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EVENT PLANNING GUIDE | 2021

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iddleton Place National Historic Landmark is an enduring, vibrant, and essential part of the Charleston and American experience. Nestled along the Ashley River, Middleton Place’s 110 acres include 65 acres of America’s Oldest Landscaped Gardens, a House Museum, plantation stableyards, a full-service restaurant, a 55-room Inn, and a working farm. Middleton Place uses historic preservation, documented research, and interpretation as a force for education, understanding our shared American history, and positive change. Middleton Place and The Inn at Middleton Place offer a variety of meeting and reception spaces that can easily accommodate a wide array of corporate events. Whether it is a board retreat, company training, or a celebration, each unique space can be tailored to provide the appropriate atmosphere that your group is seeking.

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he Charleston Gaillard Center is more than a world-class performing arts center. Located in the heart of downtown Charleston, SC, with stunning architecture, exquisitely appointed ballrooms, and meeting rooms to serve the size and scope of any event, it is the ultimate destination for your gala, corporate event, or national convention. The Charleston Gaillard Center is prepared to meet every need for your event in our state-of-the-art facility. With the 1,800-seat Martha and John M. Rivers Performance Hall and 16,000-square-foot Grand Ballroom, the Gaillard Center is an inspirational and creative space in a landmark destination. Every event meaningfully contributes to providing barrier-free arts education to Lowcountry students through our Education and Community Program. Choosing the Charleston Gaillard Center is choosing to support our vital mission.

Event Planning Guide 2021

contents 2021

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11 Lifestyle

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Event Planning Guide 2021

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Charleston still a popular destination, but pandemic has changed the rules

Event Planning Guide 2021

Bookings increase for venues, planners in 2021

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Pandemic event planning Industry continues to adapt, evolve 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.

harleston’s reputation as a place people want to visit is a welldocumented fact. It’s been named a top U.S. destination by Conde Nast for 11 years in a row and by Travel & Leisure for nine 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

By Steve McDaniel

indelible sense of history and charm long month. and a vibrant food and beverage The financial challenges of industry. the pandemic have been espe-

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 more than 18 months ago, and that disruption has continued at various levels for long month after

cially harsh on the hospitality and entertainment sector. A major component of that is the event industry, which saw bookings plummet to unprecedented lows in 2020. Many companies laid off workers or cut hours; some couldn’t survive the damage and closed for good. Now, as we approach the

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Event Planning Guide 2021

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end of 2021, it appears that live events and public gatherings are increasing. Wedding bookings, concerts, conventions and other large in-person events are returning to pre-pandemic levels. The development of effective COVID-19 vaccines has allowed many venues to reopen with policies that include proof of vaccination, mask requirements and other mitigation factors that have led to increased ticket sales and attendance. While we still have a long, convoluted path ahead of us in figuring out how to work, live and play with this new virus a seemingly permanent part of our world, getting back to a sense of something resembling normal living is slowly becoming reality again. Gathering with friends,

Event Planning Guide 2021

loved ones or even strangers with similar entertainment tastes are experiences we took for granted all our lives. We’ve learned the hard way how easily that can be ripped away from us. Those in the event planning and staging industries are as eager as anyone to restore that simple, yet invaluable, pleasure. As we all continue to adapt and cope with the pandemic, so does the event industry continue to evolve and create ways for people to share common experiences, albeit in ways we never could’ve foreseen. Against that uncertain backdrop, the Charleston Regional Business Journal brings you the 2021 Event Planning Guide. We hope you find the information and lists contained inside valuable and informative.

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Bookings on the rise for venues, planners After dismal 2020, area hotels, event facilities see positive trends in 2021 By Barry Waldman

t’s been more than 18 months since COVID-19 scuttled scheduled events and tossed the event industry into uncertainty and disarray.

The lessons learned during the long, slow recovery have benefited the event business through the hope of vaccinations, the regret of vaccination reluctance and the fear of a more transmissible and egalitarian variant. As a result, many events are returning, albeit in altered forms, with area hotels nearly as busy as ever and wedding planners scrambling to keep up with demand. A snapshot of the improvement can be gleaned from the Charleston County Hotel Performance Forecast produced by the College of Charleston Office of Tourism Analysis in September 2021. It found hotel occupancy crashed to an average of 42% in January and February 2021, before vaccinations were widely available. For 2022, the analysis projects an occupancy rate half again as much, at 63%. Additionally, because hotels no longer need to discount rooms quite so deeply to attract guests, the analysis

projects a $33/night higher room rate. “By mid-February 2021, with the rollout of vaccines, tourism in Charleston and many other U.S. destinations began to ascend back to prepandemic levels. Charleston enjoyed a robust 2021 summer tourism season,” the report noted. Karen De Jong, director of sales and marketing at Charleston Marriott on Lockwood, says cancellations for corporate and association bookings remained in force until about April, when vaccines became widespread. The U.S. Open golf tournament at Kiawah in May helped boost business, and since then the venue has remained busy with a different mix of events. So-called SMERFE events — social, military, educational, religious, fraternal and ethnic — have replaced large national conferences and local galas and holiday parties. De Jong’s marketing staff of 14 was cut to four during the height of the pandemic and has rebounded halfway to seven. Much of that, though, is related to staffing issues rather than COVID.

The Charleston Marriott has hosted more in-person events and seen room occupany rates increase in 2021 after significant revenue losses in 2020. (Photo/Charleston Marriott)

Event Planning Guide 2021

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The Marcus King Band performs at the Charleston Music Hall. Local venues started hosting in-person events again as COVID-19 case numbers dropped and vaccines became widely available. (Photo/Charleston Music Hall)

“The hotel had to take 100 rooms out of inventory because of the labor force,” she said. “Right now, the bigger challenge is the labor shortage.” Concerts and other sta-

dium events got hit hardest by the pandemic, completely shutting down venues like the Gaillard Center and Charleston Music Hall. The Music Hall responded last year by moving events to

The Bend, an outdoor venue in North Charleston, with socially distanced pods of attendees that limited capacity. The Music Hall lost money but kept staff employed and provided an outlet for artists,

hungry for live performances. In February, the Music Hall itself reopened at 25% with the full gamut of cleaning protocols. It converted to normal operations in July, maintaining its protocols but

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Event Planning Guide 2021

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Event planners have seen a surge in business in 2021, especially in wedding bookings. Planning companies like Intrigue Events have instituted certain protocols to ensure the health safety of guests and staff. (Photos/Intrigue Events)

allowing attendees to enter without COVID precautions. That changed in September with the advent of the Delta variant, prompting the Music Hall to require all attendees to show proof of full vaccination or a negative COVID test. Masks are no longer required. That has helped the venue, which lost its entire staff but for venue director Charles Carmody, return to a full complement of staff. The Gaillard maintains the same requirements for entry. Unvaccinated individuals without proof of negative status can get COVID tested at the front door for a $25 fee. Staff can also determine vaccination status on a statewide database for any-

one lacking their vaccination card. While life inside the concert halls is back to normal, it is also permanently changed. “We are no longer doing mobile ordering for concessions,” said Carmody. “We are still thoroughly cleaning the facility every day - that will never change.” The wedding business took a COVID breather, but compared to corporate meetings and concerts, weddings are more likely to be rescheduled rather than scuttled. Thus, says Chelsye Harp, founder and event designer at Intrigue Events, most weddings now through next spring are make-ups. That has pushed wedding planning through 2022 and into

2023. Part of that, again, is a staffing issue. Intrigue deals with dozens of vendors — for venues, flowers, linens, alcohol, A/V, invitation designers, and much more — who are struggling to hire the workers they need to keep up with demand. Still some couples are being encouraged to move their weddings to weekdays in order to get the dates they want in 2022. “There are going to be more weddings in 2022 than the last couple of years combined,” Harp said. “People are excited to share their love and happiness, enjoy their friends and family, and find some sort of normalcy.” Protocols are a mixed bag

at weddings, largely at the discretion of the couple and the individual venue. Staff generally wear masks but guests generally don’t. The plexiglass on bars and food stations have come down but buffets and self-serve are history for the time being. Daily deep cleaning and outdoor alternatives are likely permanent. Event planners are finding they can’t please everyone when it comes to COVID requirements and protocols. “Many people have been very thankful these precautions have been put in place, as they feel safer going to a show,” said the Music Hall’s Charles Carmody. “Some people have responded very negatively,” Event Planning Guide 2021

Corporate Meetings & Conventions

Corporate Event

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

Hot tip: Communication is a huge key to your event’s success. Strive for clear communication with attendees, sponsors, vendors and the venue representative. o Conduct site visits as required. This is important when you’re using the facility for the first time. o Negotiate hotel rates and blocks. If you use hotel meeting rooms for the event, you could get a significant discount on sleeping rooms. o Determine preliminary food and beverage requirements and negotiate menus and prices. o Add any deadlines and other requirements to the timetable.

Hot tip: Plant the seeds of social media early by promoting a hashtag before the event to generate buzz.

60 TO 90 DAYS BEFORE THE EVENT o Form committees as required. Organizations that have regular events should consider forming standing committees that meet regularly. o Develop a promotional strategy. o Do some public relations for the event. Calendar notices, press releases and interviews may all be appropriate. o For nonprofit or charity events, line up sponsors. o If you are charging admission to the event, establish

Event Planning Guide 2021

registration fee structures and policies, and be sure to include clear cancellation policies. o Invite and confirm key speakers. This includes people within your organization. o Obtain audiovisual needs from speakers and presenters, and order all necessary equipment. o Review, update and confirm final event budget. o Identify and communicate on-site responsibility areas for committees and volunteers. Set up training for volunteers and educate them about your expectations. o Select and order speaker gifts and awards. o Order special decorations for the event. o Prepare and order signs. This is another opportunity to build your brand. o Arrange for travel and housing of all staff and VIPs.

THE DAY OF THE EVENT o Have a staff and volunteer meeting to review responsibilities, procedures and overlap areas such as registration. o Confirm and monitor pickup of all rental equipment and supplies.

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

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

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

lifestyle

Photo/File

Event planners see surge in business after 2020 cancellations

Vaccine, testing policies help venues boost sales, attendance

Event Planning Guide 2021

Lifestyle

Event planners busier than ever as weddings, meetings return to Charleston By Jenny Peterson

harleston has long been a popular wedding destination and the fall season has always been a popular time to get married. But event planners say they’ve never seen the calendar as packed as it is now, with an unprecedented number of rescheduled weddings coming down the pipeline. New weddings, coupled with postponed weddings from 2020, are

resulting in multiple weddings every weekend, all season long. Event planners have been working with some clients for over a year on their rescheduled weddings. “Every vendor I talk to from every corner of the events industry, from catering to florals to transportation and rental venues, says this is the busiest everyone has ever been,” said Amy DeVito, owner and designer of Buttercup Events, based in Charleston. “It’s in overdrive now,” confirms

Rental chairs and tables for events are more in demand than ever. (Photo/Jenna Marie Weddings/provided by Buttercup Events)

Event Planning Guide 2021

Lisa Thomas, vice-president of sales for Ohh! EventHaus, based in North Charleston. “For the first time for rentals, we’ve had to turn people away, which is hard because as event planners, we are ‘yes’ people. What was already busy season, we are planning events for couples who were planning to get married at this time and people who pushed their dates, so it’s been crazy,” Thomas said. “Every weekend, about 25 percent of the events are postponed or rescheduled events.” Relaxed COVID-19 policies attract more couples Charleston was quicker to return to hosting events than other cities, with large events returning in earnest in spring 2021, as COVID-19 vaccines began to roll out. The Charleston area’s relaxed rules for gatherings, including lifting citywide mask ordinances in May 2021, not capping indoor attendance limits and not requiring attendees to show proof of vaccination or a negative test, made Charleston a last-minute destination for some out-of-state couples, DeVito said. “Ninety-five percent of my clients don’t live in Charleston and if they are coming from a state that is more hesitant in their regulations and what they are allowing, Charleston is a good choice,” DeVito said. “I had one couple from North Carolina who lived in an area where there were still mandates and regulations, who found it was easier to move their event here. People decided they didn’t want to wait any longer, and if they could move it, that worked for them. If they live in areas where Charleston is a drivable distance (away), everyone

can just get in the car and come here.” While event planners say that weddings are back in earnest — and fully booked through 2022 — some weddings began to come back as early as fall 2020. DeVito, who worked in the industry in New York for a decade before moving to Charleston, said events in the Holy City now have surpassed what she was handling in the Big Apple. “I decided to launch Buttercup Events in the middle of a pandemic and this is hands down the busiest year I’ve ever seen. ... It doesn’t even touch New York,” she said. Events have ranged from smaller, more COVID-friendly events with under 50 people to large gatherings of over 200 guests. “In October 2020, venues were asking guests to wear masks and sign health waivers,” DeVito said. “Things really began to pick up in spring of this year.” Company events on compressed timeline Event planners say they are being contacted about planning last-minute corporate events, like company holiday parties, with much shorter lead times than normal, as organizers keep an eye on COVID cases in the city and state. “They’ve just waited to watch what happens and then decided, ‘OK, we are going to do this,’” Thomas said. “Normally for corporate events, we’d plan three to six months out and now we’re planning inside 45 days. In October and November, we’d had a lot of last-minute things pop up.” Many people are finding that the weekends are all booked up at popu-

Lifestyle

When events returned to Charleston in fall 2020, some included masking and social distancing. (Photo/Maggie Braucher Photography/provided by Buttercup Events)

Event planners say florals have gone up in price, especially roses. (Photo/Taylor Lauren Barker Photography/provided by Buttercup Events)

lar venues, choosing to hold events during the week when there is availability. Supply chain issues present challenge for rentals, florals Event planners say supply chain issues are making many rental items go up in cost, which complicates the busy event calendar. “The biggest industry affected is the floral industry; they are having a difficult time getting products due to issues with shipping and staffing,” DeVito said. “If growers don’t have staff, it’s a trickle-down effect.” Thomas said roses specifically have “tripled in cost.” “You combine that with the labor market and inability to get materials — everything from candles to flowers — it’s been crazy to negotiate these things, but as event planners, we do what we have to do to make it right for everybody,” she said. Ohh! Events recently merged with EventHaus rentals to provide seamless full-service event planning under the umbrella of Ohh! EventHaus. “Luckily, I ordered additional rental tables during the pandemic and have containers coming in, which has been a saving grace,” Thomas said. “It’s been really difficult to get things delivered right now. It’s a challenge, plus the demand has been high be-

cause there are a lot of events.” Despite ordering more rentals, Thomas said many weekends, table, chair and tent rentals are all booked up. “To have to say ‘no’ is really difficult for me as an event planner,” she said. The planning challenges that come with event date changes make having an event planner a vital asset. “It’s a lot more work when you have to cancel everything that was planned, and then find a mutually agreeable date for all the vendors in the future,” Thomas said. “The event might have to be moved to a new season and the colors and florals may have to change, like if it’s originally a fall event versus moving it to spring,” Thomas said. “But it’s the nature of the beast in event planning; it’s not the clients’ fault, and all of us have to work together to make it work.” Thomas said Ohh! EventHaus honored 2020 prices for couples and allowed clients to roll over their deposits for their rescheduled date. Despite the stress and logistical challenges that comes with a jampacked calendar, event planners are grateful that events have returned. “This (volume) doesn’t touch the number of events we had before the pandemic in 2019,” DeVito said. “Most weekends, I’m doing multiple weddings — and I’ll take it!”

A post-pandemic wedding in Charleston planned by Buttercup Events. (Photo/Emily Baucom Photography/provided by Buttercup Events)

Event Planning Guide 2021

Lifestyle

Theater shows go on with vaccine, testing mandates in place By Teri Errico Grifﬁs tgrifﬁs@scbiznews.com

hen Charleston Gaillard Center surveyed its audience to find out what would bring patrons back to the theater, Lissa Frenkel, president and CEO, said that 94% of respondents said they’d be more inclined to purchase tickets if vaccinations or testing were required, in addition to a mask policy. The Gaillard instituted a mandate and saw a bump in ticket sales almost immediately. Charleston Stage is seeing a similar spike after requiring vaccines and tests for its September production. With so much opposition to mandates, Frenkel said she was surprised by the response. “That 94% was really indicative

that folks were really feeling in order to come to these artistic presentations, they had to have some verification that it was a population that was safe,” she said. Theaters around Charleston have had a diﬃcult year with sales falling further as COVID-19’s delta variant has resurged and patrons have been required to wear masks to performances. In August, the Gaillard, which hosts both shows and events, instituted socially distanced seating and mask mandates, per city guidelines since the building is owned by Charleston. There was some pushback, Frenkel said, but nothing too crazy. Yet sales just weren’t where she wanted them to be.

The Gaillard Center in downtown Charleston has seen increased ticket sales since requiring proof of COVID-19 vaccination or negative test results. (Photo/Gaillard Center)

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Event Planning Guide 2021

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Ravyn Meador, resident stage manager at Charleston Stage, communicates with staff during rehearsals at The Dock Street Theatre on Sept. 8. (Photo/Teri Errico Griffis)

As of Sept. 3 with the Lowcountry Jazz Festival, however, the organization has put the vaccine/test mandate in place and is now booking to capacity in accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and local health recommendations. “The institution was hit pretty hard, but the staff was creative in how to keep The Gaillard front of mind with programs,” she said. “Artgoers seem to be pretty united. They want to see the arts remain open.” To maintain the safest environment, staff and actors are being tested once a week. Charleston Stage is following a parallel protocol with the help of Roper St. Francis. After shutting down in March 2020 and postponing “Bright Star,” story and music by Steve Martin, the theater was ready to re-open on Labor Day after 18 months, but COVID-19 struck again. A cast member, who tested negative on a Monday, was found positive on a Thursday. Soon after, nearly a

dozen actors and staff members all tested positive, including founder and producing art director Julian Wiles, who had been vaccinated Everyone who tested positive had been vaccinated, he said. The show was pushed back a week. Since then, just like Charleston Gaillard Center and Charleston Music Hall, the theater instituted a mask mandate and required proof from all patrons of a vaccination or negative COVID test in the last 72 hours. The process has become a national standard, adopted by Broadway, the Metropolitan Opera and Carnegie Hall. “The delay of Bright Star really hit home on the importance of these protocols,” Wiles said. “We had one person spread it to a dozen others. It’s very obvious that this then affects production, which impacts fans, and it’s a trickle effect.” When the pandemic hit in March, 2020, Charleston Stage quickly downsized, furloughing 19 staff members. Ten stayed on and accepted salary re-

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Event Planning Guide 2021

Lifestyle ductions until the theater stabilized. Wiles said most of the staff has returned at this point, except for employees who chose to move on. While not producing isn’t costing the theater as much money to operate, Charleston Stage still had to refund or raincheck all those who purchased single show tickets or subscriptions during the shutdown, and lost 70% of its income. “What that means is because we’re honoring those prior ticket purchases, we will have fewer cash tickets to sell this year,” Wiles said. To plan for the 2020-2021 season, the theater has to budget based on what income won’t be coming in. Wiles said he’s not restricting the number of guests, but Charleston Stage isn’t filling up the house yet either. The main challenge for Charleston Stage has been the moving target of when things will “normalize,” Wiles said. First it was two weeks in March 2020, maybe summer, maybe 2021. What has helped the organization stay afloat, Wiles said, were two rounds of Paycheck Protection Program loans and American Rescue Plan funding. Both Charleston Stage and the Gaillard also received Shuttered Venue Operator Grants, the executives said. Additionally, Wiles credited donors, especially those who didn’t ask for refunds. In fact, in 2020, Charleston Stage received more donations than it ever had during a typical year. “Some people actually gave twice and so, even though it didn't replace all of the lost income, it certainly allowed us to hang on as much as we could,” Wiles said. Wiles founded Charleston Stage 44 years ago, and has grown the operations to a staff of more than 30, the downtown theater and a classroom facility in West Ashley. “We didn’t want to lose all that,” he said. “If we did lose it because of the pandemic, it would just take years and years and years to rebuild that.” For Theatre 99, a small improvisation theater on Meeting Street, closing during the pandemic wasn’t an option, no matter how hard it was to sustain operations, co-owner Brandy Sullivan

Bright Star cast members follow strict mask mandates during rehearsal (top and bottom photos). At live shows, they must remain masked at all times unless they are on stage. (Photos/Teri Errico Griffis)

said. “The pandemic has been constantly impacting us and last year was awful,” she said. “But there was no plan B.” Like all non-essential businesses, the theater temporarily closed its doors at the start of the pandemic. Come summer, Sullivan convinced some company members to put on online shows, but it wasn’t the same without the heavy audience participation Theatre 99 had come to rely on. In October, Sullivan, who co-owns the theater with her husband Sean, opened the doors again, but this time to only 15 or 20 people, spread out and with required masks. “We hobbled along through that,

and we’ve been doing that the whole time since October,” she said. “We had to make money because the rent was due.” Sullivan knew someday they’d have to make the “big ask” from fans, maybe because they had to move or had an emergency. “But when COVID hit, it was time,” she said. “And the support felt wonderful during the dark, time… The whole last year was one of the saddest times for us, but it was heartwarming to be a part of Theatre 99.” Sullivan said she was overwhelmed at the kindness bestowed upon her business. Even a donation of $25 was felt throughout the for-profit business. “We’re working seven days a week,

and managing the company is the big thing,” she said. “…There’s probably between 50-60 active members right now.” Wiles said sharing the experience of theater is something that’s endemic to the human situation. After all, theaters closed in Shakespeare’s time because of the plague, and the shows always came back, he said. “Theater and the arts in the community mean a lot to people here, and they wanted to see it, they want to see us stay here and survive,” he said. “Live events are something that are so special that we’re never going to give up.” Reach Teri Errico Griffis at 843-8493144. Event Planning Guide 2021

Lifestyle

Charleston Ten ideas to make your wedding or event truly Charleston

Style

3 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.

Event Planning Guide 2021

Place a palmetto rose on each table.

6 Go rustic and get a relaxed Southern feel with mason jars, farm tables, local ﬂowers and lanterns.

Add a distinctly Charleston activity to the weekend, such as an oyster roast for the rehearsal dinner.

Go local with the 2 spirits. Offer guests uniquely Lowcountry spirits like Fireﬂy sweet tea vodka, wine from a local vineyard or beer from a local brewery. 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. 10. Have guests sign a distinctly Charleston item, such as a joggling board (a rocking chair bench), at the reception.

lists & directory Photo/File

20 Event Services — The following categories are included under this heading: •

Audiovisual

•

Booking Agencies/Entertainment

•

Corporate Gifts/Promotional Products

•

Event Decor

•

Event Rentals

•

• • • •

Photography/Videography Production/Staging/Trade Show Display Vendors Tours Transportation

The following are listed online due to space restrictions. Find them at scbiznews.com under the Menu/ Resources tab:

Hotels with Meeting Facilities

Event Planners

Breweries/Distilleries

Florists

Alternative and Outdoor Venues

Golf Courses

•

Mobile Restrooms

Exhibition Convention Centers

Restaurants with Banquet Facilities

•

Party Supply Sales

Full-Service Caterers

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

Food Trucks

this in our content, we advise contacting a business prior to making plans to ensure availability and confirm what restrictions might be in place. Event Planning Guide 2021

Lists & Directory

Event Services

In the Charleston Area, Listed Alphabetically

Absolutely Charleston Destination Management 528 Cross Park Lane Summerville, SC 29486 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.awardsguy.com Event Services Categories: Corporate Gifts/Promotional Products All-Mist Outdoor Cooling 2114 Paw Paw Place Charleston, SC 29412 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 Artistic Eye Productions LLC 178 Thames Ave. Summerville, SC 29485 843-214-5968 www.artisticeyeproductions.com Event Services Categories: Photography/Videography

Event Planning Guide 2021

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: Tours Belva’s Flower Shop 1965 Riviera Drive, Suite 4 Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-884-9576 www.belvasflowershop.com Event Services Categories: Florist 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 Bird’s Nest Floral & Gifts 549 College Park Road, Suite E Ladson, SC 29456 843-797-7673 www.birdsnestflorist.com Event Services Categories: Corporate Gifts/Promotional Products; Event Decor; Florist

Bloom at Charleston Place 150 Market St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-937-9033 www.bloomatcharlestonplace. com Event Services Categories: Event Rentals; Florist Booze Pops Mobile Charleston, SC 29414 843-200-8422 www.boozepops.com Event Services Categories: Event Rentals; Party Supply Sales Branch Design Studio 1113 Bowman Road, Suite 101 Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-847-7996 www.branchdesignstudio.com Event Services Categories: Event Decor; Florist Broad Street Events 1421 Swamp Fox Lane Charleston, SC 29412 843-732-6732 www.broadstreetevents.com Event Services Categories: Audiovisual; Event Decor; Event Rentals; Production/Staging/ Trade Show Display Vendors Bulldog Tours Inc. 18 Anson St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-722-8687 www.bulldogtours.com Event Services Categories: Tours Buxton Books 160 King St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-723-1670 www.buxtonbooks.com Event Services Categories: Event Rentals; Production/ Staging/Trade Show Display Vendors; Tours

CC Bloom LLC 85 Vincent Drive, Suite B Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-935-2598 www.ccbloomflorals.com Event Services Categories: Florist Charleston Balloon Co. 1559 Sam Ritenberg Blvd. Charleston, SC 29407 843-856-9121 www.charlestonballooncompany. com Event Services Categories: Event Decor Charleston Black Cab Co. 1529 Sam Rittenberg Blvd., Suite 2B Charleston, SC 29407 843-216-2627 www.charlestonblackcabcompany. com Event Services Categories: Transportation Charleston Carriage Works 20 Anson St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-779-1279 www.mycharlestoncarriage.com Event Services Categories: Tours 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 Charleston, SC 29401 843-693-0004 www.charlestonentertainment. com Event Services Categories: Audiovisual; Booking Agency/ Entertainment

Lists & Directory

Charleston Florist Inc. 709 St. Andrews Blvd. Charleston, SC 29407 843-577-5691 www.charlestonflorist.com Event Services Categories: Florist

Coastal Expeditions 514 Mill St., Suite B Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-884-7684 www.coastalexpeditions.com Event Services Categories: Tours; Transportation

Charleston Pirate Tours 79 Cumberland St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-442-7299 www.charlestonpiratetour.com Event Services Categories: Booking Agency/Entertainment; Tours

Crafted Travel Charleston 1529 Sam Rittenburg Blvd., Suite 2A Charleston, SC 29407 843-804-9933 www.craftedcharlestontours.com Event Services Categories: Tours

Coleman Photography LLC 1178 Michelle Lane Charleston, SC 29455 843-437-8407 www.colemanphotography.com Event Services Categories: Corporate Gifts/Promotional Products; Photography/ Videography

Darby Events Coleman Blvd. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-779-6224 www.darbyevents.com Event Services Categories: Audiovisual; Booking Agency/ Entertainment; Event Rentals; Production/Staging/Trade Show Display Vendors

Chelsea Paige Photography 2040 Lanneau Lane Johns Island, SC 29455 304-841-4370 www.chelseapaigephoto.com Event Services Categories: Photography/Videography Chris & Cami Photography LLC 200 Sugar Magnolia Way Charleston, SC 29414 843-324-8900 www.chrisandcami.com Event Services Categories: Photography/Videography

Commonhouse Aleworks LLC 4831 O’Hear Ave. North Charleston, SC 29405 843-471-1400 www.commonhousealeworks. com Event Services Categories: Corporate Gifts/Promotional Products; Event Rentals

Chug-A-Lug Wagon 4244 Scott St., Suite D North Charleston, SC 29405 843-701-1250 www.chugalugwagon.com Event Services Categories: Event Rentals

Complete Weddings & Events 1376 Downsberry Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29466 843-856-7177 www.completeweddingcharleston. com Event Services Categories: Audiovisual; Booking Agency/ Entertainment; Photography/ Videography

Cigar Row Events 188 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29407 843-607-4423 www.cigarrowevents.com Event Services Categories: Corporate Gifts/Promotional Products; Party Supply Sales

Country & Lace Florist 610 Schooner Road Charleston, SC 29412 843-762-1118 www.countryandlaceflorist.com Event Services Categories: Event Decor; Event Rentals; Florist

Duncan-Parnell 3150 W. Montague Ave. North Charleston, SC 29418 843-747-6033 www.duncan-parnell.com Event Services Categories: Production/Staging/Trade Show Display Vendors EastCoast Entertainment ECE 1039 Anna Knapp Blvd., Suite D Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-856-9922 www.bookece.com Event Services Categories: Booking Agency/Entertainment Event.Gives 655 Johnnie Dodds Blvd. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-580-1520 www.event.gives Event Services Categories: Audiovisual Firefly Distillery 4201 Spruill Ave. North Charleston, SC 29405 843-577-1405 www.fireflydistillery.com Event Services Categories: Tours

Florabella 202 Summer Rain Court Charleston, SC 29414 843-469-3378 www.florabellacharleston.com Event Services Categories: Event Decor; Florist Flowers by Frankie 108 Gleneagles Drive Summerville, SC 29483 843-296-4252 www.flowersbyfrankie.com Event Services Categories: Florist 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 French Quarter Floral 839 Wellington Drive Charleston, SC 29412 843-779-0440 www.frenchquarterfloral.com Event Services Categories: Florist FunFlicks Outdoor Movies 4520 Dorchester Road Charleston, SC 29405 843-823-7070 www.funflicks.com/projectorscreen-rental-charleston/ Event Services Categories: Audiovisual; Event Rentals; Production/Staging/Trade Show Display Vendors

Event Planning Guide 2021

Lists & Directory

GCT - Chauffeured Service 4211 Fellowship Road North Charleston, SC 29418 843-216-8483 www.ridegct.com Event Services Categories: Tours; Transportation Go To Team Inc. 665 Johnnie Dodds Blvd., Suite 201 Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-884-6222 www.gototeam.com Event Services Categories: Photography/Videography Grady Ervin & Co. 313 King St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-722-1776 www.gradyervin.com Event Services Categories: Corporate Gifts/Promotional Products Gray Line of Charleston 375 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-722-4444 www.graylineofcharleston.com Event Services Categories: Tours; Transportation Gullah Tours 375 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-763-7551 www.gullahtours.com Event Services Categories: Tours 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

Event Planning Guide 2021

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: Event Rentals; Production/ Staging/Trade Show Display Vendors Island Paradise Balloon Art 28 30th Avenue Isle of Palms, SC 29451 843-442-7299 www.islandparadiseballoonart. com Event Services Categories: Booking Agency/Entertainment Jennings King Photography 1525 Burningtree Road Charleston, SC 29412 704-451-1002 www.jenningskingphotography. com Event Services Categories: Photography/Videography Julie Livingston Photography 2182 St. James Drive Charleston, SC 29412 843-817-3974 www.julielivingstonphotography. com Event Services Categories: Photography/Videography Justin Wham Weddings & Events 2004 Wappoo Drive Charleston, SC 29412 843-225-4540 www.jwweddingsandevents.com Event Services Categories: Event Decor; Florist

Keepsakes Florist 2024 Wappoo Drive Charleston, SC 29412 843-766-7807 www.keepsakesflorist.net Event Services Categories: Florist

MellBella Photography 672 Marina Drive, Suite 102 Charleston, SC 29492 843-767-6888 www.mellbella.com Event Services Categories: Photography/Videography

King Street Photo Weddings 310 King St., Suite B Charleston, SC 29401 843-810-6698 www.kingstreetphotoweddings. com Event Services Categories: Photography/Videography

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

Lee Edwards Entertainment 811 Savannah Highway Charleston, SC 29407 843-412-4484 www.leeedwardsentertainment. com Event Services Categories: Booking Agency/Entertainment M. Dumas & Sons 294 King St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-723-8603 www.mdumasandsons.com Event Services Categories: Event Rentals Malphrus Video Productions LLC 1121 Park West Blvd., Suite B141 Mount Pleasant, SC 29466 843-813-1704 www.malphrusvideo.com Event Services Categories: Audiovisual; Production/Staging/ Trade Show Display Vendors Meade Agency 1247 Nexton Parkway Summerville, SC 29486 843-206-3871 www.meadeagency.cc Event Services Categories: Audiovisual; Photography/ Videography

Nature Adventures LLC 1 Shrimp Boat Lane Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-568-3222 www.natureadventureschs.com Event Services Categories: Tours Old South Carriage Co. 14 Anson St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-723-9712 www.oldsouthcarriage.com Event Services Categories: Tours On Purpose Adventures LLC 727 Hitching Post Road Charleston, SC 29414 843-580-3757 www.onpurposeadventures.com Event Services Categories: Booking Agency/Entertainment; Event Rentals; Tours Ooh EventHaus 2532 Spruill Ave. Charleston, SC 29405 843-881-7576 www.oohevents.com Event Services Categories: Corporate Gifts/Promotional Products; Event Rentals

Lists & Directory

OtherBrother Entertainment 2114 Paw Paw Place Charleston, SC 29412 843-225-5621 www.otherbrotherent.com Event Services Categories: Booking Agency/Entertainment

Reagan Events 1719 Somerset Circle Charleston, SC 29407 843-203-3807 reaganevents.com Event Services Categories: Event Decor

Snyder Event Rentals 3875 Meeting St. North Charleston, SC 29405 843-766-3366 www.snyderevents.com Event Services Categories: Event Rentals; Party Supply Sales

Tiger Lily Florist 1614 Camp Road Charleston, SC 29412 843-723-2808 www.tigerlilyflorist.com Event Services Categories: Event Decor; Florist

Palmetto Carriage Works 8 Guignard St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-723-8145 www.palmettocarriage.com Event Services Categories: Tours; Transportation

Richard Bell Photography 672 Marina Drive, Suite 102 Charleston, SC 29492 843-767-6888 www.charlestonwedding.com Event Services Categories: Photography/Videography

SpiritLine Cruises & Events 360 Concord St., Suite 201 Charleston, SC 29401 843-722-2628 www.spiritlinecruises.com Event Services Categories: Event Rentals

The Party Music 5263 Braddock Ave. Charleston, SC 29405 843-276-6193 www.thepartymusic.com Event Services Categories: Booking Agency/Entertainment

Sandlapper Water Tours 10 Wharfside St. Charleston, SC 29413 843-849-8687 www.sandlappertours.com Event Services Categories: Event Rentals; Tours

Stello Photography LLC 164 Market St., Suite 225 Charleston, SC 29401 843-425-9902 www.stellophotography.com Event Services Categories: Photography/Videography

Tour Charleston LLC 160 King St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-723-1670 www.tourcharleston.com Event Services Categories: Corporate Gifts/Promotional Products; Tours

Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum 40 Patriots Point Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-884-2727 www.patriotspoint.org Event Services Categories: Event Rentals; Tours

Simply Elegent Event Rentals 214 Old Trolley Road Summerville, SC 29485 843-821-1035 www.simplyelegantrental.com Event Services Categories: Event Rentals

Tidalwave Watersports 50 Immigration St. Charleston , SC 29403 843-886-8456 www.tidalwavewatersports.com Event Services Categories: Corporate Gifts/Promotional Products; Event Rentals; Tours

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 Promozation LLC 186 Seven Farms Drive Charleston, SC 29492 877-864-9045 www.promozation.com Event Services Categories: Corporate Gifts/Promotional Products

Skyline Exhibits & Design 1043 E. Montague Ave. North Charleston, SC 29405 864-234-7995 www.skylinexd.com Event Services Categories: Audiovisual; Production/Staging/ Trade Show Display Vendors

Travis Allison Band P.O. Box 242 Isle of Palms, SC 29451 843-367-7290 www.travisallison.com Event Services Categories: Audiovisual; Booking Agency/ Entertainment 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 research@scbiznews. com. Researched by Paige Wills.

Sloan Photography 29 Wyecreek Ave. Charleston, SC 29412 843-301-4700 www.sloan-photography.com Event Services Categories: Photography/Videography Smoak Stack Studios 1720 Carlisle Road Charleston, SC 29412 843-224-8555 www.smoakstackstudios.com Event Services Categories: Photography/Videography

Event Planning Guide 2021

Lists & Directory

Hotels

With Meeting Facilities, Ranked by Total Square Footage of Event Space Property

Phone / Website / Email

Top Local Official(s) / Year Founded

Event Space / Meeting Rooms

Capacity: Reception / Banquet

Capacity: Theater / Classroom

The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort 1 Sanctuary Beach Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455

843-768-6000 www.kiawahresort.com reservations@kiawahresort.com

Roger Warren 2004

44,565 sq. ft. 15

750 500

400 410

Charleston Place 205 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29401

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

Charleston Marriott 170 Lockwood Blvd. Charleston, SC 29403

843-723-3000 www.marriottcharleston.com karen.dejong@marriott.com

Patrick Rogers 2007

20,000 sq. ft. 13

1,100 800

975 650

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

Hotel Bennett 404 King St. Charleston, SC 29403

888-424-6961 www.hotelbennett.com info@hotelbennett.com

Marty Wall 2019

12,000 sq. ft. 11

550 400

550 200

Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina 20 Patriots Point Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-284-7022 www.charlestonharborresort.com asmith@charlestonharborresort.com

Loyd Weston, Rand Pratt, Nick Saltmarsh 1997

10,000 sq. ft. 10

1,000 560

165 90

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

350 180

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 -

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 80

Town & Country Inn & 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

300 140

Embassy Suites by Hilton Charleston Harbor Mount Pleasant 100 Ferry Wharf Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-981-5700 www.embassysuites.charlestonharbor.com chssc_ds@hilton.com

Kevin Eichman 2021

5,966 sq. ft. 5

300 190

275 130

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 60

Crowne Plaza Charleston Airport Convention Center 4831 Tanger Outlet Blvd. North Charleston, SC 29418 Doubletree by Hilton Hotel & Suites Charleston Airport 7401 Northwoods Blvd. North Charleston, SC 29406

843-744-4422 www.crowneplaza.com/charlestonsc agibbs@charlestoncp.com

Cartha Cartwright, Mark Dancy 2010

5,000 sq. ft. 5

200 220

300 217

843-518-6200 www.charlestonairportsuites.doubletree.com chsnc_ds@hilton.com

Jeromi Quincy 2011

5,000 sq. ft. 6

120 100

120 -

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

200 120

The Cottages on Charleston Harbor 16 Patriots Point Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-849-2300 www.thecottagesoncharlestonharbor.com concierge@thecottagesoncharlestonharbor.com

Lisa J. Crowley 1998

4,000 sq. ft. 1

125 125

25 -

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

200 140

Embassy Suites by Hilton Charleston Historic 337 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29403

843-723-6900 www.historiccharleston.embassysuites.com chses_ds@hilton.com

Jose Machuca 1996

3,500 sq. ft. 5

250 200

260 100

Homewood Suites Charleston Historic District 415 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29403

843-724-8800 www.tinyurl.com/homewoodchs chsms_ds@hilton.com

Britton Delis 2017

3,374 sq. ft. 4

374 210

270 100

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 research@scbiznews.com.

Event Planning Guide 2021

Researched by Paige Wills

Introducing Summerville’s Only Conference Center Hotel

 15,000 square feet of flexible meeting space  Onsite Catering Department  Located in the heart of Nexton  Complimentary tastings for events with catering *terms apply  Mention the Event Planning Guide for 10% off your first meeting room rental Azalea Ballroom Azalea A Azalea B Azalea C Magnolia Ballroom Magnolia A Magnolia B Magnolia C Dogwood Ballroom Dogwood A Dogwood B Dogwood C

87' W x 83' L 87' W x 28' L 87' W x 27' L 87' W x 28' L 44’ W x 77’ L 44’ W x 26’ L 44’ W x 25’ L 44’ W x 26’ L 29’ W x 77’ L 29’ W x 26’ L 29’ W x 26’ L 29’ W x 26’ L

7232 SF 2441 SF 2350 SF 2441 SF 3400 SF 1155 SF 1098 SF 1155 SF 2238 SF 755 SF 728 SF 755 SF

GROUND FLOOR Azalea Ballroom 87' W x 83' L AZALEA

SECOND FLOOR Magnolia Ballroom 44’ W x 77’ L Dogwood Ballroom 29’ W x 77’ L

Theatre 904 225 216 225 480 110 108 110 205 70 60 70

Classroom 450 150 130 150 250 68 65 68 125 36 30 36

Banquet 600 180 160 180 280 84 80 84 150 50 40 50

Reception 600 275 230 275 350 115 110 115 225 65 50 65

D O G W O O D

Hollow Square 206 69 65 69 100 42 41 42 65 30 25 30

M A G N O L I A

U-Shaped 206 69 65 69 90 35 33 35 60 24 20 24

406 Sigma Drive, Summerville, SC 29486 • 843-832-1304 • LowcountryConferenceCenter.com

Lists & Directory

Hotels

With Meeting Facilities, Ranked by Total Square Footage of Event Space Event Space / Meeting Rooms

Capacity: Reception / Banquet

Capacity: Theater / Classroom

Abigail Martin 1987

3,000 sq. ft. 2

200

100 -

843-606-4600 www.charlestonmtpleasant.hgi.com sarah.parrish@hilton.com

Sarah Parrish 2015

2,700 sq. ft. 4

200 180

230 95

DoubleTree by Hilton North Charleston Convention Center 5264 International Blvd. North Charleston, SC 29418

843-576-0300 www.hilton.com bpainter@lowcountryhotels.com

Rick Buggle 2006

2,500 sq. ft. 4

125 90

150 75

Doubletree Hotel Mount Pleasant 1330 Stuart Engals Blvd. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-352-5100 mmahoney@tpsmtp.com

Mike Glass 2014

2,500 sq. ft. 3

100 100

140 100

Hampton Inn & Suites Charleston West Ashley 678 Citadel Haven Drive Charleston, SC 29414

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 55

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 -

Courtyard by Marriott Mount Pleasant 1251 Woodland Ave. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-284-0900 www.marriott.com/chscm ashley.miller@marriott.com

Cheryl M. Craven 2007

2,125 sq. ft. 5

125 100

120 -

Holiday Inn Charleston Historic Downtown 425 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29403

843-718-2327 www.ihg.com/holidayinn info@hihistoric.com

Makisha Montgomery 2013

2,100 sq. ft. 3

160 130

160 80

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 52

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 -

The Vendue 19 Vendue Range Charleston, SC 29401

843-577-7970 www.thevendue.com info@thevendue.com

Pietro Giardini 2014

1,700 sq. ft. 1

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 -

Courtyard Charleston Waterfront 35 Lockwood Drive Charleston, SC 29401

843-722-7229 www.marriott.com/chscy christine.greenleaf@marriott.com

Robert Heilman 1997

1,428 sq. ft. 2

48 48

50 36

Comfort Suites Charleston West 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 45

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 60

80 50

Cambria Hotel Summerville - Charleston 405 Sigma Drive Summerville, SC 29486

854-888-2800 www.choicehotels.com/SC591 kate.neville@rainesco.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

Spectator Hotel 67 State St. Charleston, SC 29401

843-724-4326 www.thespectatorhotel.com info@thespectatorhotel.com

Carlo Carroccia 2015

1,254 sq. ft. 2

75 48

84 46

843-572-7490 www.marriott.com/chsco sales@solarahotels.com

Andre Fontana 2019

1,200 sq. ft. 2

100 100

843-553-1600 www.hiexpress.com/chastni-26 gm@hiexpressnorthwoods.com

Cheryl Q. Clark 1999

1,140 sq. ft. 1

60 50

65 45

Property

Phone / Website / Email

Top Local Official(s) / Year Founded

The Inn at Middleton Place 4290 Ashley River Road Charleston, SC 29414

843-556-0500 www.theinnatmiddletonplace.com reservations@theinnatmiddletonplace.com

Hilton Garden Inn Charleston / Mount Pleasant 300 Wingo Way Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

Courtyard by Marriott North Charleston Charleston 7465 Northside Drive North Charleston, SC 29420 Holiday Inn Express & Suites Charleston - Ashley Phosphate 7670 Northwoods Blvd. North Charleston, SC 29406

Event Planning Guide 2021

Researched by Paige Wills

Lists & Directory

Hotels

With Meeting Facilities, Ranked by Total Square Footage of Event Space Event Space / Meeting Rooms

Capacity: Reception / Banquet

Capacity: Theater / Classroom

Mark Henry 1998

546 sq. ft. 1

25 18

30 25

843-990-7777 www.marriott.com/chsto lisa.holley2@marriott.com

Tryena Jones 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

Kristy Watson 1992

400 sq. ft. 1

20 20

30 20

Residence Inn by Marriott Charleston Riverview 90 Ripley Point Drive Charleston, SC 29407

843-571-7979 www.marriott.com/chsri christine.greenleaf@marriott.com

Darryl Kosiorek 2000

400 sq. ft. 1

Holiday Inn Express & Suites - Summerville 1657 N. Main St. Summerville, SC 29486

843-873-8900 www.hiexpress.com/summervillesc hiesgeneralmanager@gmail.com

Rohan Chopra 2017

380 sq. ft. 1

12 12

12 15

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Charleston NE Mount Pleasant US 17 1104 Stockade Lane Mount Pleasant, SC 29466

843-216-0000 www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress hie.mp.genmgr@gmail.com

Earl Collins 2016

380 sq. ft. 1

12 12

12 15

Property

Phone / Website / Email

Top Local Official(s) / Year Founded

HarbourView Inn 2 Vendue Range Charleston, SC 29401

843-853-8439 www.harbourviewcharleston.com gm@harbourviewcharleston.com

TownePlace Suites Airport / Convention Center 5001 Fashion Ave. North Charleston, SC 29418

Researched by Paige Wills

See who the movers and shakers of the Lowcountry are and what they are up to.

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Get your message in front of the top decision-makers in the Lowcountry as they start their morning with the top business announcements in the Lowcountry! For advertising information, contact Robert Reilly at 843.849.3107 or rreilly@scbiznews.com

Event Planning Guide 2021

Lists & Directory

Event Planners Ranked by No. of Event Planners

Phone / Website / Email

Top Local Official(s) / Year Founded

Reynolds Treasures 520 Folly Road, Suite P128 Charleston, SC 29412

843-460-3565 www.reynoldstreasures.com reynoldstreasures@gmail.com

Andrea Easterday 2012

6 2 Yes

Wedding packages, wedding officiants, wedding planning and coordination

Lou Hammond Group 145 King St. Charleston, SC 29401

843-722-8880 www.louhammond.com lha@louhammond.com

Gina Stouffer, Stephen Hammond, Lou Hammond 1984

5 17 Yes

Integrated communications, branding, strategy, media relations, digital marketing, creative services, social media

Ooh EventHaus 2532 Spruill Ave. Charleston, SC 29405

843-881-7576 www.oohevents.com info@oohevents.com

1996

5 60 Yes

Flowers, furniture rentals, event design and coordination, tent rentals and corporate events; planning and coordination; on-staff makeup artist

InventivEnvironments 1996 Davant Circle Mount Pleasant , SC 29464

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

Jacqueline Lawrence, Greer Thompson 2010

4 4 Yes

Full-service planning, coordination, social, conferences, incentive programs, trips, festivals, fashion shows, event production, design

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

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

Jessica Munday, Jenny Dennis 2001

4 12 Yes

Marketing, graphic design, branding, event planning, social media, media and public relations, web design, SEO and online reputation

Yoj Events - Semper Signature Co. 426 W. Coleman Blvd., Suite A Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-614-3413 www.yojevents.com monique@yojevents.com

Ruth Smith, Monique Semper, Jessica Lascow 2016

4 4 Yes

Customized event design and planning services

Charleston Place Events 205 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29401

800-455-2427 www.charlestonplacemeetings.com geno.matesi@belmond.com

Geno Matesi 1987

3 368 Yes

Private dining in the Vintners Room in the Charleston Grill along with 40,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor event space

ELM Events 2894 Stonestown Drive Charleston, SC 29414

843-284-6433 www.elmeventscharleston.com lauren@elmeventscharleston.com

2014

3 3 Yes

Whether a ceremony on the beach, a party under the oaks of a plantation or a formal affair in the historic district

Engaging Events LLC 235 Huger St. Charleston, SC 29403

843-724-9010 www.engagingeventscharleston.com cindy@engagingeventscharleston.com

Cindy A. Zingerella 2004

3 10 Yes

Event planning company offering consultation, coordination and design services

KLH Group 1413 Battle Ground Road Charleston, SC 29412

843-718-0636 www.klhgroup.co hope@klhgroup.co

2015

3 4 Yes

Full-service destination management and event production company; specializes in elevating traditional corporate functions

Pure Luxe Bride 3464 Maybank Highway, Suite D Johns Island, SC 29455

843-640-3074 www.pureluxebride.com francesca@pureluxebride.com

Francesca N. DiSalvo-Follmer 2008

3 4 Yes

Full service wedding and event planning, event design, draping, styled elopements

Square One Meeting Planning Inc. 8421 Dorchester Road North Charleston, SC 29420

843-856-5150 www.somp.co tammy@somp.co

Jacki Bennis 1995

3 3 Yes

Full service conference coordination; from initial site selection to full on-site coordination; local and national

Absolutely Charleston Destination Management 528 Cross Park Lane Summerville, SC 29486

843-747-4448 www.absolutelycharleston.com missie@absolutelycharleston.com

Missie McCoy, Brenda Thorn 2000

2 2 Yes

Locally based destination management company and transportation provider

Boutique Planning 205 Grove St. Charleston, SC 29403

843-437-4760 www.boutiqueplanning.com ashley@boutiqueplanning.com

Ashley Wenz, Brooke S. Miller 2014

2 2 Yes

Wedding and event design; from an intimate evening to a grand affair

Flair Events & Marketing 2302 Mount Pleasant St. Charleston, SC 29403

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

Holly Clayson, Susan Sellers 2004

2 2 Yes

Events large or small, corporate or private

Momentum Marketing 145 River Landing Drive, Suite 201 Charleston, SC 29492

843-377-8450 www.momentumresults.com info@momentumresults.com

Pam Hartley 2005

2 8 Yes

Branding, traditional media buying, digital marketing, graphic design, commercial production, PR, event planning, documentary film production

Peper Events 754 Arcadian Way Charleston, SC 29403

843-847-1607 www.peperevents.com erica@peperevents.com

2015

2 5 Yes

Day of coordination through partial planning

Stingray Branding 1124 Sam Rittenberg Blvd. Charleston, SC 29407

843-480-4476 www.stingraybranding.com info@stingraybranding.com

Alan Thompson 2008

2 7 Yes

Web design, SEO, graphic design, marketing strategy, social media, digital ad campaigns

Event Planners / Total Employees / Day-of Coordination?

Company

Event Planning Guide 2021

Specialties / Services

Researched by Paige Wills

Lists & Directory

Alternative & Outdoor Event Venues Ranked by Maximum Capacity Company

Phone / Website / Email

Top Local Official(s) / Year Founded

Capacity: Max / Outdoor / Reception

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 50,000 1,575

Venue buildings, open land with pond, 70 acres of indoor and outdoor event space and over 100 acres of parking space

North Charleston Coliseum 5001 Coliseum Drive North Charleston, SC 29418

843-529-5000 www.northcharlestoncoliseumpac.com aspigner@northcharlestoncoliseumpac.com

Amber Spigner, Frank Lapsley 1993

13,000 2,000 7,600

Live entertainment and sports; 13,000-seat capacity

Firefly Distillery 4201 Spruill Ave. North Charleston, SC 29405

843-577-1405 www.fireflydistillery.com info@fireflyvodka.com

Jay Macmurphy, Scott Newitt 2008

5,000 5,000 300

Tours, tastings, cocktails and bottles, Monday - Saturday 12-6pm; book online or walk in; $10 per person including shot glass; gift shop

Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina 20 Patriots Point Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-284-7022 www.charlestonharborresort.com asmith@charlestonharborresort.com

Rand Pratt, Loyd Weston, Nick Saltmarsh 1997

2,000 1,000 1,000

Private beach, yacht club, ballroom, terrace, pavilion, Beach Club lawn

Middleton Place 4300 Ashley River Road Charleston, SC 29414

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

Tracey Todd 1741

2,000 2,000 2,000

Landscaped gardens, group events, 55-room inn, meeting facilities, private dining options and 110 acres for outdoor activities

Shipyard Park 2383 S.C. Highway 41 Mount Pleasant, SC 29466

843-747-3567 www.shipyardpark.org info@shipyardpark.org

Jason Murray, Loy Stewart, Bradley J. Kerr 2018

2,000 2,000 800

Waterfront venue located along the Wando River; corporate events, weddings, private parties, concerts and more

Charleston Gaillard Center 95 Calhoun St. Charleston, SC 29401

843-242-3094 www.gaillardcenter.org sales@gaillardcenter.org

Lissa Frenkel 2015

1,850 700 1,850

501c3 nonprofit that provides the Lowcountry with a performance hall, venue space and educational opportunities

Lowcountry Park Venues 375 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29403

843-849-8091 www.lowcountryparkvenues.com whitney@lowcountryparkvenues.com

Whitney Sutphin 2009

1,500 100 300

Two special event venues at Mount Pleasant Waterfront Park and two special event venues in historic Charleston

Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum 40 Patriots Point Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-884-2727 www.patriotspoint.org info@patriotspoint.org

Mayci Rechner, Mike Hastings, Chris Hauff 1975

1,500 500 1,500

Views of the Charleston harbor and city skyline; plenty of indoor and outdoor space for any size group or event

Conference Services 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

1,400 500 1,000

34,000 square feet of flexible meeting space with audio visual and lighting equipment in two locations on Thornley Campus

Kiawah Island Golf Resort 1 Sanctuary Beach Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455

866-258-7175 www.kiawahresort.com reservations@kiawahresort.com

Roger Warren 1976

1,080 800 1,000

Beach and golf resort with diverse meeting venues

Edmund's Oast Brewing Co. 1505 King St. Charleston, SC 29405

843-718-3224 www.edmundsoast.com/brewing-co brewery@edmundsoast.com

Devin Marquardt 2017

1,000 1,000 225

Several options at Pacific Box & Crate; from small-group brewery tours to rehearsal dinners to 1,000-person corporate evenings

Festival Hall 56 Beaufain St. Charleston, SC 29401

843-724-1196 www.festivalhallcharleston.com info@festivalhallcharleston.com

2008

1,000 300 770

Lowndes Grove 266 Saint Margaret St. Charleston, SC 29403

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

Amber Cote 2007

1,000 600 600

Gibbes Museum of Art 135 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29401

843-722-2706 www.gibbesmuseum.org

Angela D. Mack 1858

900 500 900

Summerville Country Club 400 Country Club Blvd. Summerville, SC 29483

843-873-2210 www.summervillecountryclub.com sblanton@knology.net

Lee Ray, Bufort Blanton, Bo C. Blanton 2009

800 800 500

Transformative space, located in the heart of downtown Charleston and over 14,000 sq. ft. of combined indoor and outdoor space Panoramic views of the Ashley River; 1786-era architecture and period furnishings; piazza; grand lawn framed by century-old live oaks Beaux Arts building in Charleston's historic district that features Tiffany-style art glass dome in the rotunda gallery and a classical garden Covered outdoor pavilion with pull-down curtains if needed; large outdoor patio suitable for oyster roasts and weddings with 40' x 40' tent available

The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort 1 Sanctuary Beach Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455

843-768-6000 www.kiawahresort.com reservations@kiawahresort.com

Roger Warren 2004

750 750 750

Multiple outdoor event spaces anchored by the 18,500-square-foot Grand Lawn overlooking the Atlantic and may be tented

Wild Dunes Resort 1 Sundial Circle Isle of Palms, SC 29451

843-886-6000 www.destinationhotels.com/wild-dunes chsdh-reservations@hyatt.com

1972

650 750 750

Nearly 60,000 square feet of meeting and event space, including rooftop ballroom featuring ocean views

William Aiken House 456 King St. Charleston, SC 29403

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

Amber Cote 2000

600 600 500

The Cedar Room 701 E. Bay St., Suite 200 Charleston, SC 29403

843-793-4103 www.thecedarroom.com cedarroom@theindigoroad.com

2015

500 150 500

Restored 1810 estate on acre of landscaped gardens, weddings, receptions, dinners and corporate events in the heart of historic downtown Open space with historic wood columns, blond reclaimed wood floors from the original space and elements of the circa-1881 building

Description

Researched by Paige Wills

Event Planning Guide 2021

Charleston’s ultimate venue with ever changing harbor views! From rehearsal dinner to a corporate event, SpiritLine Cruises departs from Mount Pleasant or downtown Charleston. Call us for a list of preferred caterers and to start planning your next event. 30

Event Planning Guide 2021

SpiritLineCr uises.com | 800.789.3678 Event Planning Guide 2021

Lists & Directory

Alternative & Outdoor Event Venues Ranked by Maximum Capacity

Phone / Website / Email

Top Local Official(s) / Year Founded

Charleston Fun Park 3255 U.S. Highway 17 N. Mount Pleasant, SC 29466

601-497-7804 www.charlestonfunpark.com jenn@charlestonfunpark.com

Jenn Carr, Mike Sherman 2006

500 500 500

Harborside East 28 Bridgeside Blvd. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Laurel Hill County Park 1400 S.C. Highway 41 N. Mount Pleasant, SC 29466 Old Towne Creek County Park 1400 Old Towne Road Charleston, SC 29407 Catholic Community Life Center 1149 Russell Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-606-2718 www.harborsideeast.com chelsea@harborsideeast.com 843-795-4386 www.ccprc.com customerservice@ccprc.com 843-795-4386 www.ccprc.com customerservice@ccprc.com 843-884-5587 www.christourking.org

Chelsea Banias 2006

Robert A. Spencer 2002

500 500 500 500 500 500 500 500 500 400 400 400

Turtle Point 1 Turtle Point Lane Kiawah Island, SC 29455

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

Lance Stone 1981

360 360

Edmund's Oast 1081 Morrison Drive Charleston, SC 29403 RiverTowne Country Club 1700 RiverTowne Country Club Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29466

843-727-1145 www.edmundsoast.com edmundsoast@edmundsoast.com 843-849-2412 www.rivertownecountryclub.com ldavidson@rivertownecountryclub.com

Scott Shor 2014 Lacy L. Davidson 2001

350 200 350 350 200 150

SpiritLine Cruises & Events 360 Concord St., Suite 201 Charleston, SC 29401

843-722-2628 www.spiritlinecruises.com sales@spiritlinecruises.com

Ian Harris 1961

350 350 350

Trinity Hall 34 Race St. Charleston, SC 29403

843-577-2063 www.trinityhallchs.com hello@trinityhallchs.com

2021

330 330 330

The Ocean Course 1000 Ocean Course Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455

843-768-2121 www.kiawahresort.com bryan_hunter@kiawahresort.com

Stephen Youngner 1991

325 325 325

The American Theater 446 King Street Charleston, SC 29403

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

Amber Cote 2008

300 250

Turtle Point clubhouse offers flexible meeting space anchored by the Legends room, which can be subdivided into three separate spaces Several event spaces available between Edmund's Oast Restaurant, Edmund's Oast Exchange and Edmund's Oast Brewing Co. Plantation-style clubhouse with panoramic views of marshlands, live oaks and RiverTowne Country Club golf course Yacht fleet with three available for private charter, dinner cruise boat with full kitchen and menu to accommodate several smaller groups Weddings, corporate events, social gatherings; classic ballroom, parking, natural light, hospitality oriented staff Golf course, home of the 2012 and 2021 PGA Championships; terrace lawn overlooking the course and ocean can also host tented events 8,000-square-foot event venue opened in 1942; art deco architecture; grand ballroom, vintage marquee and cinema with stadium seats

Michael Bradley 2015 Michael Bradley 2011

Description Corporate meetings, corporate events, team building, birthday parties, group events, school functions, bachelor and bachelorette, networking events Minutes from downtown at Patriot’s Point; interior reception space and a waterfront patio with views of the bridge Oak allee, large open meadows, scenic backdrops; capable of handling groups up to 500 people or a small private function In-town country setting for weddings, corporate picnics; large open meadows, marsh views Multiuse facility with reception hall, gymnasium with stage, kitchen

Covered Shelters at James Island County Park 871 Riverland Drive Charleston, SC 29412 Covered Shelters at Wannamaker County Park 8888 University Blvd. North Charleston, SC 29406

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

Kristen Allen 1990

300 300 300

Site for outdoor celebrations, equipped with picnic tables, grills and electricity

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

Edmonds Brown 1995

300 300 300

The Creek Club at I'On 44 Saturday Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-606-2083 www.ioncreekclub.com info@ioncreekclub.com

Mike Russo, Peggy Thomas 1999

300 300 300

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

300 400 200

Edisto Hall at James Island County Park 871 Riverland Drive Charleston, SC 29412

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

Kristen Allen 1989

300 400 200

The Island House 2658 Swygert Blvd. Johns Island, SC 29455

843-647-4362 www.islandhouseevents.com info@islandhouseevents.com

Julia Codispoti, Paul Speights 2009

300 300 300

James Island County Park 871 Riverland Drive Charleston, SC 29412

843-406-6990 www.charlestoncountyparks.com/jicp customerservice@ccprc.com

Kristen Allen 1990

300 300 300

3 covered shelters: Cottonwood, 1,840 sq. ft., capacity 200; Tupelo, 2,575 sq. ft., cap. 300; Magnolia, 1,585 sq. ft., cap. 100; grills, tables Weddings, receptions and corporate events; waterfront location, over 5,000 square feet of space including porches, an open floor plan Fully equipped 3700-sq ft climate-controlled meeting site on an eight-acre meadow, kitchen, stage, dressing room, sand volleyball, picnic area Climate controlled meeting site with stage, kitchen, picnic area, tables and chairs; cap: 300 reception, 200 seated, 400 using adjoining meadow Private island on the banks of the Stono River; 180-degree view of the river; 3,200-square-foot tent included in rental 643-acre county park containing playground, camping facilities, picnic areas, seasonal water park, meeting, event facilities; walking, biking trails

Legend Oaks Golf & Tennis Club 118 Legend Oaks Way Summerville, SC 29485

843-821-4077 www.legendoaksgolf.com info@legendoaksgolf.com

Jim Chickarello 1994

300 500 300

Semi-private golf and tennis club in Summerville

Capacity: Max / Outdoor / Reception

Company

Event Planning Guide 2021

Researched by Business Journal staff

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 over 100 acres of parking space

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. 3

One large hall with permanent stage, audiovisual, audio and large bay doors for load in; two smaller rooms that can hold 60-70 people for meetings

Shipyard Park 2383 S.C. Highway 41 Mount Pleasant, SC 29466

843-747-3567 www.shipyardpark.org info@shipyardpark.org

Jason Murray, Loy Stewart, Bradley J. Kerr 2018

2,000 17,500 sq. ft. 5

Waterfront venue located along the Wando River; corporate events, weddings, private parties, concerts and more

Lowcountry Park Venues 375 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29403

843-849-8091 www.lowcountryparkvenues.com whitney@lowcountryparkvenues.com

Whitney Sutphin 2009

1,500 - sq. ft. 2

Two special event venues at Mount Pleasant Waterfront Park and two special event venues in historic Charleston

Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum 40 Patriots Point Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-884-2727 www.patriotspoint.org info@patriotspoint.org

Mayci Rechner, Mike Hastings, Chris Hauff 1975

1,500 75,000 sq. ft. 10

Views of the Charleston harbor and city skyline; plenty of indoor and outdoor space for any size group or event

Conference Services 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

1,400 45,000 sq. ft. 17

34,000 square feet of flexible meeting space with audio visual and lighting equipment in two locations on Thornley Campus

Kiawah Island Golf Resort 1 Sanctuary Beach Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455

866-258-7175 www.kiawahresort.com reservations@kiawahresort.com

Roger Warren 1976

1,080 89,610 sq. ft. 30

Beach and golf resort with diverse meeting venues

Festival Hall 56 Beaufain St. Charleston, SC 29401

843-724-1196 www.festivalhallcharleston.com info@festivalhallcharleston.com

2008

1,000 14,000 sq. ft. 2

Transformative space, located in the heart of downtown Charleston and over 14,000 sq. ft. of combined indoor and outdoor space

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, Marty Couch 1976

1,000 23,000 sq. ft. 17

Venue providing 23,000 square feet of pre-event and meeting space, including 10,000-square-foot core space that can be further divided into 6 subunits plus 11 breakout rooms

William Aiken House 456 King St. Charleston, SC 29403

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

Amber Cote 2000

600 20,000 sq. ft. 6

Restored 1810 estate on acre of landscaped gardens, weddings, receptions, dinners and corporate events in the heart of historic downtown

Charleston Fun Park 3255 U.S. Highway 17 N. Mount Pleasant, SC 29466

601-497-7804 www.charlestonfunpark.com jenn@charlestonfunpark.com

Jenn Carr, Mike Sherman 2006

500 1,000 sq. ft. 1

Corporate meetings, corporate events, team building, birthday parties, group events, school functions, bachelor and bachelorette, networking events

Turtle Point 1 Turtle Point Lane Kiawah Island, SC 29455

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

Lance Stone 1981

360 3,540 sq. ft. 4

Turtle Point clubhouse offers flexible meeting space anchored by the Legends room, which can be subdivided into three separate spaces

The American Theater 446 King Street Charleston, SC 29403

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

Amber Cote 2008

300 8,000 sq. ft. 3

8,000-square-foot event venue opened in 1942; art deco architecture; grand ballroom, vintage marquee and cinema with stadium seats

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 equipped 3700-sq ft climate-controlled meeting site on an eight-acre meadow, kitchen, stage, dressing room, sand volleyball, picnic area

Edisto Hall at James Island County Park 871 Riverland Drive Charleston, SC 29412

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

Kristen Allen 1989

300 3,500 sq. ft. 1

Climate controlled meeting site with stage, kitchen, picnic area, tables and chairs; cap: 300 reception, 200 seated, 400 using adjoining meadow

Legend Oaks Golf & Tennis Club 118 Legend Oaks Way Summerville, SC 29485

843-821-4077 www.legendoaksgolf.com info@legendoaksgolf.com

Jim Chickarello 1994

300 7,000 sq. ft. 1

Semi-private golf and tennis club in Summerville

Grand Bohemian Hotel 55 Wentworth St. Charleston, SC 29401

843-722-5711 www.grandbohemiancharleston.com info@grandbohemiancharleston.com

Tony Liartis 2015

275 5,500 sq. ft. 3

Ballroom 30x50x11; 8 private spaces on the top floor of the hotel with a private rooftop terrace; PDR located inside Eleve

Snee Farm Country Club 1200 Club Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-849-2412 www.sneefarmcc.com ldavidson@rivertownecountryclub.com

Neal Cavallon 1971

275 4,000 sq. ft. 2

4,000 sq. ft. ballroom that holds up to 300 guests; outdoor ceremony lawn

Cannon Green 103 Spring St. Charleston, SC 29403

843-817-6299 www.cannongreencharleston.com events@cannongreencharleston.com

Jake Wright 2014

250 3,000 sq. ft. 3

1,500-square-foot garden room or historic 3,000-square-foot trolley room offers privacy for corporate entertaining, rehearsal

Tides Folly Beach 1 Center St. Folly Beach, SC 29439

843-588-6464 www.tidesfollybeach.com sales@tidesfollybeach.com

Pietro Giardini 2010

250 4,000 sq. ft. 5

Meeting spaces, sales and catering managers on site, catering options, accommodations and a casual seaside vibe

Description

Researched by Paige Wills

Event Planning Guide 2021

Lists & Directory

Full-Service Caterers

Ranked by No. of Employees in the Charleston Area Company

Phone / Website / Email

Top Local Official(s) / Year Founded

Charleston Place Events 205 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29401

800-455-2427 www.charlestonplacemeetings.com geno.matesi@belmond.com

Geno Matesi 1987

The Mills House Wyndham Grand Hotel 115 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29401

843-577-2400 www.millshouse.com info@millshouse.com

Salthouse Catering 1750 Signal Point Road, Suite 2-B Charleston, SC 29412

Employees

Avg. Meal

Catering Services

368

$110—$500

Private dining in the Vintners Room in the Charleston Grill along with 40,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor event space

Michael Linder 1853

$65—$105

Three wedding reception venues, meetings for up to 200 people, access to adjacent Hibernian Hall

843-577-7847 www.salthousecatering.com info@salthousecatering.com

Tanya Gurrieri, Todd Mazurek 2013

$75—$100

Farm fresh, chef driven cuisine featuring local and seasonal ingredients; full service bar, rentals, menu planning; gourmet to-go menu also available

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

843-723-7952 www.39ruedejean.com tristan@holycityhospitality.com

Tristan Whisenant 2001

< $42

Downtown Charleston, historic architecture with versatility

Callie's Hot Little Biscuit 1895 Avenue F North Charleston, SC 29405

843-577-1198 www.calliesbiscuits.com info@calliesbiscuits.com

Carrie Morey, Tarah Boyleston 2005

$20—$50

Made-by-hand biscuits, hand-mixed pimento cheese and jams and southern staples; for small or large gatherings for home, special event or office

Relish Distinctive Catering 1700 RiverTowne Country Club Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29466

843-849-2412 www.relishdistinctivecatering.com ldavidson@rivertownecountryclub.com

Matt Barclay 1998

> $40

Rivertowne Country Club, Snee Farm Country Club and preferred caterers at multiple local venues in Charleston

Cru Catering 1784 Harmon St. Charleston, SC 29405

843-534-2433 www.crucatering.com info@crucatering.com

John Zucker 2000

$55—$75

Creates customized menus

The Darling Oyster Bar 513 King St. Charleston, SC 29403

843-641-0821 www.thedarling.com catering@thedarling.com

Sara Prezioso 2019

$35—$65

Offsite, onsite and drop off available; family style, raw bar, plated dinner or lunch options; Lowcountry boil, oyster roasts specialties

Researched by Paige Wills

Located on Upper King Street, Indaco offers consistently craveworthy rustic Italian cuisine, an extensive Italian wine selection, and happy hour offerings. Executive Chef Mark Bolchoz focuses on sourcing ingredients from local and regional purveyors and relies on the seasons to drive menu offerings, which include wood-fired pizzas, hand-crafted pasta, cured meats, and more. Bringing new life and old favorites to the menu, Mark embraces classics like the Black Pepper Tagliatelle and Polpette while introducing more innovative items including the Spicy Soppressata Pizza and many unique handmade pastas. Celebrate more intimate events or larger special occasions. Indaco’s enclosed patio is the perfect venue, seating up to 50 guests for incredible family-style dinners and a lively vibe and is available for luncheons, bridal events, corporate meetings and lunches. Find out more at IndacoRestaurant.com

Event Planning Guide 2021

Lists & Directory

Full-Service Caterers

Ranked by No. of Employees in the Charleston Area Company

Phone / Website / Email

Top Local Official(s) / Year Founded

Employees

Avg. Meal

Catering Services

Hamby Catering & Events 925 St. Andrews Blvd. Charleston, SC 29407

843-571-3103 www.hambycatering.com info@hambycatering.com

Candice Wigfield 1979

$65—$70

Catering; Southern-inspired cuisine; femalefounded, female-owned

Snee Farm Country Club 1200 Club Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-849-2412 www.sneefarmcc.com ldavidson@rivertownecountryclub.com

Neal Cavallon 1971

> $30

4,000 sq. ft. ballroom that holds up to 300 guests; outdoor ceremony lawn

Crazy Dutchman Catering 1823 Reynolds Ave. North Charleston, SC 29405

843-478-2199 www.crazydutchmancatering.com hans@crazydutchmancatering.com

Hans Van Heek 1989

$17—$45

Provide food and drink service for events including weddings, rehearsal dinners, Lowcountry boils, bar service, oyster roasts and more

A&P Catering 17 Lockwood Drive Charleston, SC 29401

843-224-0529 www.varietystorerestaurant.com mclaltine@gmail.com

Ryan Collins, Richard P. Ritter 1995

$20—$100

Outdoor bar and deck with capacity for 300; more formal upstairs facility with capacity for 40

Beyond Expectations 2487 Ashley River Road, Suite 2 Charleston, SC 29414

843-573-0012 www.beyondxpectations.com byndexpectations@aol.com

Ron Murray 1996

$30—$60

Full service catering company offering bar services, event planning, ice sculptures and event decor

Apple Spice Box Lunch Catering Co. 6185 Rivers Ave., Suite M North Charleston, SC 29406

843-564-1597 www.applespice.com/charleston stephenlgraves4243@gmail.com

Sty Graves 2017

$12—$14

Full selection of hot catering options for breakfast, lunch and dinner

Brick Lane Catering 38 Romney St. Charleston, SC 29403

843-323-2696 www.bricklanecatering.com info@bricklanecatering.com

Charlie Giordano 2011

$25—$100

Specializes in custom menus to suit personal needs, tastes and budget; from box lunches to large scale events

Lowcountry Creole Culinaire LLC 3316 Ashley Phosphate Road North Charleston, SC 28418

843-425-9965 www.lowcountrycreoleculinaire.com catering@lowcountrycreoleculinaire.com

Chante Douglas 2019

$50—$80

Mobile food service, catering for events and corporate, food service contract

Dining In Inc. 1645 Raoul Wallenberg Blvd. Charleston, SC 29407

843-763-6018 www.diningininc.com info@diningininc.com

Marcelle Rosenberg 1989

$25—$50

Provide food for families to large full service events; offer weekly meals as well as special menus for holidays and weekly challah baking

Researched by Paige Wills

Event Planning Guide 2021

THE ULTIMATE DESTINATION FOR YOUR EVENT

• 16,000-square-foot Grand Ballroom • 1800-Seat Performance Hall • Breakout Salon Spaces • Outdoor Event Spaces • Customized Menus • Parking On-site

gaillardcenter.org sales@gaillardcenter.org (843) 242-3094