2012 Event Planning Guide by SC Biz News

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Event Planning Guide Sponsored by

You’re invited! What: Event Planning Guide

Presented by: The Charleston Regional Business Journal Details: Presented annually for the past 15 years, the Event Planning Guide is the go-to publication for event planners in the Charleston area. Don’t miss: Each edition includes great planning tools, including checklists and directories. The guide also includes articles that look at the latest trends. In this issue: Choosing a venue; making waves with social media.

About our Sponsors O

riginally founded as Fort Sumter Tours in 1961, the family owned Fort Sumter Tours / SpiritLine Cruises and Events is the oldest and largest harbor tour company in the Carolinas. In addition to operating the only commercial boat transportation to Fort Sumter National Monument, SpiritLine Cruises and Events offers nonstop narrated harbor tours, public dinner cruises and private charter event boats. Today SpiritLine’s fleet consists of four versatile motor yachts. The General Beauregard, the most casual of the boats, can be chartered for cocktail parties and fundraisers and will allow outside catering. The Spirit of Carolina is Charleston’s only public dinner cruise and offers an excellent fine dining experience nightly. Guests order from a menu and meals are prepared right on board by SpiritLine’s executive chef and full culinary staff. There is also live entertainment, a fully stocked cash bar and a great wine selection. This boat can also be chartered privately. The Spirit of Charleston and SpiritLine’s newest addition, the Spirit of the Lowcountry, are premier event venues for weddings, rehearsal dinners and social and corporate outings. SpiritLine’s event planners will take care of every detail to make the occasion not only carefree, but a truly enchanting experience.

iddleton Place, National Historic Landmark and home of America’s Oldest Landscaped Gardens is a carefully preserved 18th-century plantation that survived revolution, Civil War, and earthquake. The House Museum interprets four generations of the Middleton family while in the Stableyards the skills once performed by enslaved Africans are demonstrated. Both historic places can transform for events of all kinds. The 65 acres of sweeping vistas, intimate garden rooms and ornamental ponds create an ideal backdrop for corporate events and weddings. For a carriage tour through the bamboo forest, woodlands and rice field followed by a Southern lunch buffet or a private candlelit tour of the House Museum and intimate evening cocktail party, Middleton Place and The Inn at Middleton Place provide options for groups small and large. Complete food service specializing in Low Country cuisine is available at the Middleton Place Restaurant, Pavilion or one of the many other unique event spaces. The award-winning Inn at Middleton Place offers relaxing accommodations and full service meeting facilities in an atmosphere of unsurpassed natural beauty. The Inn’s 55 rooms are secluded among tall pines and live oaks. Event possibilities are endless and the Special Group Services team at Middleton Place makes planning easy.

NE COMPANY. MANY SOLUTIONS - Production Design Associates (PDA) is a national leader in providing lighting, sound, video, staging, set design and any other services a client might need for an event. PDA has four divisions –event production, scenic design, video production and hotel AV. Founded in 1991, and locally owned and operated, PDA has an impressive list of clientele including - the White House, the G8 Summit, CNN, the National Governor’s Conference, BMW, Spoleto Festival, Senators John Kerry, John McCain and Governor Mitt Romney, the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge Gala, Embassy Suite Hotels and many more. PDA is known for attention to detail, innovative designs and embracing new technology. PDA believes that continued success is based on a drive to develop long-lasting business relationships, a commitment to quality work and excellent customer service.

Contents epg

4 Corporate Meetings & Conventions

President and Group Publisher - Grady Johnson gjohnson@scbiznews.com • 849.3103

18 Business Casual

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A portfolio company of Virginia Capital Partners LLC Frederick L. Russell Jr., Chairman

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THE ALLIANCE O F

A R E A

B U S I N E S S

P U B L I C A T I O N S

Circulation and Events The entire contents of this newspaper are copyright by SC Business Publications LLC with all rights reserved. Any reproduction or use of the content within this publication without permission is prohibited. SCBIZ and South Carolina’s Media Engine for Economic Growth are registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

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2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

Circulation and Event Manager - Kathy Allen kallen@scbiznews.com • 849.3113 Circulation, Event and Business Coordinator Kim McManus kmcmanus@scbiznews.com • 849.3116

2012 2010 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

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Corporate Meetings & Conventions

corporate meetings & conventions How to choose a venue: Lowcountry on a budget Proper attire: a pictorial guide to dressing appropriately Audiovisual: It has to be right the first time Corporate event planning checklists Technical worksheet Emergency kit

This section is sponsored by

2010 Event Planning Guide | www.gsabusiness.com 2012 www.charlestonbusiness.com

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2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

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Corporate Meetings & Conventions

Choosing a venue

Keep the bottom line in mind By Holly Fisher

or corporate events, one of the biggest considerations is budget. Stephanie King, event and group sales coordinator for Charleston Convention and Group Services, said companies are very concerned about how much money they are spending both in terms of the dollar cost and the impression it gives others. They don’t want to seem as if they are overspending, especially when providing things like food amenities in one package is beneficial – whether that’s food, furniture and alcohol, she said. That’s where looking for a venue or fun. “I look for a venue that has what that provides several features and

I need in house,” said Claire G. Porter, events director at the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce. Depending on the event, she might be

more inclined to use a venue with audio/visual capabilities or, in the case of a business expo, a venue that can assist in providing booths and tables. Most venues either offer catering in house – usually the case with hotels – or have a list of preferred or exclusive caterers. The benefit to using those preferred providers is that they are familiar with the space and what will or won’t work, Porter said. Also important is the calendar. Look at what else is going on in Charleston during your event. That could impact venue cost and

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2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

Corporate Meetings & Conventions availability. Picking a less busy weekend could be more beneficial and economical, or it might be fun for the guests to experience a major Charleston event such as the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition or the Charleston Wine + Food Festival. Porter said she tries to book big events eight months to a year in advance. Many of the chamber’s business events take place during the week so that helps with scheduling, but it’s important to get those event dates nailed down, she said.

Don’t miss the details It’s easy to get caught up in selecting a venue because of its charm and amenities. But carefully reviewing any contracts and being mindful of those little details will both keep the budget in check and make the event a success. “One of the biggest things you have to keep in mind is every de-

A small reception outdoors offers a break from an indoor meeting. tail counts,” King said. “You want to write out everything. We use schedule timelines to help us map out everything. Be very detail oriented and keep in mind every possible outcome.” It may be obvious, but Porter reminds planners to read those venue contracts closely. “So many people don’t read them or just skim them,” she said. “If you have questions, ask.

I like to star and underline anything I have questions about and then go back to the venue.”

Make it fun For corporate events like conventions and training programs, the focus is all business. But that doesn’t mean event planners can’t add some casual and fun elements to the program. Porter likes to host a small re-

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ception outdoors or in a room with a lot of windows. “It breaks up the monotony of a windowless space and gives (attendees) a breath of fresh air,” she said. For groups coming from outside the Charleston area, attendees want Charleston in one package, King said. So she looks for venues that can provide a lot of the Lowcountry in one setting, such as Patriots Point or one of the area plantations. Other groups may want to be in the heart of downtown Charleston so conference attendees or employees can walk to nearby restaurants, museums and attractions. Adding that element of entertainment makes the event much more memorable. “Even if it’s seemingly a dry thing, find a way to make it fun or interesting,” Porter said. “(Plan) something they will leave remembering.”

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2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

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Corporate Meetings & Conventions

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

Photography by Leslie Burden

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

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

BLACK TIE-OPTIONAL

Dark suit; white shirt; conservative tie

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

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

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

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Black Tie - Gwynn’s of Mount Pleasant Black Tie Optional - Gwynn’s of Mount Pleasant Business Casual - Grady Ervin & Co Sport Casual - Grady Ervin & Co

2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

b d f

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

Black Tie Optional - Gwynn’s of Mount Pleasant Festive Attire - Gwynn’s of Mount Pleasant Sport Casual - Grady Ervin & Co

Corporate Meetings & Conventions

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E D

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

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

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

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

2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

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Corporate Meetings & Conventions

Proper Attire

SPORT CASUAL F

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

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

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

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

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Corporate Meetings & Conventions

There’s no ‘Take 2’ in corporate A/V

hen it comes to making an impact with an audio/visual presentation, you only get one chance, says Jeff Nickles, president of Production Design Associates in North Charleston. “You get one shot to get it right. If the video doesn’t play or it doesn’t look good, you don’t get a redo.” Nickles stresses the importance of researching the vendors you will be using for technical needs. Get references and find out how long the company has been in business. Start early with a written list of your needs for sound, lighting, audio and visual presentations, Nickles advised. (See checklist, Page 12.) If you wait until the last minute, you won’t get the best pricing and the vendor you like may be unavailable. Consider costs, but realize that the vendor with the lowest price may not be the best one for your needs. “It’s about getting your message out about your product, service or idea,” Nickles said. “You want to do it effectively.” Once you have secured the services of a vendor for your technical needs, be sure to coordinate with other vendors for the date of your

event. If you have the vendor bringing in lighting and sound equipment, you don’t want the loading dock to be blocked by the floral company’s truck delivering at the same time. Set up a schedule if you are using multiple vendors, Nickles suggested. And always tour the venue well ahead of time so that you can spot any problems with delivering and setting up equipment. Look at the storage facility, the service hall and the availability of a holding area for musicians or speakers to wait before the event. A diagram online won’t show steep or narrow stairways or distant loading areas. “If we have to push equipment a quarter mile, it costs more money,” Nickles said. As an event producer, you will have your hands full and you don’t need to be worrying about AV. “You need an experienced AV company. Just give them the ball and let them go with it,” Nickles said. “If the AV company is doing their job – you don’t even know they are there. We’re in the background, behind the curtain. That’s the goal.”

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See Technical Worksheet, Page 12 2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

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Corporate Meetings & Conventions

Technical Worksheet General Event Information

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

Event Details

Load in:_________________________________ Date and time:____________________________ Rehearsal:_______________________________ Doors open to guests:________________________ Show start: ______________________________ Show end:________________________________ Does your event have a theme or color scheme?____ Do you have a show flow or agenda?____________ Will the event take place in more than one location?____ At what times will you move from one location to another?__________________ Do you have a room diagram for the event?________ Do you need a stage? If so, what size?___________ Does the venue provide staging?________________

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

Power

What are your power needs?_________________ Do you have a band that needs to tie into a power distro?____________________ Are you familiar with the power available at the venue?________________ If not, do you have a contact person at the venue?____

Lighting

What elements would you like to use lighting for?__ _________________________________ Do you have a logo for projection onto walls, floor or building faĂ§ade?____________ Do you need a stage wash for your speaker?______ Can you hang lighting from the ceiling or does it need to be ground supported?_________ Are you planning entertainment that will require lighting?____________________ If so, is there a rider available with entertainersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; specific needs?______________

Audio

How many people will be speaking?____________ What kinds of microphones will be needed?______ Wired HH/Quantity:________________________ Wireless HH/Quantity:______________________ Wireless LAV/Quantity:

12 2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

Wireless Headset/Quantity:__________________ Other:__________________________________ The speakers will address the audience from: (circle one) Wired mic stand Head table mic stand Upright podium Tabletop podium

Video

What is the purpose of having video as an element of the event?______________ Do you already have content you would like to present in video?________________ If so, what media and media source are used? (PC/DVD)___________________ Do you have a backup of your media?___________ Do you need assistance with video design or production?__________________ Would you like to use a projection screen for the event?_______________ If so, would you like front or rear projection?______ Video screens: ground support or suspended from ceiling?__________________ Do you have specific camera work needs for the event?___________________ Information provided by Production Design Associates, www.pdastage.com

Corporate Meetings & Conventions

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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 keep on track. o Identify possible dates for the meeting. Thinking ahead and checking with others on possible conflicts can limit the inconvenience for all parties. o Prepare a preliminary agenda and guest list to help set the criteria for the venue. o Prepare a preliminary budget. Unless you manage your corporate event closely, the budget can grow unexpectedly. o Send meeting requirements to selected sites with requests for written proposals. Communication is a huge key to your event’s success. Strive for clear communication with attendees, sponsors, vendors and the venue representative.

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

o Conduct site visits as required. This is important when you’re using the facility for the first time. o Negotiate hotel rates and blocks. If you use hotel meeting rooms for the event, you could get a significant discount on sleeping rooms. o Determine preliminary food and beverage requirements and negotiate menus and prices. o Add any deadlines and other requirements to the timetable. When you choose the menu, look for crowd-pleasing choices. Consider allergies and the need for a vegetarian option. Stay away from seafood, spicy and out-of-season options.

2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

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Corporate Meetings & Conventions

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

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

Immediately afterward o Pack and inventory all material. Many of your collateral materials are reusable â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 need improving.

HOUR

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.

Corporate Meetings & Conventions When youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re at the venue, needs will come up that you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t expect. Pack this emergency kit to avoid wasting time on a trip to the store.

Snacks for staff, volunteers

Water

Safety pins

Wet wipes

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Corporate event

emergency kit

Tape

Scissors

Paper towels

Adhesive bandage

Marker pens

Sunscreen

(for outdoor events)

2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

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Corporate Meetings & Conventions

Convention

planning checklist Accommodations Committee checklist o Find out date of arrival and departure for the majority of the group. o Make a tentative booking of rooms. o Obtain information on the hotel and rates to send with promotional material. o Have emergency housing available for latecomers. o Record expected time and date of each attendeeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s arrival. o Maintain regular liaison with the hotel regarding reservations. o Get information on exhibit locations and storage for exhibit materials.

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16 2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

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

Finance Committee checklist 1

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

The formula for a successful convention includes a wellestablished plan; clearly defined goals and objectives; organized volunteers; solid financial administration; and functional committees for finance, accommodations and public relations/ advertising.

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

TELL YOUR STORY. PDA Video is a full service visual production agency specializing in video and still photography. We combine these elements to tell engaging stories for our clients. In a world where video can appear stale, staged and flat, PDA Video delivers cinematic impact on each project it produces. Everyone has a story. Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s yours?

2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

BUSINESS CASUAL Think outside the box for networking event venue 19 Up to the minute: No event is complete without social media 22 Charlestonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s busy calendar: Something to think about 24

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Business Casual

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Choosing a venue

Think unique when it comes to casual business events By Holly Fisher

ebekah Jacob never intended to open her downtown Charleston gallery as an event space, but she received so many calls and emails, it just made sense. Now she’s renting the 1,600-square-foot Rebekah Jacob Gallery on King Street for parties and social events – and giving event planners inspiration to think beyond the usual suspects for a networking reception or intimate fundraiser. “I think people who work in corporate America at the end of the day don’t want to go to a party in the same environment,” Jacob said. “This space is colorful and fun and it’s fun for them to get out of their element and be in a space that’s different from their work environment.” The options for that kind of casual business venue in Charleston are plentiful. Claire G. Porter, events director at the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce, plans dozens of social and networking events for the local business community. “Charleston is full of fun, unique venues,” she said. “We’re really lucky in that respect.” For Porter, it’s important to look for venues that allow guests to

“At a majority of our events people are expecting to get up and connect with each other,” Porter said. “Our members are looking to connect, not be married to a table all evening. So we give them the option to get up and connect and work the room.” Though the list of possible venues might be long, so are the other considerations of choosing just the right location. Event size and purpose. If you’re planning a large event, your choices may be more limited. But the event function is a deciding factor here too. Is this a networkA Charleston art gallery is a refreshing choice for a casual after-work ing event that needs a few high-top event. (Photo/Rebekah Jacob Gallery) tables, or a seated lunch? Would an outdoor space work? “At a majority of our events people are expecting to Proximity to other entertainment options. If you’re hosting a get up and connect with each other. Our members cocktail hour reception for your are looking to connect, not be married to a table all employees, think about selecting a spot near restaurants where atevening. So we give them the option to get up and tendees can go afterward for dinner. Guests visiting from out of town connect and work the room.” will most certainly want to be near Charleston nightlife or attractions Claire G. Porter, events director, that are within walking distance. Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce Parking and transportation. Most downtown venues don’t have mingle and move around the space. ing to speakers, a business casual designated parking lots, so think Unlike a conference or convention event is more about the interactions ahead about whether you can work out a flat rate with the nearest where people are seated and listen- and engagement.

2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

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Business Casual Far left, partiers enjoy a casual evening at Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina. (Photo/Paul Mulkey, Tag Your Pix) Near left, music adds to the atmosphere at Rebekah Jacob Gallery. (Photo/Rebekah Jacob Gallery)

parking garage or whether it makes sense to bus your guests in from a hotel or business. Be sure to communicate the parking situation in advance so guests are prepared with change for a meter or cash for the parking garage/lot. While you may not have as much control over the parking situation, you still want the attendees’ experience to be good from start to finish, Porter noted. Other events. Good luck finding a non-busy weekend in Charleston. But you may want to avoid major events like the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition, Charleston Wine + Food Festival or Spoleto

Festival USA. (See calendar on page 24.) Competing with those events means your venue options may be limited and more expensive. Weather. Even thought Charleston’s climate is mostly ideal, there are times of the year when the rains pour down and the mercury rises. If your event is in mid-July and outdoors, look for venues that have some shade, misters or fans and an option for people to step inside and cool off. Don’t forget about hurricane season, which is usually at its peak in September and October. Plan ahead with backup venues or tents.

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Charleston’s Premier Gathering Venue

Corporate Events, Wedding Receptions, Meetings 159 East Bay Street | Charleston, SC 29401 20 2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

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Business Casual

Up to the minute No event is complete without social media By Holly Fisher

hile posters, invitations and traditional advertising methods are all critical to the success of an event, social media has become a must-have piece of the marketing puzzle if you hope to have a well-attended social, fundraiser or festival. Look no further than Pecha Kucha for an example of the power of social media. Organized locally by the creative professionals of Parliament, Pecha Kucha is part showand-tell and part open-mike night in a happy hour atmosphere. Speakers give brief presentations on a variety of creative topics and endeavors. The team at Obviouslee Marketing helps promote Pecha Kucha, relying heavily on social media both prior to and during the event. Facebook and Twitter followers are alerted to the ticket sale date about

Twitter feeds on wall at Pecha Kucha. (Photo/Obviouslee Marketing) a week in advance and social media helps create a buzz around ticket sales. The 14th Pecha Kucha, held in June, sold out in 35 minutes, noted Jenny Ferrara of Obviouslee. Plus, the immediacy of social media allows organizers to keep attendees up to date on logistics of

the event along with showcasing the presenters. The night of the event attendees – and even those not attending – can follow the Facebook and Twitter feed to get a sense of the evening’s presentations. The Twitter stream is also projected on the wall near the speakers so the audience can see what others are tweeting. It makes for a great interaction between the audience and the speakers, and the audience members amongst themselves, Ferrara said. Twitter streams and Facebook posts work well for capturing realtime action, but for event moments to live on, photos are still a great way to go. Professional photographer Paul Mulkey has found a way to marry event photos with social media to give events an added promotional boost using the viral nature of

Facebook. Mulkey and his business partner Mike Requidan do mostly wedding photography, but a few months ago they launched Tag Your Pix. They attend an event and take photos that are immediately posted to the Tag Your Pix Facebook page. Event attendees can then tag themselves in the photos. Once they’ve done that, the photo appears on their Facebook page for all their friends to see and potentially friends of friends. Within four months of its spring launch, Tag Your Pix had 2,050 Facebook page likes and 2 million photo views for a reach of almost 800,000, Mulkey said. Tag Your Pix has been to music concerts, nonprofit events, festivals and golf tournaments. The photos posted to the Facebook page have the event logo plus any designated sponsor logos – giving both the event and sponsors added promotion. The ultimate goal, Mulkey said, is for people to look at the photos and say, “We should have gone.” And more than putting up a poster a month in advance or sending a brochure in the mail, social media allow event organizers to promote their event daily for months in advance. Obviouslee Marketing also managed social media for the 2012 Family Circle Cup and the 2012 PGA

Social media promoted the PGA Championship on Kiawah Island. (Photo/Obviouslee Marketing)

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Business Casual

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Social Media Tips Create an event hashtag for Twitter. Tag Your Pix makes event photos, then posts them on Facebook so that attendees can link to them. (Photo/Paul Mulkey, Tag Your Pix) Championship on Kiawah Island. For both events, Lee Deas said the goal was to “give fans and spectators a behind-the-scenes look into two world-class events.” Social media helped not only build overall brand awareness but reach new audiences, share realtime news and information, such as weather delays, and serve as a customer service tool to answer attendees’ questions.

With any event marketing and communications, a consistent message and voice is key, said Ashley T. Caldwell, founder and owner of The Modern Connection, a social media firm. Caldwell recommends using social media as one piece of event marketing, from email to banners to old-fashioned word of mouth. “We approach an event from all angles.”

•

• Showcase the Twitter stream live at the event using a tool like Twitterfall.com. • Have a mobile app. This is particularly useful for festivals or events with multiple events, locations and activities. • Get creative. For example, the PGA Facebook page cover photo was changed every day for the countdown, beginning from 100 days to build excitement for fans. • Monitor the social media platforms continually during an event so you can answer questions and become another customer service outlet. • Use contests and promotions leading up to the event to get people excited. The Family Circle Cup had several sweepstakes via social media in which followers could win prizes, VIP packages and interaction with famous players. Sources: Obviouslee Marketing and The Modern Connection

2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

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Business Casual Photos/Leslie Burden

Charleston’s Calendar Something to Think About

harleston is a busy city – there’s always a race, festival or homes tour going on, it seems. And sometimes, when you add thousands of extra visitors to already heavy tourist traffic, those narrow historic streets become jampacked and it’s hard to go anywhere. We’ve compiled a list here of the most crowded events, with the assistance of the Charleston Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. These are wonderful events to attend with your family and friends. But if you’re planning a conference or wedding that will bring several hundred folks to Charleston, you will be competing for space with the crowds.

January Happy New Year, Charleston Dec. 31, 2012 into Jan. 1, 2013 This is a time to celebrate, but avoid planning your special event on this date. There will be crowds everywhere as Charlestonians and visitors welcome the New Year at venues all over the area. Lowcountry Oyster Festival Jan. 27, 2013 Boone Hall Plantation • Mount Pleasant charlestonrestaurantassociation.com

Avoid this date if planning an event in the Mount Pleasant area, where Boone Hall Plantation is located. But if you like oysters, this annual festival is the place to be.

February Southeastern Wildlife Festival Feb. 15-17, 2013 • Charleston www.sewe.com This three-day celebration of nature has earned a reputation for excellence, but also draws more than 400 artists and exhibitors and 40,000 visitors.

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24 2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

Charleston Wine and Food Festival Feb. 28-March 3, 2013 Marion Square and other venues Charleston www.charlestonwineandfood.com This weeklong festival includes seminars, food tastings, a dine-around, a culinary village and thousands of visitors.

March Charleston Wine and Food Festival continues

Charleston Fashion Week March 19-23, 2013 • Charleston www.charlestonfashionweek.com This week showcases emerging designers and modeling talent under the tents on Marion Square. More than 30 runway shows are featured. It makes for a busy time downtown. Festival of Homes and Gardens March 21-April 20, 2013 Charleston www.historiccharleston.org Tour venues vary during this monthlong

Business Casual celebration in the Old & Historic District, so it would be good to check the schedule before planning an event in the historic parts of town.

April Festival of Homes and Gardens continues Cooper River Bridge Run April 6, 2013 â&#x20AC;˘ Mount Pleasant www.bridgerun.com Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t even think about scheduling your event the weekend of this world-class 10K footrace that features tens of thousands of runners and walkers â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and all the friends they bring along with them. The bridge in question is the Arthur K. Ravenel Jr. Bridge. Family Circle Cup Tennis Tournament March 30-April 7, 2013 Family Circle Tennis Center Daniel Island www.familycirclecup.com This WTA premier event draws top names in womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s professional tennis. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more than a tournament with lots of entertainment and action over nine days.

May and June

July

Spoleto Festival USA May 24-June 9, 2013 www.spoletousa.org For 17 days and nights each late spring, Spoleto Festival USA takes over Charlestonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s historic theaters, churches and outdoor spaces with more than 120 performances by renowned artists. With its little sister festival, Piccolo Spoleto (see below), it fills up the city. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great time to be in Charleston, but not an easy time to hold any additional events.

Fourth of July celebrations All over the area www.patriotspoint.org Charleston loves to celebrate Independence Day, and the area is full of visitors and beachgoers. Many communities send fireworks into the night sky, but one of the biggest celebrations is the spectacular display over Charleston Harbor launched from the deck of the aircraft carrier Yorktown.

Piccolo Spoleto May 24-June 9, 2013 www.piccolospoleto.com This festival, running concurrently with Spoleto Festival USA, focuses primarily on artists from the Southeast, offering theater, music, visual arts, dance, ethnic culture presentations, comedy, crafts and film.

August No events to schedule around. Why? Because itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s HOT in Charleston in August.

September Taste of Charleston Sept. 28-30, 2013 Boone Hall Plantation Mount Pleasant www.charlestonrestaurant association.com The historic plantation becomes the place to eat, as 50 of the Lowcountryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

YO U R W E D D I N G â&#x20AC;Ś

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favorite casual and fine dining restaurants serve sample-size portions and beer and wine. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also live entertainment, a Waitersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Race and a special childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s area. It will be busy in the area near Boone Hall.

October Fall Tours of Homes and Gardens Late September through most of October Charleston www.preservationsociety.org For five weeks in the fall, Charlestonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s historic homes and gardens welcome visitors on a rotating basis. If you are planning an event in a historic area, you will want to check to see whether nearby properties are on tour that day.

November and December Ah, the holidays! There is still a lot going on, but nothing with the crowd appeal mentioned above. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a beautiful time to be in Charleston, with city lights glowing and the weather generally balmy and mild. Enjoy!

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2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com 30

LIFESTYLE

Choosing a venue that fits your vision 28 Shrimp and grits and sweetgrass: 31 Making your event uniquely Charleston 10 ways to save on your wedding 32 Wedding budget worksheet 33

This section is sponsored by

26 2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

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Lifestyle

Choosing a venue

Consider budget, guests and vision By Holly Fisher

ith its beaches, historic plantations and storied downtown buildings, Charleston offers a number of venue choices for a wedding, family reunion or other social gathering. The real issue comes down to budget and vision, said Ellen Robinson, principal event designer for Weddings Elegantly Designed. Robinson works with her clients to determine what their dreams and expectations are, thinking through the size of the event and whether “It doesn’t matter the time of year, people who they want a sit-down dinner or a buffet-style meal. Depending on haven’t been to Charleston are dying to get here or those variables, some venues will if they have been here, they are dying to get back.” work better than others. Next is determining how the Caitlin Sullivan, event designer with Calder Clark Designs venue fits into the budget, she said. For clients with a smaller budget, a venue in the heart of historic downtown Charleston may be the city limits to Mount Pleasant or there are smaller run facilities that beyond their means. In that case, West Ashley. “Those locations are are just as pretty but on the outskirts Robinson suggests looking outside not as published,” she said. “And of Charleston.”

28 2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

Left: The Lake House at Bulow Plantation is the setting for an evening reception. (Photo/Chris & Cami Photography) Caitlin Sullivan, event designer with Calder Clark Designs, tells her clients to consider their guests, thinking about where they will be staying and what they might want to do while visiting Charleston. If guests are staying a distance from the wedding venue, will you provide transportation? If guests are in town for a Saturday event, think about offering them the option of taking a walking tour of downtown prior to the event, Sullivan suggested. And be prepared for most of your invited guests to attend a Charleston event, she said. Charleston is the second most popular wedding destination. With her clients, she sees about an 80% return on wedding invites,

Lifestyle

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Lifestyle

ment A couple enjoy a private mo after their wedding at the oto/ Charleston Place Hotel. (Ph Chris & Cami Photography)

whereas weddings outside Charleston usually get about 50% of invited guests attending. “It doesn’t matter the time of year, people who haven’t been to Charleston are dying to get here or if they have been here, they are dying to get back,” Sullivan said. Thinking about your venue in terms of the calendar is also an important consideration. A springtime wedding could come with some springtime showers, for example. For a wedding in September or October, the temperature might be pleasant but the threat of tropical storms goes up, so keep that in mind for an outdoor venue. Charleston also has plenty of major events and festivals throughout the year that can be fun for guests but potentially problematic in terms of booking venues and hotel rooms. Keep in mind busy Charleston weekends like the Cooper River Bridge Run, the Wine + Food Festival, Spoleto Festival, college graduations or Fashion Week. (For a calendar of events, please see Page 24.) “You can really plan ahead, those dates are set early,” Sullivan said. Once you have your eye on a particular venue, Stephanie Hall,

30 2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

CEO and creative director at Ruth’s House, recommends asking the following: What does the venue provide and what is included in the cost, such as tables, chairs and linens? At some venues you may have to rent those separately. Can you bring in your own caterer or does the venue have an exclusive catering service? That could impact both the cost and your choice of food. What are the delivery and setup times? Some venues have very specific times and that’s important for a do-it-yourself bride or event organizer. Make sure you have extra support – either an event planner or some family members – who can pitch in during those specific times. And ensure your outside vendors, such as a florist, can adhere to those guidelines without any added cost. Here are a few other questions to ask: • Does the venue have rules about materials and activities that are allowed? Many historic properties will have. For example, they may not allow candles or they may not allow rice or birdseed to be thrown as the bride and groom leave. • Will there be a venue staff member available during the event to answer questions or solve problems that may come up? • Will the hosts be responsible for cleanup at the end? And will there be sufficient trash containers available? • How long do you have after the event to have all rental items removed? Your day can be close to perfect if you plan well, including alternatives in the event of bad weather. And remember, only you will know if a small detail isn’t right. If you have a meaningful event and feed your guests well, they will go home singing your praises.

•

Lifestyle

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Beach music, shrimp and grits, and sweetgrass 10 tips on on how to make your wedding/family event uniquely Charleston 1

Serve Lowcountry cuisine such as shrimp and grits for dinner.

Invite a dance instructor to teach your guests how to do the Shag.

Set up a tour for guests. A history tour, ghost tour or water tour around the Charleston harbor are great choices.

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

Place a Palmetto rose on each dinner plate.

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

Give Charleston-themed gift or history books such as “Very Charleston: A Celebration of History, Culture, and Lowcountry Charm,” by Diana Hollingsworth Gessler.

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

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

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

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

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Lifestyle

Big dreams, small budget

10 ways to save on your wedding 1

Choose a nontraditional venue, such as a park or civic building. Discuss with a venue representative ways to save by choice of location or date.

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

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

4 5

Buy a small decorated cake for the cutting ceremony and have a large sheet cake in the kitchen for serving.

Use seasonal, local flowers. Talk with your florist about ways to economize on reception decorations.

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

Ask talented friends for help. A good friend may provide help with setup or musical services as a wedding gift.

Skip the favors. They are an added expense and often never make it out of the guestâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s car.

Have a brunch or lunch reception rather than a dinner. Serve a signature cocktail, or keep the beverages to wine and beer.

Sources: realsimple.com, marthastewartweddings.com

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Lifestyle

his general guideline for planning how to spend your wedding dollars has been around for a while. It averages the percentages most couples spend on various items, to help make sure you don’t leave something out. Of course, some items may be more important to you than others, so you will need to make

Wedding Budget Worksheet

adjustments. Just make sure the percentages add up to 100!

Reception – 50% • • • •

Venue and rentals Food and service Beverages Cake

Attire – 10% • • • • • • •

Gown and alterations Headpiece and veil Bridal accessories Hair and makeup Groom’s tux or suit Groom’s accessories Miscellaneous

Flowers and decorations – 10% • Floral arrangements for ceremony • Flower girl’s basket and petals • Ring pillow • Bride’s bouquet

• • • •

Bridesmaids’ bouquets Boutonierres Corsages Reception decorations

Music – 10%

• Ceremony musicians • Cocktail-hour musicians • Reception band, deejay or entertainment • Sound-system or dance-floor rental

Photography and video – 10% • Photography • Videography • Prints and albums

Favors and gifts – 3%

• Bridal-party gifts • Favors for reception

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Ceremony – 2% • Site fee • Officiant fee • Miscellaneous

Stationery – 2% • • • • •

Save the date cards Invitations and RSVPs Programs Thank-you notes Postage

Wedding rings – 2% • Bride’s ring • Groom’s ring

Transportation – 1%

• Limousine or carriage rental for bridge and groom • Limousine or car rental for bridal party • Transportation for out-of-town guests • Valet parking

Source: realsimple.com

2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

Lists & Directories

Audiovisual 36 Entertainment 36 Event rentals 36 Florists 37 Invitations/paper 38 Photography 39 Production/staging 39 Tour companies 39 Transportation 41 Videography 41 Charleston area golf courses 42 Charleston area full-service caterers 44 Charleston area event planners 54 Charleston area hotels with meeting facilities 48 Charleston area restaurants with banquet facilities 52 Charleston area alternative/outdoor event venues 56 Charleston area exhibition/convention centers 62 Index of companies 63 Index of advertisers 64

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Lists & Directories

AUDIOVISUAL

AV Connections 1012-C St. Andrews Blvd. Charleston, SC 29407 843-529-1449 www.avconnectionsc.com Audio visual rental and staging, large screen data and video projection, sound and lighting, corporate video production, PowerPoint development and implementation, computerized delegate microphone systems, real time voting systems, simultaneous translation services, onsite media duplication, consultation and technical support. Fox Audio Visual 3005 W. Montague Ave., Suite H North Charleston, SC 29418 843-608-9473 www.foxaudiovisual.com Speaker support onsite, custom graphics packages, teleprompter service and support, full range audiovisual equipment rentals, video production and wedding packages. High Output, Inc. 62 Brigade St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-722-3600 www.highoutput.com Lighting, audio, video, power, HVAC and staging services for events. PSAV Presentation Services 517 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-77-9185 http://www.psav.com/charleston Audio, communications, computers, lighting, meeting support, network services, project management, staging and visual services. PDA - Production Design Associates 2799 Three lakes Road North Charleston, SC 29418 843-554-3466 www.pdastage.com Provides audio, video and projection services for events. Also provides stages, scenic elements and video production. StageFront Production Services 4465 Tile Drive North Charleston, SC 29405 800-736-9242 www.stagefrontproductions.com Total event management, individual event design, equipment rentals, video conference rentals, lighting gobo’s, service and support. UniMedia 4 Carriage Lane, Suite 205 Charleston, SC 29407 843-278-2433 www.unimediasolutions.com Multimedia projects from concept to distribution, on-location video and full post production services.

ENTERTAINMENT & MUSICIANS

Acoustic Music Charleston 4995 Lambs Road North Charleston, SC 843-442-2525 www.acousticmusiccharleston.com Experienced acoustic wedding guitarists, wedding DJs and wedding masters of ceremonies. Wedding music packages including event sound and lighting services, wedding bands and corporate event music and sound services. Archer Music Services, LLC 108 Pinecrest Blvd. Summerville, SC 843-871-4460 www.archermusic.com Provides live musicians and bands, DJs, solo guitarists, classical ensembles and other performers for wedding ceremonies, receptions and corporate events. A Charleston Harpist 16 43rd Ave Isle of Palms, SC 843-886-6043 www.charlestonharpist.com Provides harp music for a variety of occasions including weddings, receptions, parties, dinners, corporate events and church programs and includes classical, popular, religious and traditional harp music. Fat Cat Productions P.O. Box 30182 Charleston, SC 29417 843-556-1133 www.fatcatproductions.com Musical entertainment and comedy, including a speaker’s bureau and novelty acts.

Palmetto Strings 15 Yeadon Ave Charleston, SC 843-532-8656 www.palmettostrings.com Classical ensembles include solo, string duo and string trio. Jazz ensembles include jazz quartet, trio or duo.

Beach Break Woodworks LLC 1546 Harborsun Drive Charleston, SC 29412 843-300-8604 www.beachbreakwoodworks.com Custom wedding scape design as well as one-of-a-kind driftwood furniture pieces and artwork.

The Party Music 5263 Braddock Ave Charleston, SC 843-276-6193 www.thepartymusic.com DJ service providing event management with minimal interruptions, professional DJs, customized playlists and state of the art sound equipment.

Bloom at Charleston Place 150 Market St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-937-9033 www.bloomatcharlestonplace.com Custom floral design, event planning.

Sundance Productions Unlimited 1229 South Blvd. North Charleston, SC 843-744-9140 www.sundanceproductions.net Music services for weddings, corporate functions, school dances, reunions, parties, other events. Features a music library service of comprehensive libraries and songbooks designed for clients.

EVENT RENTALS

Absolutely Charleston P.O. Box 80489 Charleston, SC 29416 843-884-9505 www.absolutelycharleston.com Transportation rental solutions for corporate, association and social groups. Features motor coaches and a fleet of Classic American Trolleys.

All Occasions – Parties & Events by AAA Rentals 3555 Meeting St. FingerSnappin’ Entertainment Charleston, SC 29405 7872 Long Shadow Lane 843-554-6334 North Charleston www.alloccasionsparty.com 843-345-1919 Complete rentals, sales and supplies for www.fingersnapmusic.com bridal ceremonies, receptions and parties; DJ services include light show, uplighting, full event coordination; venue layout; refermonogram lighting, karaoke, trivia and dance rals; sales of party goods. floor. Photo book rental and videography services also available. All-Mist Outdoor Cooling Systems 8421 Dorchester Road, Suite 109-110 Jazz Charleston North Charleston, SC 29420 45 Sycamore Ave 843-864-6478 Charleston, SC www.all-mist.com 843-628-6307 High-pressure misting fans that lower ambiwww.jazzcharleston.com ent temperature up to 20 degrees. Offers a variety of classical, pop and jazz selections along with ensemble combinations Atlantic Tent Inc. of various sizes and instrumentation. P.O. Drawer 12760 Charleston, SC 29412 Lee Edwards Entertainment 843-795-4013 811 Savannah Highway #1 www.atlantictent.net Charleston, SC Tents of all sizes, bars and arbors, special843-556-1614 ized lighting, heating and cooling equipment, www.leeedwardsentertainment.com flooring and staging, tables and chairs. DJ service from a former professional guitarist and radio personality. A professional DJ and owner of a music services company that has been voted Best of Weddings by The Knot six years in a row.

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A Charleston Event LLC 8421 Dorchester Road, Suite 109-321 Charleston, SC 29420 843-494-9501 www.acharlestonevent.com Wedding and event design and planning, floral design, custom draping, prop rentals Curiosity 56 Queen St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-647-7763 www.curiosityrentals.com Authentic antique and vintage wedding, event and prop rentals. Event Drs Inc. 2220 Old School Drive Charleston, SC 29405 800-818-2737 www.eventdrscharleston.com Event rental equipment, including china, glassware, silverware, catering equipment, farm tables, custom-built bars, lounge furniture, linens, decor items. EventWorks Rentals 4760 Goer Drive North Charleston, SC 29406 843-633-1900 www.eventworksrentals.com Tents, tables, linens, chairs, furniture, china, glassware, flatware, décor, catering and cooking equipment, wedding equipmet, lighting, dance floors, staging, bars, serving pieces and more. Gathering Floral & Event Design 747 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-723-3387 www.gatheringevents.com Floral design, event planning, consulting, coordination, lighting and furniture rentals. Hokus Pokus Entertainment 1015 ST. Andrews Blvd. Charleston, SC 29407 843-556-6607 Wedding accessories; props and themes; carnival and fair items; costumes; balloon decorating; decoration consulting; specialty cakes. Mulberry Street 1063 Buist Ave. North Charleston, SC 29405 843-991-8724 www.mulberrystreetonline.com Furniture rentals.

Lists & Directories Natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Calling Inc. P.O. Box 30039 Charleston, SC 29417 843-529-1399 www.naturescallinginc.com Rental of portable restroom trailers, mobile shower trailers, portable toilets and dumpsters.

Blooming Occasions 663 Main Road Johns Island, SC 29455 843-559-2333 www.boominoccasions.com Bridal bouquets, wedding ceremony flowers, floral cake designs and centerpieces for special events.

Ooh! Events 4141 Dorchester Road North Charleston, SC 29406 843-881-7576 www.oohevents.com Rentals, chandeliers, fabric, antique tables, chairs, lounge furniture, set design, dance floor and staging; custom work.

The Blossom Shop of Summerville 318 North Cedar St. Summerville, SC 29483 843-873-0620 www.theblossomshopofsummerville.com Customized floral design for all special events.

Ruths House Event Rentals 843-496-7433 www.ruthshouseinc.com Full service party rentals including tents. Simply Elegant 1113 Bacons Bridge Road Summerville, SC 29484 843-821-1035 www.simplyelegantrental.com Arches, cake stands, candelabras, candles, canopies, catering equipment, ceremony accessories, chairs, china, columns, dance floors, flatware, fountains, glassware, linens, punchbowls, specialty items, tables and table accessories. Snyder Event Rentals 3875 Meeting St. North Charleston, SC 29405 843-766-3366 www.syndereventrentals.com Tables and chairs, party tent rentals, linens, mechanical bulls, moon bounce, wedding rentals, water slides, moonwalks, inflatables and party booths. Stage Presence Event Rentals 2201 Mechanic St. North Charleston, SC 29405 843-225-5631 www.stagepresencellc.com Event lighting, audio and rentals.

FLORISTS

Belvas Flower Shop 1409 Stuart Engals Blvd. Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464 843-884-9576 www.belvasflowershop.com Local florist with a variety of fresh flowers to suit varying styles and budgets. Secure online shopping with local and worldwide delivery. Specializes in wedding and party flowers. Bloom at Charleston Place 150 Market St. Charleston, SC 29401 Phone: 843-937-9033 Fax: 843-937-9035 www.bloomatcharlestonplace.com Custom floral design, event planning.

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Blossoms and Stems Florist & Greenhouse 2578 Ashley River Road #F Charleston, SC 29414 843-566-5680 www.blossomsandstems.net Wedding consultations and color matching available. Caravita USA Inc. 501 La Mesa St., Suite B Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 877-530-8873 www.michaelcarvita.com Custom umbrellas, pavilions and cabanas. Charleston Couture 9345 Blue House Road #3205 Ladson, SC 29456 843-460-8045 www.charlestoncourtureevents.com Weddings and events. A Charleston Event LLC 4040 Babbitt St. Charleston, SC 29414 Phone: 843-568-5769 www.acharlestonevent.com Wedding and event design and planning, floral design, custom draping and prop rentals. Charleston Florist Inc. 184 King St. Charleston, SC 29401 Phone: 843-577-5691 Fax: 843-577-3035 www.charlestonflorist.com Everyday bouquets, events and weddings Country & Lace Florist 610 Schooner Road Charleston, SC 29412 Phone: 843-762-1118 www.countryandlaceflorist.com Florist for weddings, receptions and events. Gathering Floral & Event Design 747 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-723-3387 www.gatheringevents.com Floral design, event planning, consulting, coordination, lighting and furniture rentals. The Greenery Florist 240 Calhoun St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-577-5394 www.greeneryfloristofcharleston.com Flowers for bridal parties, receptions and church events.

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Lists & Directories

JMC Charleston 22220 Old School Drive, Suite B North Charleston, SC 29405 843-577-1100 www.jmccharleston.com Destination management company producing events with traditional and modern dĂŠcor and design, music, lighting, tours, gifts, corporate services including transportation, event production management, invitation design, personal concierge and tours. Keepsakes Florist 2000 Wappoo Drive, Suite A Charleston, SC 29412 Phone: 843-766-7807 Fax: 843-763-6819 www.keepsakesevents.com Wedding and event decorations. Lotus Flowers 32 Laurens St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-534-2837 www.lotusflowercharleston.com Made to order, same day delivery, bunch or stems available, orchids and potted plants for parties, weddings and corporate events. Sara York Grimshaw Designs 109 President St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-737-4366 www.sygdesigns.com Locally grown flowers and eco-friendly business practices.

Seithelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Florist 1579 Savannah Highway Charleston, SC 29407 843-766-0246 www.seithels.com Offers Joyful Inspiration by Vera Wang and a luxury collection of rare flowers for weddings and events. Stems 208 Coming St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-789-4930 www.charlestonstems.com Weddings and special events, classes and event rentals. Tiger Lily Florist 131 Spring St. Charleston, SC 29403 Phone: 843-723-2808 Fax: 843-723-2611 www.tigerlilyflorist.com High-end floral design services. Twiggs and Ivy Marshfaire Place Charleston, SC 29414 843-763-6690 www.twiggsandivy.com Floral arrangement and design for weddings, special events and holidays.

38 2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

INVITATIONS/ PAPER PROVIDERS

All Occasions - Parties & Events By AAA Rentals P.O. Box 70215 Charleston, SC 29405 843-554-6334 www.alloccasionsparty.com Complete rentals, sales and supplies for bridal ceremonies, receptions and parties; full event coordination; venue layout; referrals; sales of party goods. Concorde LLC 1051 Johnnie Dodds Blvd., Suite D Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-849-8414 www.concordeinc.com Imprinted promotional products including koozies, pens, notebooks, USBs, keychains, drinkware, napkins, balloons, displays, banners, mugs, leather items, tshirts, corporate uniforms, ballcaps. E. Boineau & Company Inc. 128 Beaufain St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-723-1462 www.eboineauandco.com Strategic marketing communications and public relations; crisis communications, media strategy, branding, corporate ID, graphic, Web design, content, social media, marketing research and special events.

F22 Designs 1996 Davant Circle Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-475-2938 www.f22designs.com Web design, mobile app development, graphic design, search engine optimization, Internet marketing, social media JMC Charleston 2220 Old School Drive, Suite B North Charleston, SC 29405 843-577-1100 www.jmccharleston.com Destination Management Company producing events with traditional and modern decor and design, music, lighting, tours, gifts; corporate services including transportation, event production management, invitation design, personal concierge, tours Karst Inc. Promotional Marketing P.O. Box 60850 North Charleston, SC 29419 843-884-4280 www.karstinc.com Promotional marketing, brand logo design, screen-printed and embroidered apparel, custom novelties, trade show and event promotional products

Lists & Directories Minuteman Press 108 Central Ave., Suite 9 Goose Creek, SC 29445 843-553-7176 www.goosecreek.minutemanpress.com Graduation and wedding invitations, Christmas cards, programs, letterhead, envelopes, forms, business cards, promotional items and banners Print Shop of West Ashley Inc. 1660 Sam Rittenberg Blvd., Unit 14 Charleston, SC 29407 843-571-4811 Commercial offset printer and digital color copies Settings 1292 Fairview Plantation Road Wadmalaw Island, SC 29487 843-830-7759 www.settingsllc.com Custom invitations, specialty papers, gifts; in-house design and printing; customprinted napkins, cups, favors.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Bella Weddings 99 Fishburne St., Suite A Charleston, SC 29403 877-249-6891 www.bellaweddingsonline.com Traditional photo albums, weddings, galleries, slide show presentations, DVDs and live slide shows. Carmen Ash Photography P.O. Box 31854 Charleston, SC 29417 843-385-2127 www.carmenash.com Wedding and special event photography. Chi Photography LLC 544 Beverly Drive Summerville, SC 29485 843-813-0174 www.chiphotographyofcharleston.com Weddings, portraits, children and events. Chris & Cami Photography 1305 White Tail Path Charleston, SC 29414 843-324-8900 www.chrisandcami.com Weddings, corporate events, award banquets, executive portraits, professional sports and business headshots. Coleman Photography 538 King St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-577-9090 www.colemanphotogrtaphy.com Sales conferences, trade shows, conventions, golf tournaments, corporate parties, same-day slideshows, onsite printing, green screen computer backgrounds, specialty prints and corporate gifts.

E. Boineau & Company Inc. 128 Beaufain St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-723-1462 www.eboineauandco.com Strategic marketing communications and public relations, crisis communications, media strategy, branding, corporate ID, graphic, web design, content, social media, marketing research and special events. FIV Images 2040 Ashley River Road Charleston, SC 29407 843-814-8301 www.fviimages.com Wedding, editorial, portrait, family and fine art photography. Gary Lee Photography King St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-819-2228 www.garyleephoto.com Weddings, families and children and senior portrait photography. Gayle Brooker Photography 72 Smith St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-901-9195 www.gaylebrooker.com Wedding and editorial photography. Heather Forsythe Photography 1311 Elfe St. Charleston, SC 29492 843-817-8100 www.heatherforsythe.com Weddings, portraits, commercial and fine art photography. King Street Photo Weddings 1225 Blakeway St., Suite 1303 Daniel Island, SC 29492 843-810-6698 www.kingstreetphotoweddings.com Complete wedding photography. King Street Studios 511 King St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-628-5515 www.kingstreetstudios.com Weddings, engagement, bridal, corporate, family, children, seniors, business and editorial photography. Lea Dales Photography 335 Cabell St. Isle of Palms, SC 29451 843-452-3175 www.leadales.com Wedding, family and corporate photography. Marni Rothschild Pictures LLC P.O. Box 21463 Charleston, SC 29413 843-345-2190 www.marnipictures.com Wedding and portrait photography.

Rick Dean Photography 164 North Market St., Suite 322 Charleston, SC 29401 843-822-0371 www.rickdeanphotography.com Boutique wedding and portrait photography. Robbin Knight Photography 164 Market St. #315 Charleston, SC 29401 843-766-8990 www.rkdp.com Weddings, portraits and personal photography. Shannon Michele Photography 843-813-1431 www.shannonmichelephotography.com Weddings, engagements, portraits, maternity, children and bridal portraits. Silvas Photo Video 843-597-3518 www.silvasphoto.com Portrait, event and corporate photography. Smoak Stack Studios 1720 Carlisle Road Charleston, SC 29+412 843-224-8555 www.smoakstackstudios.com Architectures, people, wedding, advertising, corporate, events, fine art, editorial and industrial photography. Stello Photography 164 Market St. #225 Charleston, SC 29401 843-425-9902 www.stellophotography.com Art, commercial, weddings, portraits, food, real estate, events and intimate photography

PRODUCTION / STAGING

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PSAV Presentation Services 517 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-77-9185 http://www.psav.com/charleston Audio, communications, computers, lighting, meeting support, network services, project management, staging and visual services. Production Design Associates 2799 Three lakes Road North Charleston, SC 29418 843-554-3466 www.pdastage.com Lighting, audio, projection, design and staging for events and special occasions. StageFront Production Services 4465 Tile Drive North Charleston, SC 29405 800-736-9242 www.stagefrontproductions.com Total event management, individual event design, equipment rentals, video conference rentals, lighting goboâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, service and support. UniMedia 4 Carriage Lane, Suite 205 Charleston, SC 29407 843-278-2433 www.unimediasolutions.com Multimedia projects from concept to distribution, on-location video and full post production services.

TOURS BUS TOUR COMPANIES

Absolutely Charleston P.O. Box 80489 Charleston, SC 29416 843-884-9505 www.absolutelycharleston.com Hours: 9 a.m. 5 p.m. Monday â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Friday Maximum Group Size Per Tour: Unlimited Groups Avg. Cost Per Tour Per Person: Customized Pricing Private excursions touring the city of Charleston, area plantations and military sites; and nature-based expeditions to uninhabited Atlantic barrier islands. Charleston Brews Cruise 2172 Welch Ave. Charleston, SC 29422 843-860-9847 www.charlestonbrewscruise.com Hours: 1-9 p.m., Monday through Saturday Maximum Group Size Per Tour: 14 Avg. Cost Per Tour Per Person: $45 Van cruises to three Charleston breweries to learn about brewing beer styles and local beers, sampling several beers at each stop.

2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

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Lists & Directories

Charleston’s Finest Historic Tours 375 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-577-3311 www.historictoursofcharleston.com Hours: 8 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. Maximum Group Size Per Tour: Unlimited Avg. Cost Per Tour Per Person: $19-$49 Offers daily tours departing from the Visitors Center to downtown Historic Charleston with the option to tour Magnolia Plantation. Doin’ the Charleston Tours P.O. Box 31338 Charleston, SC 29417 843-763-1233 www.dointhecharlestontours.com Hours: 9:45 a.m.; 12:15 p.m.; 2:30 p.m.; 4:00 p.m. Maximum Group Size Per Tour: 25 Avg. Cost Per Tour Per Person: $18-$21 Motorized tours of historic district and combo tours with Charleston Museum, historic mansions and Fort Sumter. Gray Line of Charleston P.O. Box 219 Charleston, SC 29401 843-722-4444 www.graylineofcharleston.com Hours: 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. Maximum Group Size Per Tour: 25 Avg. Cost Per Tour Per Person: $20-$41 90-minute historic tours of the city; twohour combo tours of the city and historic houses; combo tours of the city and Fort Sumter or harbor cruise.

CARRIAGE TOUR COMPANIES Absolutely Charleston P.O. Box 80489 Charleston, SC 29416 843-884-9505 www.absolutelycharleston.com Hours: 9 a.m. 5 p.m. Monday – Friday Maximum Group Size Per Tour: Unlimited Groups Avg. Cost Per Tour Per Person: Customized Pricing Private excursions touring the city, area plantations and military sites; and naturebased expeditions to uninhabited Atlantic barrier islands. Classic Carriage Works LLC 10 Guinard St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-853-3747 www.classiccarriage.com Hours: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. 7 days Maximum Group Size Per Tour: 96 Avg. Cost Per Tour Per Person: $14-$22 Historic district, evening tours by appointment, mobile service, plantation weddings. Old South Carriage Co. 14 Anson St., Charleston, SC 29401 843-723-9712 www.oldsouthcarriagetours.com Hours: DST: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. EST: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Maximum Group Size Per Tour: 16 Avg. Cost Per Tour Per Person:$15-$22 Hour long downtown carriage tours covering 2.5 miles of historic district.

Palmetto Carriage Works Ltd. 40 N. Market St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-723-8145 www.palmettocarriage.com Hours: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. 7 Days Maximum Group Size Per Tour: 16 Avg. Cost Per Tour Per Person: $14-$22 Hour long tours covering historic Charleston; group and private tours.

Charleston Strolls 115 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-766-2080 www.charlestonstrolls.com Hours: 9 a.m. – 10 p.m. Maximum Group Size Per Tour: 20 Avg. Cost Per Tour Per Person: $10-$20 Since 1979 offering the first daily walking tour of the Historic District.

WALKING TOUR COMPANIES

Civil War Walking Tour 115 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-270-2417 www.civilwarwalk.com Hours: 9 a.m. 7 days Maximum Group Size Per Tour: 20 Avg. Cost Per Tour Per Person: $20 Regular tours; group, private and school tours; Charleston photographs taken in 1865 included.

Absolutely Charleston P.O. Box 80489 Charleston, SC 29416 843-884-9505 www.absolutelycharleston.com Hours: 9 a.m. 5 p.m. Monday – Friday Maximum Group Size Per Tour: Unlimited Groups Avg. Cost Per Tour Per Person: Customized Pricing Private excursions touring the city, area plantations and military sites; and naturebased expeditions to uninhabited Atlantic barrier islands. Bulldog Tours 40 North Market St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-722-TOUR www.bulldogtours.com Hours: 9 a.m. – 10 p.m. Maximum Group Size Per Tour: 20 Avg. Cost Per Tour Per Person: $10-$42 Featured on The Travel Channel, Food Network and in Southern Living, offers history, culinary and ghost tours throughout the Historic District. Charleston’s Finest Historic Tours 375 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-577-3311 www.historictoursofcharleston.com Hours: 8 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. Maximum Group Size Per Tour: 20 Avg. Cost Per Tour Per Person: $19 Offers daily tours to Magnolia Plantation and Gardens including the natural tram ride through Audubon Swamp. Charleston Hospitality Tours 17 Colonial St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-722-6858 Hours: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Weekdays Maximum Group Size Per Tour: 20 Avg. Cost Per Tour Per Person: $15-$25 Bilingual guides available by request or reservation. Charleston Pirate Tours 79 Cumberland St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-442-7299 www.charlestonpiratetour.com Hours: Mon. – Sat 10 a.m.; Sun. 1 p.m. Maximum Group Size Per Tour: 160 Avg. Cost Per Tour Per Person: $15.75 Customized pirate tours and presentations for groups on subjects such as the Civil War, colonial lifestyle, general Charleston history, historical buildings.

40 2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

Culinary Tours of Charleston 40 N. Market St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-727-1100 www.culinarytoursofcharleston.com Hours: 8 a.m. – 10 p.m. Maximum Group Size Per Tour: 20 Avg. Cost Per Tour Per Person: $10-$18 Walk, talk and taste your way through Charleston. Tours offer an introduction to tasty bites and food finds within the Historic District.

WATER TOUR COMPANIES Absolutely Charleston P.O. Box 80489 Charleston, SC 29416 843-884-9505 www.absolutelycharleston.com Hours: 9 a.m. 5 p.m. Monday – Friday Maximum Group Size Per Tour: Unlimited Groups Avg. Cost Per Tour Per Person: Customized Pricing Private excursions touring the city, area plantations and military sites; and naturebased expeditions to uninhabited Atlantic barrier islands. Adventure Harbor Tours 20 Patriot’s Point Rd., Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464 843-442-9455 www.adventureharbortours.com Hours: Based on the tides. Maximum Group Size Per Tour: 30 Avg. Cost Per Tour Per Person: $25-$350 Customized tours to hunt sharks teeth or explore the uninhabited Morris Island. Harbor eco-cruises available. Charleston Harbor Tours 285 East Bay St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-722-1112 www.charlestonharbortours.com Hours: 11:30 a.m.; 1:30 p.m.; 3:30 p.m. Maximum Group Size Per Tour: 200 Avg. Cost Per Tour Per Person: $19 90-minute live narrated tour of harbor; dinner cruises and private charters are 2 hours or longer.

Coastal Expeditions 514 Mill St., Suite B Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 8943-884-7684 www.coastalexpeditions.com www.bullsislandferry.com Hours: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. (Summer) On Call (Winter) Maximum Group Size Per Tour: 32-40 Avg. Cost Per Tour Per Person: $38-$58 Ferry passenger service to Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuse; naturalist guided kayak tours. Coastal Yacht Charters P.O. Box 1725 Charleston, SC 29402 843-557-5805 www.coastal-yacht-charters.com Hours: 8 a.m. – 10 p.m. Maximum Group Size Per Touer: 149 Avg. Cost Per Tour Per Person: $100-$500 Romantic getaways, corporate entertainment and fishing, hourly rentals, multiday charters to coastal South Carolina and Georgia, 10-day charter to the Bahamas. Nature Adventures Kayak & Canoe Tours & Rentals 483 West Coleman Blvd. Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464 843-568-3222 http://kayakcharlestonsc.com/ Hours: 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. (Summer Hours) Maximum Group Size Per Tour: 10 Avg. Cost Per Tour Per Person: $25-$85 ACA certified, college degreed and Master Naturalist guides paddle through blackwater swamps, rice plantations, barrier islands & saltmarsh creeks, shrimping villages and Indian ruins. Sandlapper Water Tours Charleston Maritime Center P.O. Box 21540 Charleston, SC 29413 843-849-8687 www.sandlappertours.com Hours: 9a.m. – 9 p.m. Maximum Group Size Per Tour: 49 Avg. Cost Per Tour Per Person: $22-$30 Custom charters for harbor history, sunsets, ghost tours, skiff excursions, weddings, educational events, programs and more. The Schooner Pride Aquarium Wharf 360 Concord St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-722-1112 www.schoonerpride.com Hours: Varies by season Maximum Group Size Per Tour: 49 Avg. Cost Per Tour Per Person: $38 Private charters available for weddings, parties, birthdays, family reunions, corporate events. Tours of Fort Johnson, Fort Sumter, USS Yorktown, Charleston Harbour and more.

Lists & Directories SpiritLine Charters 360 Concord St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-722-2628 www.spiritlinecruises.com Maximum Group Size Per Tour: Avg. Cost Per Tour Per Person: Private parties, dinners and receptions for groups of 20 up to more than 400. Tours Charleston Harbor, Fort Sumter and specializes in customized tours. Tidalwave Watersports 69 41st Ave. Isle of Palms, SC 29451 843-886-8456 www.tidalwavewatersports.com Hours: 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. May through September Maximum Group Size Per Tour: 25 Avg. Cost Per Tour Per Person: $25-$150 Safari tours, custom charters and excursions, one-hour waverunner rentals, wakeboarding, waterskiing, parasailing.

TRANSPORTATION

A Stretch Limousine Service 843-817-7104 www.astretchlimousineservice.com No overhead limousine service for weddings and special events. Absolutely Charleston P.O. Box 50789 Charleston, SC 29489 843-884-9505 www.absolutelycharleston.com Transportation solutions for corporate, association and social groups featuring motor coaches and a fleet of Classic American Trolleys. LSV’s provide affordable, eco-friendly electric vehicles to vacationers, business and event managers. An Executive Travel, LLC 310 Broad St. #10P Charleston, SC 843-412-4971 www.anexecutivetravel.com Car and limousine service including Kiawah Island, Sanctuary Hotel and Charleston Place Hotel. Available for weddings, corporate events, bachelor and bachelorette parties, birthday parties and special occasions. The Charleston Chauffeur Company 420 Owen St. Charleston, SC 843-737-0654 www.thecharlestonchauffeurcompany.com 2-20 passenger vans, econoline vans, stretch Lincoln TownCars, Jaguars, Hummers and Infinitys. BMWs and yachts also available. Charleston Downtown Limo 209 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 843-723-1111 www.charlestondowntownlimo.com Lincoln Town Car stretch limousine, Lincoln Navigators, passenger vans, trolleys and Crown Victorias for private occasions, corporate events, business services, weddings and more.

Charleston Executive www.charlestonexecutive.com Lincoln Town Cars, Mercedes S550, SUV’s, vans, buses and limousines. Charleston Wedding 843-763-3296 www.acharlestonwedding.com Limousines, trolleys and corporate travel for special occasions. Charlestowne Bound Limosuine Service 1816 Westchase Drive Charleston, SC 843-608-0567 www.charlestownebound.com Top of the line limousines for weddings, corporate events, special occasions and more. Classic Carriage 10 Guinard St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-853-3747 www.classiccarriage.com Carriage service throughout downtown Charleston. Downtown Area Shuttle (DASH) 375 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29403 843-724-7420 www.ridecarta.com Transportation throughout the historic district of Charleston. Going Coastal Transportation P.O. Box 316 Isle of Palms, SC 29451 843-216-8483 www.goingcoastaltransportation.com Sedans, SUV’s, vans, limousines and motorcoaches. Gray Line of Charleston P.O. Box 219 Charleston, SC 29401 843-722-4444 www.graylineofcharleston.com Fleet of seven, air-conditioned mini-buses for corporate functions, special events, weddings, reunions and more. Old South Carriage Co. 14 Anson St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-723-9712 www.oldsouthcarriagetours.com Wedding carriages and surrey-style carriages available for bridal parties. Palmetto Carriage Works Ltd. 8 Guignard St. Charleston, SC 29401 843-723-8145 www.palmettocarriage.com Private carriage rides and wedding packages for special events. S.C. Bar Car 64 Beaufain St. Charleston, SC 843-300-9995 www.scbarcar.com Limousine party bus for the Charleston area.

VIDEOGRAPHY

Action Media P.O. Box 80892 Charleston, SC 29416 843-412-0725 www.actionmediacorp.com Production services for television, marketing, event coverage including weddings and corporate events, commercials and more. Andy Hunt Creative Group 1414 Wexford Sound Drive James Island, SC 29412 843-406-4913 www.andyhuntcreative.com Film and high definition video production, full service high definition editing suite, producing and direction, concept creation. Artistic Eye Productions 178 Thames Ave. Summerville, SC 29485 843-821-4299 www.artisticeyeproductions.com Corporate and social events, edit to DVD or web delivery, testimonial videos and slide show presentations. Bella Weddings 99 Fishburne St., Suite A Charleston, SC 29403 877-249-6891 www.bellaweddingsonline.com Traditional photo albums, weddings, galleries, slide slow presentations, DVDs and live slide shows. Charleston Video Service 843-513-2967 www.charlestonvideoservice.com Full service, high definition video production company specializing in high end wedding videos, internet streaming video, corporate, promotional, event, real estate, underwater or documentary style video. Charleston Photo Video 164 Market St # 312 Charleston, SC 29401 843- 568-3456 www.charlestonphotovideo.com Full service wedding and event videography services. DVD Video Production Services 325 Coleman Blvd. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-884-1900 www.mediaservicesus.com Photography and videography for weddings and special events, media duplication and transfer services also available.

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Halcyon Productions dcj@halcyonpro.com www.haycyonpro.com Videography services for weddings, documentaries, performances, family reunions and other special events. Pelican Productions 843-822-6955 Videography services for weddings and special events. Prime Cuts Productions3 843-762-0719 www.primecutsweddings.com Full service production company specializing in event videography. PDA - Production Design Associates 2799 Three Lakes Road North Charleston, SC 29418 843-554-3466 www.pdastage.com Provides audio video and projection services for events. Also provides stages, scenic elements and video production. Reel Weddings 843-957-9512 www.thereelweddings.com Full service videography team offering customized, personalized packages. Silvas Wedding and Event Videographer www.silvasphoto.com Full service event videography and photography. Southeast Video Productions www.southeastvideoonline.com Event videography, digital post production editing, corporate media services, legal video services, wedding videography, duplication, DVD authoring and multimedia website design. SRA Films www.srafilms.com Full service video production company offering services for wedding, digital slideshows, video podcasts, anniversary parties, corporate advertising, training films, promotional films . UniMedia 4 Carriage Lane, Suite 205 Charleston, SC 29407 843-884-5056 www.unimediasolutions.com Video production, web, interactive, print, multimedia projects, aerial and live event production.

Go To Team Inc. 359 Wando Place Drive, Suite C Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-884-6222 ww.gototeam.com High definition video and broadcast services; corporate, commercial, broadcast television, live event production, electronic press kits.

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Lists & Directories

Golf Courses

Ranked by USGA Slope Rating* from Back/Pro Tees Course Ralston Creek at Daniel Island Club 600 Island Park Drive Daniel Island, SC 29492 RiverTowne Country Club 1700 RiverTowne Country Club Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29466 The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort 1000 Ocean Course Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455 Ocean Winds Golf Course 3772 Seabrook Island Road Seabrook Island, SC 29455 The Golf Club at Briar's Creek 4000 Briar's Creek Lane Johns Island, SC 29455 Beresford Creek Course at Daniel Island Club 600 Island Park Drive Daniel Island, SC 29492 Crooked Oaks Golf Course 3772 Seabrook Island Road Seabrook Island, SC 29455 Crowfield Golf & Country Club 300 Hamlet Circle Goose Creek, SC 29445 Turtle Point at Kiawah Island Golf Resort 1 Turtle Point Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455 Cougar Point Golf Club, Kiawah Island Golf Resort 1 Sanctuary Beach Dr. Kiawah Island, SC 29455

Phone Website

Slope Rating*/ Course Rating**

843-971-3555 www.danielislandclub.com

147 76.9

843-849-2400 www.rivertownecountryclub.com

Yardage

Designer/ Architect

No. of Holes/ Par

Public or Private

Manager(s)/ Year Founded

7,446

Rees Jones

18 72

Private

Bobby Donnellan 2007

147 74.9

7,188

Arnold Palmer

18 72

Semi-private

Lacy Davidson 2001

843-266-4670 www.kiawahresort.com

144 77.3

7,356

Pete and Alice Dye

18 72

Resort

Brian Gerard 1991

843-768-2529 www.discoverseabrook.com

144 73.1

6,765

William Byrd

18 72

Private

Sean Hardwick 1973

843-768-3050 www.briarscreek.com

142 74.3

7,117

INP

18 72

Private

Kyle Bibler INP

843-971-3555 www.danielislandclub.com

141 74.9

7,293

Tom Fazio

18 72

Private

Bobby Donnellan 1999

843-768-2529 www.discoverseabrook.com

141 72.7

6,754

Robert Trent Jones

18 72

Private

Sean Hardwick 1981

843-764-4618 www.crowfieldgolf.com

141 74.2

7,019

Bob Spence, Tom Jackson

18 72

Public

Todd Biegger 1990

843-266-4050 www.kiawahresort.com

141 74.2

7,061

Jack Nicklaus

18 72

Resort

Mark Schaffer 1982

843-266-4020 www.kiawahresort.com

138 74.0

6,875

Gary Player

18 72

Resort

Brian Gerard 1976

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42 2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

From the publishers of

Lists & Directories

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Golf Courses

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

Slope Rating*/ Course Rating**

843-871-2135 www.wescottgolf.com

Yardage

Designer/ Architect

No. of Holes/ Par

Public or Private

Manager(s)/ Year Founded

138 74.3

7,210

Michael Hurdzan

27 72

Public

Pam Huff 2000

843-851-1193 www.pineforestcountryclub.com

138 73.9

6,905

Bob Spence

18 72

Public

Butch Svagerko 1991

843-266-4100 www.kiawahresort.com

137 72.4

6,701

Clyde Johnston

18 72

Resort

Brian Gerard 1989

843-884-7799 www.charlestonnationalgolf.com

136 74.5

7,064

Rees Jones

18 72

Semi-private

Wayne Sellers 1989

Bulls Bay Golf Club 995 Bulls Bay Blvd. Awendaw, SC 29429

843-881-2223, ext. 14 www.bullsbaygolf.com

135 75.2

7,280

Mike Strantz

18 72

Private

Terry Florence INP

The Links at Stono Ferry 4812 Stono Links Drive Hollywood, SC 29449

843-763-1817 www.stonoferrygolf.com

135 72.8

6,814

Ron Garl

18 72

Semi-private

Greg Wood 1989

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

843-266-4640 www.kiawahresort.com

135 73.3

6,932

Tom Fazio

18 72

Resort

Brian Gerard 1988

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

843-884-8571 www.sneefarmcc.com

135 72.9

6,808

INP

18 72

Private

Michael Ashton, Brent Bagwell 1972

Dunes West Golf Club 3535 Wando Plantation Way Mount Pleasant, SC 29466

843-856-9000 www.duneswestgolfclub.com

134 73.0

6,859

Arthur Hills

18 72

Semi-private

Rob Mackie 1991

Patriots Point Links on Charleston Harbor 1 Patriots Point Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-881-0042 www.patriotspointlinks.com

133 73.2

6,955

Willard Byrd

18 72

Public

Nick Short 1980

843-821-4077 www.legendoaksgolf.com

132 73.5

7,011

Scott Pool

18 72

Semi-private

Jim Chickarello 1994

Shadowmoss Plantation Golf Club 20 Dunvegan Drive Charleston, SC 29414

843-556-8251 www.shadowmossgolf.com

131 72.3

6,701

Russell Breeden

18 72

Semi-private

Wayne Stonaker 1972

Wild Dunes Resort Harbor Course 5881 Palm Blvd. Isle of Palms, SC 29451

843-886-2004 www.wilddunes.com

131 71.4

6,359

Tom Fazio

18 70

Public, Resort

Jeff Minton 1980

843-767-9000 www.coosawcreek.com

130 72.7

6,593

Arthur Hills

18 71

Semi-private

Gordan Williams 1993

843-886-2002 www.wilddunes.com

127 73.1

6,722

Tom Fazio

18 72

Public, Resort

Scott Ferguson 1980

843-873-2210 www.summervillecountryclub.com

124 69.0

6,004

Eddie Riccoboni

18 71

Semi-private

Bo Blanton 1925

The Plantation Course at Edisto 19 Fairway Drive Edisto Island, SC 29438

843-869-1111 www.theplantationcourseatedisto.com

122 68.5

6,175

Tom Jackson

18 70

Public

LelandP. Vaughan 2006

Redbank Plantation Golf Course 2316 Redbank Road Goose Creek, SC 29445

843-764-7802 https://www.facebook.com/ RedbankPlantationGolfCourse?ref=ts

113 65.6

6,100

Kevin Tucker Design Group

18 70

Private

Kirk Rasmussen 1963

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

71 70.9

6,432

Johnny Adams, Joseph Whitsitt

18 72

Public

Herb Whetsell 1929

Course The Golf Club at Wescott Plantation 5000 Wescott Club Drive Summerville, SC 29485 Pine Forest Country Club 1000 Congressional Blvd. Summerville, SC 29483 Oak Point at Kiawah Island Golf Resort 4394 Hope Plantation Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455 Charleston National Golf Club 1360 National Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29466

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

Coosaw Creek Country Club 4110 Club Course Drive North Charleston, SC 29420 Wild Dunes Resort Links Course 5757 Palm Blvd. Isle of Palms, SC 29451 Summerville Country Club (Miler Golf Course ) 400 Country Club Blvd. Summerville, SC 29483

Charleston Municipal Golf Course 2110 Maybank Highway Charleston, SC 29412

*USGA=U.S. Golf Association. Slope rating is a ratio ranging from 55 to 155 that represents the difficulty of a course for bogey golfers relative to the course rating. The higher the slope, the more difficult the course plays for bogey golfers. A slope rating of 113 is considered average. **Course rating is the approximate number of strokes it should take scratch golfers to complete a course. INP=Information not provided. Because of space constraints, only the top-ranked companies are printed. For a full list of participating companies, visit www.scbiznews.com/data. Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy, errors sometimes occur. Email additions or corrections to lists@scbiznews.com, fax to 843-849-3122 or go to www.scbiznews.com/data and click "Add Data."

Researched by Lindsay H. Valek

2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

epg

Lists & Directories

Full-Service Caterers Ranked by Largest Event Catered in 2011 Phone / Website

Largest Event 2011/ Local Employees

Menu/Signature Dishes

Catering Manager

843-345-6300 www.asouthernbartender.com

12,000 15

Beverages

Keith A. Purdy

843-884-7515 www.charlestonbaygourmet.com

12,000 6

Barbecue, oysters and Frogmore stew

Beth Clifton

Icebox Bartenders 2220 Old School Drive Charleston, SC 29405

843-407-0473 www.iceboxbar.com

12,000 6

Fully customizable beverage service and specialty cocktails

Boris Van Dyck

BlackJack Barbecue P.O. Box 13615 Charleston, SC 29422

843-762-9200 www.foodforthesouthernsoul.com

10,000 8

Pulled pork shoulder, Lowcountry shrimp boil and local steamed oysters

Linley Murphy

Tidewater Catering LLC P.O. Box 13615 Charleston, SC 29422

843-762-9200 www.foodforthesouthernsoul.com

10,000 8

Shrimp and stone-ground grits, pimento cheese served on benne wafers and pecan wood-smoked salmon

Linley Murphy

Sticky Fingers Catering 341 Johnnie Dodds Blvd. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-856-9845 www.stickyfingers.com

3,000 25

Hickory-smoked ribs, wings and pulled pork barbecue

Sean Fogarty, Beth Snowden

Embassy Suites Catering 5055 International Blvd. North Charleston, SC 29418

843-747-1882 www.embassysuitescharleston.com

2,600 135

A diverse catering menu providing offerings from different cultures

Joanie Cole

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

843-571-3103 www.hambycatering.com

2,200 100

Local and sustainable offerings, Lowcountry and regional cuisine and customized menus

Candice Wigfield

Crazy Dutchman Catering 1823 Reynolds Ave. Charleston, SC 29405

843-478-2199 www.crazydutchmancatering.com

2,000 25

Southern food, barbecue and oysters

Hans Van Heek

Company A Southern Bartender P.O. Box 20126 Charleston, SC 29413 Charleston Bay Gourmet 748 King St. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

Researched by Lindsay H. Valek

Wild Wing Cafe

CATERING

Wild Wing Cafe Catering provides something for everyone. From quick and easy pick-up platters to full service off site catering, we're always ready make your event a wild time!

Let Wild Wing Cafe

Cater To Your Needs.

>À iÃÌ Ên{Î ÇÓÓ {È{ÊÊUÊÊ °Ê >À iÃÌ Ên{Î n£n {È{ Ì°Ê* i>Ã> ÌÊ i > Ê Û`°®Ên{Î° Ç£ {È{ "ÀÊV> Ê ÕÀÊiÛi ÌÊV À` >Ì À]Ê ÞÊ À vw Ê>Ì\Ên{Î°Ó£È°ÇÈä£ÊÝÓÎ®

44 2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

Lists & Directories

epg

Full-Service Caterers Ranked by Largest Event Catered in 2011 Phone / Website

Largest Event 2011/ Local Employees

Menu/Signature Dishes

Catering Manager

843-556-5077 INP

2,000 2

Canapes, hors d'oeuvres, Lowcountry cuisine

Juanita A. Robinson

843-556-5707 www.easterbysfamilygrille.com

1,500 18

Steaks, seafood and barbecue

Ron Easterby

Duvall 1030 Jenkins Road Charleston, SC 29407

843-763-9222 www.duvallevents.com

1,000 100

Customized menus from a made-from-scratch kitchen

Jean Fisk

Tristan 10 Linguard St. Charleston, SC 29401

843-534-2155 www.tristandining.com

800 30

Lowcountry carbonara, local market fish and roasted and raw beets salad

Rachael Kay Rose

Cru Catering 1784 Harmon St. Charleston, SC 29405

843-534-2433 www.crucatering.com

700 30

American fusion, Lowcountry and regional cuisines and sushi stations

John F. Zucker

Tom Smith Catering 1608 Camp Road Charleston, SC 29412

843-795-9995 www.tscater.com

700 25

Specializing in traditional and modern Lowcountry cuisine using fresh and local ingredients

William Bennett

843-412-0753 www.newtonfarmscatering.com

650 20

Lowcountry fare, heavy hors d'oeuvres and innovative stations

Sarah Coffey

843-762-9200 www.foodforthesouthernsoul.com

500 8

Shrimp and stone-ground grits, pimento cheese served on benne wafers and pecan wood-smoked salmon

Linley Murphy

843-723-7952 www.goodfoodcatering.net

500 40

Lowcountry, French and eclectic cuisine

Emily Weidle

Company Erimic Associates Caterers 2421 Thaxton St. Charleston, SC 29414 Easterby's Family Grille 2388 Ashley River Road Charleston, SC 29414

Newton Farms Catering 130 Gardeners Circle, Suite 116 Johns Island, SC 29455 Food For The Southern Soul 1750 Signal Point Road, Building 2A Charleston, SC 29422 Good Food Catering 17 Lockwood Drive Charleston, SC 29413

Researched by Lindsay H. Valek

2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

epg

Lists & Directories

Full-Service Caterers Ranked by Largest Event Catered in 2011 Company Wild Dunes Catering & Event Rentals 5757 Palm Blvd. Isle of Palms, SC 29451 Cafe Catering 1039 Johnnie Dodds Blvd., Suite 7 Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Beyond Expectations 2487-2 Ashley River Road Charleston, SC 29414 Brick Lane Catering 38 Romney St. Charleston, SC 29403 Fork Fine Gourmet Catering & Events 2346 Brevard Road Charleston, SC 29414 The Golf Club at Wescott Plantation 5000 Wescott Club Drive Summerville, SC 29485 Holy City Catering 1033-B Wappoo Road Charleston, SC 29407 Old Towne Grill & Seafood 229 King St. Charleston, SC 29401 Caviar & Bananas Catering 51 George St. Charleston, SC 29401 Everyday Gourmet 1303 Ben Sawyer Blvd., Unit 6 Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

Phone / Website

Largest Event 2011/ Local Employees

Menu/Signature Dishes

Catering Manager

843-886-6000 www.wilddunes.com/charlestonevent-catering.php

500 50

Modern Cuisine, Lowcountry and southern barbecue classics

Samantha K. Martin, Reilly Mariotti

843-849-7515 www.charlestonscafe.com

450 25

Red Snapper fish tacos, lamb lollipops and grilled cheese bar

Lauren Miller

843-573-0012 www.beyondxpectations.com

425 15

Lowcountry shrimp and grits; grit cakes with smoked oyster, tasso and crayfish etouffee; Carolina crab cakes with caper-dill aioli

Ron Murray

843-323-2696 www.bricklanecatering.com

350 3

Event and wedding menus, world cuisine and custom menus available

Blair Lima

843-769-0300 www.forkfinegourmet.com

350 22

Southern favorites, gourmet hors d'oeuvres, pimento cheese and she-crab soup

Wendall Edwards

843-871-2135 www.wescottgolf.com

325 45

Shrimp and grits, chicken Delmonico and marinated flank steak

Pam Huff

843-762-3338 www.holycitycatering.com

300 10

Lowcountry cuisine, asian tapas and sushi

Hailey Cox Tanner

843-723-8170 www.oldtownegrill.com

300 40

Flamed-grilled steaks, broiled, steamed or fried seafood and slow roasted chicken

Athan Fokas

843-577-9997 www.caviarandbananas.com

250 30

Seasonal, local and sustainable cuisine

Kris Furniss, Margaret Furniss

843-388-2490 www.shopeverydaygourmet.com

250 3

Southern favorites and specialties, Greek dishes, European and South American specialties

Tricia Gregory Hitopoulos

Researched by Lindsay H. Valek

YOUR TARGET AUDIENCE IS WAITING. OUR READERS 49% are owners or partners in

their company.

85% are management: Manager, Director, Vice President, CFO, Partner or Owner. 82% influence purchasing decisions. 92% find advertising helpful in making personal and business purchasing decisions. 92% have taken action as a result of reading advertisements in the publication. Advertise in the 2013 BOOK OF LISTS and get a yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth of brand exposure by targeting top business professionals as they utilize this invaluable resource throughout the year. Lock in the ad position that best aligns with your marketing strategy. RESERVE SPACE BY JANUARY 7, 2013.

For more information or to reserve space, call Steve Fields at 843.849.3110.

46 2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

Lists & Directories

epg

Full-Service Caterers Ranked by Largest Event Catered in 2011

Phone / Website

Largest Event 2011/ Local Employees

Menu/Signature Dishes

Catering Manager

843-225-3065 www.threelittlebirdscafe.com

250 10

Stuffed challah French toast, Carolina scramble and turkey, avocado and black bean spread sandwich on Tuscan bread

Meridith Satterwhite, Ryan Satterwhite

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

843-216-7601 www.wildwingcafe.com

250 5

Wings, grilled chicken and barbeque

Emily Griffin

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

843-881-4711 www.lauraalberts.com

200 11

Prime cuts of meat, local seafood and seasonal vegetables prepared with Lowcountry flair

Karen M. Elsey

843-224-0529, 843-302-6803 www.varietystorerestaurant.com

0 20

Beef, seafood and chicken

Mike Altine

843-849-2400, ext. 7 www.relishdistinctivecatering.com

INP 80

Customizable menu available but may include Lowcountry BBQ, shrimp and grits and mashed potato bar

Lacy Davidson

843-388-9992 www.zeusgrill.com

INP 50

Flame-grilled steaks, broiled, steamed or fried seafood and gyros sliced off the spit

Athan Fokas

Company Three Little Birds Cafe & Catering 65 Windermere Blvd. Charleston, SC 29407

A&P Catering 17 Lockwood Drive Charleston, SC 29402 Relish Distinctive Catering 1700 RiverTowne Country Club Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29466 Zeus Grill & Seafood 725 Johnnie Dodds Blvd. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

INP=Information not provided. Because of space constraints, only the top-ranked companies are printed. For a full list of participating companies, visit www.scbiznews.com/data. Although every effort is made to ensure accuracy, errors sometimes occur. Email additions or corrections to lists@scbiznews.com, fax to 843-849-3122 or go to www.scbiznews.com/data and click "Add Data."

Researched by Lindsay H. Valek

&DVXDO %DUEHFXH SLFQLFV WR HOHJDQW /RZFRXQWU\ GLQQHUV ² ZH VHUYH 6RXWKHUQ KRVSLWDOLW\ DW LWV À QHVW

CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA 800.538.0003 843.762.9200 843.762.6040 FAX www.FOODFORTHESOUTHERNSOUL.com HOME OF TIDEWATER CATERING AND BLACKJACK BARBECUE 2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

epg

Lists & Directories

Hotels with Meeting Facilities Ranked by Square Footage of Event Space

General Manager / Year Reception Banquet Theater Classroom Founded

Phone / Website 843-768-6000 www.kiawahresort.com

50,339 sq. ft. 15

750

50,000

550

290

843-723-3000 www.marriottcharleston.com

50,000 sq. ft. 15

1,100

800

975

650

843-722-4900 www.charlestonplacehotel.com

40,000 sq. ft. 32

1,800

1,200

1,600

1,000

843-747-1882 www.embassysuitescharleston.com

37,000 sq. ft. 22

2,500

3,000

1,300

843-722-0600 www.francismarioncharleston.com

20,000 sq. ft. 14

550

400

420

300

888-845-8880 www.wilddunesmeetings.com

17,000 sq. ft. 15

500

350

175

866-499-7142 www.wilddunesmeetings.com

17,000 sq. ft. 15

500

350

175

843-886-6000 www.wilddunes.com

17,000 sq. ft. 15

500

350

175

843-577-2400 www.millshouse.com

11,000 sq. ft. 10

600

400

350

200

843-856-0028 www.charlestonharborresort.com

10,300 sq. ft. 8

150

120

200

100

888-747-1900 www.sheratoncharleston.com

10,249 sq. ft. 14

800

340

600

325

John Wong 1985

843-577-2644 www.charlestondoubletree.com

10,000 sq. ft. 10

400

280

480

250

Michael Perry INP

843-744-2501 www.radisson.com

9,000 sq. ft. 7

325

250

300

150

Mitul Patel INP

843-805-7900 www.courtyard.com/chshd

7,800 sq. ft. 6

150

125

100

Polly Ann Elliott 2011

843-723-0500 www.marketpavilion.com

7,500 sq. ft. 4

350

108

100

Gary Cohen 2002

843-744-4422 www.crowneplaza.com/charlestonsc

7,000 sq. ft. 4

450

325

475

225

843-571-1000 www.thetownandcountryinn.com

6,000 sq. ft. 6

300

200

350

175

843-884-6000 www.himtpleasant.com

5,100 sq. ft. 8

300

200

300

150

843-518-6200 www.charlestonairportsuites.doubletree.com

5,000 sq. ft. 5

175

136

200

140

843-308-9330 www.charlestonairport.stayhgi.com

5,000 sq. ft. 7

250

160

200

130

843-723-6900 www.historiccharleston.embassysuites.com

4,900 sq. ft. 8

400

250

260

110

Donna Ford 1996

843-588-6464 www.tidesfollybeach.com

4,000 sq. ft. 5

400

240

320

165

Ken Merkel 1985

843-875-3300 www.hiexpress.com/summervillesc

3,800 sq. ft. 5

160

200

100

Cristy Sanders 1981

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

3,374 sq. ft. 4

Cori Lovern 2008

Company The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort 1 Sanctuary Beach Drive Kiawah Island, SC 29455 Charleston Marriott 170 Lockwood Blvd. Charleston, SC 29403 Charleston Place 205 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29401 Embassy Suites Airport/Convention Center 5055 International Blvd. North Charleston, SC 29418 Francis Marion Hotel 387 King St. Charleston, SC 29403 The Boardwalk Inn at Wild Dunes Resort 5757 Palm Blvd. Isle of Palms, SC 29451 The Village at Wild Dunes 5757 Palm Blvd. Isle of Palms, SC 29451 Wild Dunes Resort 5757 Palm Blvd. Isle of Palms, SC 29451 The Mills House Hotel 115 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29401 Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina 20 Patriots Point Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Sheraton Charleston Airport Hotel 4770 Goer Drive North Charleston, SC 29406 Doubletree by Hilton Hotel & Suites, Charleston 181 Church St. Charleston, SC 29401 Radisson Hotel Charleston Airport 5991 Rivers Ave. North Charleston, SC 29406 Courtyard by Marriott Charleston Historic District 125 Calhoun St. Charleston, SC 29401 Market Pavilion Hotel 225 East Bay St. Charleston, SC 29401 Crowne Plaza Charleston Airport Convention Center 4831 Tanger Outlet Blvd. North Charleston, SC 29418 Town & Country Inn and Suites 2008 Savannah Highway Charleston, SC 29407 Holiday Inn Charleston-Mount Pleasant 250 Johnnie Dodds Blvd. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Suites Charleston Airport 7401 Northwoods Blvd. North Charleston, SC 29406 Hilton Garden Inn Charleston Airport 5265 International Blvd. North Charleston, SC 29418 Embassy Suites Historic Charleston 337 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29403 Tides Folly Beach 1 Center St. Folly Beach, SC 29439 Holiday Inn Express-Summerville 120 Holiday Drive Summerville, SC 29483 Homewood Suites by Hilton Charleston Convention Center/ Airport 5048 International Blvd. North Charleston, SC 29418

Event Capacity

Event Space/ Meeting Rooms

48 2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

Bill Lacey 2004 Patrick Rogers 2007 Paul Stracey 1987 Peter Steketee 2000 Gayle Karolczyk 1924 Frank Fredericks 2006 Frank Fredericks 2008 Frank Fredericks 1972 John Edwards 1853 Oliver Rooskens 1997

Mark Mitchell 2010 Jim Palassis 1984 David Jones 1988 Torri Jennings 2012 Marcus Rogers 2002

Lists & Directories

epg

2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

epg

Lists & Directories

Hotels with Meeting Facilities Ranked by Square Footage of Event Space

General Manager / Year Reception Banquet Theater Classroom Founded

Phone / Website 843-556-7100 www.holiday-inn.com/chs-riverview

3,270 sq. ft. 3

175

100

843-576-0300 www.holidayinn.com/chastnairport

3,000 sq. ft. 5

150

120

175

843-556-0500 www.theinnatmiddletonplace.com

3,000 sq. ft. 1

250

200

250

843-744-8281 www.northcharlestoninn.com

3,000 sq. ft. 2

INP

100

175

100

843-573-1200 www.charlestonwestashleysuites.hamptoninn.com

2,500 sq. ft. 3

120

100

843-718-2327 www.hihistoric.com

2,200 sq. ft. 3

140

120

125

105

843-284-0900 www.marriott.com/chscm

2,125 sq. ft. 4

125

110

140

100

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

2,000 sq. ft. 4

Dawn Wells 2004

843-553-4444 www.charlestonwingate.com

2,000 sq. ft. 3

130

150

115

Ron Jaicks 2008

843-722-2345 www.plantersinn.com

1,800 sq. ft. 2

100

150

100

Nick Saltmarsh 1912

Company Holiday Inn Charleston Riverview 301 Savannah Highway Charleston, SC 29407 Holiday Inn Charleston Airport & Convention Center 5264 International Blvd. North Charleston, SC 29418 The Inn at Middleton Place 4290 Ashley River Road Charleston, SC 29414 The North Charleston Inn 2934 W. Montague Ave. North Charleston, SC 29418 Hampton Inn & Suites Charleston/West Ashley 678 Citadel Haven Drive Charleston, SC 29414 Holiday Inn Charleston Historic Downtown 425 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29403 Courtyard by Marriott Charleston-Mount Pleasant 1251 Woodland Ave. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Residence Inn Charleston Airport 5035 International Blvd. North Charleston, SC 29418 Wingate by Wyndham at Charleston Southern University 9280 University Blvd. North Charleston, SC 29406 Planters Inn 112 North Market St. Charleston, SC 29401

Event Capacity

Event Space/ Meeting Rooms

50 2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

Jeremy McCauley 1971 Marcus Rogers 2006 Abigail Martin 1987 Robert Andraszek 1973 Megan Owen 2001 Matthew Miller 2012 Cheryl Craven 2007

Lists & Directories

epg

Hotels with Meeting Facilities Ranked by Square Footage of Event Space

General Manager / Year Reception Banquet Theater Classroom Founded Event Capacity

Phone / Website

Event Space/ Meeting Rooms

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

1,428 sq. ft. 1

INP

John Boyd 1997

843-722-4000 www.charlestonbestwestern.com

1,400 sq. ft. 1

100

Dewaine Smith 2007

French Quarter Inn 166 Church St. Charleston, SC 29401

843-722-1900 www.fqicharleston.com

1,254 sq. ft. 2

Brent Gresham 2002

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Downtown/Riverview 98 Ripley Point Drive Charleston, SC 29407

843-571-1711 www.marriott.com/chssh

1,250 sq. ft. 2

Jennifer Hill 1999

843-577-7970 www.vendueinn.com

1,200 sq. ft. 5

250

Susie Ridder 1975

843-881-6950 www.charlestonmtpleasant. homewoodsuites.com

1,145 sq. ft. 2

Jennifer LaRue 2002

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

1,140 sq. ft. 1

Cheryl Clark 1999

843-723-7000 www.kingscourtyardinn.com

1,100 sq. ft. 2

Lisa Anderson 1980

843-881-1000 www.shemcreekinn.com

1,100 sq. ft. 2

INP

Robbi Hemmen 1986

Hyatt Place Charleston Airport/Convention Center 3234 W. Montague Ave. North Charleston, SC 29418

843-302-8600 www.charlestonairport.place.hyatt.com

1,080 sq. ft. 2

Vicki Wilkins 2010

Hyatt Place North Charleston 7331 Mazyck Road North Charleston, SC 29406

843-735-7100 www.northcharleston.place.hyatt.com

1,080 sq. ft. 2

Marsha Ellsworth 2010

843-856-3900 www.charlestonisleofpalmssuites. hamptoninn.com

1,056 sq. ft. 3

INP

100

Kelly Fassett 1999

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

1,040 sq. ft. 2

Anthony Smith 2009

Fulton Lane Inn 202 King St. Charleston, SC 29401

843-720-2600 www.fultonlaneinn.com

1,000 sq. ft. 2

Lisa Anderson 1994

Quality Inn & Suites at Patriots Point 196 Patriots Point Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-856-8817 www.choicehotels.com

975 sq. ft. 2

Andrew Rhyne 1999

Fairfield Inn & Suites Charleston Airport/Convention Center 4841 Tanger Outlet Blvd. North Charleston, SC 29418

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

932 sq. ft. 2

Bill Carter 2010

Hampton Inn Daniel Island 160 Fairchild St. Charleston, SC 29492

843-216-6555 www.hamptoninndi.com

900 sq. ft. 3

Tom Moorman 2001

843-225-4411 www.hawthorn.com

900 sq. ft. 1

INP

Rachel Elliott 2006

843-853-1886 www.wentworthmansion.com

900 sq. ft. 2

Noreen Marchant 1998

843-820-2030 www.charlestonnorth.hamptoninn.com

740 sq. ft. 1

INP

Tammy Buckley 1999

843-375-2600 www.hiemtpleasant.com

700 sq. ft. 1

Steve Lavelle 2009

Company Courtyard Charleston Waterfront 35 Lockwood Drive Charleston, SC 29401 Best Western Charleston Downtown 146 Lockwood Blvd. Charleston, SC 29403-5123

Vendue Inn 19 Vendue Range Charleston, SC 29401 Homewood Suites by Hilton, Charleston/Mount Pleasant 1998 Riviera Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Holiday Inn Express & Suites Charleston-Ashley Phosphate 7670 Northwoods Blvd. North Charleston, SC 29406 Kings Courtyard Inn 198 King St. Charleston, SC 29401 Shem Creek Inn 1401 Shrimp Boat Lane Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

Hampton Inn & Suites Mount Pleasant/Isle of Palms 1104 Isle of Palms Connector Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Hampton Inn & Suites North Charleston/University Blvd. 2688 Fernwood Drive North Charleston, SC 26406

Hawthorn Suites 2455 Savannah Highway Charleston, SC 29414 Wentworth Mansion 149 Wentworth St. Charleston, SC 29401 Hampton Inn Charleston North 7424 Northside Drive North Charleston, SC 29420 Holiday Inn Express & Suites Mount Pleasant 350 Johnnie Dodds Blvd. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

Researched by Lindsay H. Valek

2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

epg

Lists & Directories

Restaurants with Banquet Facilities Ranked by Maximum Capacity for a Seated Event Company Embassy Suites Catering 5055 International Blvd. North Charleston, SC 29418 The Golf Club at Wescott Plantation 5000 Wescott Club Drive Summerville, SC 29485 A&P Catering 17 Lockwood Drive Charleston, SC 29402 Pavilion Bar 225 East Bay St. Charleston, SC 29401 Middleton Place Restaurant/Pavilion 4300 Ashley River Road Charleston, SC 29414 82 Queen 82 Queen St. Charleston, SC 29401 Relish Distinctive Catering 1700 RiverTowne Country Club Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29466 Zeus Grill & Seafood 725 Johnnie Dodds Blvd. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 The Library 19 Vendue Range Charleston, SC 29401 Southend Brewery and Smokehouse 161 East Bay St. Charleston, SC 29401

Phone Website

Event Capacity

Private Banquet Rooms

Avg. Cost (3-course meal)

Menu / Signature Dishes

Manager Joanie Cole

843-747-1882 www.embassysuitescharleston.com

4,000

$26

A diverse catering menu providing offerings from different cultures

843-871-2135 www.wescottgolf.com

500

$35

Shrimp and grits, chicken Delmonico and marinated flank steak

Pam Huff

843-224-0529, 843-302-6803 www.varietystorerestaurant.com

300

$20

Beef, seafood and chicken

Mike Altine

843-723-0500 www.marketpavilion.com

300

$35

Eclectic southern cuisine

Holly Brennan

843-556-6020 www.middletonplace.org

225

$25

Eclectic, Lowcountry southern cuisine

Micah Garrison

843-723-7591 www.82queen.com

200

$40

843-849-2400, ext. 7 www.relishdistinctivecatering.com

200

$30

843-388-9992 www.zeusgrill.com

200

$14

Flame-grilled steaks, broiled, steamed or fried seafood and gyros sliced off the spit

Athan Fokas

843-577-7970 www.vendueinn.com

150

$35

Shrimp and grits, duck two ways and steaks

Alex Crall

843-853-4677 www.southendbrewery.com

150

$30

Barbecue, seafood and house-brewed beer

Jana Hodge

Lowcountry and southern foods, fried green tomatoes, chicken and waffles and shrimp and grits Customizable menu available but may include Lowcountry BBQ, shrimp and grits and mashed potato bar

Steve Kish Lacy Davidson

Researched by Lindsay H. Valek

CONNECTING BUSINESS in South Carolina SC Biz News is the premier publisher of business news in the state of South Carolina. We publish the Charleston Regional Business Journal, Columbia Regional Business Report, GSA Business and SCBIZ magazine.

Connect your business to our statewide audience. For information about statewide advertising, call Steve Fields at 843.849.3110.

52 2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

Lists & Directories

epg

Restaurants with Banquet Facilities Ranked by Maximum Capacity for a Seated Event Company Sticky Fingers Smokehouse 235 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29401

Phone Website

Event Capacity

Private Banquet Rooms

Avg. Cost (3-course meal)

Menu / Signature Dishes

Manager Sean Fogarty

843-805-6333 www.stickyfingers.com

150

$12

Hickory-smoked ribs, wings and pulled pork barbecue

843-518-6200 www.charlestonairportsuites.doubletree.com

135

$30

Casual menu that serves 10 to 125 people

Torri C Jennings

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

130

$46

Down south eggroll, parmesan crusted flounder and shellfish over grits

Patricia Pettus

843-571-1000 www.thetownandcountryinn.com

120

$30

Lowcountry cuisine

Stephen P. Clarke

843.725.5959 www.39ruedejean.com

120

INP

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

Tristan Whisenant

Grill 225 225 East Bay St. Charleston, SC 29401

843-266-4207 www.marketpavilion.com

116

$75

USDA prime steakhouse

Holly Brennan

McCrady's 2 Unity Alley Charleston, SC 29401

843-577-0025x2 www.mccradysrestaurant.com

100

$65

Inventive cuisine fresh from the farm and local purveyors

Sunday D. Tuk

Peninsula Grill 112 N. Market St. Charleston, SC 29401

843-579-1678 www.peninsulagrill.com

100

$75

Locally grown Lowcountry produce, meat, poultry and seafood

Nick Saltmarsh

Tristan 10 Linguard St. Charleston, SC 29401

843-534-2155 www.tristandining.com

100

$55

Lowcountry carbonara, local market fish and roasted and raw beets salad

Rachael Kay Rose

Old Towne Grill & Seafood 229 King St. Charleston, SC 29401

843-723-8170 www.oldtownegrill.com

$14

Flamed-grilled steaks, broiled, steamed or fried seafood and slow roasted chicken

Athan Fokas

Sticky Fingers Smokehouse 1200 N. Main St. Summerville, SC 29483

843-871-7427 www.stickyfingers.com

$12

Hickory-smoked ribs, wings and pulled pork barbecue

Sean Fogarty, Beth Snowden

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

$50

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

Patricia Pettus

Circa 1886 149 Wentworth St. Charleston, SC 29401

843-853-7828 www.circa1886.com

$50

Southern dishes featuring local and seasonal foods

Ginny Severs

Fish 442 King St. Charleston, SC 29403

843-722-3474 www.fishrestaurantcharleston.com

$55

French fare with a zesty Asian-inspired artisan touch, resulting in fresh and flavorful dishes that engage and inspire

Jodie Battles

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

843-881-4711 www.lauraalberts.com

$30

Prime cuts of meat, local seafood and seasonal vegetables prepared with Lowcountry flair

Karen M. Elsey

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

843-216-7601 www.wildwingcafe.com

$20

Wings, grilled chicken and barbeque

Emily Griffin

843-577-9997 www.caviarandbananas.com

$40

Seasonal, local and sustainable cuisine

Kris Furniss, Margaret Furniss

843-735-5800 www.virginiasonking.com

INP

Shrimp and grits, southern fried chicken and Carolina bouillabaisse

Janeanne Malone

843-556-5707 www.easterbysfamilygrille.com

$12

Steaks, seafood and barbecue

Ron Easterby

843-856-7427 www.stickyfingers.com

$12

Hickory-smoked ribs, wings and pulled pork barbecue

Sean Fogarty, Beth Snowden

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Suites Charleston Airport 7401 Northwoods Blvd. North Charleston, SC 29406 Magnolias Upper Level Gallery 185 East Bay St. Charleston, SC 29401 Trotters Restaurant 2008 Savannah Highway Charleston, SC 29407 Upstairs at 39 Rue de Jean 39 John St. Charleston, SC 29403

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

Caviar & Bananas Catering 51 George St. Charleston, SC 29401 Virginia's on King 412 King St. Charleston, SC 29403 Easterby's Family Grille 2388 Ashley River Road Charleston, SC 29414 Sticky Fingers Smokehouse 341 Johnnie Dodds Blvd. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

Researched by Lindsay H. Valek

2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

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Lists & Directories

Charleston Area Event Planners Ranked by No. of Local Employees Company Charleston Place Events 205 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29401

Phone / Website

No. of Day-of Local Coordinator Employees Available

Specialties

Person in Charge/ Year Founded

843-724-8410 www.charlestonplace.com

400

Full-service destination management, dinners, wedding receptions, holiday parties, fundraisers, bar mitzvahs and event design

Geno Matesi 1987

Rawle Murdy 2 Beaufain St. Charleston, SC 29401

843-577-7327 www.rawlemurdy.com

Grand openings, media events, press conferences, red carpets and special events

Bruce D. Murdy 1975

Ooh! Events 2532 Spruill Ave. Charleston, SC 29405

843-881-7576 www.oohevents.com

Flowers, unique rentals, invitations, event design and coordination and tent rentals

Lisa Thomas 1996

843-442-8599 www.winshipproductions.com

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

Michael A Winship 2005

843-554-6334 www.alloccasionsparty.com

Full service event coordination featuring venue lay out, referrals, sales of party goods and rentals, sales and supplies for events, ceremonies and reception

C. Denise Barto 1961

843-884-9505 www.absolutelycharleston.com

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

Robert Sullivan 1998

Group Dynamics Rentals 2285 Technical Parkway North Charleston, SC 29406

843-406-4117 www.groupdynamics.biz

Evening events, setup of decor and transportation and tours available

Jonathan Kiser 2003

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

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

Special events, fund-raisers and conferences including marketing and PR for events, as well as event websites and registration

Jessica Munday 2001

843-723-1355 www.distinctive-events.com

Special event design and production, wedding design and coordination, florals, decor rental, lounges and furnishings and more

Sha Sha Harnik 1997

843-475-8113 www.inventivenvironments.com

Production design, dĂŠcor and draping, custom lighting, floral styling and Ă la carte services

Jacqueline Lawrence 2010

JMC Charleston 2220 Old School Drive, Suite B North Charleston, SC 29405

843-577-1100 www.jmccharleston.com

Event production and design, destination management, evening experiences, private venues and in house floral and event design available

Mitchell Crosby 2004

Lawson Roberts LLC 351 King St., Suite B Charleston, SC 29403

843-709-5050 www.lawsonroberts.com

Weddings, corporate events, social galas, fundraisers, birthdays, bar and bat mitzvahs, parties, private in home dinners and more

Lawson Roberts 2007

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

843-722-9333 www.charlestonevent.com

Weddings, rehearsal dinners, corporate events and nonprofit events

Ellen Cohn Robinson 1999

Charleston Affair LLC 164 Market St., Suite 331 Charleston, SC 29403

843-224-4997 www.charlestonaffair.com

Destination consultants, bachelor and bachelorettes, Greek events, birthdays & anniversaries, dining & reservation services, transportation & nightlife services

Daniel Ferro 2010

A Charleston Bride 103 Rutledge Ave. Charleston, SC 29401

843-853-6402 www.acharlestonbride.com

Full-service wedding and event coordination and design

Melissa Barton 2002

843-571-5882 www.destinationcharlestonsc.com

Personalized coordination of special events, full service destination management company, touring reception and excursions

James E. Mellen 1986

843-723-1462 www.eboineauandco.com

Full service event planning for product launch parties, trade show exhibits, celebrations, seminars, receptions and more

Elizabeth L. Boineau 1990

843-577-6060 www.adventuresincharleston.com

Destination management, convention planning and special events

Jim Simpson 1986

Calder Clark Designs 62 Cannon St., First Floor Charleston, SC 29403

843-641-0055 www.calderclark.com

Full service wedding planning

Calder B Clark 2006

A Charleston Event LLC 4040 Babbitt St. Charleston, SC 29414

843-568-5769 www.acharlestonevent.com

Full-service wedding and event design planning, destination management, group tours, conference planning, specialevents decor and more

Holly A. Simpson 2001

Winship Productions 241 Cooper River Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 All Occasions - Parties & Events By AAA Rentals P.O. Box 70215 Charleston, SC 29405 Absolutely Charleston P.O. Box 80489 Charleston, SC 29416

Distinctive Events 115 Calhoun St. Charleston, SC 29401 inventivENVIRONMENTS 1996 Davant Circle Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

Charleston Convention & Group Services Inc. P.O. Box 1118 Charleston, SC 29402 E. Boineau & Company Inc. 128 Beaufain St. Charleston, SC 29401 Adventures in Charleston Inc. P.O. Box 1229 Charleston, SC 29402

Researched by Lindsay H. Valek

54 2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

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Charleston Area Event Planners Ranked by No. of Local Employees Company Eventsublime 1307 S. Sherwood Drive Charleston, SC 29407

Phone / Website

No. of Day-of Local Coordinator Employees Available

Person in Charge/ Year Founded

Specialties

843-852-2354 www.eventsublime.com

Floral design, decor, event cosulting and day of management

David Singleton Mr. 2002

High Touch-High Tech 1643-B Ashley River Road, Suite 174 Charleston, SC 29407

843-224-9276 www.sciencemadefunchs.net

Hands-on science parties and programs for children ages 4-12 attending corporate meetings or conventions

Jennifer Aikman 2003

Memorable Meetings 147 Wappoo Creek Drive, Suite 103 Charleston, SC 29412

843-795-9095 www.memorablemeetings.com

Corporate meetings and events, site selection and contract negotiations, on-site staffing, registration, creative content, entertainment and golf

David J. Richardson 1985

843-577-5006 www.taraguerardsoiree.com

INP

Creative event planning and design

Tara Guerard 1997

843-633-1638 www.blueplanetgreenevents.com

Full service planning, floral, weddings, events, corporate, workshops and corporate retreats

Toni Reale 2009

843-364-3286 www.clientsourceinc.com

Professional corporate and association meeting planning and placement, specializing in pharmaceutical, biotech and aerospace industry meetings

Michael Carrigan 2003

843-276-1013

INP

Meeting space in historic Charleston offering event planning and administrative services

Nike G. Kern 2010

843-509-6651 www.elizabethgraceoccasions.com

Weddings, corporate training, conventions, retreats, nonprofit fundraisers, galas and golf tournaments

Amie Waldeck, Gayle Dorsel 2009

843-367-0022 www.eventabella.com

Specializing in floral design and decor to create an artistic yet personal look

Sabrina S Ward 2005

843-723-3387 www.gatheringevents.com

INP

Floral design, event planning, consulting, coordination, lighting and furniture rentals

Heather Barrie 2001

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

843-881-1959

Full-service event planning company

Kenda Sweet 1996

Red Letter Events LLC 164 Market St., Suite 301 Charleston, SC 29401

843-577-0305 www.redletterevents.com

Event design, planning, coordination and consultation, fullservice wedding and week-of wedding coordination

Stacey Fraunfelter 2005

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

843-696-8185 www.mycharlestonwedding.net

INP

Creation and composition of vows, ceremony planning, rehearsal from processional to recessional, advice for customary, traditional wedding practices and protocol

Allen Johnson 1999

By George! Events and Marketing 1473 Seminole St. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-849-1020 www.bygeorgeevents.com

Full-service event planning and marketing, rehearsal dinners, private parties, music events, festivals, fundraisers and public relations

George G. Hill 1996

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

Customized event planning and management services for a variety of clients including government entities, businesses, campaigns, inaugurations and conventions

Anne Marie Frawley 2010

843-364-6963 www.finievents.com

Weddings, day-of coordination, fundraisers, birthdays, corporate events, baby and bridal showers

Courtney Parades 2006

843-559-8896 www.helmsbriscoe.com

No cost site selection and contract negotiations for association and corporate meetings

Julie W. Daniels 2003

843-821-3283 www.impactpr.net

Corporate events, corporate retreats and strategic planning

Susan Jeanne Mertz 1991

Katherine Miller Events 1127 Audubon Place Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

843-388-5576 www.katherinemillerevents.com

Full-service wedding and event coordination, venue and vendor recommendations, consultation regarding design, decor, menu and logistics

Katherine Marie Miller 2009

Monte Carlo Production 309 Stiles Ave., Suite A Savannah, GA 31415

843-722-9213 www.mcpfun.com

Corporate theme decor and interactive events

Ron Johnson 1977

Tara Guerard Soiree 54 Chapel St. Charleston, SC 29403 Blue Planet Green Events LLC 210 Rutledge Ave., Second Floor Charleston, SC 29403 Client Source Inc. 225 Seven Farms Drive, Suite 106 Daniel Island, SC 29492 Conference Room Charleston 180 East Bay St. Charleston, SC 29401 Elizabeth Grace Occasions LLC 1000 Johnnie Dodds Blvd., Suite 103-158 Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Eventa Bella of Charleston 401 Ventura Place Charleston, SC 29464 Gathering Floral & Event Design 747 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29403

Events by The Social Secretary 1208 Tidal Basin Court Charleston, SC 29412 Fini Event Planning 164 Market St., Suite 304 Charleston, SC 29401 Helms Briscoe 5470 Chisolm Road Charleston, SC 29455 Impact Inc. 141 Scalybark Road Summerville, SC 29485

Researched by Lindsay H. Valek

2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

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Lists & Directories

Alternative/Outdoor Event Venues Ranked by Maximum Capacity

Company Exchange Park 9850 Highway 78 Ladson, SC 29456 Blackbaud Stadium 1990 Daniel Island Drive Charleston, SC 29492 Charleston Maritime Center 10 Wharfside St. Charleston, SC 29401 Middleton Place 4300 Ashley River Road Charleston, SC 29414 Charleston Visitor Center & Bus Shed 375 Meeting St. Charleston, SC 29403 Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum 40 Patriots Point Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 South Carolina Aquarium 100 Aquarium Wharf Charleston, SC 29401 Joseph P. Riley Jr. Park 360 Fishburne St. Charleston, SC 29403 Memminger Auditorium 56 Beaufain St. Charleston, SC 29401 Carolina Ice Palace 7665 Northwoods Blvd. North Charleston, SC 29406

Phone Website

Maximum Capacity Outdoor Capacity Reception Capacity

843-723-7241 www.riverdogs.com

50,000 50,000 50,000 14,000 5,100 INP 2,000 2,500 450 2,000 2,000 2,000 1,500 1,500 300 1,500 INP 1,500 1,500 500 1,300 1,000 500 1,000

843-722-2764 www.memmingerauditorium.com

900 250 600

843-572-2717 www.carolinaicepalace.com

750 INP INP

843-572-3161 www.exchangepark.org 843-971-4625 www.charlestonbattery.com 843-853-3625 www.cmcevents.com 843-556-6020 www.middletonplace.org 843-724-7174 www.charlestoncvb.com 866-831-1720 www.patriotspoint.org 843-720-1990 www.scaquarium.org

56 2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

Description Venue buildings, open land with lake, 70 acres of outside meeting space and 100 acres of parking space that can double as event space Home of the Charleston Battery, 1,400 parking spaces plus overflow available Downtown waterfront facility with space available for indoor and outdoor receptions and ceremonies 18th-century plantation, America's oldest landscaped gardens, house museum and plantation stable yards with indoor and outdoor reception sites Open, covered usable space USS Yorktown aircraft carrier made of 42,000 tons of steel, with views of the Charleston skyline Receptions, conferences and meetings can be hosted in the executive suite, great hall or riverside terrace Outdoor picnic areas available as well as the stadium's sky suites Multi-use space available year-round featuring 2,500 square feet of storage space, catering setup and backstage needs; banquet room-style partition wall available and six dressing rooms Banquet and traditional seating for corporate events, teambuilding events, wedding receptions, sports banquets, baby and bridal showers

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

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Magnolia Plantation and Gardens 7KH ODVW WK &HQWXU\ 5RPDQWLF *DUGHQ LQ $PHULFD

0XOWLSOH 9HQXHV WR 6XLW $Q\ (YHQW +ROLGD\ 3DUWLHV :HGGLQJV /XQFKHRQV &RUSRUDWH 'LQQHUV %XVLQHVV 0HHWLQJV DQG &RUSRUDWH 5HWUHDWV 3ODQWDWLRQ WRXUV DUH DYDLODEOH LQ FRPELQDWLRQ ZLWK \RXU HYHQW DQG VHSDUDWHO\ +LJKZD\ _ $VKOH\ 5LYHU 5RDG _ 0LOHV IURP +LVWRULF 'RZQWRZQ &KDUOHVWRQ _ _ HYHQWV#PDJQROLDSODQWDWLRQ FRP _ ZZZ PDJQROLDSODQWDWLRQ FRP HYHQWV 2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

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Lists & Directories

Alternative/Outdoor Event Venues Ranked by Maximum Capacity

Company Montague Terrace at the North Charleston Colliseum 5001 Coliseum Drive North Charleston, SC 29418 Prospect Hill Plantation 2695 Laurel Hill Road Edisto Island, SC 29438 The Golf Club at Wescott Plantation 5000 Wescott Club Drive Summerville, SC 29485 The Grand Pavilion 5757 Palm Blvd. Isle of Palms, SC 29451 Harborside East 28 Bridgeside Blvd. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Lowndes Grove Plantation 266 St. Margaret St. Charleston, SC 29403 St. James Church Event Center 1872 Camp Road Charleston, SC 29412 Magnolia Plantation & Gardens 3550 Ashley River Road Charleston, SC 29414 William Aiken House 456 King St. Charleston, SC 29403 Johnson Hagood Stadium - Club Level 68 Hagood Ave. Charleston, SC 29403

Phone Website

Maximum Capacity Outdoor Capacity Reception Capacity

Description

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

843-529-5029 www.montagueterrace.net

740 INP 740

LEED certified facility equipped with full production capabilities to accommodate events from private receptions to small entertainment shows

Y N INP

843-723-7952 www.goodfoodcatering.net

650 INP 650 600 500 500 600 INP 800 600 400 250 600 INP 600 550 500 550 500 500 500 500 600 500 450 5,800 450

Historic plantation setting overlooks the Edisto River and Intracoastal Waterway with grand oaks and palmetto trees in the backdrop Antebellum-style with wraparound porch, hardwood floors, twin fireplaces & vaulted ceilings; 6,000 SF tented patio for weddings and outdoor events Ocean-front space with sweeping views of the Atlantic; ideal for casual corporate gatherings, cocktail parties, dinners or receptions Indoor and outdoor facility on Charleston Harbor with views of downtown Charleston, the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge and the USS Yorktown Two indoor/outdoor venues with sunset views framed by live oaks including the 1786 Plantation House on expansive grounds and a more intimate River House 22,000 SF facility, lighted off-street parking, largest space fully carpeted, upholstered chairs, tables, stage with lighting, fully handicap-accessible Features three scenic locations for weddings and corporate events at Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oldest public garden and 19th century Romantic style garden A national historic landmark offering indoor and outdoor spaces with period art and antiques, sweeping piazzas and a 200 year-old magnolia tree

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

843-871-2135 www.wescottgolf.com 888-845-8880 www.wilddunesmeetings.com 843-606-2718 www.harborsideeast.com 843-853-1810 www.pphgcharleston.com/venues/view/ lowndes_grove 843-795-1623 www.saint-james.org 843-277-0167 www.magnoliaplantation.com/events 843-853-1810 www.pphgcharleston.com/venues/view/ william_aiken_house 843-953-6703 www.mycharlestonwedding.com/halls

58 2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

Features two outdoor terraces available with 500-person capacity each

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Alternative/Outdoor Event Venues Ranked by Maximum Capacity

Company Charleston Harbor Tours 10 Wharfside St. Charleston, SC 29401 SpiritLine Cruises and Events 360 Concord St., Suite 201 Charleston, SC 29401 Candlelite Pavilion at the Summerville Country Club 400 Country Club Blvd. Summerville, SC 29483 Coosaw Creek Country Club 4110 Club Course Drive North Charleston, SC 29420 Covered Shelters at James Island County Park 871 Riverland Drive Charleston, SC 29412 Covered Shelters at Wannamaker County Park 8888 University Blvd. North Charleston, SC 29406 Cypress Hall at Wannamaker County Park 8888 University Blvd. North Charleston, SC 29406 Edisto Hall at James Island County Park 871 Riverland Drive Charleston, SC 29412 Founders Hall 1500 Old Towne Road Charleston, SC 29407 Legare Waring House 1500 Old Towne Road Charleston, SC 29407

Phone Website

Maximum Capacity Outdoor Capacity Reception Capacity

Description

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

400 INP 400 400 INP 350

1920's replica bay steamer vessel available for corporate outings, private dinner cruises, cocktail parties and all types of group tours Yacht fleet with four available for private charters, dinner cruise boat with full kitchen.

Y Y N Y N N

843-873-2210 www.summervillecountryclub.com

300 300 300,400

4,800-sq-ft outdoor pavilion featuring outdoor fire pit, extended deck, prep kitchen, lighted facility, portable bars, wireless PA system and tables and chairs

Y Y Y

843-767-9000 www.coosawcreek.com

300 300 300 300 300 300 300 300 300 300 5,000 300 300 INP 200 300 INP 300 300 300 300

Lowcountry-style clubhouse offers flexible indoor and outdoor meeting and banquet space

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

843-722-1112 www.charlestonharbortours.com 843-881-7337 www.spiritlinecruises.com

843-795-4386 www.ccprc.com 843-795-4386 www.ccprc.com 843-795-4386 www.ccprc.com 843-795-4386 www.ccprc.com 843-852-2965 www.foundershallcharleston.com 843-852-2965 www.legarewaringhouse.com

Picnic tables, grills, electricity. 4 shelters: Picnic Center Porch: 768 SF/cap. 75; Wando & Stono: 1,600 SF/cap. 200 each; Wappoo: 2,100 SF/cap. 300 3 covered shelters: Cottonwood: 1840 SF, cap. 200; Tupelo: 2575 SF, cap. 300; Magnolia: 1585 SF/cap.100; Picnic tables, grills, electricity, fans, horseshoe pit Eight-acre meadow featuring kitchen, stage, dressing room, sand volleyball court and horseshoe pit; climate-controlled facility features 25 tables and 200 chairs and A/V equipment Climate-controlled meeting site with stage, kitchen, catering entrance, PA system and microphone (by request) Gold Level LEED certified building hosting an array of amenities to include ample furniture, A/V system, catering kitchen, and complimentary parking Features shady, moss laden ancient avenue of oaks, crystal lagoons and year round brilliance of flowers; located in the heart of Charles Towne Landing.

2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

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Lists & Directories

Alternative/Outdoor Event Venues Ranked by Maximum Capacity

Company The Pavilion at Patriots Point 1 Patriots Point Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 RiverTowne Country Club 1700 RiverTowne Country Club Drive Mount Pleasant, SC 29466 The Wickliffe House 178 Ashley Ave. Charleston, SC 29403 Three Lions Club 1990 Daniel Island Drive Charleston, SC 29492 The Historic Rice Mill Building 17 Lockwood Drive Charleston, SC 29401 Legend Oaks Golf Club 118 Legend Oaks Way Summerville, SC 29485 The Citadel Beach House 4700 Palm Blvd. Isle of Palms, SC 29451 American Theater 446 King St. Charleston, SC 29401 Covered Shelters at Palmetto Islands County Park 444 Needlerush Parkway Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Dock Street Theatre 135 Church St. Charleston, SC 29401

Phone Website

Maximum Capacity Outdoor Capacity Reception Capacity

Description

843-853-1810 www.patpropevents.com

300 INP 300 300 INP 300 300 300 300 270 INP 270 250 0 250 250 350 250 250 300 250 200 INP 200

843-795-4386 www.ccprc.com

200 200 200

Oceanfront venue for company events, parties, weddings and receptions; indoor ballroom and outdoor pavilion available National Historic Landmark featuring 1940s art deco design including a theater, ballroom and private lounge; vintage marquee and business center available 3 shelters with electricity, grills, picnic tables at 943-acre park with playgrounds, trails, boating, biking: Tall Pines: 600 SF/cap. 60; Sweet Gum: 1,350 SF/cap. 200; Big Oak: 1,350 SF/cap. 200

843-720-3968 www.charleston-sc.gov

200 INP 200

Recently restored historic theater with private garden available for any event

843-849-2400, ext. 7 www.patriotspointlinks.com 843-849-2400 www.rivertownecountryclub.com 843-571-1410 www.wickliffehouse.com 843-971-4625 www.charlestonbattery.com 843-723-7952 www.goodfoodcatering.net 843-821-4077 www.legendoaksgolf.com 843-953-6586 http://beachhouse.citadelalumni.org

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

4,000-square-foot tent with brick foundation overlooking the 18th green and Charleston Harbor Plantation-style clubhouse with panorama views of marshlands, live oaks and RiverTowne Country Club golf course A Charleston town home located in Radcliffboro; the Tea Room is open for lunch 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Friday English-style club containing soccer memorabilia from around the world, available for weddings, banquets and private parties Historic waterfront venue with sunset views of Charleston City Marina and Charleston Harbor; two outdoor patios, exposed brick, large windows and punched tin ceilings A semi-private award-winning golf and tennis club located in Summerville

C H A R L E S T O N â&#x20AC;&#x2122; S O N LY E X C L U S I V E

EbWU[S^ 7hW`fe KSUZf

8 4 3 .8 1 8 .2 4 9 5 c ar o l i n ag i r l even ts .c om 60 2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

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

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Alternative/Outdoor Event Venues Ranked by Maximum Capacity

Company Marions in the French Quarter 159 E. Bay St. Charleston, SC 29401 Carolina Girl Yacht 95 Ripley Point Drive Charleston, SC 29407 Cooper River Room 99 Harry Hallman Jr. Blvd. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 The Cottages on Charleston Harbor 16 Patriots Point Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Aqua Safaris Inc. 24 Patriots Point Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 The River House at Lowndes Grove 266 Saint Margaret St. Charleston, SC 29403 Coastal Yacht Charters P.O. Box 1725 Charleston, SC 29402 The Conference Center at James Island County Park 871 Riverland Drive Charleston, SC 29412

Phone Website

Maximum Capacity Outdoor Capacity Reception Capacity

843-853-1810 www.pphgcharleston.com/venues/view/ river_house

165 INP 50 150 INP 150 150 150 150 150 INP 150 100 INP 100 100 100 100

843-557-5805 www.coastal-yacht-charters.com 843-795-4386 www.ccprc.com

843-810-0158 www.marionscharleston.com 843-818-2495 www.carolinagirlevents.com 843-852-2965 www.cooperriverroom.com 843-884-2400 x 2419 www.thecottagesoncharlestonharbor.com 843-886-8133 www.aqua-safaris.com

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

Description

Waterfront space overlooking the Ashley River; private building on the grounds of Lowdnes Grove Plantation.

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

50 INP 50

Events include cocktail harbor cruises, coastal South Carolina and Georgia getaways, casual bridesmaid picnic lunches, corporate/executive retreats, sightseeing aboard motored or sailing yachts

Y Y N

49 INP 49

Conference center with two breakout rooms, kitchen and screened-porch, within a natural park setting for small conferences and receptions

N Y N

INP=Information not provided. View this list online at www.scbiznews.com/data. Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of lists, errors sometimes occur. Send additions or corrections to List Research, 389 Johnnie Dodds Blvd., Suite 200, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464, fax to 843-849-3122 or go to www.scbiznews.com/data and click "Add Data."

Seating for up to 165 people for private parties, corporate events and other functions Pairs a posh setting and unparalleled city views of Charleston Resplendent views of the Cooper River, Arthur Ravenel, Jr. Bridge, the Waterfront Park and Pier Clubhouse and two event lawns overlooking Charleston Harbor Offers in- or off-shore fishing trips, luxury yachts for private or corporate events, sunset cruises and eco-tours

Researched by Lindsay H. Valek

2012 Event Planning Guide | www.charlestonbusiness.com

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Lists & Directories

Exhibition/Convention Centers Ranked by Maximum Capacity Company Exchange Park 9850 Highway 78 Ladson, SC 29456 North Charleston Coliseum 5001 Coliseum Drive North Charleston, SC 29418 Charleston Area Convention Center 5001 Coliseum Drive North Charleston, SC 29418 North Charleston Performing Arts Center 5001 Coliseum Drive North Charleston, SC 29418 The College Center at Trident Technical College 7000 Rivers Ave. North Charleston, SC 29406 Omar Shrine Convention Center 176 Patriots Point Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 Memminger Auditorium 56 Beaufain St. Charleston, SC 29401 Sheraton Charleston Airport Hotel 4770 Goer Drive North Charleston, SC 29406 Johnson Hagood Stadium - Club Level 68 Hagood Ave. Charleston, SC 29403

Phone / Website 843-572-3161 www.exchangepark.org 843-529-5011 www.coliseumpac.com 843-529-5011 www.charlestonconvention.com 843-529-5011 www.coliseumpac.com 843-820-5094 www.tridenttech.edu/conferenceservices.htm 843-881-4220 www.omarshriners.org 843-722-2764 www.memmingerauditorium.com 888-747-1900 www.sheratoncharleston.com 843-953-6703 www.mycharlestonwedding.com/halls/the-clublevel-lounge-and-terraces-133401

Capacity / Event Space / Meeting Rooms 50,000 2,000,000 sq. ft. 8 14,000 35,000 sq. ft. 4 10,000 250,000 sq. ft. 25 2,300 2,725 sq. ft. 2 1,200 20,000 sq. ft. 8 1,000 17,000 sq. ft. 1 900 10,000 sq. ft. 4 800 10,249 sq. ft. 14 450 6,200 sq. ft. 3

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Description

Top Local Official(s) / Year Founded

Venue buildings, open land with lake, 70 acres of outside meeting space and 100 acres of parking space that can be event space

Michael Carney 1979

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

Dave Holscher 1993

Attached to the Performing Arts Center, North Charleston Coliseum and Embassy Suites Hotel

Ed W Riggs 1999

Performing arts center

Dave Holscher 1999

Flexible meeting space with state-of-the-art audiovisual

Trish BryceJacobs 2005

Space available for trade shows, conferences, auctions, training, charity events, ceremonies, etc.; on-site catering available 2,500 square feet of storage space, catering setup and backstage needs; banquet style partition wall available; six dressing rooms 14 meeting rooms, 6,100-square foot Carolina Ballroom; personalized meetings specialists available

Jamie Lewis 1986 Chelsea Mylett 2008

Two outdoor terraces available with 500-person capacity each.

Peter J. Calogrides 2006

John Wong 1985

Researched by Lindsay H. Valek

Lists & Directories

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Index of Companies 82 Queen............................................ 52 A Charleston Bride.............................. 54 A Charleston Event LLC........... 36, 37, 54 A Charleston Harpist........................... 36 A Southern Bartender......................... 44 A Stretch Limousine Service............... 41 A&P Catering................................ 47, 52 Absolutely Charleston..... 36, 39, 40, 41, 54 Acoustic Music Charleston.................. 36 Action Media....................................... 41 Adventure Harbor Tours...................... 40 Adventures in Charleston Inc............... 54 All Occasions - Parties & Events By AAA Rentals....................... 36, 38, 54 All-Mist Outdoor Cooling Systems....... 36 American Theater............................... 60 An Executive Travel LLC...................... 41 Andy Hunt Creative Group................... 41 Aqua Safaris Inc.................................. 61 Archer Music Services, LLC................ 36 Artistic Eye Productions...................... 41 Atlantic Tent Inc.................................. 36 AV Connections............................. 36, 39 Beach Break Woodworks LLC............. 36 Bella Weddings............................. 39, 41 Belvas Flower Shop............................ 37 Beresford Creek Course at Daniel Island Club........................... 42 Best Western Charleston Downtown...... 51 Beyond Expectations........................... 46 Blackbaud Stadium............................. 56 BlackJack Barbecue........................... 44 Bloom at Charleston Place............ 36, 37 Blooming Occassions.......................... 37 Blossoms and Stems Florist and Greenhouse....................... 37 Blue Planet Green Events LLC............. 55 Brick Lane Catering............................ 46 Bulldog Tours...................................... 40 Bulls Bay Golf Club............................. 43 By George! Events and Marketing....... 55 Cafe Catering...................................... 46 Calder Clark Designs.......................... 54 Candlelite Pavilion at the Summerville Country Club............. 59 Caravita USA Inc................................. 37 Carmen Ash Photography.................... 39 Carolina Girl Yacht............................... 61 Caviar & Bananas Catering........... 46, 53 Charleston Affair LLC.......................... 54 Charleston Area Convention Center..... 62 Charleston Bay Gourmet..................... 44 Charleston Brews Cruise..................... 39 Charleston Convention & Group Services Inc.......................... 54 Charleston Downtown Limo................ 41 Charleston Executive.......................... 41 Charleston Florist Inc.......................... 37 Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina..... 48 Charleston Harbor Tours...................... 59 Charleston Harbor Tours...................... 40 Charleston Hospitality Tours................ 40 Charleston Ice Palace......................... 56 Charleston Maritime Center................ 56

Charleston Marriott............................. 48 Charleston Municipal Golf Course....... 43 Charleston National Golf Club.............. 43 Charleston Photo Video....................... 41 Charleston Pirate Tours....................... 40 Charleston Place................................. 48 Charleston Place Events...................... 54 Charleston Strolls............................... 40 Charleston Video Service.................... 41 Charleston Visitor Center & Bus Shed..... 56 Charleston Wedding............................ 41 Charleston’s Finest Historic Tours........ 40 Charlestowne Bound Limousine Service.............................. 41 Chi Photography................................. 39 Chris & Cami Photography.................. 39 Circa 1886.......................................... 53 Civil War Walking Tour......................... 40 Classic Carriage Works LLC.......... 40, 41 Client Source Inc................................. 55 Coastal Expeditions............................. 40 Coastal Yacht Charters.................. 40, 61 Coleman Photography......................... 39 Concorde LLC..................................... 38 Conference Room Charleston.............. 55 Cooper River Room............................. 61 Coosaw Creek Country Club.......... 43, 59 Cougar Point Golf Club, Kiawah Island Golf Resort................... 42 Country & Lace Florist........................ 37 Courtyard by Marriott Charleston Historic District.................. 48 Courtyard by Marriott Charleston Mount Pleasant................................... 50 Courtyard Charleston Waterfront......... 51 Covered Shelters at James Island County Park................... 59 Covered Shelters at Palmetto Islands County Park.............. 60 Covered Shelters at Wannamaker County Park................... 59 Crazy Dutchman Catering................... 44 Crooked Oaks Golf Course.................. 42 Crowfield Golf & Country Club............. 42 Crowne Plaza Charleston Airport Convention Center................... 48 Cru Catering....................................... 45 Culinary Tours of Charleston............... 40 Curiosity............................................. 36 Cypress Hall at Wannamaker County Park................... 59 Cypress Lowcountry Grill.................... 53 Distinctive Events............................... 54 Dock Street Theatre............................ 60 Doin’ the Charleston Tours.................. 40 DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Suites Charleston Airport...... 48, 53 Doubletree by Hilton Hotel & Suites, Charleston .................. 48 Downtown Area Shuttle (DASH)........... 41 Dunes West Golf Club......................... 43 Duvall................................................. 45 DVD Video Production Services........... 41 E. Boineau & Company, Inc...... 38, 39, 54

Easterby’s Family Grille................. 45, 53 Edisto Hall at James Island County Park........................................ 59 Elizabeth Grace Occasions LLC........... 55 Embassy Suites Airport/ Convention Center.............................. 48 Embassy Suites Catering.............. 44, 52 Embassy Suites Historic Charleston.... 48 Erimic Associates Caterers.................. 45 Event Drs Inc...................................... 36 Eventa Bella of Charleston.................. 55 Events by The Social Secretary........... 55 Eventsublime...................................... 55 EventWorks Rentals............................ 36 Everyday Gourmet.............................. 46 Exchange Park.............................. 56, 62 F22 Designs....................................... 38 Fairfield Inn & Suites Charleston Airport/Convention Center................... 51 Fat Cat Productions............................. 36 FingerSnappin’ Entertainment............. 36 Fini Event Planning............................. 55 Fish.................................................... 53 FIV Images.......................................... 39 Food For The Southern Soul................ 45 Fork Fine Gourmet Catering & Events..... 46 Founders Hall...................................... 59 Fox Audio Visual.................................. 36 Francis Marion Hotel........................... 48 French Quarter Inn.............................. 51 Fulton Lane Inn................................... 51 Gary Lee Photography......................... 39 Gathering Floral & Event Design.... 36, 55 Gayle Brooker Photography................. 39 Go To Team Inc.................................... 41 Going Coastal Transportation.............. 41 Good Food Catering............................ 45 Gray Line Charleston..................... 40, 41 Grill 225............................................. 53 Group Dynamics Rentals..................... 54 Halcyon Productions........................... 41 Hamby Catering & Events................... 44 Hampton Inn & Suites Charleston/West Ashley...................... 50 Hampton Inn & Suites Mount Pleasant/Isle of Palms.............. 51 Hampton Inn & Suites North Charleston/University Blvd......... 51 Hampton Inn Charleston North............ 51 Hampton Inn Daniel Island.................. 51 Harborside East.................................. 58 Hawthorn Suites................................. 51 Heather Forsythe Photography............ 39 Helms Briscoe.................................... 55 High Output Inc............................. 36, 39 High Touch-High Tech......................... 55 Hilton Garden Inn Charleston Airport... 48 Hokus Pokus Entertainment................ 36 Holiday Inn Charleston Airport & Convention Center.............................. 50 Holiday Inn Charleston Historic Downtown............................. 50 Holiday Inn Charleston Riverview........ 50

Holiday Inn CharlestonMount Pleasant................................... 48 Holiday Inn Express & Suites Charleston-Ashley Phosphate............. 51 Holiday Inn Express & Suites Mount Pleasant................................... 51 Holiday Inn Express-Summerville........ 48 Holy City Catering............................... 46 Homewood Suites by Hilton Charleston Convention Center/Airport..... 48 Homewood Suites by Hilton, Charleston/Mount Pleasant................. 51 Hyatt Place Charleston Airport/ Convention Center.............................. 51 Hyatt Place North Charleston.............. 51 Icebox Bartenders............................... 44 Impact Inc........................................... 55 inventivENVIRONMENTS...................... 54 Jazz Charleston.................................. 36 JMC Charleston............................ 38, 54 Johnson Hagood Stadium Club Level..................................... 58, 62 Joseph P. Riley Jr. Park....................... 56 Karst Inc Promotional Marketing......... 38 Katherine Miller Events....................... 55 Keepsakes Florist............................... 38 Kenda Sweet Events Inc...................... 55 King Street Photo Weddings................ 39 King Street Studios............................. 39 Kings Courtyard Inn............................ 51 Laura Alberts Tasteful Options....... 47, 53 Lawson Roberts LLC........................... 54 Lea Dales Photography....................... 39 Lee Edwards Entertainment................ 36 Legare Waring House.......................... 59 Legend Oaks Golf Club.................. 43, 60 Lotus Flowers..................................... 38 Lowndes Grove Plantation.................. 58 Magnolia Plantation & Gardens........... 58 Magnolias Upper Level Gallery............ 53 Marions in the French Quarter............. 61 Market Pavilion Hotel.......................... 48 Marni Rothschild Pictures LLC............ 39 McCrady’s.......................................... 53 Memminger Auditorium................ 56, 62 Memorable Meetings.......................... 55 Middleton Place ................................. 56 Middleton Place Restaurant/Pavilion... 52 Minuteman Press................................ 39 Montague Terrace at the North Charleston Colliseum................. 58 Monte Carlo Production...................... 55 Mulberry Street................................... 36 Nature Adventures Kayak & Canoe Tours and Rentals..................... 40 Nature’s Calling Inc............................. 37 Newton Farms Catering...................... 45 North Charleston Coliseum................. 62 North Charleston Performing Arts Center......................................... 62 Oak Point at Kiawah Island Golf Resort................................ 43 Ocean Winds Golf Course.................... 42 Old South Carriage Co................... 40, 41

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Old Towne Grill & Seafood............. 46, 53 Omar Shrine Convention Center.......... 62 Ooh! Events.................................. 37, 54 Osprey Point at Kiawah Island Golf Resort................................ 43 Palmetto Strings................................. 36 Pametto Carriage Works Ltd.......... 40, 41 Patriots Point Links on Charleston Harbor............................... 43 Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum.............................. 56 Pavilion Bar........................................ 52 PDA Production Design Associates................... 36, 39, 41 Pelican Productions............................ 41 Peninsula Grill..................................... 53 Pine Forest Country Club..................... 43 Planters Inn........................................ 50 Prime Cuts Productions....................... 41 Print Shop of West Ashley Inc.............. 39 Prospect Hill Plantation....................... 58 PSAV Presentation Services.......... 36, 39 Quality Inn & Suites at Patriots Point....... 51 Radisson Hotel Charleston Airport....... 48 Ralston Creek at Daniel Island Club..... 42 Rawle Murdy...................................... 54 Red Letter Events LLC......................... 55 Redbank Plantation Golf Course.......... 43 Reel Weddings.................................... 41 Relish Distinctive Catering............ 47, 52 Residence Inn Charleston Airport........ 50 Rick Dean Photography....................... 39 RiverTowne Country Club.............. 42, 60

Robbin Knight Photography................. 39 Ruths House Event Rentals................. 37 S.C. Bar Car........................................ 41 Sandlapper Water Tours...................... 40 Sara York Grimshaw Designs.............. 38 Seithel’s Florist................................... 38 Settings.............................................. 39 Shadowmoss Plantation Golf Club....... 43 Shannon Michele Photography............ 39 Shem Creek Inn.................................. 51 Sheraton Charleston Airport Hotel..... 48, 62 Silvas Photo Video............................... 39 Silvas Wedding and Event Videographer............................. 41 Simply Elegant.................................... 37 Smoak Stack Studios.......................... 39 Snee Farm Country Club..................... 43 Snyder Event Rentals.......................... 37 South Carolina Aquarium.................... 56 Southend Brewery and Smokehouse... 52 SpiritLine Cruises and Events........ 41, 59 SpringHill Suites by Marriott Downtown/Riverview............. 51 SRA Films........................................... 41 St. James Church Event Center........... 58 Stage Presence Event Rentals............. 37 Stagefront Production Services..... 36, 39 Stello Photography.............................. 39 Stems................................................. 38 Sticky Fingers Catering....................... 44 Sticky Fingers Smokehouse................ 53 Summerville Country Club (Miler Golf Course )............................. 43

Sundance Productions Unlimited......... 36 Tara Guerard Soiree............................ 55 Tasteful Civil Ceremonies by Allen Johnson................................. 55 The Blossom Shop of Summerville...... 37 The Boardwalk Inn at Wild Dunes Resort.............................. 48 The Charleston Chauffeur Company.... 41 The Citadel Beach House.................... 60 The College Center at Trident Technical College.................... 62 The Conference Center at James Island County Park................... 61 The Cottages on Charleston Harbor..... 61 The Golf Club at Briar’s Creek............. 42 The Golf Club at Wescott Plantation.............43, 46, 52, 58 The Grand Pavilion.............................. 58 The Greenery Florist........................... 37 The Historic Rice Mill Building............. 60 The Inn at Middleton Place.................. 50 The Library......................................... 52 The Links at Stono Ferry..................... 43 The Mills House Hotel......................... 48 The North Charleston Inn.................... 50 The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort................... 42 The Party Music.................................. 36 The Pavilion at Patriots Point............... 60 The Plantation Course at Edisto.......... 43 The River House at Lowndes Grove..... 61 The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort................................ 48

The Schooner Pride............................ 40 The Village at Wild Dunes.................... 48 The Wickliffe House............................ 60 Three Lions Club................................. 60 Three Little Birds Cafe & Catering....... 47 Tidalwave Watersports........................ 41 Tides Folly Beach................................ 48 Tidewater Catering LLC...................... 44 Tiger Lily Florist.................................. 38 Tom Smith Catering............................ 45 Town & Country Inn and Suites........... 48 Trio Solutions Inc................................ 54 Tristan.......................................... 45, 53 Trotters Restaurant............................. 53 Turtle Point at Kiawah Island Golf Resort................................ 42 Twiggs & Ivy....................................... 38 UniMedia................................ 36, 39, 41 Upstairs at 39 Rue de Jean................. 53 Vendue Inn......................................... 51 Virginia’s on King................................ 53 Wedding Event Design LLC................. 54 Wentworth Mansion............................ 51 Wild Dunes Catering & Event Rentals..... 46 Wild Dunes Resort.............................. 48 Wild Dunes Resort Harbor Course....... 43 Wild Dunes Resort Links Course......... 43 Wild Wing Cafe Catering............... 47, 53 William Aiken House........................... 58 Wingate by Wyndham at Charleston Southern University........... 50 Winship Productions........................... 54 Zeus Grill & Seafood..................... 47, 52

Index of Advertisers All American Awards Inc.................................................................................11 All Occasions..................................................................................................38 AquaSafaris Inc..............................................................................................11 Belva’s Flower Shop LLC.......................................................................... 10, 37 Boone Hall Plantation........................................................................................3 Carolina Girl....................................................................................................60 Carolina Ice Palace.........................................................................................10 Caviar & Bananas...........................................................................................46 Charleston Area CVB.......................................................................................25 Charleston Battery/Three Lions Club...............................................................13 Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission................................ 24, 32 Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina................................................................35 Charleston Harbor Tours........................................................................... 30, 59 Charleston Marriott Hotel................................................................................27 Charleston Place Hotel......................................................................................6 Cru Catering...................................................................................................45 Daniel Island Club............................................................................... 42, 52, 61 Doubletree by Hilton.......................................................................................15 Doubletree by Hilton Charleston Airport..........................................................16 Francis Marion Hotel................................................................................. 12, 31 Good Food Catering........................................................................................23 Harborside East..............................................................................................58 Hilton Garden Hotel-Airport.............................................................................49

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Holiday Inn Charleston – Mount Pleasant.......................................................50 Hospitality Staffing of Carolinas......................................................................50 ICEBOX Bar Professional Bartending Services.................................................30 Keepsakes Florist...........................................................................................37 Magnolia Plantation & Gardens.......................................................................57 Marion’s in the French Quarter.......................................................................20 Memminger Auditorium/Spoleto Festival USA.................................................62 Middleton Place Group Services....................................... Inside Front Cover, 21 Montague Terrace.............................................................................................5 Patrick Properties LLC.............................................................................. 28, 60 Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum......................................................7 PDA...................................................................................Inside Back Cover, 17 Planters Inn/Peninsula Grill.............................................................................33 Shem Creek Events........................................................................................61 South Carolina Aquarium................................................................................56 Spiritline Cruises.............................................................................. Back Cover Sticky Fingers.................................................................................................45 Three Little Birds............................................................................................44 Tides Folly Beach..............................................................................................9 Tidewater Foods and Catering, LLC / Blackjack Barbecue...............................47 Trident Technical College................................................................................14 Wild Wings Cafe.............................................................................................44

We’ve been providing audio, lighting, staging, design, and video services for over 20 years to an important roster of clientele – from the President of the United States, to the mother of the bride. We know you only have one shot at getting it right in the event world – find out why clients trust us to handle their technical details. Creativity, professionalism, and a warehouse full of gear. We’re PDA.