston, SC 29401

843-724-3800 www.carolinasrestaurant.com joe@carolinasrestaurant.com

45

1

$60

Shrimp and grits, Meyer Ranch steaks and jumbo crab cakes

Joseph A. Meloy, Mary D. Meloy

843-556-5707 www.easterbysfamilygrille.com easterbysfamilygrille@yahoo.com

40

1

$20

Steaks, seafood and barbecue

Ron Easterby

843-768-0006 www.cravecharleston.com petrilloksg@yahoo.com

30

1

$4,045

New American cuisine, Italian and Asian fusion

Mike Petrillo

843-722-9200 www.groupdiningcharleston.com patpettus@hmgi.net

20

1

$45

Rocotta gnocchi, spice grilled yellowfin tuna and pan roasted mahi mahi

Patricia Pettus

843-723-5665 www.bubbagump.com mmays@ldry.com

INP

1

$33

Top quality seafood and American cuisine in a causal family atmosphere

Megan Mays

843-577-2337 www.poogansporch.com info@poogansporch.com

INP

4

INP

Classic southern menu with modern interpretations

Bobbie Ball, Jessica Potter

Magnolias Upper Level Gallery 185 E. Bay St. Charleston, SC 29401

843-577-7771 www.magnolias-blossom-cypress.com INP

130

2

843-725-5959 www.39ruedejean.com upstairs@39ruedejean.com

130

McCrady's 2 Unity Alley Charleston, SC 29401

843-577-0025x2 www.mccradysrestaurant.com events@mccradysrestaurant.com

Tristan 10 Linguard St. Charleston, SC 29401

Upstairs at 39 Rue de Jean 39 John St. Charleston, SC 29403

Easterby's Family Grille 2388 Ashley River Road Charleston, SC 29414 Crave Charleston Catering / Crave International Foods 4430 Betsy Kerrison Parkway, Suite B Johns Island, SC 29455 Blossom 171 East Bay St. Charleston, SC 29401 Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Restaurant 99 S. Market St. Charleston, SC 29401 Poogan's Porch 72 Queen St. Charleston, SC 29401

INP=Information not provided. View this list online at www.scbiznews.com/data. Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy, errors sometimes occur. Email additions or corrections to lists@scbiznews.com, fax to 803-726-7404 or go to www.tinyurl.com/joinourlists.

50 2013 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

Researched by Melissa Verzaal

Lists & Directories

epg

Event Planners

Ranked by No. of Event Planners in the Charleston Area Company

Phone / Website Email

Event Day-of Planners / Coordinator Employees Available

Specialization

Person in Charge/ Year Founded

Charleston Place Events 205 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29401

843-724-8410 www.charlestonplace.com gmatesi@charlestonplace.com

7 400

Y

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

Geno Matesi 1987

Charleston Convention & Group Services Inc. 1 Carriage Lane, Building G Charleston, SC 29402

843-571-5882 www.destinationcharlestonsc.com ccgs@destinationcharlestonsc.com

5 5

Y

Full-service destination management, receptive operator; special events, team building activities, convention services, tours

James E. Mellen, Stephanie King, Ali Ladley 1986

Events by The Social Secretary 1208 Tidal Basin Court Charleston, SC 29412

843-732-0774 www.thesocialsecretary-events.com info@thesocialsecretary-events.com

5 6

Y

Customized design, planning and management for corporate, social, media functions; weddings, fundraisers, conferences, destination events

Anne Marie Frawley 2010

843-764-2622 www.choirshowcase.com execasst@fbenterprises.com

5 3

Y

Marketing, PR, event production

Tia S. Brewer-Footman, Gerald V. Footman 2004

Group Dynamics 2285 Technical Parkway North Charleston, SC 29406

843-406-4117 www.groupdynamics.biz info@groupdynamics.biz

5 20

Y

Corporate events and destination logistics; full line of event rentals and decor

Jonathan Kiser, D.J. Stimac 2003

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

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

5 5

Y

Weddings, rehearsal dinners, corporate and nonprofit events

Ellen Cohn Robinson 1999

All Occasions Parties and Events By AAA Rentals 3555 Meeting Street Road North Charleston, SC 29405

843-554-6334 www.alloccasionsparty.com partyinsc@aol.com

4 18

Y

Tents, tables, chairs, china, glassware, wedding accessories, booths, conventions, staging, linens, props, themes, carnival, fair items, costumes

C. Denise Barto, Danielle Murnieks, Kerri Waltz 1961

843-856-3585 www.oohevents.com info@oohevents.com

4 20

Y

Flowers, unique rentals, invitations, event design and coordination; tent rentals and corporate events

Lisa Thomas 1996

843-884-9505 www.absolutelycharleston.com info@absolutelycharleston.com

3 12

Y

Accommodations and conference support; unique excursions, culinary experiences, transportation logistics

Robert Sullivan, Kate MacCoy, Jenny Fedewa 1998

Footman-Brewer Enterprises LLC 8310 Rivers Ave., Suite H Charleston , SC 29406

Out of the Garden 113 Pitt Street Charleston, SC 29424 Absolutely Charleston P.O. Box 80489 Charleston, SC 29416

INP=Information not provided. Because of space constraints, only the top-ranked companies are printed. For a full list of participating companies, visit www.scbiznews.com/data. Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy, errors sometimes occur. Email additions or corrections to lists@scbiznews.com, fax to 803-726-7404 or go to www.tinyurl.com/joinourlists.

Researched by Melissa Verzaal

2013 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

51

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Lists & Directories

Event Planners

Ranked by No. of Event Planners in the Charleston Area Company Calder Clark Designs 62 Cannon St., First Floor Charleston, SC 29403

Phone / Website Email

Event Day-of Planners / Coordinator Employees Available

Specialization

Person in Charge/ Year Founded

843-641-0055 www.calderclark.com info@calderclark.com

3 3

N

Full-service wedding planning

Calder B. Clark 2006

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

3 3

N

Full service design and event planning for luxury weddings and corporate events

Augusta S Cole, Lynn Easton Andrews 1998

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

3 6

N

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

Jacqueline Lawrence 2010

843-723-1355 loluma.com shasha@loluma.com

3 9

N

INP

Sha Sha Harnik 1997

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

3 5

Y

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

Lawson Roberts 2007

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

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

3 10

Y

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

Jessica Munday 2001

Blue Planet Green Events LLC 210 B Rutledge Ave., Second Floor Charleston, SC 29403

843-633-1638 www.blueplanetgreenevents.com info@blueplanetgreenevents.com

2 2

Y

Full-service planning, floral design, corporate events, retreats, fundraisers; eco-friendly planning and design

Toni Reale, Lori DeNicola 2009

843-873-0260 www.charlestonsfinest.com info@signaturesgroup.com

2 3

N

Hotel, resort, cruise groups

Cara Adams 1997

843-364-3286 www.clientsourceinc.com mcarrigan@clientsourceinc.com

2 2

Y

Professional, corporate, association meeting planning, placement; pharmaceutical, biotech, aerospace

Michael Carrigan 2003

Elizabeth Grace Occasions LLC 1000 Johnnie Dodds Blvd., Suite 103-158 Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-901-2621 www.elizabethgraceoccasions.com amie@elizabethgraceoccasions.com

2 2

Y

Weddings, galas, corporate, private events

Amie Waldeck, Gayle Dorsel 2009

Flair Marketing & Advertising 1224 Forbes Ave. Charleston, SC 29407

843-412-4894 www.flaireventsandmarketing.com holly@flaireventsandmarketing.com

2 2

Y

Events large or small; corporate or private

Holly Clayson, Susan Sellers 2004

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

2 2

Y

Corporate events, social events, weddings

Lauren Fox 2013

843-723-3387 gatheringevents.com info@gatheringevents.com

2 2

Y

Event planning, consulting, coordination; floral design, decor, lighting, furniture rental

Heather Barrie 2001

843-577-1100 www.jmccharleston.com mitchell@jmccharleston.com

2 5

Y

Event production, design; destination management, tours, transportation, private venues, business openings

Mitchell Crosby, Kendra Conway, Tracy W. Mitchell 2004

843-563-9086 INP

2 2

Y

Inflatable jump castles

INP 2007

843-881-1959 kendasweet@bellsouth.net

2 2

Y

Full-service event planning company

Kenda M. Sweet 1996

Pure Luxe Bride Bee Balm Road Johns Island, SC 29455

843-412-2495 pureluxebride.com francesca@pureluxebride.com

2 5

Y

Event management; full-service planning, design and decor

Francesca DiSalvo-Follmer 2009

Red Letter Events LLC 85 Wentworth St. Charleston, SC 29401

843-577-0305 www.redletterevents.com info@redletterevents.com

2 2

Y

Event design, planning, coordination, consultation; full-service wedding, partial and month-of coordination

Stacey Fraunfelter, Missie Parker 2005

Shindigs by DCI 519 Clearview Drive Charleston, SC 29412

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

2 2

Y

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

Katy Perrin 2007

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

2 3

Y

Non-profit events, corporate launch opportunities

Colleen Troy, Grace Newland 2005

843-364-6963 www.finievents.com courtney@finievents.com

1 1

Y

Weddings, rehearsal dinners and day-of coordination; fundraisers, birthdays, corporate events

Courtney Parades 2006

843-559-8896 www.helmsbriscoe.com jdaniels@helmsbriscoe.com

1 1

Y

No-cost hotel site selection, contract negotiations; ten or more sleeping rooms for association, corporate meetings

Julie W. Daniels 2003

Easton Events LLC 0 George St. Charleston, SC 29401 InventivEnvironments 1996 Davant Circle Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Loluma - Distinctive Events 115 Calhoun St. Charleston, SC 29401 Lawson Roberts LLC 351 King St., Suite B Charleston, SC 29403

Charleston's Finest City Guide 6650 Rivers Ave. North Charleston, SC 29406 Client Source Inc. 225 Seven Farms Drive, Suite 106 Daniel Island, SC 29492

Fox Events LLC 530 Klein Street Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Gathering Floral and Event Design 747 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29403 JMC Charleston 2220 Old School Drive, Suite B North Charleston, SC 29405 Jump for Joy 5530 Memorial Blvd.

St. George, SC 29477 Kenda Sweet Events Inc. 1473 Goblet Ave. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

Touchpoint Communications 522 King St. Charleston, SC 29403 Fini Event Planning 164 Market St., Suite 304 Charleston, SC 29401 Helms Briscoe 5470 Chisolm Road Charleston, SC 29455

INP=Information not provided. Because of space constraints, only the top-ranked companies are printed. For a full list of participating companies, visit www.scbiznews.com/data. Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy, errors sometimes occur. Email additions or corrections to lists@scbiznews.com, fax to 803-726-7404 or go to www.tinyurl.com/joinourlists.

52 2013 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

Researched by Melissa Verzaal

Lists & Directories

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Event Planners

Ranked by No. of Event Planners in the Charleston Area Company Home Team Public Relations 1587 Holton Place Charleston, SC 29407

Phone / Website Email

Event Day-of Planners / Coordinator Employees Available

Person in Charge/ Year Founded

Specialization

843-557-4077 www.hometeampr.com angel@hometeampr.com

1 1

Y

Culinary related events

Angel Postell 2013

Katherine Miller Events 1127 Audubon Place Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-388-5576 katherinemillerevents.com info@katherinemillerevents.com

1 1

N

Full-service wedding, event coordination; venue, vendor recommendations; design, decor, menu, logistics consulting

Katherine Marie Miller 2009

On Purpose Adventures LLC 915 Folly Road, Suite 90 Charleston, SC 29412

843-405-5173 www.onpurposeadventures.com info@onpurposeadventures.com

1 1

Y

Corporate team building, adventure bachelor/bachelorette parties and customized adventures

Ben-Jamin Toy 2011

843-345-3275 www.styleepr.com vladiaspencer@gmail.com

1 2

INP

INP

Vladia Jurcova-Spencer 2004

Vivere Interior Design 162A Spring St. Charleston, SC 29403

843-637-3804 vivereinteriordesign.com drayton.campbell@gmail.com

1 1

Y

Event and interior design

Drayton Campbell 2012

Winship Productions 241 Cooper River Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-442-8599 www.winshipproductions.com mikeawinship@gmail.com

1 2

Y

Full-service event planning; weddings, private parties; complimentary consultation and flat-free pricing for all budget levels

Michael A. Winship 2005

The Brandon Agency 53 Broad St., Suite 6 Charleston, SC 29401

843-222-7506 www.thebrandonagency.com INP

INP 5

INP

INP

John Rusher, Kimberly Juday 1959

843-696-8185 www.mycharlestonwedding.net INP

INP 2

Y

Vow creation, composition; ceremony planning; full wedding rehearsals, advice for customary and traditional weddings

Allen Johnson 1999

Stylee PR & Marketing 1395 Center Lake Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

Tasteful Civil Ceremonies by Allen Johnson 173 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29401

INP=Information not provided. Because of space constraints, only the top-ranked companies are printed. For a full list of participating companies, visit www.scbiznews.com/data. Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy, errors sometimes occur. Email additions or corrections to lists@scbiznews.com, fax to 803-726-7404 or go to www.tinyurl.com/joinourlists.

Researched by Melissa Verzaal

2013 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

53

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Lists & Directories

Alternative & Outdoor Event Venues Ranked by Maximum Capacity

Phone / Website Email

Max Capacity Outdoor Capacity Reception Capacity

Description

In-house Catering?/ Outside Caterer OK?/ Tents OK?

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

50,000 50,000 50,000

Venue buildings, open land with pond, 70 acres of outside meeting space and 100 acres of parking space that can double as event space

N Y Y

843-853-3625 www.cmcevents.com olshinskia@charleston-sc.gov

4,000 4,000 450

Downtown waterfront event and conference venue with space available for indoor and outdoor receptions and ceremonies; free parking available

N Y Y

843-856-0028 www.charlestonharborresort.com reservations@charlestonharborresort.com

2,500 2,500 2,000

Indoor meeting space and covered outdoor areas overlooking Charleston Harbor; conference planning team and wedding specialist are available

Y N Y

843-556-6020 www.middletonplace.org info@middletonplace.org

2,000 2,000 2,000

18th-century plantation, America's oldest landscaped gardens, house museum and plantation stableyards with indoor and outdoor reception sites

Y N Y

843-724-7174 www.charlestoncvb.com binderr@charleston-sc.gov

1,500 1,500 300

Open, covered usable space

N Y N

843-577-3474 www.scaquarium.org sales@scaquarium.org

1,500 500 1,300

Receptions, conferences and meetings can be hosted in the executive suite, great hall or riverside terrace

N Y Y

843-873-2210 www.summervillecountryclub.com INP

800 800 500

Outdoor covered pavilion; prep kitchen, lighting, portable bars, wireless PA system, dance floor, tables, chairs; patio extension of original clubhouse

Y Y Y

843-873-2210 www.summervillecountryclub.com INP

800 800 500

Covered outdoor pavilion with pull-down curtains if needed; new large outdoor patio suitable for oyster roasts and weddings

Y Y Y

843-572-2717 www.carolinaicepalace.com INP

750 INP INP

Banquet and traditional seating for corporate events, team-building events, wedding receptions, sports banquets, baby and bridal showers

Y N Y

843-871-2135 wescottgolf.com pamelahuff@bellsouth.net

600 500 500

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

Y Y Y

843-606-2718 harborsideeast.com reservations@harborsideast.com

600 400 250

Indoor and outdoor facility on Charleston harbor with views of downtown Charleston, the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge and the USS Yorktown

N Y Y

843-886-6000 www.wilddunes.com groupsales@wilddunes.com

600 500 600

Indoor and outdoor meeting, event facilities; custom events; accommodations, catering services, teambuilding exercises; wellness programs

Y INP INP

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

560 INP 560

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

Y N Y

843-795-1623 www.saint-james.org INP

550 500 550

22,000-square-foot facility for meetings; fully carpeted, upholstered chairs, round tables, meeting and serpentine tables, stage with lighting; fully handicap-accessible

Y Y Y

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

500 INP 500

Private country club featuring two championship golf courses; 7,100 sq. ft. ballroom, dividable; private board room; outdoor venues;full-service catering options

Y N Y

843-277-0167 magnoliaplantation.com/events INP

500 500 500

Features three scenic locations for weddings and corporate events; America's oldest public garden and 19th century Romantic style garden

N Y Y

843-722-3474 www.pphgcharleston.com info@pphgcharleston.com

500 INP 500

1810 historic downtown landmark; indoor and outdoor spaces showcase period artwork, sweeping piazzas and private grounds

Y N Y

843-881-7337 www.spiritlinecruises.com sales@spiritlinecruises.com

400 INP 350

Yacht fleet with four available for private charters, dinner cruise boat with full kitchen

Y N N

Turtle Point at Kiawah Island Golf Resort 1 Turtle Point Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455

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

380 0 380

Centrally located on the resort; meeting and conference facilities on the second floor of the clubhouse; Tomasso restaurant also available for functions

Y N N

The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort 1000 Ocean Course Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455

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

325 4,600 325

Golf course, home of the 2012 PGA Championship

Y N Y

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

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

300 300 INP

Host to three special event venues, animal forest zoo, replica cannons and the adventure cargo vessel

N Y Y

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

300 INP INP

County parks department, with facilities and programs throughout the county

INP INP INP

Company Exchange Park 9850 U.S. Highway 78 Ladson, SC 29456 Charleston Maritime Center 10 Wharfside St. Charleston, SC 29401 Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina 20 Patriots Point Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Middleton Place 4300 Ashley River Road Charleston, SC 29414 Charleston Visitor Center & Bus Shed 375 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29403 South Carolina Aquarium 100 Aquarium Wharf Charleston, SC 29401 Candlelite Pavilion at Summerville Country Club 400 Country Club Blvd.

Summerville, SC 29483 Summerville Country Club, Miler Golf Course 400 Country Club Blvd.

Summerville, SC 29483 Carolina Ice Palace 7665 Northwoods Blvd.

North Charleston, SC 29406 The Golf Club at Wescott Plantation 5000 Wescott Club Drive Summerville, SC 29485 Harborside East 28 Bridgeside Blvd.

Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Wild Dunes Resort 5757 Palm Blvd.

Isle of Palms, SC 29451 Lowndes Grove Plantation 266 St. Margaret St. Charleston, SC 29403 St. James Church Event Center 1872 Camp Road Charleston, SC 29412 Daniel Island Club 600 Island Park Drive Daniel Island, SC 29492 Magnolia Plantation & Gardens 3550 Ashley River Road Charleston, SC 29414 The William Aiken House 456 King St. Charleston, SC 29403 SpiritLine Cruises and Events 360 Concord St., Suite 201 Charleston, SC 29401

Charleston County Park & Recreation Commission 861 Riverland Drive Charleston, SC 29412

INP=Information not provided. Because of space constraints, only the top-ranked companies are printed. For a full list of participating companies, visit www.scbiznews.com/data. Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy, errors sometimes occur. Email additions or corrections to lists@scbiznews.com, fax to 803-726-7404 or go to www.tinyurl.com/joinourlists.

54 2013 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

Researched by Business Journal staff

epg

Lists & Directories

Alternative & Outdoor Event Venues Ranked by Maximum Capacity

Company Covered Shelters at James Island County Park 871 Riverland Drive Charleston, SC 29412 Covered Shelters at Wannamaker County Park 8888 University Blvd.

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

North Charleston, SC 29406 Edisto Hall at James Island County Park 871 Riverland Drive Charleston, SC 29412 Founders Hall 1500 Old Towne Road Charleston, SC 29407 James Island County Park 871 Riverland Drive Charleston, SC 29412 Legend Oaks Golf Club 118 Legend Oaks Way Summerville, SC 29485 The Pavilion at Patriots Point 1 Patriots Point Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 The Wickliffe House 178 Ashley Ave. Charleston, SC 29403

Phone / Website Email

Max Capacity Outdoor Capacity Reception Capacity

843-795-4386 www.ccprc.com customerservice@ccprc.com 843-795-4386 www.ccprc.com customerservice@ccprc.com 843-795-4386 www.ccprc.com customerservice@ccprc.com 843-795-4386 www.ccprc.com torourke@ccprc.com 843-852-2965 www.foundershallcharleston.com julieann@lowcountryparkvenues.com 843-795-7275 www.ccprc.com customerservice@ccprc.com 843-821-4077 www.legendoaksgolf.com INP 843-849-2400, ext. 7 www.patriotspointlinks.com INP 843-571-1410 www.wickliffehouse.com INP

300 300 300 300 300 300 300 5,000 300 300 INP 300 300 300 300 300 INP INP 300 500 300 300 INP 300 300 300 300

INP=Information not provided. Because of space constraints, only the top-ranked companies are printed. For a full list of participating companies, visit www.scbiznews.com/data. Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy, errors sometimes occur. Email additions or corrections to lists@scbiznews.com, fax to 803-726-7404 or go to www.tinyurl.com/joinourlists.

56 2013 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

In-house Catering?/ Outside Caterer OK?/ Tents OK?

Description Picnic Center Porch, 768 sq. ft./capacity 75; Wando and Stono shelters, 1,600 sq. ft./capacity 200 each; Wappoo Shelter, 2,100 sq. ft./capacity 300 Cottonwood, 1840 sq. ft., capacity 200; Tupelo, 2575 sq. ft., capacity 300; Magnolia, 1585 sq. ft., capacity 100; picnic tables, grills, electricity, fans, horseshoe pit Eight-acre meadow; kitchen, stage, dressing room, sand volleyball court, horseshoe pit; climate-controlled facility with 25 tables,200 chairs, A/V equipment Climate-controlled meeting site with stage, kitchen, catering entrance, PA system; microphone by request Located along the Ashley River; furniture; audiovisual system; catering kitchen; free parking 643-acre county park; playground, camping facilities, picnic areas, water park, meeting and event facilities; walking/biking trails, sprinkler play area, dog park A semi-private golf and tennis club in Summerville 4,000-square-foot tent with brick foundation overlooking the 18th green and Charleston Harbor and Fort Sumter Charleston town home located in Radcliffborough; tea room open for lunch 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Friday

N Y Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y Y Y Y

Researched by Business Journal staff

Lists & Directories

epg

Alternative & Outdoor Event Venues Ranked by Maximum Capacity

Company Snee Farm Country Club 1200 Club Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Charleston Harbor Tours 32-C Laurens St. Charleston, SC 29401 Cypress Gardens 3030 Cypress Gardens Road Moncks Corner, SC 29461 Drayton Hall 3380 Ashley River Road Charleston, SC 29414 Historic Rice Mill Building 17 Lockwood Drive Charleston, SC 29401 Legare Waring House 1500 Old Towne Road Charleston, SC 29407 The American Theater 446 King St. Charleston, SC 29403 The Citadel Beach House 4700 Palm Blvd.

Isle of Palms, SC 29451 Covered Shelters at Palmetto Islands County Park 444 Needlerush Parkway Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

Phone / Website Email

Max Capacity Outdoor Capacity Reception Capacity

843-884-8571 www.sneefarmcc.com llovisone@rivertownecountryclub.com 843-722-1112 www.charlestonharbortours.com sales@charlestonharbortours.com 843-553-0515 www.cypressgardens.info hgraham@berkeleycountysc.gov 843-769-2600 www.draytonhall.org info@draytonhall.org 843-723-7952 historicricemill.net info@goodfoodcatering,net 843-852-2965 www.legarewaringhouse.com julieann@lowcountryparkvenues.com 843-853-1810 www.pphgcharleston.com info@pphgcharleston.com 843-953-6586 http://beachhouse.citadelalumni.org reserve@citadelalumni.org 843-795-4386 www.ccprc.com INP

260 100 INP 250 INP 350 250 500 250 250 INP INP 250 250 250 250 250 250 250 INP 250 250 300 250 200 200 200

INP=Information not provided. Because of space constraints, only the top-ranked companies are printed. For a full list of participating companies, visit www.scbiznews.com/data. Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy, errors sometimes occur. Email additions or corrections to lists@scbiznews.com, fax to 803-726-7404 or go to www.tinyurl.com/joinourlists.

In-house Catering?/ Outside Caterer OK?/ Tents OK?

Description Private country club with newly remolded clubhouse and ballroom featuring 18-hole George Cobb-designed golf course, 18 tennis courts, three swimming pools 1920s replica bay steamer vessel available for corporate outings, private dinner cruises, cocktail parties and all types of group tours 170-acre swamp garden with swamparium, butterfly house, museum, boat tours, walking trails, three indoor meeting venues, outdoor gazebos Oldest unrestored plantation house and accredited museum in America open to the public Historic waterfront venue with sunset views of Charleston City Marina and Charleston Harbor; two outdoor patios, exposed brick, large windows and punched tin ceilings Historic home, avenue of oaks, free parking, catering kitchen, four bridal suites, groom's quarters, lagoon views 8,000-square-foot event venue; Art Deco architecture, Hollywood glamour; grand ballroom, vintage marquee, state-ofthe-art cinema with stadium seats Oceanfront venue for company events, parties, weddings and receptions; indoor ballroom and outdoor pavilion available Tall Pines, 600 sq.ft./capacity 60; Sweet Gum, 1,350 sq.ft./ capacity 200; Big Oak, 1,350 sq.ft./capacity 200; electricity, grills, picnic tables; playgrounds, trails, boating, biking

Y N Y Y Y N N Y Y N Y Y Y N INP N Y Y Y N N Y Y Y N Y Y

Researched by Business Journal staff

2013 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

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Lists & Directories

Alternative & Outdoor Event Venues Ranked by Maximum Capacity

Company Folly Beach County Park 1100 W. Ashley Ave. Folly Beach, SC 29439 Isle of Palms County Park 1 14th Ave. Isle of Palms, SC 29451 Kiawah Beachwalker Park 8 Beachwalker Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455 Oak Point at Kiawah Island Golf Resort 4394 Hope Plantation Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455 Osprey Point at Kiawah Island Golf Resort 1 Sanctuary Beach Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455 Palmetto Islands County Park 444 Needlerush Parkway Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 The Pelican Watch Shelter at Folly Beach County Park 1100 W. Ashley Ave. Folly Beach, SC 29439 Wannamaker County Park 8888 University Blvd.

North Charleston, SC 29406 Marion's in the French Quarter 159 East Bay St. Charleston, SC 29401

Phone / Website Email

Max Capacity Outdoor Capacity Reception Capacity

843-588-2426 www.ccprc.com INP 843-886-3863 www.ccprc.com customerservice@ccprc.com 843-768-2395 ccprc.com INP 843-266-4100 kiawahresort.com mike_vegis@kiawahresort.com 843-266-4640 www.kiawahresort.com reservations@kiawahresort.com 843-884-0832 www.ccprc.com customerservice@ccprc.com 843-795-4386 ccprc.com customerservice@ccprc.com 843-572-7275 www.ccprc.com INP 843-810-0158 www.marionscharleston.com info@marionscharleston.com

200 INP INP 200 INP INP 200 INP INP 200 200 0 200 200 200 200 200 INP 200 INP INP 200 INP INP 165 INP 50

INP=Information not provided. Because of space constraints, only the top-ranked companies are printed. For a full list of participating companies, visit www.scbiznews.com/data. Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy, errors sometimes occur. Email additions or corrections to lists@scbiznews.com, fax to 803-726-7404 or go to www.tinyurl.com/joinourlists.

58 2013 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

In-house Catering?/ Outside Caterer OK?/ Tents OK?

Description Beach-side parking, restrooms, showers; two-level beachaccessible shelter complete with picnic tables, grills, water, electricity access Ocean frontage with lifeguards on duty seasonally along a beachfront-designated swimming area Ocean frontage and river view; the only public beach access on Kiawah Island 18-hole golf course with clubhouse facility; outdoor functions only with extensive area for tenting Space available for executive-level meetings and catered events; home to Cherrywood BBQ and Ale House, available for special events 943-acre nature-based park with playgrounds, trails, boating and biking; covered shelters that offer electricity, grills and picnic tables Two-level beach-accessible shelter; picnic tables; ocean view; electricity and water access, covered deck, oyster roaster, grills, picnic tables, restrooms, horseshoe pit 1,015-acre park; covered shelters and meeting hall for rent; trails, seasonal water park, sprinkler play area, off-leash dog park, picnic sites, playground Seating for up to 165 for private parties, corporate events and other functions

INP INP INP INP INP INP INP INP INP Y N Y Y N Y Y Y Y N Y N INP INP INP N Y INP

Researched by Business Journal staff

Lists & Directories

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Alternative & Outdoor Event Venues Ranked by Maximum Capacity

Company Carolina Girl Yacht 95 Ripley Point Drive Charleston, SC 29407 Cooper River Room 99 Harry Hallman Jr. Blvd.

Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 RiverTowne Country Club 1700 RiverTowne Country Club Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29466 St. Johns Yacht Harbor 2408 Maybank Highway Johns Island, SC 29455 The River House 266 St. Margaret St. Charleston, SC 29403 Shadowmoss Plantation Golf Club 20 Dunvegan Drive Charleston, SC 29414 The Cottages on Charleston Harbor 16 Patriots Point Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Old Santee Canal Park 900 Stony Landing Road Moncks Corner, SC 29461 The Plantation at Bulow 926 Hughes Road Charleston, SC 29455

Phone / Website Email

Max Capacity Outdoor Capacity Reception Capacity

843-818-2495 www.carolinagirlevents.com info@carolinagirlevents.com 843-852-2965 www.cooperriverroom.com julieann@lowcountryparkvenues.com 843-849-2400, ext. 2419 www.rivertownecountryclub.com llovisone@rivertownecountryclub.com 843-557-1027 www.stjohnsyachtharbor.com/ bchamberlain@sjyh.com 843-853-1810 www.pphgcharleston.com info@pphgcharleston.com 843-556-8251 www.shadowmossgolf.com golfpro@shadowmossgolf.com 843-849-2300 www.thecottagesoncharlestonharbor.com cpolinsky@thecottagesoncharlestonharbor.com 843-899-5200 www.oldsanteecanalpark.org parkinfo@santeecooper.com 843-762-2683 plantationatbulow.com customerservice@ccprc.com

150 INP 150 150 150 150 150 INP 150 150 150 150 150 100 100 128 INP INP 125 125 125 100 INP INP 100 INP 100

INP=Information not provided. Because of space constraints, only the top-ranked companies are printed. For a full list of participating companies, visit www.scbiznews.com/data. Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy, errors sometimes occur. Email additions or corrections to lists@scbiznews.com, fax to 803-726-7404 or go to www.tinyurl.com/joinourlists.

Description Special-events yacht Views of the Cooper River, Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, Waterfront Park, pier Plantation-style clubhouse with panoramic views of marshlands, live oaks and RiverTowne Country Club golf course Scenic views of the Stono River; receptions, dinners, parties, company functions, small meetings; outdoor space Waterfront space on the grounds of Lowndes Grove Plantation overlooking the Ashley River; open floor plan, brick terrace Available to host tournaments for up to 128 players; outdoor pavilion has seating for participants Clubhouse and two event lawns overlooking Charleston Harbor Three indoor venues including the Stoney Landing House for wedding receptions and banquets; two outdoor shelters for social gatherings Natural lakeside setting available for weddings, business meetings, receptions; wedding dock available for pictures; island space available

In-house Catering?/ Outside Caterer OK?/ Tents OK? N Y N N Y Y Y N Y N Y Y Y N Y INP INP INP Y N Y N Y Y N Y Y

Researched by Business Journal staff

2013 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

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Lists & Directories

Exhibition & Convention Centers Ranked by Maximum Capacity Company Exchange Park 9850 U.S. Highway 78 Ladson, SC 29456 North Charleston Coliseum 5001 Coliseum Drive North Charleston, SC 29418 Charleston Area Convention Center 5001 Coliseum Drive North Charleston, SC 29418 North Charleston Performing Arts Center 5001 Coliseum Drive North Charleston, SC 29418 The College Center at Trident Technical College 7000 Rivers Ave. North Charleston, SC 29406 Omar Shrine Convention Center 176 Patriots Point Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Memminger Auditorium 56 Beaufain St. Charleston, SC 29401 Founders Hall 1500 Old Towne Road Charleston, SC 29407 The Inn at Middleton Place 4290 Ashley River Road Charleston, SC 29414

Phone / Website Email

Capacity / Event Space / Meeting Rooms

Description

Top Local Official(s) / Year Founded

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

50,000 2,000,000 sq. ft.

8

Venue buildings, open land with pond, 70 acres of outside meeting space, 100 acres of parking space that can double as event space

Michael Carney, Denise Massey 1979

843-529-5011 www.coliseumpac.com INP

14,000 35,000 sq. ft.

4

Coliseum with seating capacity of 14,000; 79,000 square feet of exhibition space

Dave Holscher 1993

843-529-5011 www.charlestonconvention.com INP

10,000 250,000 sq. ft.

25

Located between the airport and historic district; attached to the Performing Arts Center, North Charleston Coliseum and Embassy Suites Hotel

Ed W. Riggs 1999

843-529-5011 www.coliseumpac.com INP

2,300 2,725 sq. ft.

2

Performing arts center

Dave Holscher 1999

843-820-5094 www.tridenttech.edu/conferenceservices.htm trish.bryce-jacobs@tridenttech.edu

1,200 20,000 sq. ft.

8

Flexible meeting space with audiovisual and lighting equipment

Trish BryceJacobs 2005

843-881-4220 omarshriners.org/ballroom auditoriumevents@aol.com

1,000 17,000 sq. ft.

1

Space available for trade shows, conferences, auctions, training, charity events and ceremonies; on-site catering available

Jamie Lewis 1986

843-722-2764 www.memmingerauditorium.com cmylett@spoletousa.org

900 10,000 sq. ft.

4

Multi-use space available year-round; 2,500 sq. ft. storage space, catering setup, backstage needs; banquet room-style partition wall, six dressing rooms

Chelsea Mylett 2008

843-852-2965 www.foundershallcharleston.com julieann@lowcountryparkvenues.com

300 6,000 sq. ft.

2

Historically significant property along the banks of the Ashley River; furniture; audiovisual system; catering kitchen; free parking

Julie Ann Oldham 2009

843-556-0500 www.theinnatmiddletonplace.com INP

250 3,000 sq. ft.

1

Located by the Ashley River, adjacent to Middleton Place; meeting facility has floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the woodlands

Abigail Martin 1987

INP=Information not provided. Because of space constraints, only the top-ranked companies are printed. For a full list of participating companies, visit www.scbiznews.com/data. Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy, errors sometimes occur. Email additions or corrections to lists@scbiznews.com, fax to 803-726-7404 or go to www.tinyurl.com/joinourlists.

60 2013 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

Researched by Melissa Verzaal

Lists & Directories

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Full-Service Caterers Ranked by Largest Event Catered in 2012 Company Icebox Bartenders 2220 Old School Drive Charleston, SC 29405 A Southern Bartender P.O. Box 20126 Charleston, SC 29413 Wild Wing Cafe Catering 830 Lowcountry Blvd., Suite 200 Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Charleston Bay Gourmet 748 King St. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Food for the Southern Soul 188 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29401 Erimic Associates Caterers 2421 Thaxton St. Charleston, SC 29414 Hamby Catering & Events 925 St. Andrews Blvd.

Charleston, SC 29407 Easterby's Family Grille 2388 Ashley River Road Charleston, SC 29414 Lowcountry Eats LLC 2872 Azalea Drive, Building 1 North Charleston, SC 29405 Charleston Place Events 205 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29401

Phone / Website Email

Largest Event 2012 / Employees / Avg. Meal

843-407-0473 www.iceboxbar.com info@iceboxbar.com 843-345-6300 www.asouthernbartender.com INP 843-216-7601 www.wildwingcafe.com phil@wildwingcafe.com 843-884-7515 www.charlestonbaygourmet.com grace@charlestonbaygourmet.com 843-762-9200 www.foodforthesouthernsoul.com info@foodforthesouthernsoul.com 843-556-5077 INP irobin1403@gmail.com 843-571-3103 www.hambycatering.com info@hambycatering.com 843-556-5707 www.easterbysfamilygrille.com easterbysfamilygrille@yahoo.com 843-747-1100 www.lowcountryeats.com info@lowcountryeats.com 843-724-8410 www.charlestonplace.com gmatesi@charlestonplace.com

25,000 7 $0 12,000 15 INP 11,000 270 $20 10,000 6 INP 10,000 15 $15 2,500 2 $14 2,200 100 $39 2,000 16 $20 1,300 5 $20 1,200 400 $85

INP=Information not provided. View this list online at www.scbiznews.com/data. Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy, errors sometimes occur. Email additions or corrections to lists@scbiznews.com, fax to 803-726-7404 or go to www.tinyurl.com/joinourlists.

Catering Services

Person in Charge

Standard packages and customizable beverage service; catering for private events, weddings, corporate events, galas, festivals

Boris P.C. Van Dyck 2008

Beverage service from TIPS-trained bartenders

Keith A. Purdy 1978

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

Philip Knight 1990

Large outdoor events, intimate soirees

Grace Edwards 1991

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

Linley Murphy 2002

Any off-premise catering, from dinner for two to sit-down banquets of more than 600

Juanita A. Robinson 1985

Full-service catering, including food and beverage service; rental coordination, floor plan,timeline creation;event logistics

Candice Wigfield 1979

All menu items; Frogmore stew; barbecue; fish fry

Ron Easterby 1992

Full service, off-premise caterer

Elaine Axson, Drew Corcelli, Ann Moore 2005

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

Geno Matesi 1987 Researched by Melissa Verzaal

2013 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

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Lists & Directories

Full-Service Caterers Ranked by Largest Event Catered in 2012 Company Embassy Suites Catering 5055 International Blvd.

North Charleston, SC 29418 Dish & Design Catering 629 Johnnie Dodds Blvd., Suite 5 Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Iacofano Group 626 Coleman Blvd.

Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 A&P Catering 17 Lockwood Drive Charleston, SC 29401 Cru Catering 1784 Harmon St. Charleston, SC 29405 Charleston Hospitality Catering 209 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29401 Duvall Events 2816 Azalea Drive North Charleston, SC 29405 Newton Farms Catering 130 Gardeners Circle, Suite 116 Johns Island, SC 29455 Granville's Catering 730 Rutledge Ave. Charleston, SC 29403 Beyond Expectations 2487-2 Ashley River Road Charleston, SC 29414

Phone / Website Email

Largest Event 2012 / Employees / Avg. Meal

843-747-1882 embassysuitescharleston.com rebecca.harris@jqh.com 843-971-6701 www.dishanddesign.com charleston@dishanddesign.com 855-485-3663 www.iacofanos.com info@iacofanos.com 843-224-0529 www.varietystorerestaurant.com mclaltine@gmail.com 843-534-2433 www.crucatering.com info@crucatering.com 843-754-7035 www.charlestonhospitalitycatering.com sales@charlestonhospitalitycatering.com 843-763-9222 www.duvallevents.com info@duvallevents.com 843-412-0753 www.newtonfarmscatering.com sales@newtonfarms.net 843-224-5873 granvillescatering.com mgwthree@gmail.com 843-573-0012 www.beyondxpectations.com INP

1,200 135 $30 1,000 25 INP 1,000 36 $15 800 20 $25 750 35 $50 700 20 $45 700 75 $42 650 20 $35 600 10 $30 500 15 $40

INP=Information not provided. View this list online at www.scbiznews.com/data. Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy, errors sometimes occur. Email additions or corrections to lists@scbiznews.com, fax to 803-726-7404 or go to www.tinyurl.com/joinourlists.

62 2013 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

Catering Services

Person in Charge

One-stop shop including decor, audiovisual and food services; full-service planning

Joanie Cole 1999

Corporate events, special events, weddings

Anja Stief 1999

Weddings, business, school, private party and much more

John Iacofano, Matt Rabon 2002

Weddings, corporate functions, picnics and special events; both on and off premises

Mike Altine Jr., Richard P. Ritter 1995

Full-service customized catering for galas, special events, weddings, meetings, private parties, business functions

John F. Zucker 2000

Full-service company with resources to fulfill all event needs

Nina Jakubowski, Iverson Brownell 2012

Event design, catering, decor, coordination, staffing, bar service

Steve Wenger 1978

Full-service, off-premise catering with menus including a wide range of cuisine at a variety of price points One-of-a-kind menus for weddings, rehearsal dinners, corporate events and other social events

Sarah Coffey 2009

Bar service, ice sculptures and wedding planning

Ron Murray 1997

Trae Wilson 1993

Researched by Melissa Verzaal

Lists & Directories

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Full-Service Caterers Ranked by Largest Event Catered in 2012 Company Crave Charleston Catering / Crave International Foods 4430 Betsy Kerrison Parkway, Suite B Johns Island, SC 29455 Good Food Catering 17 Lockwood Drive Charleston, SC 29413 Wild Dunes Catering & Event Rentals 5757 Palm Blvd.

Isle of Palms, SC 29451 The Golf Club at Wescott Plantation 5000 Wescott Club Drive Summerville, SC 29485 Brick Lane Catering 38 Romney St. Charleston, SC 29403 The Mills House Wyndham Grand Hotel 115 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29401 Tristan 10 Linguard St. Charleston, SC 29401 Fork Fine Gourmet Catering & Events 2408 Ashley River Road Charleston, SC 29414 B. Gourmet Catering 2578-L Ashley River Road Charleston, SC 29414 Gourmet Bay Catering 3157-C Maybank Highway Johns Island, SC 29455

Phone / Website Email

Largest Event 2012 / Employees / Avg. Meal

843-768-0006 www.cravecharleston.com petrilloksg@yahoo.com

500 7 $4,045

843-723-7952 goodfoodcatering.net info@goodfoodcatering.net 843-886-6000 www.tinyurl.com/wilddunescater weddings@wilddunes.com 843-871-2135 wescottgolf.com pamelahuff@bellsouth.net 843-323-2696 www.bricklanecatering.com info@bricklanecatering.com 843-577-2400 www.millshouse.com INP 843-534-2155 www.tristandining.com info@tristandining.com 843-769-0300 www.forkfinegourmet.com forkfinegourmet@knology.net 843-209-6288 bgourmetcatering.com brooke@bgourmetcatering.com 843-557-1257 www.gourmetbay.net sales@gourmetbay.net

500 40 $35 500 60 $60 450 45 $28 400 3 $40 400 130 $60 400 30 $55 375 22 $30 350 30 $28 350 4 INP

INP=Information not provided. View this list online at www.scbiznews.com/data. Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy, errors sometimes occur. Email additions or corrections to lists@scbiznews.com, fax to 803-726-7404 or go to www.tinyurl.com/joinourlists.

Catering Services

Person in Charge

Catering services for two to 500 people

Mike Petrillo 2009

Casual to high-end food and beverage, along with event setup, including tables and chairs, linens and lighting

Jenna DeSavino, Jennifer Payne, Tristan Whisnant 2004 Samantha K. Martin, Amei Prachthauser 2010

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

Pamela Huff 2000

Global customized menus

Christy Roper 2011

Off-site catering forprivate homes, offices and Lowcountry venues

Full-service catering both on-site and offpremise for events to 500 guests; indoor/outdoor facilities for receptions, dinners Full-service catering for on-site, hotel, off-site events; luncheons; multi-course plated dinners; banquets; customized menus Full-service catering including custom menus, friendly and professional staffing; event and wedding experts

Rachael Kay Rose 2005

Full-service, off-premise catering to the greater Charleston area

Brooke Bishop, Greg Stine 2012

Full-service catering for full-scale weddings, corporate functions, charity galas; weddings, corporate, special events

Erin Marqua, Patrick Hickey 2004

John Edwards 1853

Wendall Edwards 2003

Researched by Melissa Verzaal

2013 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

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Lists & Directories

Full-Service Caterers Ranked by Largest Event Catered in 2012 Company Salthouse Catering 1750 Signal Point Road, Suite 2B Charleston, SC 29412 Holy City Catering 1033-B Wappoo Road Charleston, SC 29407 Melvin's Legendary Bar-B-Que 719 Folly Road Charleston, SC 29412 Relish Distinctive Catering 1700 RiverTowne Country Club Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29466 Three Little Birds Cafe & Catering 65 Windermere Blvd.

Charleston, SC 29407 An Epicurean Feast Inc. 95 Broad St. Charleston, SC 29401 The Eclectic Chef 125 Central Ave. Summerville, SC 29483 Everyday Gourmet Inc. 1303 Ben Sawyer Blvd., Unit 6 Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Laura Alberts Tasteful Options 891 Island Park Drive Daniel Island, SC 29492 Upstairs at 39 Rue de Jean 39 John St. Charleston, SC 29403

Phone / Website Email

Largest Event 2012 / Employees / Avg. Meal

843-577-7847 www.salthousecatering.com info@salthousecatering.com 843-762-3338 holycitycatering.com hailey@holycitycatering.com 843-795-6794 www.melvinsbbq.com joan@melvinsbbq.com 843-849-2400, ext. 7 www.relishdistinctivecatering.com INP 843-225-3065 www.threelittlebirdscafe.com threelittlebirdscafe@gmail.com 843-296-9529 www.epicfeast.com donna@epicfeast.com 843-821-7733 www.eclecticchef.net INP 843-388-2490 www.shopeverydaygourmet.com tghitopoulos@yahoo.com 843-881-4711 www.lauraalberts.com lauraalbertsinfo@gmail.com 843-725-5959 www.39ruedejean.com upstairs@39ruedejean.com

350 5 $35 300 10 $25 300 50 $8 300 80 $30 300 14 INP 250 1 $40 250 7 $15 250 3 $30 200 11 $30 200 50 $35

INP=Information not provided. Because of space constraints, only the top-ranked companies are printed. For a full list of participating companies, visit www.scbiznews.com/data. Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy, errors sometimes occur. Email additions or corrections to lists@scbiznews.com, fax to 803-726-7404 or go to www.tinyurl.com/joinourlists.

64 2013 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

Catering Services

Person in Charge

Full-service catering with customized menus; local, regional, global cuisines

Tanya Gurrieri 2012

Full services, such as private chefs and fullservice wedding catering

Hailey Cox Tanner, Rhett Tanner 2012 David Bessinger, Lauren M. Wilt 1939

Set up, maintain buffet line, clean up; hot food served in chafing dishes All tables, linens, chairs, glassware, flatware, china; full setup and breakdown; no charge for day-of coordinator

Lacy Davidson 1998

Weddings, holiday parties, private dinners, box lunches, work parties, rehearsal dinners

Meridith Satterwhite, Ryan Satterwhite 2007

Private in-home dinners, cocktail parties, rehearsal dinners, bridal luncheons, wedding receptions, barbecues, corporate events

Donna Gustafson Chef/Owner 1997

INP

Ben McCollum 2000

Private chef, pickup or delivery of prepared foods; full-service catering including equipment rentals, in-house dinner parties

Tricia Gregory Hitopoulos 2002

Intimate dinners for 20 to 60 people in private dining room; up to 200 guests off-premises

Karen M. Elsey 2002

Off-site catering available from menu and sister restaurant Holy City Hospitality restaurants

Tristan Whisenant Mrs. 2001

Researched by Melissa Verzaal