EVENT PLANNING GUIDE | 2020
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re you looking for a venue that provides the flexibility to fit your event needs and design? With over 14,000 square feet of combined indoor and outdoor space, Festival Hall (formerly Memminger Auditorium) is Charleston, South Carolina’s, most versatile venue for any conference, meeting, performance, special event, wedding, or any experience! Located in the heart of downtown Charleston, Festival Hall makes a striking first impression within the historic city’s landscape. With an infrastructure of a classic theater, this venue provides a uniquely accessible and transformative facility for any occasion. The main room, a pillarless 10,000 square foot space, offers high ceilings, an extensive catwalk system, and movable air walls that provide the opportunity to create various spaces within. An attached back-of-house area can be easily outfitted for food-and-beverage operations, and the facility’s six dressing rooms can be utilized for all of your behind-the-scenes event needs. You should be able to create your event your way, and Festival Hall also gives the flexibility to use any caterer or event vendor you like. This venue truly provides the versatility to accommodate your event vision ... whatever you dream up, it can be done at Festival Hall!
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contents 2020
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Corporate Meetings & Conventions
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Event Planning Guide 2020
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Charleston still a popular destination, but pandemic has changed the rules
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Event planners adapt to new landscape
Corporate Meetings & Conventions
Pandemic event planning Industry grapples with new realities Editor’s Note The effects of the coronavirus pandemic have been keenly felt within the event and entertainment sectors. Many venues, hotels, restaurants and other businesses have altered operations to adhere to health safety guidelines. While we have made every effort to account for this in our content, we advise contacting a business prior to making plans to ensure availability and confirm what restrictions might be in place.
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harleston’s reputation as a place people want to visit is a well-documented fact. It’s been named the top U.S. destination by Conde Nast for 10 years in a row and by Travel & Leisure for eight years and counting. It’s an annual entry on a variety of lists of best cities; and the area is in high demand as a prime location for weddings, conventions and the like thanks to a combination of natural beauty,
an indelible sense of history and charm and a vibrant food and beverage industry. Those attributes have not changed. What has changed is the world we all live in now as we cope with a virus that plays no favorites. The coronavirus pandemic brought normal life to a screeching halt in the spring, and that disruption has continued for long month after long month with no sign of abating anytime
By Steve McDaniel soon. Casualties have been many and tragic while we’ve tried to figure out how to balance health concerns with an economy that was cut off at the knees. The event industry has been on the front line of that economic upheaval. It’s impossible to bring people together in any number while we deal with a highly infectious disease that we have no natural immunity to and can be fatal to a significant number of us.
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And with no clear end to the pandemic and its effects on all aspects of our lives, event planners and their prospective clients have had to figure out how to hold events safely in a year unlike any other. In-person, up-close gatherings beyond immediate families are no longer a viable alternative; large corporate events can’t even be considered. Faced with these new, harsh restrictions, most event planners have turned to the virtual world. Online meeting platforms, once strictly a meeting tool for business, have taken over as the preferred social engagement form all over the world. Attention to small details of hygiene and other disease mitigation efforts are no longer solely in the realm of germaphobes and overly protective mothers. Outdoor event venues have be-
come increasingly popular with the flexibility to allow for safe distancing and lower risk of virus transmission. Drive-in theaters, a longdormant form of entertainment familiar to anyone over the age of 45, have made a big comeback. As we all learn to adapt and cope with the coronavirus pandemic, so does the event industry continue to evolve and create ways for people to still share common experiences, albeit in ways we never could’ve foreseen. Against that backdrop, the Charleston Regional Business Journal brings you a very different 2020 Event Planning Guide. Inside are articles detailing how those in the event industry are finding ways to stage live events that include distancing, masks and a lot of cleaning; the move toward online events, and more.
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We hope you find the follwing information and lists valuable and informative. We all look forward to our world returning to some sem-
blance of normality, none more than those whose livelihood depends on a simple fact we all took for granted for so long — the ability to meet in groups.
Let us help plan your symposium, seminar, professional meeting, conference, banquet or reception. We provide personal attention, multimedia capabilities, catering services and free parking. - 32,000 sq. ft. of flexible conference and banquet space in North Charleston - 115-person amphitheater and 800 sq. ft. of pre-function space in downtown Charleston
Complete conference and meeting services Two new event areas are now available in the S.C. Aeronautical Training Center.
To book an event:
www.tridenttech.edu/ConferenceServices.htm
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Event Planning Guide 2020
Corporate Meetings & Conventions
A new plan for event planners Event industry learning to navigate a landscape reshaped by COVID-19 By Jim Tatum
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hat COVID-19 has profoundly impacted every aspect of life on planet earth as we know is a given, if not a cliché. It seems to take extra planning and an abundance of caution to do something as simple and routine as going to the grocery store. So, if one has to re-think tasks that are normally second nature, how does one plan a major life event such as a wedding? Are major festivals, performances and sports events going to be relics of the pre-COVID-19 past? How has the landscape of large events and major productions changed? What are event venues doing in a season of cancelation and what are the alternatives? “The events industry practically disappeared overnight in the wake of this pandemic,” Dexter Foxworth, venue and sales manager with Festival Hall said. “At Festival Hall (formerly Memminger Hall), we worked with our event clients and vendors to postpone and reschedule all events to 2021 and beyond.” Caroline Cook, owner of Birdie and Boe, a corporate event planning firm, says she can clearly remember the very day COVID-19 changed everything. “COVID was very devastat-
ing for me,” she said. “There was no slow decline, no time to see it really coming — everything was literally gone in one day.” Cooke said that hers is certainly not a unique COVID-19 story — the entire events industry was largely annihilated by the onset of the pandemic. Ironically, she, like so many in her industry, had the best year of her entire career in 2019; 2020 was shaping up to be an even better year. But as of March 19, every event she had booked was canceled, she said. As in all businesses and industries, event planners, venue owners, festival organizers, and associated businesses and service providers had to pivot quickly. While it may be too early to tell who will ultimately survive and who will not, those in the business seem to agree on at least one stark point: things will never be as they were prior to the pandemic. Tara Guerard, owner of Tara Guerard Soiree, a Charlestonbased wedding/event planning firm, said COVID-19 has definitely impacted her business. Nevertheless, she said she feels fortunate in that her company does only eight weddings a year and they had already done three prior to March 2020. While
Photo/Anne Rhett Photography
they have had to re-schedule and re-plan remaining events, their clients seem willing to move forward, albeit with strict safety measures in place. For example, at a wedding they recently did in Georgia, they not only had a doctor onsite who tested every employee, onsite, prior to allowing them to work, they implemented many other measures. “Servers obviously wear masks and gloves, there are Plexiglas shields at the bars, tables and seating are at least six feet apart, food is plated and served individually, and there is even a company that comes in right before the event and sprays the entire premises with disinfectant.” Guerard said her firm does do
virtual staging as well – largely for the benefit of loved ones, such as grandparents, who are unable to attend the live event. Guerard also noted that clients also ask that their guests get tested for COVID-19 prior to the event as well. But weddings and celebrations aren’t the only facet of the events industry to have to make changes and innovations in response to the pandemic. One of these innovations, of course, has been the proliferation of virtual events. Everything from artistic performances to weddings have been done on a virtual platform, with varying degrees of success. “As we work alongside our clients, we’re thinking about their Event Planning Guide 2020
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Photo/Festival Hall Large catered events, such as this reception at Festival Hall (above) and this banquet setup (below) have changed drastically. Precautions such as social distancing now require more space, which also can limit the number of people who can attend.
events in a whole different way and how we responsibly execute on their vision while keeping attendees, clients, vendors and our staff safe,” Foxworth said. “I never would have thought I would have had to learn how to put on virtual events, yet here we are,” Cook said. “And I don’t
mean one or two small meetings or board presentations — I mean planning entire days-long events virtually. It’s a whole new experience and we’re definitely still learning.” Still, virtual events are but one solution in an industry that by its very nature thrives on
unique, real-time, real-world experiences. “While virtual events certainly have their benefits, the problem is that the DNA of inperson events is about connecting through a shared live experience,” Foxworth said. “That’s difficult to replicate in a virtual platform.”
To get around that, he said, event promoters are pivoting to hybrid events or events that combine both in-person and virtual experiences, and hosting events in larger venues like Festival Hall (formerly Memminger Auditorium) that allow for greater social distancing, he said.
Photo/Birdie and Bee
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Corporate Meetings & Conventions
However, that element of social distancing can and has presented challenges in an already extremely fluid situation. Cook says she follows her industry for news and recommendations more than any other source. For one, in events, the situation, and therefore the recommendations on how best to handle it, change almost daily. Questions arise that just until COVID-19 were simply not deeply parsed. For example, if one is planning a corporate event for 100 people, and each person needs enough space to keep the six-foot social distance, that automatically increases the size of the space needed. How much more does that add to the cost of an event, given the fact that many venues have to seek ways to make up heavy losses taken because of the pandemic? Another area of increased concern is liability. Who is ul-
timately responsible if an event with a large number of people is held, but despite all precautions and safety measures, people get sick from COVID-19, perhaps even die? While losing all your business for the year is devastating, a few good things have also happened, Cook said. Before COVID-19, she traveled all over the world, something she loves, misses, and wants to be able to do again. However, that took quality time away from her family, she said. And professionally, she now has time to complete certifications in her field, which she simply did not have time to do before — because she was so busy. “It was a blessing — I have always been very busy with the business. I was on a plane, going somewhere, three or four times a month,” she said. “Now, I’m able to spend that much more time with my husband and my daughters, so that’s been wonderful.”
Photo/K.T. Merry A bar, with plexiglas shields, helps protect attendees and servers.
THE CHARLESTON GAILL ARD CENTER
One of the Holy City’s most notable spaces, the Charleston Gaillard Center is composed of intimate lobbies, a uniquely styled Grand Ballroom with a stunning view of the terrace lawn, park, and gardens, along with beautiful pre-function spaces and salons for smaller meetings and parties.
sales@gaillardcenter.org (843) 242-3094 gaillardcenter.org
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Pandemic forces planners, organizers to get creative
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Battling the virus requires strict measures
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BEHIND EVERY EVENT IS A GREAT VENUE While events and gatherings may be different, Festival Hall is here to provide the venue, staff, experience, and flexibility to plan responsibly and make your event a success.
> 10,000 square feet of flexible indoor space
> Pillarless event venue with high ceilings
> 4,000 square foot outdoor courtyard
> Moveable air walls to divide space
> Versatile space offers a blank canvas
> Located in the heart of downtown Charleston
Perfect for corporate gatherings and meetings, concerts and live performances, film and photo shoots, hybrid and virtual events, nonprofit and community events, private events, weddings, and more!
BOOK YOUR EVENT AT FESTIVAL HALL TODAY festivalhallcharleston.com 843.724.1196 info@festivalhallcharleston.com 56 Beaufain Street, Charleston, SC
Lifestyle
A different way to meet Pandemic has forced event planners, production companies to get creative By Barry Waldman
B
efore a nasty little virus began percolating across the globe, On Purpose Adventures’ Code Breaker team-building competition pitted groups of gathered employees in a test of strategy, time management and problem solving. Each team would meet, brainstorm and begin solving riddles to crack the code. In a socially distanced world, the game could not go on. Nor could many other corporate training initiatives offered by the company, at least not in their pre-Covid form. So Ben Toy and his team cooked up some innovations that melded the best elements of the contest with a Covid-safe world. Today, Code Breaker employs an app that allows team members to work remotely or in-person, to remain in constant communication and to solve the puzzles without necessarily being in one place. It’s far beyond a static video call but not quite a huddle.
Ben Toy
Photo/Charleston Marriott
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For people who spend their time organizing, planning and executing events, the complete halt to most inperson gatherings has been a jarring experience. Like many businesses, but more urgently so, event planners and production companies have had to think creatively, reshuffle the deck and re-invent themselves — or at least adjust to a new way of doing business.
How bad is it? According to the PCMA (formerly the Professional Convention Management Association), two-thirds of planners have postponed events and 87% have cancelled. By nearly a two-to-one margin, they believe that people will continue to resist travel in the future rather than express pent-up demand. Kathleen Buckley
“It’s been overwhelming because we went from 100 mph to zero,” said Kathleen Buckley, who plans mostly weddings. “It’s slowly starting to come back but it’s going to be a slow process. People don’t want to feel responsible for getting other people sick.” For On Purpose Adventures, it has meant a change in trajectory. “Lots of things got wiped out. Multi-hundred person events, even six-seven months out, were cancelled. Because our (mostly outdoor programs) are not tied to space but are content driven, we were able to create some pivots as to how to deliver them,” Toy said. Planners more tied to the indoors have had to transform their activities into virtual events. Lisa Thomas, owner of Ooh! Events is using video more and being creative. She diverted some charity fundraisers into drive-in movies at The Bend in North Charleston.
Lifestyle
Lisa Thomas “After a certain amount of time people were stir crazy and wanted to get out,” she noted. Flying all over the world to shoot multi-day events inside conference centers and hotels was, until midMarch, the modus operandi of Hed Hi Media, a Charleston-based video production company. Confronted with a near-shutdown of business, the company began mailing “remote capture kits” that allowed customers to tell their stories through video they shoot themselves, guided virtually by Hed Hi techies, and upload the con-
tent to Hed Hi for post-production. The reshuffle has allowed Hed Hi to produce dozens of videos at once from around the globe. “The budget didn’t necessarily go away,” said Tim McManus, the company’s founder. “It changed how they spent it.” Clients can now get higher-end production from Hed Hi because they’re saving so much on the videography.” As in every other aspect of life today, video conferencing has become the proxy for in-person events, requiring event planners and producers who might have been incorporating video into their activities to promote it front and center. That has given rise to creativity in the video realm designed to turn videoconference observers into participants. Destination South, a national destination management, event production and meeting management company based in Charleston and Atlanta,
organized a virtual sales conference and recognized that it would only have value if attendees were engaged in the event. They requested everyone who signed up for the conference to send video clips of themselves working at home and their favorite things to do after hours. These short vignettes were used as transitions between programs and kept attendees involved. Tim McManus
When not going entirely virtual, planners must convince clients that their events are safe and adhering to protocols. Every event planner can identify with a recent Destination
South event in Charleston for 100 guests that involved constant sanitizing of staff and equipment, distancing of tables, dividing people among rooms, and staging outdoors where possible. As the protocols have ebbed and flowed during the last six months, and venues have shut down operations, planners have had to adapt — and quickly. Today, says Kate MacCoy, director of operations and programs for Destination South, event planners have found themselves taking guests’ temperatures and requiring written attestations about safe behavior. “It’s a whole new role for us,” she said. “We used to just check people in, give them their nametag and go.” Planners agree that the virtual option will not go away even after the viral threat does, but there will always be a need for in-person meetings. Says Hed Hi’s Tim McManus, “There is value and magic that happens when people gather.”
Meet in the Heart of Historic Charleston Combining historic charm & modern conveniences, meeting at the Francis Marion Hotel is the perfect solution.
- 20,000 square feet of Meeting Space Our spaces allow for appropriate social distancing & following of event safety guidelines.
- Swamp Fox Restaurant & Bar - Spa Adagio - 235 Guestrooms & Suites Including Penthouse suites with breathtaking views of the City or Charleston Harbor
387 King Street Charleston, SC 29403 | francismarionhotel.com (843) 722 - 0600 | info@thefrancismarion.com
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Lifestyle
Venues vs. Virus:
The battle to bring people back together By Barry Waldman
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ild Dunes, the iconic hotel and meeting spot on Isle of Palms’ northern tip, was shut down by the coronavirus pandemic in April and May, then opened to a string of events in June and then closed again all summer. With the resort struggling to recruit staff as Charleston became a hotspot for infections, managers began brainstorming how they could assure everyone that it was safe to gather there again. They spent July through September writing the playbook and began implementing it in October. The key to resuming operations, they decided, was to overwhelm staff and visitors alike with safety procedures. The result, said Jeff Payne, director of sales and events, is that Wild Dunes is now a hotspot for safety protocols. “I’ve been COVID-tested so many times my nasal passages are super clean,” he said. From a practical standpoint, that means Wild Dunes has implemented the strictest guidelines in the Hyatt chain. A staff member has been designated the dedicated process manager. Indoor events are moved onto
Photo/Charleston Marriott
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pool decks and under covered cabanas when possible. Staff serve from behind plexiglass. Alcohol service time is limited so that guests remain in control of their decisions. Capacity has been limited in meeting rooms. Distancing guidelines begin as soon as people park their cars. Guests bus their own table. Events are telecast into multiple rooms so that attendees aren’t crammed into one. And sanitizing, sanitizing, sanitizing. It has been a success. The resort conducted 14 weddings in October. Events at Wild Dunes are being scheduled again for 2021. But success in an event venue in 2020 is a relative term. Of the 50 events the venue had booked through February of 2021 a couple have been cancelled. Another dozen or so are in wait-and-see mode. That’s a sterling COVID record. But for Charleston, one of the world’s top travel destinations, where weddings and conventions had to be booked two years in advance pre-COVID, it’s a jarring new reality. Skies are even cloudier at other venues. For example, the Marriott
Hotel on Lockwood Boulevard near Charleston’s West Edge lost all its convention bookings through the first quarter of 2021. Where once the 344room hotel couldn’t fit in cost-inefficient, one-off events like galas, today it must rely on their trimmed-down versions for survival. The events staff has lost 10 of its 14 employees, says Karen De Jong, director of sales and marketing. The Marriott, like most venues, has a detailed COVID safety plan that satisfies most potential customers. It includes following CDC guidelines for distancing, sanitizing and masks. Despite that, and the pent-up desire of people to meet and network, the industry is suffering. The average occupancy for upper scale hotels in 2019 was 74%. The projection for 2021 is 53%. The Marriott’s 2020 occupancy has been 29% -- despite lower rates. Without a quick turnaround in the corporate events market, De Jong says, hotels will continue to close. Others will shift their focus, as the Marriott has done, to smaller, regional satellite meetings. Or they will take another tack altogether. The Charleston Music Hall did just that when it moved its 2020 fall season to another venue — The Bend, a North Charleston expanse of grass on the banks of the Ashley River. The Music Hall went six months with its doors closed and its income at zero. All employees but venue director Charles Carmody lost their jobs. More than 100 shows were nixed. “It was horrible,” said Carmody. The Music Hall shifted its focus to outdoor concerts. Attendees bought pods of four tickets, with pods set at least six feet apart.
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Carmody says the venue exploited its expertise in booking acts to keep the ship afloat and bring back some staff. The artists were eager to perform live again and audiences responded. Nine of the 11 shows at The Bend sold out quickly. Concerts move back into the Music Hall on Nov. 12, with special COVID guidelines and reduced capacity. The website spells out a host of safety guidelines, including sanitizing, timed entry, ordering drinks by phone and more. One thing all these venues have in common is that they serve food and beverages indoors. That means guests can’t be asked to wear masks at all times, a breach that will prevent the most risk-averse customers from participating. Looking forward, venue operators are trying to focus on the positive, reminding themselves that people can’t network over Zoom. Others see reverberations well into the future. “I can’t think of another industry that has been hit as hard as the event industry,” Carmody said. “We’re going to see years of backlash from this.”
Lifestyle
Charleston Ten ideas to make your wedding or event truly Charleston
Style
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Go local with the spirits. Offer guests uniquely Lowcountry spirits like Firefly sweet tea vodka, wine from a local vineyard or beer from a local brewery.
Charleston’s Newest Event Venue
Add a distinctly Charleston activity to the weekend, such as an oyster roast for the rehearsal dinner.
3 Place a palmetto rose on each table.
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For the wedding party, have the groom and groomsmen dress in seersucker or khakis to get a Southern look. Add in a bowtie to complete the look!
5 Serve Lowcountry cuisine such as shrimp and grits, she crab soup, crabcakes or Lowcountry boil. 7. Have Charleston gift bags with Charleston items such as benne wafers or pralines. 8. Hire a bluegrass band or bring in a dance instructor to teach guests the shag. 9. Use local decorations such as greens, Rewined Candles, sweetgrass baskets or prints from a local artist.
6 Go rustic and get a relaxed Southern feel with mason jars, farm tables, local flowers and lanterns.
10. Have guests sign a distinctly Charleston item, such as a joggling board (a rocking chair bench), at the reception.
Booking
Now
Weddings + Corporate Events + Social Gatherings
A Classic Setting for Events from 30 to 300 Hello@trinityhallchs.com Event Planning Guide 2020
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lists & directory Photo/File
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Hotels with Meeting Facilities
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Alternative and Outdoor Venues
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Event Planners
21 Photography/Videography
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Exhibition Convention Centers
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Full-Service Caterers
Event Services
Tour Companies
The following companies are listed online due to space restrictions. Find them at scbiznews.com under the Menu/Resources tab: Booking Agencies/Entertainment Food Trucks Breweries/Distilleries Golf Courses
Editor’s Note The effects of the coronavirus pandemic have been keenly felt within the event and entertainment sectors.
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Event Planning Guide 2020
Many venues, hotels, restaurants and other businesses have altered operations to adhere to health safety guidelines. While we have made every effort to account for
Restaurants with Banquet Facilities
this in our content, we advise contacting a business prior to making plans to ensure availability and confirm what restrictions might be in place.
Lists & Directory
Event Decor A + E Digital Printing 517 King St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-853-5066 www.anedigital.com Specialization: Small and large format digital printing; reprographics; scanning and archiving; construction document management services and technology solutions; graphic design services; marketing collateral Complete Weddings & Events 1376 Downsberry Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29466 843-856-7177 www.completeweddingcharleston.com Specialization: Weddings and special events services; reception and ceremony DJs, ceremonies, officiants, photography, videography, photobooth, lighting, week-of coordination Darby Events Coleman Blvd. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-779-6224 www.darbyevents.com Specialization: Event production, event entertainment, lighting, photo booths rentals and audiovisual rentals Duvall Catering & Events 2816 Azalea Drive Charleston, SC 29405 843-763-9222 www.duvallevents.com Specialization: The companys catering, bar, floral and dcor creations originate from its home at the Midtown Event Center on Azalea Drive in North Charleston Engaging Events LLC 235 Huger St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-724-9010 www.engagingeventscharleston.com Specialization: Event planning company offering consultation, coordination and design services Innovative Event Services 4238 Scott St. North Charleston, SC 29405 843-410-9888 www.iesproductions.com Specialization: Specialize in lighting design and audio visual installations for all kind of events; weddings to corporate Christmas parties; lighting
Justin Wham Weddings and Events 2004 Wappoo Drive Charleston, SC 29412 843-225-4540 www.jwweddingsandevents.com Specialization: Floral, decor, day-of coordination, full planning, event design, sympathy design Reagan Events 123 Pitt St. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-203-3807 reaganevents.com Specialization: Full-service special event and wedding planning company serving Charleston and destinations worldwide Simply Elegent Event Rentals 214 Old Trolley Road Summerville, SC 29485 843-821-1035 www.simplyelegantrental.com Specialization: Tables, chairs, linens, china, tents, arches, backdrops, glassware, lighting, etc. Snyder Event Rentals 3875 Meeting St. North Charleston, SC 29405 843-766-3366 www.snyderevents.com Specialization: Tents, tables, chairs, china, glassware, wedding accessories, booths, conventions, staging, risers, linens, props, themes, casino equipment Stage Presence Event Rentals 1750 Signal Point Road, Suite 9C Charleston, SC 29412 843-906-5666 www.stagepresencellc.com Specialization: Event lighting, audio, production, entertainment and event rentals
Event Services 428 Main 1702 McHenry Ave. Charleston, SC 29412 843-41-2495 www.428main.com Event Services Categories: Event Rentals
Absolutely Charleston Destination Management 3427 W. Montague Ave. Charleston, SC 29418 843-747-4448 www.absolutelycharleston.com Event Services Categories: Audiovisual; Corporate Gifts/ Promotional Products; Mobile Restrooms; Production/Staging/Trade Show Display Vendors; Transportation All American Awards 1039 Anna Knapp Blvd., Suite F Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-884-7808 www.awardsguys.com Event Services Categories: Corporate Gifts/Promotional Products All-Mist Outdoor Cooling 8421 Dorchester Road, 109-110 North Charleston, SC 29420 843-864-6478 www.all-mist.com Event Services Categories: Event Rentals AquaSafaris Inc. 24 Patriots Point Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-886-8133 www.aqua-safaris.com Event Services Categories: Event Rentals; Transportation ATM Carolina Inc. 237 Old Summerville Road, Suite B Summerville, SC 29486 843-875-4387 Event Services Categories: Event Rentals AV Connections 1012 St. Andrews Blvd. Charleston, SC 29407 843-573-1174 www.avconnectionssc.com Event Services Categories: Audiovisual; Event Rentals; Production/Staging/Trade Show Display Vendors Barrier Island EcoTours 50 41st Ave. Isle of Palms, SC 29451 843-886-5000 www.nature-tours.com Event Services Categories: Transportation Bartles & Associates P.O. Box 31383 Charleston, SC 29407 843-452-5259 www.bartlesandassociates.com Event Services Categories: Corporate Gifts/Promotional Products
Bernstein Lash Marketing 1124 Sam Rittenberg Blvd., Suite 4 Charleston, SC 29407 843-747-7767 www.bernsteinlash.com Event Services Categories: Corporate Gifts/Promotional Products; Production/Staging/Trade Show Display Vendors Bloom at Belmond Charleston Place 150 Market St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-937-9033 www.bloomatcharlestonplace.com Event Services Categories: Event Rentals Booze Pops Mobile Charleston, SC 29414 843-200-8422 www.boozepops.com Event Services Categories: Party Supply Sales Charleston Balloon Co. 1646 Ashley Hall Road Charleston, SC 29407 843-856-9121 www.charlestonballooncompany.com Event Services Categories: Party Supply Sales Charleston Black Cab Co. 1529 Sam Rittenberg Blvd., Suite 2B Charleston, SC 29407 843-216-2627 www.charlestonblackcabcompany.com Event Services Categories: Transportation The Charleston Cotton Exchange 1758 Ashley River Road Charleston, SC 29407 843-763-0740 www.charlestoncottonexchange.com Event Services Categories: Corporate Gifts/Promotional Products; Party Supply Sales; Production/ Staging/Trade Show Display Vendors Charleston Entertainment 10 Trachelle Lane Charleston, SC 29407 843-693-0004 www.charlestonentertainment.com Event Services Categories: Audiovisual Charleston Outdoor Adventures 1871 Bowens Island Rd. Charleston, SC 29412 843-795-0330 www.charlestonoutdooradventures.com Event Services Categories: Event Rentals
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Lists & Directory Charleston Shucker Co. 1224 Colfax Court Mount Pleasant, SC 29466 843-819-9070 www.charlestonshuckerco.com Event Services Categories: Corporate Gifts/Promotional Products Chug-A-Lug Wagon 2652 Bonds Ave., Unit 206 North Charleston, SC 29405 843-701-1250 www.chugalugwagon.com Event Services Categories: Event Rentals Cigar Row Events 1527 Sam Rittenberg Blvd., Suite 210 Charleston, SC 29407 843-607-4423 www.cigarrowevents.com Event Services Categories: Corporate Gifts/Promotional Products; Party Supply Sales Complete Weddings & Events 1376 Downsberry Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29466 843-856-7177 www.completeweddingcharleston.com Event Services Categories: Audiovisual Crafted Travel Charleston 1529 Sam Rittenberg Blvd., Suite 2 A Charleston, SC 29407 843-804-9933 www.craftedcharlestontours.com Event Services Categories: Transportation Darby Events Coleman Blvd. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-779-6224 www.darbyevents.com Event Services Categories: Audiovisual; Event Rentals; Production/Staging/Trade Show Display Vendors Data Imaging Inc. Print and Promotions 3 Gamecock Ave., Suite 310 Charleston, SC 29407 843-300-0091 www.dataipromo.com Event Services Categories: Corporate Gifts/Promotional Products; Production/Staging/Trade Show Display Vendors Duvall Catering & Events 2816 Azalea Drive Charleston, SC 29405 843-763-9222 www.duvallevents.com Event Services Categories: Event Rentals
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Event Planning Guide 2020
Fox Audio Visual 4520 Dorchester Road Charleston, SC 29405 843-608-9473 www.foxaudiovisual.com Event Services Categories: Audiovisual; Event Rentals; Production/Staging/Trade Show Display Vendors The French Eclectic 4244 Scott St. North Charleston, SC 29405 843-996-6117 www.thefrencheclectic.com Event Services Categories: Event Rentals; Party Supply Sales GCT - Chauffeured Service 5900 Rivers Ave., Suite Y North Charleston, SC 29406 843-216-8483 www.ridegct.com Event Services Categories: Transportation Gray Line of Charleston 375 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-722-4444 www.graylineofcharleston.com Event Services Categories: Transportation Halo / Carolina Promotions 2470 Mall Drive, Suite G Charleston, SC 29406 843-744-8787 www.halo.com/linda-carrow Event Services Categories: Corporate Gifts/Promotional Products; Party Supply Sales Halo Branded Solutions 1214 Gannett Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 770-853-1590 www.halo.com/ae/joe-boccelli.aspx Event Services Categories: Corporate Gifts/Promotional Products; Production/Staging/Trade Show Display Vendors Innovative Event Services 4238 Scott St. North Charleston, SC 29405 843-410-9888 www.iesproductions.com Event Services Categories: Audiovisual; Event Rentals; Production/Staging/Trade Show Display Vendors JMC Charleston 2220 Old School Drive, Suite B North Charleston, SC 29405 843-577-1100 www.jmccharleston.com Event Services Categories: Audiovisual; Event Rentals; Transportation
Karst Professional Services dba KPS Government Contracting 3436 Rivers Ave. North Charleston, SC 29405 843-572-2004 www.kpsgovcontracting.com Event Services Categories: Corporate Gifts/Promotional Products; Production/Staging/Trade Show Display Vendors Little White Box Photo Booth 2040 Lanneau Lane Johns Island, SC 29455 304-841-4370 www.lilwhitebox.com Event Services Categories: Event Rentals Malphrus Video Productions LLC 1121 Park West Blvd., Suite B #141 Mount Pleasant, SC 29466 843-813-1704 www.malphrusvideo.com Event Services Categories: Audiovisual; Production/Staging/Trade Show Display Vendors Minuteman Press 108 Central Ave., Suite 9 Goose Creek, SC 29445 843-553-7176 www.goosecreek.minutemanpress.com Event Services Categories: Corporate Gifts/Promotional Products On Purpose Adventures LLC 727 Hitching Post Road Charleston, SC 29414 843-580-3757 www.onpurposeadventures.com Event Services Categories: Event Rentals OtherBrother Entertainment 2114 Paw Paw Place Charleston, SC 29412 843-225-5621 www.otherbrotherent.com Event Services Categories: Audiovisual; Party Supply Sales Palmetto Carriage Works 8 Guignard St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-723-8145 www.palmettocarriage.com Event Services Categories: Transportation PDA - Production Design Associates 2799 Three Lakes Road North Charleston, SC 29418 843-554-3466 www.pdastage.com Event Services Categories: Audiovisual; Event Rentals; Production/Staging/Trade Show Display Vendors
Simply Elegent Event Rentals 214 Old Trolley Road Summerville, SC 29485 843-821-1035 www.simplyelegantrental.com Event Services Categories: Event Rentals Skyline Exhibits & Design 1043 E. Montague Ave. North Charleston, SC 29405 843-606-2152 www.skylineXD.com Event Services Categories: Audiovisual; Production/Staging/Trade Show Display Vendors Snyder Event Rentals 3875 Meeting St. North Charleston, SC 29405 843-766-3366 www.snyderevents.com Event Services Categories: Event Rentals; Party Supply Sales SpiritLine Cruises & Events 360 Concord St., Suite 201 Charleston, SC 29401 843-722-2628 www.spiritlinecruises.com Event Services Categories: Event Rentals Stage Presence Event Rentals 1750 Signal Point Road, Suite 9C Charleston, SC 29412 843-906-5666 www.stagepresencellc.com Event Services Categories: Audiovisual; Event Rentals; Production/Staging/Trade Show Display Vendors Tidalwave Watersports 69 41st Ave. Isle of Palms, SC 29451 843-886-8456 www.tidalwavewatersports.com Event Services Categories: Corporate Gifts/Promotional Products; Event Rentals; Transportation Tour Charleston LLC 160 King St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-723-1670 www.tourcharleston.com Event Services Categories: Corporate Gifts/Promotional Products United Site Services dba Nature’s Calling 4152 Azalea Drive North Charleston, SC 29405 843-529-1399 www.unitedsiteservices.com Event Services Categories: Event Rentals; Mobile Restrooms
Lists & Directory
Florists Belva’s Flower Shop 1409 Stuart Engals Blvd., Suite B Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-884-9576 www.belvasflowershop.com Specialization: Weddings, funerals, traditional and modern custom designed arrangements for all seasons Branch Design Studio 1090 Johnnie Dodds Blvd., Suite A Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-847-7996 www.branchdesignstudio.com Specialization: Charleston and Mount Pleasant deliver, wedding and event florals CC Bloom LLC 95 Vincent Drive, Suite B Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-607-2161 www.ccbloomflorals.com Specialization: Mount Pleasant florist, specializes in custom florals for life’s special moments and just because Charleston Florist Inc. 709 St. Andrews Blvd. Charleston, SC 29407 843-577-5691 www.charlestonflorist.com Specialization: Everyday bouquets, events and weddings Country & Lace Florist 610 Schooner Road Charleston, SC 29412 843-762-1118 www.countryandlaceflorist.com Specialization: Weddings, receptions and events Duvall Catering & Events 2816 Azalea Drive Charleston, SC 29405 843-763-9222 www.duvallevents.com Specialization: The companys catering, bar, floral and dcor creations originate from its home at the Midtown Event Center on Azalea Drive in North Charleston Engaging Events LLC 235 Huger St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-724-9010 www.engagingeventscharleston.com Specialization: Event planning company offering consultation, coordination and design services
Florabella 3015 Haswell St., Suite 1408 Charleston, SC 29492 843-469-3378 www.florabellacharleston.com Specialization: Custom floral design for special events and daily deliveries Flowers by Frankie 108 Gleneagles Drive Summerville, SC 29483 843-296-4252 www.flowersbyfrankie.com Specialization: Flowers for weddings and special events French Quarter Floral 839 Wellington Drive Charleston, SC 29412 843-779-0440 frenchquarterfloral.com Specialization: Wedding and corporate event floral design Justin Wham Weddings and Events 2004 Wappoo Drive Charleston, SC 29412 843-225-4540 www.jwweddingsandevents.com Specialization: Floral, decor, day-of coordination, full planning, event design, sympathy design Keepsakes Florist 2024 Wappoo Drive Charleston, SC 29412 843-766-7807 www.keepsakesflorist.net Specialization: Floral decor for events and all occasions Tiger Lily Florist 1614 Camp Road Charleston, SC 29412 843-723-2808 www.tigerlilyflorist.com Specialization: Full service florist specializing in all occasion florals including Lowcountry weddings, corporate events, hotel lobby florals, sympathy and botanicals
Photographers & Videographers Amaris Photo 1056 King St. Charleston, SC 29403 919-830-0174 www.amarisphoto.com Specialization: Wedding and portrait photographer partnering with adventurous clients for events, family and commercial work
Artistic Eye Productions LLC 178 Thames Ave. Summerville, SC 29485 843-214-5968 www.artisticeyeproductions.com Specialization: Video recording and editing services for live events, weddings, conferences, corporate and marketing videos Chelsea Paige Photography 2040 Lanneau Lane Johns Island, SC 29455 304-841-4370 www.chelseapaigephoto.com Specialization: Weddings, families, newborns, engagements, bridals and pets Chris & Cami Photography LLC 200 Sugar Magnolia Way Charleston, SC 29414 843-324-8900 www.chrisandcami.com Specialization: Corporate events, weddings, business photos, annual reports, head-shots, awards ceremonies, company meetings, banquets, galas, executive portraits, aerial drone photography and professional sports Complete Weddings & Events 1376 Downsberry Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29466 843-856-7177 www.completeweddingcharleston.com Specialization: Weddings and special events services; reception and ceremony DJs, ceremonies, officiants, photography, videography, photobooth, lighting, week-of coordination Fox Audio Visual 4520 Dorchester Road Charleston, SC 29405 843-608-9473 www.foxaudiovisual.com Specialization: Full-service supplier of video, audio, lighting, projection and technical support for corporate events, weddings, meetings, concerts and banquets; live on-site video web streaming and corporate video Go To Team Inc. 665 Johnnie Dodds Blvd., Suite 201 Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-884-6222 www.gototeam.com Specialization: High end shooting for broadcast television clients, agencies and brands nationwide; work with celebrities, sports personalities, Fortune 500 CEOs and local companies
Julie Livingston Photography 2182 St. James Drive Charleston, SC 29412 843-817-3974 www.julielivingstonphotography.com Specialization: Weddings, portraits, fashion, events, company headshots King Street Photo Weddings 310 King St., Suite B Charleston, SC 29401 843-810-6698 www.kingstreetphotoweddings.com Specialization: Wedding album designer, couples, engagements, bridal portraits, weddings, family and lifestyle, corporate photography, drone photography, cinematic videographers Little White Box Photo Booth 2040 Lanneau Lane Johns Island, SC 29455 304-841-4370 www.lilwhitebox.com Specialization: A 1974 Volkswagen photo bus and Shasta-style camper with a photo booth inside; custom photo strips, custom backdrop, props MellBella Photography 672 Marina Drive, Suite 102 Charleston, SC 29492 843-767-6888 www.mellbella.com Specialization: Woman-owned, creative photography studio specializing in the human form via boudoir, pinup, styled photography Richard Bell Photography 672 Marina Drive, Suite 102 Charleston, SC 29492 843-767-6888 www.charlestonwedding.com Specialization: Weddings, events, families, children, seniors, corporate, commercial, real estate Robbin Knight Photography LLC 1586 Ingram Road Charleston, SC 29407 843-364-5773 www.rkdp.com Specialization: Corporate events and corporate head shots, wedding photography, family portraits Sloan Photography 29 Wyecreek Ave. Charleston, SC 29412 843-301-4700 www.sloan-photography.com Specialization: Wedding and portrait photographer
Event Planning Guide 2020
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Lists & Directory Smoak Stack Studios 1720 Carlisle Road Charleston, SC 29412 843-224-8555 www.smoakstackstudios.com Specialization: Architecture, people, events, advertising, corporate, fine art, editorial, weddings, and industrial Stello Photography LLC 164 Market St., Suite 225 Charleston, SC 29401 843-425-9902 www.stellophotography.com Specialization: Still photography to include but not limited to: art, commercial, weddings, portraits, food, real estate, intimate and boudoir, family, product, events, etc.
Tour Companies AquaSafaris Inc. 24 Patriots Point Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-886-8133 www.aqua-safaris.com Tour Type: Water Tour Companies Specialization: Sail, fishing, motor vessels up to 100 guests; Charleston, Lowcountry; private groups, weddings, corporate outings, team building, public tickets Bulldog Tours Inc. 18 Anson St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-722-8687 www.bulldogtours.com Tour Type: Other Tour Types; Walking Tour Companies Specialization: Bulldog offers history, food, pub and ghost tours throughout the historical district Charleston Carriage Works 20 Anson St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-779-1279 www.mycharlestoncarriage.com Tour Type: Carriage Tour Companies Specialization: Horse drawn carriage tours of Charleston’s residential historic district
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Event Planning Guide 2020
Charleston Convention & Group Services Inc. 1 Carriage Lane Charleston, SC 29407 843-571-5882 www.destinationcharlestonsc.com Tour Type: Bus Tour Companies; Other Tour Types; Walking Tour Companies Specialization: Full-service destination management and receptive operator, coordination of special events, team building activities, convention services and tours
Frankly Charleston Tours 375 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-860-7451 www.franklycharleston.com Tour Type: Other Tour Types; Walking Tour Companies Specialization: A look in the establishing of the colony of Charles Towne; recreate the atmosphere of the 17th and 18th century South, through the exploration of the African American experience
Charleston Outdoor Adventures 1871 Bowens Island Rd. Charleston, SC 29412 843-795-0330 www.charlestonoutdooradventures. com Tour Type: Other Tour Types; Water Tour Companies Specialization: Eco tours, nature tours, outdoor adventure, rental services, equipment rentals
Gray Line of Charleston 375 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-722-4444 www.graylineofcharleston.com Tour Type: Bus Tour Companies Specialization: 90 minute guided tour of historic Charleston, as well as transportation services in the greater Charleston area for special events: weddings, corporate meetings, etc.; 8 20-25 passenger mini-buses
Coastal Expeditions 514 Mill St., Suite B Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-884-7684 www.coastalexpeditions.com Tour Type: Other Tour Types; Water Tour Companies Specialization: Kayak, SUP and boat charters Crafted Travel Charleston 1529 Sam Rittenburg Blvd., Suite 2A Charleston, SC 29407 843-804-9933 www.craftedcharlestontours.com Tour Type: Other Tour Types Specialization: Touring the Holy City, Charleston; providing the tour of Charleston Firefly Distillery 4201 Spruill Ave. North Charleston, SC 29405 843-577-1405 www.fireflydistillery.com Tour Type: Bus Tour Companies Specialization: Tours, tastings, cocktails and bottles, Monday Saturday 12-6pm; book online or walk in; $10 per person including shot glass; gift shop
Nature Adventures LLC 1 Shrimp Boat Lane Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-568-3222 www.natureadventureschs.com Tour Type: Other Tour Types; Water Tour Companies Specialization: Kayak and paddleboard tour and rentals Old South Carriage Co. 14 Anson St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-723-9712 www.oldsouthcarriage.com Tour Type: Carriage Tour Companies Specialization: Certified guides, draft horses; variety of tours from historic to haunted, wedding, group and specialty services On Purpose Adventures LLC 727 Hitching Post Road Charleston, SC 29414 843-580-3757 www.onpurposeadventures.com Tour Type: Other Tour Types; Walking Tour Companies; Water Tour Companies Specialization: Customizable activities to suit a variety of events, from weddings to corporate retreats to family reunions; combat archery, GPSbased adventure quests and more
Palmetto Carriage Works 8 Guignard St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-723-8145 www.palmettocarriage.com Tour Type: Carriage Tour Companies Specialization: One hour historic residential carriage tours Sandlapper Water Tours 10 Wharfside St. Charleston, SC 29413 843-849-8687 www.sandlappertours.com Tour Type: Other Tour Types; Water Tour Companies Specialization: Sandlapper Water tours offers private customized boat charters and tours; specializing in sunset, ghost and nature tours; Sandlapper also has a skiff that is certified for 11 passengers SpiritLine Cruises & Events 360 Concord St., Suite 201 Charleston, SC 29401 843-722-2628 www.spiritlinecruises.com Tour Type: Other Tour Types; Water Tour Companies Specialization: Yacht fleet, three available for private charters, dinner cruise boat with full kitchen and menu to accommodate several smaller groups Tour Charleston LLC 160 King St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-723-1670 www.tourcharleston.com Tour Type: Other Tour Types; Walking Tour Companies Specialization: Walking tours, convention and group services, The Ghosts of Charleston tour, The Ghosts of Charleston book, The Story of Charleston history book, book events, pre-launch book parties, author signing
Lists & Directory
Hotels with Meeting Facilities Ranked by Total Square Footage of Event Space
Event Space / Meeting Rooms
Capacity: Reception / Banquet
Capacity: Theater / Classroom
Roger Warren 2004
44,565 sq. ft. 15
750 500
400 588
843-722-4900 www.belmond.com/charlestonplace info.cph@belmond.com
Rui Reis 1986
40,000 sq. ft. 29
1,700 1,120
1,450 860
Francis Marion Hotel 387 King St. Charleston, SC 29403
843-722-0600 www.francismarioncharleston.com info@thefrancismarion.com
Gayle Karolczyk 1924
20,000 sq. ft. 14
550 400
430 300
Hilton Garden Inn & Homewood Suites by Hilton Summerville 406 Sigma Drive Summerville, SC 29483
843-832-1304 www.lowcountryconferencecenter.com info@lowcountryconferencecenter.com
Keith Gaines 2020
14,000 sq. ft. 10
700 600
900 450
Emeline 181 Church St. Charleston, SC 29401
843-577-2697 www.hotelemeline.com hello@hotelemeline.com
Shannon H. Hartman, Kara Czaplicki, Brad Harvey 2020
13,000 sq. ft. 13
240 240
240 240
North Charleston Marriott 4770 Goer Drive North Charleston, SC 29406
843-747-1900 www.marriott.com/chsmn leigh.canon@marriott.com
Patrick Rogers 2016
12,000 sq. ft. 12
700 500
800 360
Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina 20 Patriots Point Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
843-284-7022 www.charlestonharborresort.com asmith@charlestonharborresort.com
Loyd Weston, Nick Saltmarsh, Rand Pratt 1997
10,000 sq. ft. 10
1,000 560
175 100
Hyatt Place & Hyatt House Charleston - Historic District 560 King St. Charleston, SC 29403
843-414-4900 www.hyattplacecharlestonhistoricdistrict.com
Thomas Payne 2015
10,000 sq. ft. 7
500 285
400 275
The Mills House Wyndham Grand Hotel 115 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29401
843-577-2400 www.millshouse.com info@millshouse.com
Michael Linder 1853
10,000 sq. ft. 10
600 400
350 200
The Restoration Hotel 79 Wentworth St. Charleston, SC 29401
843-518-5100 www.therestorationhotel.com info@therestorationhotel.com
Chelsea Nightengale 2010
10,000 sq. ft. 10
150 60
60 35
Hotel Indigo Mount Pleasant 250 Johnnie Dodds Blvd. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
843-884-6000 www.mountpleasantlyindigo.com cmlittle@northph.com
Kumar Jha 2018
6,000 sq. ft. 6
300 200
250 175
Town & Country Inn and Suites 2008 Savannah Highway Charleston, SC 29407
843-571-1000 www.thetownandcountryinn.com sales@thetownandcountryinn.com
Demetrius E. Palassis 1984
6,000 sq. ft. 6
200 200
300 180
Embassy Suites by Hilton Mt. Pleasant Ferry Wharf 100 Ferry Wharf Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
843-981-5700 www.hilton.com chssc_ds@hilton.com
Paul Tomasetti 2020
5,966 sq. ft. 5
300 190
275 120
The Dewberry Hotel 334 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29403
843-558-8000 www.thedewberrycharleston.com sales@dewberryhotels.com
Kristie Rasheed 2016
5,600 sq. ft. 3
252 150
190 80
Grand Bohemian Hotel 55 Wentworth St. Charleston, SC 29401
843-722-5711 www.grandbohemiancharleston.com info@grandbohemiancharleston.com
Tony Liartis 2015
5,500 sq. ft. 3
250 150
100 75
DoubleTree by Hilton - Charleston Airport 7401 Northwoods Blvd North Charleston, SC 29406
843-518-6200 www.charlestonairportsuites.doubletree.com brian.rafferty@hilton.com
Brian Rafferty 2013
5,000 sq. ft. 6
150 120
175 90
Hilton Garden Inn Charleston Airport 5265 International Blvd. North Charleston, SC 29418
843-308-9330 www.charlestonairport.hgi.com ashley.montano@hilton.com
Grant Stiemke 2002
5,000 sq. ft. 7
250 160
200 130
Tides Folly Beach 1 Center St. Folly Beach, SC 29439
843-588-6464 www.tidesfollybeach.com sales@tidesfollybeach.com
Pietro Giardini 2010
4,000 sq. ft. 5
200 180
200 180
Embassy Suites by Hilton Charleston Historic 337 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29403
843-723-6900 www.historiccharleston.embassysuites.com chses_ds@hilton.com
Kevin Eichman 1996
3,500 sq. ft. 5
250 200
260 110
Company
Phone / Website / Email
Top Local Official(s) / Year Founded
The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort 1 Sanctuary Beach Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455
843-768-6000 www.kiawahresort.com reservations@kiawahresort.com
Belmond Charleston Place 205 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29401
Because of space constraints, sometimes only the top-ranked companies are published in the print edition. Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy, errors sometimes occur. Email additions or corrections to lists@scbiznews.com.
Researched by Paige Hardy
Event Planning Guide 2020
23
Lists & Directory
Hotels with Meeting Facilities Ranked by Total Square Footage of Event Space
Event Space / Meeting Rooms
Capacity: Reception / Banquet
Capacity: Theater / Classroom
Rick Buggle 2006
2,500 sq. ft. 4
125 90
150 75
843-573-1200 www.charlestonwestashleysuites.hamptoninn.com chswa_hampton_suites@hilton.com
Megan O'Hara Owen 2000
2,300 sq. ft. 3
120 120
100 65
Homewood Suites Charleston Airport 5048 International Blvd. North Charleston, SC 29418
843-735-5000 www.hilton.com chshm_gm@hilton.com
Joy Hazard 2007
2,292 sq. ft. 4
100 65
80 42
Staybridge Suites Charleston - Mount Pleasant 251 Session Way Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
843-216-5400 www.staybridge.com/mtpleasantsc elambert@lowcountryhotels.com
Kelly Marhoefer 2018
2,000 sq. ft. 2
125 90
100 48
Hampton Inn & Suites Charleston Airport 3020 W. Montague Ave. North Charleston, SC 29418
843-990-5100 www.hamptoninn3.hilton.com chsap_hampton_suites@hilton.com
Tara Bergin 2017
1,786 sq. ft. 3
80 80
90 75
The Vendue 19 Vendue Range Charleston, SC 29401
843-577-7970 www.thevendue.com info@thevendue.com
Howard Letts 2014
1,700 sq. ft. 2
75 150
60 50
Woodlands Mansion 125 Parsons Road Summerville, SC 29483
843-875-2600 www.woodlandsmansion.com stay@woodlandsmansion.com
Tom Limehouse 2012
1,600 sq. ft. 3
300 100
120 56
Courtyard Charleston Waterfront 35 Lockwood Drive Charleston, SC 29401
843-722-7229 www.marriott.com/chscy christine.greenleaf@marriott.com
Robert Heilman, Mark Thomas 1997
1,428 sq. ft. 2
48 48
50 36
Charleston Grand Hotel 3640 Dorchester Road North Charleston, SC 29405
843-554-4140 gm.sc480@choicehotels.com
Vivian Faulk, Kamlesh Shah 2003
1,400 sq. ft. 1
125 100
125 50
Comfort Suites West of the Ashley 2080 Savannah Highway Charleston, SC 29407
843-769-9850 www.choicehotels.com/hotel/SC369 gm.sc369@gmail.com
Ben Creasy 2009
1,400 sq. ft. 2
50 70
90 50
Hyatt Place Mount Pleasant Towne Centre 1600 Palmetto Grande Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
843-473-3105 www.hyattplacemountpleasanttownecentre.com jennifer.maxwell@hyatt.com
2019
1,400 sq. ft. 3
80 80
80 45
Cambria Hotel Summerville - Charleston 405 Sigma Drive Summerville, SC 29486
854-888-2800 www.choicehotels.com kate.neville@raineshospitality.com
2020
1,352 sq. ft. 1
150 110
140 90
French Quarter Inn 166 Church St. Charleston, SC 29401
843-722-1900 www.fqicharleston.com frontdesk@fqicharleston.com
Carlo Carroccia 2002
1,254 sq. ft. 2
75 48
84 46
Courtyard by Marriott North Charleston Charleston 7465 Northside Drive North Charleston, SC 29420
843-572-7490 www.marriott.com/chsco noah.bell@marriott.com
Ashley Wilson, Lisa Heath 2019
1,200 sq. ft. 2
100 100
100 100
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Charleston - Ashley Phosphate 7670 Northwoods Blvd. North Charleston, SC 29406
843-553-1600 www.hiexpress.com/chastni-26 gm@hiexpressnorthwoods.com
Cheryl Q. Clark 1999
1,140 sq. ft. 1
60 50
65 45
Hyatt Place Charleston Airport / Convention Center 3234 W. Montague Ave. North Charleston, SC 29418
843-302-8600 www.charlestonairport.place.hyatt.com dos.northcharleston.convention@hyatt.com
Vicki Wilkins 2010
1,080 sq. ft. 2
64 64
75 22
Hampton Inn & Suites N. Charleston University Blvd. 2688 Fernwood Drive North Charleston, SC 29406
843-735-7500 www.northcharlestonuniversityblvdsuites.hamptoninn.com chsub_hampton_suites@hilton.com
Emily R. Winter 2009
1,000 sq. ft.
60 45
70 -
Wentworth Mansion 149 Wentworth St. Charleston, SC 29401
843-853-1886 www.wentworthmansion.com wm-concierge@charminginns.com
Nicole Turner 1998
900 sq. ft. 2
40 76
40 20
Phone / Website / Email
Top Local Official(s) / Year Founded
843-576-0300 www.hilton.com bpainter@lowcountryhotels.com
Hampton Inn & Suites Charleston West Ashley 678 Citadel Haven Drive Charleston, SC 29414
Company DoubleTree by Hilton North Charleston Convention Center 5264 International Blvd. North Charleston, SC 29418
Because of space constraints, sometimes only the top-ranked companies are published in the print edition. Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy, errors sometimes occur. Email additions or corrections to lists@scbiznews.com.
24
Event Planning Guide 2020
Researched by Paige Hardy
Lists & Directory
Hotels with Meeting Facilities Ranked by Total Square Footage of Event Space
Event Space / Meeting Rooms
Capacity: Reception / Banquet
Capacity: Theater / Classroom
Aaron Wilkins 2012
725 sq. ft. 1
48 48
60 26
843-720-2600 www.fultonlaneinn.com fli-concierge@charminginns.com
Tom Moorman 1994
713 sq. ft. 1
40 40
50 35
Kings Courtyard Inn 198 King St. Charleston, SC 29401
843-723-7000 www.kingscourtyardinn.com kci-concierge@charminginns.com
Tom Moorman 1980
713 sq. ft. 1
40 40
50 35
SpringHill Suites Charleston / Mount Pleasant 245 Magrath Darby Blvd. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
843-284-5250 www.marriott.com/chsmt cheryl.fosberry@raineshospitality.com
Cheryl Fosberry 2016
650 sq. ft. 1
44 44
44 42
Comfort Inn & Suites Patriots Point 196 Patriots Point Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
843-856-8817 www.choicehotels.com qisales@hgmhotels.com
Stephen Haws 1999
600 sq. ft. 1
65 35
40 18
HarbourView Inn 2 Vendue Range Charleston, SC 29401
843-853-8439 www.harbourviewcharleston.com gm@harbourviewcharleston.com
Mark Henry 1998
546 sq. ft. 1
25 18
30 25
Aloft Charleston Airport & Convention Center 4875 Tanger Outlet Blvd. North Charleston, SC 29418
843-566-7300 www.marriott.com/chsal sales@aloftcharlestonairport.com
Jennifer Bagwell 2008
530 sq. ft. 1
40 30
40 24
TownePlace Suites Airport / Convention Center 5001 Fashion Ave. North Charleston, SC 29418
843-990-7777 www.marriott.com/chsto lisa.holley2@marriott.com
Tryena Jones, Ted Wackler 2017
500 sq. ft. 1
-
-
Hampton Inn Charleston - Historic District 345 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29403
843-723-4000 www.charlestonhistoricdistrict.hamptoninn.com chshd_hampton@hilton.com
Jennifer Hill Attisano 1992
400 sq. ft. 1
20 30
30 16
Company Holiday Inn Express & Suites Charleston Airport & Convention Center 3025 W. Montague Ave. North Charleston, SC 29418
Phone / Website / Email
Top Local Official(s) / Year Founded
843-554-2100 www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/hotels chsfdexpress@lowcountryhotels.com
Fulton Lane Inn 202 King St. Charleston, SC 29401
Because of space constraints, sometimes only the top-ranked companies are published in the print edition. Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy, errors sometimes occur. Email additions or corrections to lists@scbiznews.com.
Researched by Paige Hardy
Alternative & Outdoor Event Venues Ranked by Maximum Capacity Company Exchange Park 9850 U.S. Highway 78 Ladson, SC 29456 North Charleston Performing Arts Center 5001 Coliseum Drive North Charleston, SC 29418 Middleton Place 4300 Ashley River Road Charleston, SC 29414 Charleston Gaillard Center 95 Calhoun St. Charleston, SC 29401 Kiawah Island Golf Resort 1 Sanctuary Beach Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455 Edmund's Oast Brewing Co. 1505 King St. Charleston, SC 29403 Festival Hall 56 Beaufain St. Charleston, SC 29401 The Woodlands Nature Reserve 4279 Ashley River Road Charleston, SC 29414 Gibbes Museum of Art 135 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29401 Summerville Country Club 400 Country Club Blvd. Summerville, SC 29483
Phone / Website / Email 843-572-3161 www.exchangepark.org denise@exchangepark.org 843-529-5000 www.northcharlestoncoliseumpac.com
Top Local Official(s) / Year Founded Denise Carner, Michael Carney 1979
843-556-6020 www.middletonplace.org info@middletonplace.org 843-242-3094 www.gaillardcenter.org sales@gaillardcenter.org 888-601-4904 www.kiawahresort.com reservations@kiawahresort.com 843-718-3224 www.edmundsoast.com/brewing-co brewery@edmundsoast.com 843-724-1196 www.festivalhallcharleston.com info@festivalhallcharleston.com 843-400 3003 www.woodlandsnaturereserve.com rou@zunhospitality.com 843-722-2706 www.gibbesmuseum.org
Tracey Todd 1741
843-873-2210 www.summervillecountryclub.com sblanton@knology.net
Lee Ray, Bufort Blanton, Bo C. Blanton 2009
Frank Lapsley 1999
Stephen Bedard 2015 Roger Warren 1976 Devin Marquardt 2017 2008 Holland Duell, Allison Merrick, Roualeyn de Haas 2019 Angela D. Mack 1858
Because of space constraints, sometimes only the top-ranked companies are published in the print edition. Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy, errors sometimes occur. Email additions or corrections to lists@scbiznews.com.
Capacity: Max / Outdoor / Reception 75,000 50,000 1,575 2,341 2,000 2,000 2,000 1,850 859 1,850 1,080 800 1,000 1,000 1,000 225 1,000 300 770 1,000 5,000 1,000 900 500 900 800 800 500
Description Venue buildings, open land with pond, 70 acres of indoor and outdoor event space and 100 acres of parking space 2,300-seat proscenium theater for hosting major concerts, family shows, ballets and symphonies and art festivals Landscaped gardens, group events, barbecues stable yard receptions, private dining options and 110 acres for outdoor activities The Charleston Gaillard Center is a 501c3 nonprofit that provides the Lowcountry with a performance hall, venue space and educational opportunities Beach and golf resort with diverse meeting space in The Sanctuary hotel, in golf clubhouses, and in the new 24,000-square-foot West Beach Conference Center Several options at Pacific Box & Crate; from smallgroup brewery tours to rehearsal dinners to 1,000-person corporate evenings Charleston venue offering over 14,204 square feet of space for conference, meeting, performance, special event or experience Outdoor opportunities for weddings and corporate events in a dispersed and natural environment within minutes of Charleston Beaux-arts style building, circa 1905, featuring architectural detailing and soaring ceilings; classical European-style outdoor garden with live oaks Covered outdoor pavilion with pull-down curtains if needed; large outdoor patio suitable for oyster roasts and weddings with 40' x 40' tent available
Researched by Paige Hardy
Event Planning Guide 2020
25
Lists & Directory
Alternative & Outdoor Event Venues Ranked by Maximum Capacity Company
Phone / Website / Email
The Cedar Room 701 E. Bay St., Suite 200 Charleston, SC 29403
843-793-4103 www.thecedarroom.com cedarroom@theindigoroad.com
Harborside East 28 Bridgeside Blvd. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Top Local Official(s) / Year Founded
Capacity: Max / Outdoor / Reception
Description
2015
500 150 500
Open space with historic wood columns, blond reclaimed wood floors from the original space and elements of the circa-1881 building
843-606-2718 www.harborsideeast.com chelsea@harborsideeast.com
Chelsea Banias 2006
500 500 500
Minutes from downtown at Patriot’s Point; interior reception space and a waterfront patio with views of the bridge
Historic Rice Mill Building 17 Lockwood Drive Charleston, SC 29401
843-723-7952 historicricemill.net info@goodfoodcatering,net
Kate Stanton, Tristan Whisenant 2005
500 250 250
Historic waterfront venue with views of Charleston City Marina and Charleston Harbor; two outdoor patios, exposed brick, large windows
Laurel Hill County Park 1400 S.C. Highway 41 N. Mount Pleasant, SC 29466
843-795-4386 www.ccprc.com customerservice@ccprc.com
Justin Leyh 2015
500 500 500
Oak allee, large open meadows, scenic backdrops; capable of handling groups up to 500 people or a small private function
Old Towne Creek County Park 1400 Old Towne Road Charleston, SC 29407
843-795-4386 www.ccprc.com customerservice@ccprc.com
Justin Leyh 2011
500 500 500
In-town country setting for weddings, corporate picnics; large open meadows, marsh views
Lowcountry Park Venues 423 King St. Charleston, SC 29403
843-849-8091 www.lowcountryparkvenues.com whitney@lowcountryparkvenues.com
Whitney Sutphin 2009
400 100 300
Two special event venues at Mount Pleasant Waterfront Park
Pelican Watch Pavilion at Folly Beach County Park 1100 W. Ashley Ave. Folly Beach, SC 29439
843-795-4386 charlestoncountyparks.com customerservice@ccprc.com
Mark Patrick 1999
400 400 400
Two-story structure overlooks ocean, volleyball courts, electricity, covered deck, oyster roaster, picnic tables
Turtle Point 1 Turtle Point Lane Kiawah Island, SC 29455
800-576-1570 www.kiawahresort.com bryan_hunter@kiawahresort.com
1981
380 380
Meeting and conference space
Edmund's Oast 1081 Morrison Drive Charleston, SC 29403
843-727-1145 www.edmundsoast.com edmundsoast@edmundsoast.com
Scott Shor 2014
350 200 350
Several event spaces available between Edmund's Oast Restaurant, Edmund's Oast Exchange and Edmund's Oast Brewing Co.
Because of space constraints, sometimes only the top-ranked companies are published in the print edition. Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy, errors sometimes occur. Email additions or corrections to lists@scbiznews.com.
Researched by Paige Hardy
THE NEWEST ADDITION TO THE SC BIZ NEWS FAMILY What’s new on SCBIZtv this week? Check us out on YouTube. With more than 100 archived videos (and counting), you’ll find a wide variety of business-related content, including: Virtual awards shows, Power Events, interviews with high-level business executives and several ongoing video series, including Coffee With…, 120 Seconds, Industry Trends and Coping with Covid. Here’s just a taste of what you’ll find on SCBIZtv this week VIRTUAL AWARDS SHOWS
From Women of Influence in the Upstate to Forty Under 40 in the Lowcountry to Icons and Phenoms in the Midlands, you’re sure to find executives you know being honored in a variety of ways.
26
Event Planning Guide 2020
120 SECONDS
CEOs answering as many questions as they can in two minutes. You’ll definitely learn something personal about the executive and get a thoughtful answer on a serious topic to boot.
COFFEE WITH…
Business executives sharing insight about their business, the industry in which they work and the community in which they live.
COPING WITH COVID
Explores the impact the Coronavirus is having on our daily lives, both at home and at the office.
Lists & Directory
Alternative & Outdoor Event Venues Ranked by Maximum Capacity Company
Phone / Website / Email
RiverTowne Country Club 1700 RiverTowne Country Club Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29466
843-849-2412 www.rivertownecountryclub.com ldavidson@rivertownecountryclub.com
The Ocean Course 1000 Ocean Course Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455
Top Local Official(s) / Year Founded
Capacity: Max / Outdoor / Reception
Description
Lacy L. Davidson 2001
350 200 150
Plantation-style clubhouse with panoramic views of marshlands, live oaks and RiverTowne Country Club golf course
843-768-2121 www.kiawahresort.com bryan_hunter@kiawahresort.com
Stephen Youngner 1991
325 250 325
Golf course, home of the 2012 and 2021 PGA Championships; terrace lawn overlooking the course and ocean can also host tented events
Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site 1500 Old Towne Road Charleston, SC 29407
843-852-4200 www.southcarolinaparks.com ctlandingsp@scprt.com
Rob Powell, Jason Robinett 1970
300 250 300
Site of first permanent English settlement in the Carolinas; includes two special-event venues: Founders Hall and the historic Legare Waring House
Charleston County Parks Department 861 Riverland Drive Charleston, SC 29412
843-795-4386 http://www.charleston-sc.gov/ customerservice@ccprc.com
David Bennett 1968
300 -
County parks department, with facilities and programs throughout the county
Cooper River Room 99 Harry Hallman Jr. Blvd. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
843-849-8091 www.lowcountryparkvenues.com whitney@lowcountryparkvenues.com
Whitney Sutphin 2010
300 100 150
Positioned on the banks of the Cooper River, views of the Arthur Ravenel Bridge, marshland; Lowcountry murals, wrought iron chandeliers
Covered Shelters at James Island County Park 871 Riverland Drive Charleston, SC 29412
843-795-4386 www.charlestoncountyparks.com customerservice@ccprc.com
Randy Woodard 1990
300 300 300
Site for outdoor celebrations, equipped with picnic tables, grills and electricity.
Covered Shelters at Palmetto Islands County Park 444 Needlerush Parkway Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
843-795-4386 www.charlestoncountyparks.com customerservice@ccprc.com
Kevin Gillum 1979
300 200 200
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
Covered Shelters at Wannamaker County Park 8888 University Blvd. North Charleston, SC 29406
843-795-4386 www.charlestoncountyparks.com customerservice@ccprc.com
Edmonds Brown 1995
300 300 300
Three covered shelters: Cottonwood, 1,840 sq. ft., capacity 200; Tupelo, 2,575 sq. ft., cap. 300; Magnolia, 1,585 sq. ft., cap. 100
Cypress Hall at Wannamaker County Park 8888 University Blvd. North Charleston, SC 29406
843-795-4386 www.charlestoncountyparks.com customerservice@ccprc.com
Edmonds Brown 1998
300 300 300
Fully equiped meeting site on an eight-acre meadow, kitchen, stage, dressing room, sand volleyball, horseshoe pit
Edisto Hall at James Island County Park 871 Riverland Drive Charleston, SC 29412
843-795-4386 www.charlestoncountyparks.com customerservice@ccprc.com
Randy Woodard 1989
300 2,000 300
Founders Hall 1500 Old Towne Road Charleston, SC 29407
843-556-6871 www.foundershallcharleston.com ctleventvenues@scprt.com
Rob Powell, Jason Robinett 1970
300 300 300
Nature and history of Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site; modern conveniences
The Island House 2658 Swygert Blvd. Johns Island, SC 29455
843-647-4362 www.islandhouseevents.com info@islandhouseevents.com
Lynn Gottleib, Paul Speights 2009
300 300 300
Private island on the banks of the Stono River; 180-degree view of the river; 3,200-squarefoot tent included in rental
James Island County Park 871 Riverland Drive Charleston, SC 29412
843-406-6990 www.charlestoncountyparks.com/jicp customerservice@ccprc.com
Randy Woodard 1990
300 300 300
643-acre county park containing playground, camping facilities, picnic areas, seasonal water park, meeting, event facilities; walking, biking trails
Trinity Hall 30 Race St. Charleston, SC 29403
843-577-2063 www.trinityhallchs.com hello@trinityhallchs.com
2021
300 300 300
Weddings, corporate events, social gatherings; parking, staff; natural light
Snee Farm Country Club 1200 Club Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
843-849-2412 www.sneefarmcc.com ldavidson@rivertownecountryclub.com
Neal Cavallon 1970
275 100 300
4000 sq ft ballroom that holds up to 300 guests; outdoor ceremony lawn
Legare Waring House 1500 Old Towne Road Charleston, SC 29407
843-556-6871 www.legarewaringhouse.com ctleventvenues@scprt.com
Rob Powell, Jason Robinett 1970
200 200 200
A historic 1840s home that functions as a wedding venue in Charleston; moss-draped oaks surrounded by nature
Osprey Point 700 Governors Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455
843-466-4640 www.kiawahresort.com bryan_hunter@kiawahresort.com
1988
200 125 200
Space available for executive-level meetings
Palmetto Islands County Park 444 Needlerush Parkway Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
843-406-6950 www.charlestoncountyparks.com/picp customerservice@ccprc.com
Kevin Gillum, Jason Woodrum 1979
200 200 200
Nature oriented park for families and groups, bike paths, picnic areas, bike and boat rentals, Splash Island Waterpark
Wannamaker County Park 8888 University Blvd. North Charleston, SC 29406
843-762-5585 www.charlestoncountyparks.com customerservice@ccprc.com
Edmonds Brown 1998
200 200 200
1,015-acre park with covered shelters and a meeting hall for rent; park with miles of trails, large seasonal water park, sprinkler play area
Because of space constraints, sometimes only the top-ranked companies are published in the print edition. Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy, errors sometimes occur. Email additions or corrections to lists@scbiznews.com.
Meeting site with stage, kitchen, sand volleyball and horseshoe pit, Splash Zone Waterpark
Researched by Paige Hardy
Event Planning Guide 2020
27
Lists & Directory
Event Planners Ranked by No. of Event Planners
Event Planners / Total Employees / Day-of Coordination? 5 16 Yes 5 1 Yes
Phone / Website / Email 843-722-8880 www.louhammond.com lha@louhammond.com 843-460-3565 www.reynoldstreasures.com reynoldstreasures@gmail.com
Top Local Official(s) / Year Founded Gina Stouffer, Stephen Hammond, Lou Hammond 1984
843-571-5882 www.destinationcharlestonsc.com ccgs@destinationcharlestonsc.com
Stephanie King Zapiecki, James E. Mellen 1986
4 4 Yes
Full-service destination management and receptive operator, coordination of special events, team building activities, convention services and tours
843-475-8113 www.inventivenvironments.com jacqueline@inventivenvironments.com 843-723-1365 www.loluma.com shasha@loluma.com 843-216-0442 www.trio-solutions.com info@trio-solutions.com
Jacqueline Lawrence, Greer Thompson 2010 Sha Sha Harnik, Jordan O'Farrell 2007 Jessica Munday, Jenny Dennis 2001 Hannah Tygart, Kendall Dodd, Monique Semper, Jessica Lascow 2016
4 4 Yes 4 6 Yes 4 14 Yes
Full-service planning and coordination, conferences, incentive programs and trips; festivals, fashion shows and event production Decor, floral, lighting, props, staging, rentals, custom builds, signage, team-building events, gala event design, corporate events and weddings Special events, conferences, grand openings, tournaments, fund-raising events, event promotion and marketing
4 4 Yes
Customized event design and planning services
Chelsye Harp 2008
Ben-Jamin Toy, Dana Toy, ZoĂŤ Perissos 2011 Tara Guerard, Erica Missel, Bri Hughes 1997
3 3 Yes 3 3 Yes 3 3 Yes 2 2 Yes 2 2 Yes 2 2 Yes 2 4 Yes 2 2 Yes 2 9 Yes 1 1 Yes 1 1 No 1 1 No 1 1 Yes 1 13 Yes 1 5 No
Richie Guerzon, Richard Almes, Rich Carnahan 2006
1 10 Yes
Company Lou Hammond Group 145 King St. Charleston, SC 29401 Reynolds Treasures 520 Folly Road, Suite P128 Charleston, SC 29412 Charleston Convention & Group Services Inc. 1 Carriage Lane Charleston, SC 29407 InventivEnvironments 1996 Davant Circle Mount Pleasant , SC 29464 Loluma 6 N. Atlantic Wharf Charleston, SC 29401 Trio Solutions Inc. 505 Belle Hall Parkway, Suite 202 Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Yoj Events - a Semper Signature Co. 162 Wentworth St. Charleston, SC 29401 Intrigue Events 199 Jackson St. Charleston, SC 29403 Pure Luxe Bride 3464 Maybank Highway, Suite D Johns Island, SC 29455 Square One Meeting Planning Inc. 8421 Dorchester Road North Charleston, SC 29420 Boutique Planning 205 Grove St. Charleston, SC 29403 Cruz Coordination 3310 Conservancy Lane Charleston, SC 29414 ELM Events 2894 Stonestown Drive Charleston, SC 29414 KLH Group 78 Line St. Charleston, SC 29403 Reagan Events 123 Pitt St. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Stingray Branding 1124 Sam Rittenberg Blvd. Charleston, SC 29407 Charleston Wedding Planner LLC 664 Atlantic St. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Durant Consulting Inc. 519 Clearview Drive Charleston, SC 29412 HelmsBriscoe 5470 Chisolm Road Charleston, SC 29455 Kenda Sweet Events Inc. 1473 Goblet Ave. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 On Purpose Adventures LLC 727 Hitching Post Road Charleston, SC 29414 Tara Guerard Soiree 70 Queen St. Charleston, SC 29401
843-881-1959 kendasweetevents@gmail.com
Kenda M. Sweet 1996
843-580-3757 www.onpurposeadventures.com info@onpurposeadventures.com 843-577-5006 www.taraguerardsoiree.com info@taraguerardsoiree.com
UniMedia 2154 N. Center St., Suite 307C North Charleston, SC 29406
843-278-2433 www.unimediadigital.com info@unimediadigital.com
843-614-3413 www.yojevents.com monique@yojevents.com 843-247-0106 www.get-intrigued.com events@get-intrigued.com 843-640-3074 www.pureluxebride.com francesca@pureluxebride.com 843-856-5150 www.somp.co tammy@somp.co 843-437-4760 www.boutiqueplanning.com ashley@boutiqueplanning.com 843-509-5020 www.cruzcoordination.com jessica@cruzcoordination.com 843-284-6433 www.elmeventscharleston.com lauren@elmeventscharleston.com 843-718-0636 www.klhgroup.co hope@klhgroup.co 843-203-3807 reaganevents.com hello@reaganevents.com 843-480-4476 www.stingraybranding.com info@stingraybranding.com 843-442-8599 www.charlestonweddingplanner.com mikeawinship@gmail.com 305-785-3393 www.durantconsulting.com alex@durantconsulting.com 843-559-8896 www.helmsbriscoe.com jdaniels@helmsbriscoe.com
Andrea Easterday 2012
Francesca N. DiSalvoFollmer 2008 Jacki Bennis 1995 Ashley Wenz, Brooke S. Miller 2014 Jessica Cruz 2015 2014 2015 Reagan Kerr 2012 Alan Thompson, Jennifer Thompson 2008 Michael Winship 2003 Alex Durant 2007 Julie W. Daniels 2003
Because of space constraints, sometimes only the top-ranked companies are published in the print edition. Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy, errors sometimes occur. Email additions or corrections to lists@scbiznews.com.
28
Event Planning Guide 2020
Specialties / Services Integrated communications, branding, strategy, media relations, digital marketing, creative services, social media Wedding packages, wedding officiants, wedding planning and coordination
Corporate, social and wedding events; event design, planning and event production; full-service destination management Full service wedding and event planning, event design, draping, styled elopements Full service conference coordination; from initial site selection to full on-site coordination; local and national Wedding and event design; from an intimate evening to a grand affair Partial planning to include decor design assistance, layout and timeline creation, rental coordination and full day of services Whether a ceremony on the beach, a party under the oaks of a plantation or a formal affair in the historic district Corporate event company specializing in detail and design; connect companies with curated community service projects Full-service special event and wedding planning company serving Charleston and destinations worldwide Web design, SEO, graphic design, marketing strategy, social media, digital ad campaigns All celebrations; private and corporate; all budgets welcomed Sponsorship management for large-scale festivals, production of silent, live and online auctions Buying-power to leverage the rates and concessions from hotels for meetings anywhere in the world at no cost to the client Meetings and corporate events Customizable activities to suit a variety of events, from weddings to corporate retreats to family reunions; combat archery, GPS-based adventure quests and more Create settings that are custom and tailored to style Corporate event planning, in-house design capabilities, including video and audio production; hybrid, singlesource communication services, reduce marketing spending, increase ROI
Researched by Paige Hardy
Lists & Directory
Exhibition & Conference Centers Ranked by Maximum Capacity Company
Phone / Website / Email
Top Local Official(s) / Year Founded
Capacity / Event Space / Meeting Rooms
Exchange Park 9850 U.S. Highway 78 Ladson, SC 29456
843-572-3161 www.exchangepark.org denise@exchangepark.org
Denise Carner, Michael Carney 1979
75,000 56,000 sq. ft. 6
Venue buildings, open land with pond, 70 acres of indoor and outdoor event space and 100 acres of parking space
The College Center at Trident Technical College 7000 Rivers Ave. North Charleston, SC 29406
843-820-5094 www.tridenttech.edu trish.bryce-jacobs@tridenttech.edu
Trish Bryce-Jacobs 2005
17,000 45,000 sq. ft. 15
Flexible meeting space with audio visual and lighting equipment
Omar Shrine Convention Center 176 Patriots Point Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
843-606-2107 www.omarshriners.org rentals@omarshriners.org
Casey Van Faussen 1907
2,000 18,000 sq. ft. 2
One large hall with permanent stage, audiovisual, audio and large bay doors for load in; one small room that can hold up to 75 people for meetings
Charleston Gaillard Center 95 Calhoun St. Charleston, SC 29401
843-242-3094 www.gaillardcenter.org sales@gaillardcenter.org
Stephen Bedard 2015
1,850 118,670 sq. ft. 7
The Charleston Gaillard Center is a 501c3 nonprofit that provides the Lowcountry with a performance hall, venue space and educational opportunities
Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum 40 Patriots Point Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
843-884-2727 www.patriotspoint.org info@patriotspoint.org
Chris Hauff, Larry Murray 1975
1,500 75,000 sq. ft. 10
Views of the Charleston harbor and city skyline, more than 20 group venue spaces, warship venue
Kiawah Island Golf Resort 1 Sanctuary Beach Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455
888-601-4904 www.kiawahresort.com reservations@kiawahresort.com
Roger Warren 1976
1,080 89,610 sq. ft. 30
Beach and golf resort with diverse meeting space in The Sanctuary hotel, in golf clubhouses, and in the new 24,000-square-foot West Beach Conference Center
Festival Hall 56 Beaufain St. Charleston, SC 29401
843-724-1196 www.festivalhallcharleston.com info@festivalhallcharleston.com
2008
1,000 10,000 sq. ft. -
Charleston venue offering over 14,204 square feet of space for conference, meeting, performance, special event or experience
Kiawah Island Golf Resort West Beach Conference Center 1 Sanctuary Beach Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455
800-576-1585 www.kiawahresort.com marty_couch@kiawahresort.com
Roger Warren 1976
1,000 17,837 sq. ft. 12
Newly opened state-of-the art facility providing 23,000 square feet of pre-event and meeting space, including 10,000-square-foot core space and 11 breakout rooms
Lowcountry Park Venues 423 King St. Charleston, SC 29403
843-849-8091 www.lowcountryparkvenues.com whitney@lowcountryparkvenues.com
Whitney Sutphin 2009
Turtle Point 1 Turtle Point Lane Kiawah Island, SC 29455
800-576-1570 www.kiawahresort.com bryan_hunter@kiawahresort.com
1981
380 5,131 sq. ft. -
Meeting and conference space
Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site 1500 Old Towne Road Charleston, SC 29407
843-852-4200 www.southcarolinaparks.com ctlandingsp@scprt.com
Rob Powell, Jason Robinett 1970
300 9,000 sq. ft. 2
Site of first permanent English settlement in the Carolinas; includes two special-event venues: Founders Hall and the historic Legare Waring House
Cypress Hall at Wannamaker County Park 8888 University Blvd. North Charleston, SC 29406
843-795-4386 www.charlestoncountyparks.com customerservice@ccprc.com
Edmonds Brown 1998
300 3,700 sq. ft. 1
Fully equiped meeting site on an eight-acre meadow, kitchen, stage, dressing room, sand volleyball, horseshoe pit
Edisto Hall at James Island County Park 871 Riverland Drive Charleston, SC 29412
843-795-4386 www.charlestoncountyparks.com customerservice@ccprc.com
Randy Woodard 1989
300 3,500 sq. ft. 1
Meeting site with stage, kitchen, sand volleyball and horseshoe pit, Splash Zone Waterpark
Founders Hall 1500 Old Towne Road Charleston, SC 29407
843-556-6871 www.foundershallcharleston.com ctleventvenues@scprt.com
Rob Powell, Jason Robinett 1970
300 9,000 sq. ft. 2
Nature and history of Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site; modern conveniences
Segra Club at Riley Park 360 Fishburne St. Charleston, SC 29403
843-577-3647 www.segraclub.com admin@riverdogs.com
Dave Echols 2017
200 3,000 sq. ft. 1
The Segra Club at Riley Park is an event destination for year-round entertaining within Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Ballpark, with marsh views and amenities
S.C. Historical Society 100 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29401
843-723-3225 www.schistory.org faye.jensen@schsonline.org
Faye Jensen 1855
170 3,000 sq. ft. 3
Recently renovated national historic landmark designed by Robert Mills, the architect of the Washington Monument
The Lake House at Bulow 926 Hughes Road Charleston, SC 29455
843-795-4386 www.charlestoncountyparks.com/bulow customerservice@ccprc.com
Justin Leyh 2012
150 1,000 sq. ft. 1
Grand Bohemian Hotel 55 Wentworth St. Charleston, SC 29401
843-722-5711 www.grandbohemiancharleston.com info@grandbohemiancharleston.com
Tony Liartis 2015
100 5,500 sq. ft. 3
The Conference Center at James Island County Park 871 Riverland Drive Charleston, SC 29412
843-795-4386 www.charlestoncountyparks.com customerservice@ccprc.com
Randy Woodard 1990
49 1,100 sq. ft. 3
Natural lakeside setting available for weddings, business meetings, receptions, family getaways; luxury lake house offers overnight accommodations Ballroom 30x50x11.8 private space located on the top floor of the hotel with a private rooftop terrace; PDR located inside Eleve, this room is for smaller meetings or intimate meal functions Conference center with two breakout rooms, kitchen and screened porch within a natural park setting for small conferences and receptions; picnic area
Because of space constraints, sometimes only the top-ranked companies are published in the print edition. Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy, errors sometimes occur. Email additions or corrections to lists@scbiznews.com.
400 0 sq. ft. 1
Description
Two special event venues at Mount Pleasant Waterfront Park
Researched by Paige Hardy
Event Planning Guide 2020
29
Lists & Directory
Full-Service Caterers Ranked by Largest Event Catered in 2019 Company
Phone / Website / Email
Top Local Official(s) / Year Founded
Hamby Catering & Events 925 St. Andrews Blvd. Charleston, SC 29407
843-571-3103 www.hambycatering.com info@hambycatering.com
Candice Wigfield 1979
Duvall Catering & Events 2816 Azalea Drive Charleston, SC 29405
843-763-9222 www.duvallevents.com info@duvallevents.com
Cru Catering 1784 Harmon St. Charleston, SC 29405
Largest Event 2019 / Employees /
Avg. Meal
Catering Services
8,000 40
$40—$55
Catering; Southern-inspired cuisine; femalefounded, female-owned
Ashley Gunnin, Dave Byron 1978
2,400 105
$35
The company’s catering, bar, floral and décor creations originate from its home at the Midtown Event Center on Azalea Drive in North Charleston
843-534-2433 www.crucatering.com info@crucatering.com
John Zucker 2000
1,000 29
$55—$75
Cru Catering creates customized menus
Everyday Gourmet Inc. 1303 Ben Sawyer Blvd., Unit 6 Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
843-388-2490 www.shopeverydaygourmet.com tghitopoulos@yahoo.com
Tricia Gregory Hitopoulos 2002
800 2
-
500-square foot used for small, high-end private dinner parties, wine tastings and celebrations
Crazy Dutchman Catering 1823 Reynolds Ave. North Charleston, SC 29405
843-478-2199 www.crazydutchmancatering.com hans@crazydutchmancatering.com
Hans Van Heek 1989
500 25
$13—$45
Provide food for a range of events like weddings, rehearsal dinners, Lowcountry boils and oyster roasts
The Alley 131 Columbus St. Charleston, SC 29403
843-818-4080 www.thealleycharleston.com charleston@bowlthealley.com
Caroline McCormick, Sean Terry, David Crowley 2012
450 30
$10—$20
Upstairs mezzanine: 50-100 people, private bar, lounge area, TVs, seating for 40; bowling bar space: 20-50 people, private bar, on the lanes, tv, seat
Salthouse Catering 1750 Signal Point Road, Suite 2-B Charleston, SC 29412
843-577-7847 www.salthousecatering.com info@salthousecatering.com
Todd Mazurek, Tanya Gurrieri 2013
400 50
$40—$60
Cuisine featuring local and seasonal ingredients; full service bar, rentals, menu planning; to-go menu is also available
Beyond Expectations 2487 Ashley River Road, Suite 2 Charleston, SC 29414
843-573-0012 www.beyondxpectations.com byndexpectations@aol.com
Ron Murray 1996
350 16
$25—$40
Full service catering company offering bar services, event planning, ice sculptures and event decor
Because of space constraints, sometimes only the top-ranked companies are published in the print edition. Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy, errors sometimes occur. Email additions or corrections to lists@scbiznews.com.
Researched by Paige Hardy
Chef-prepped Meals Finished at Home
843.763.9222 l duvallevents.com l tableandtwinechs.com 30
Event Planning Guide 2020
Lists & Directory
Full-Service Caterers Ranked by Largest Event Catered in 2019 Company
Phone / Website / Email
Top Local Official(s) / Year Founded
Largest Event 2019 / Employees /
Avg. Meal
Catering Services
The Mills House Wyndham Grand Hotel 115 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29401
843-577-2400 www.millshouse.com info@millshouse.com
Michael Linder 1853
350 145
> $65
Three wedding reception venues, meetings for up to 200 people, access to adjacent Hibernian Hall
Relish Distinctive Catering 1700 RiverTowne Country Club Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29466
843-849-2412 www.relishdistinctivecatering.com ldavidson@rivertownecountryclub.com
Mike Ashton 1998
350 50
> $40
Rivertowne Country Club, Snee Farm Country Club, preferred caterers at Magnolia Plantation
Brick Lane Catering 38 Romney St. Charleston, SC 29403
843-323-2696 www.bricklanecatering.com info@bricklanecatering.com
Charlie Giordano 2011
300 6
$25—$80
Catering; delivering events with service
Snee Farm Country Club 1200 Club Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
843-849-2412 www.sneefarmcc.com ldavidson@rivertownecountryclub.com
Neal Cavallon 1970
300 40
> $30
4000 sq ft ballroom that holds up to 300 guests; outdoor ceremony lawn
The Darling Oyster Bar Catering 513 King St. Charleston, SC 29403
843-641-0821 www.thedarling.com catering@thedarling.com
Sara Prezioso 2019
100 10
$30—$40
Offsite, onsite and drop off available; family style, raw bar, plated dinner or lunch options; Lowcountry boil, oyster roasts specialties
Wild Wing Cafe Catering 830 Lowcountry Blvd., Suite 200 Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
980-312-5885 www.wildwingcafe.com sharyn@wildwingcafe.com
1990
-
Enclosed patios available at restaurants in Mount Pleasant and North Charleston
Because of space constraints, sometimes only the top-ranked companies are published in the print edition. Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy, errors sometimes occur. Email additions or corrections to lists@scbiznews.com.
-
Researched by Paige Hardy
Event Planning Guide 2020
31