It’s easy to feel at home in Charleston and Savannah. Back in the Lowcountry for the first time in almost a decade, the sibling cities made us feel like we’d never left. Charleston has continued to forge itself into a formidable food city over the past few years, and Savannah has followed in its path. Thanks to a post-pandemic tourism boom, an influx of transplants, and entrepreneurial locals, the hospitality scene is on a roll. Food and beverage professionals in the region are building on the momentum and creating engaging, inviting, and innovative spaces.
Rather than simply cater to the tastes of tourists, restaurants and bars are choosing to be distinctive and reflective of their communities. Diners are becoming more adventurous, and chefs, bartenders, and sommeliers are taking note. What hasn’t changed is the focus on the region’s agricultural products. In both cities, restaurants are investing in their local farmers and fishermen and showcasing what the Lowcountry has to offer. Chefs in Charleston and Savannah are also dedicated to sharing the region’s culinary history, paying respect to its African, Caribbean, and Gullah-Geechee influences, and serving plenty of Carolina Gold rice. Tradition and an appreciation for the past, however, isn’t restricting innovation and creativity.
As Charleston and Savannah grow and develop, new voices and perspectives are flocking to the region eager to embrace its history, agriculture, and community. And while much has changed over the past decade, what matters most has stayed the same. “I know that the art of hospitality is stronger than ever,” says Chef Jason Stanhope in his letter to Charleston and Savannah. “Maybe I’m projecting, but I can feel the love flowing through the kitchen doors back into our dining rooms.” With their genuine, warm hospitality and thoughtful food and drink, the chefs, bartenders, sommeliers, and artisans in these coastal cities are undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with.
Coterie, located at 17 Warren St, Charleston, SC 29403, have always sought to bring talented people and their ideas to the table, and now that is being taken a step further. Introducing Lark hospitality with a permanent kitchen residency at Coterie.
Like a bird taking flight, Chef Woody presents an international look at Coastal French cuisine through a modern lens, mindful of the global flavors that inspired his cooking. No bird embodies an intrinsic relationship with the land and open countryside more than the Eastern Meadowlark, the muse behind the name, Lark Hospitality.
Lark at Coterieoffers a culinary experience to delight the senses. Grounded in seasonal flavors and nurtured by local farm-to-table relationships, we are a transitory look at the culinary world developing ourselves each day, come join us for a night to remember.
Chef Woody has also developed his first tasting menu for the Thanksgiving holiday that is not to be missed. Link for booking and menu below.
Beloved Chicken Finger brand to give 100% of in-restaurant plush puppy proceeds to pet welfare organizations across its Communities nationwide
CHARLESTON, S.C. (Nov. 25, 2024) — For 28 years, Raising Cane’s has been actively involved in supporting its Communities, with pet welfare among its six areas of focus. Inspired by its yellow labrador namesake, Raising Cane, the brand is kicking off its 2024 Holiday Plush Puppy Campaign on Monday, Nov. 25, benefiting local pet welfare organizations across the country. In Charleston, 100% of net proceeds from in-restaurant Plush Puppy sales will benefit Charleston Animal Society.During the campaign — running from Nov. 25 through Jan. 5 — Raising Cane’s is offering a limited-edition Plush Puppy inspired by one of the most iconic treats of the season: the candy cane. The year’s theme, “Raise a Little Cane,” features a plush Cane dog dressed as a candy cane to celebrate one of the most iconic treats of the season.
Founded in 1874, Charleston Animal Society is South Carolina’s first animal welfare organization and one of the earliest in the nation, remaining committed to preventing cruelty and providing care for all local animals in need. Guided by a vision of saving all healthy and treatable animals, fostering kindness and respect for all and eliminating cruelty, the organization has upheld its mission for nearly 150 years.
Plush Puppies are available inside Raising Cane’s Restaurants for $9.99 plus tax. For those looking to support on a larger scale, Plush Puppies in regular and XL sizes are also available for purchase online at raisingcanes.com with proceeds benefiting pet welfare.
Todd Graves, Founder & Owner of Raising Cane’s, infused his passion for animals into the brand he founded in 1996, naming it after his beloved dog. Each holiday season, Raising Cane’s introduces a new, special-edition Cane’s Plush Puppy and the one-of-a-kind program has been a tail-wagging hit since 2004, raising more than $2M for Community dog parks, no-kill rescues and shelters.
Raising Cane’s is one of the fastest-growing Restaurant brands, with 800+ Restaurants in 40+ states, and plans to open more than 100 new Restaurants across several new markets in 2024. The company recently announced plans to be one of the top 10 Restaurant brands in the United States and is known for its ONE LOVE® — craveable Chicken Finger meals — which includes the iconic “Cane’s Sauce” — named the #1 most craveable sauce in the Restaurant industry and most craveable chicken. For more information, visitraisingcanes.com.
CHARLESTON, SC: Architect Lori Bate, founder and chief creative officer of The Wren, announces the launch of a luxury lifestyle brand committed to bringing handmade, one-of-a-kind home products from around the world to the U.S.
Bate also is opening The Wren’s first physical location November 21 in Mount Pleasant, SC at 903 Houston Northcutt Blvd, Mount Pleasant, South Carolina 29464. The retail space is associated with the venerable Wynsum Antiques & Interiors, the downtown Charleston proprietor known for bringing high-quality antiques and home interior products to the Southeastern marketplace.
Every collection curated by The Wren’s designers whether ceramic tableware, custom woven pillows, Turkish rugs or cashmere throws celebrates an appreciation for artisanship and the luxury that owning such items inherently brings to a home. Each collection revolves around a particular culture, a particular maker’s methodology, or the rich history of a region.
Carlo Moretti glassware from Italy
“My motivation for starting The Wren is based on my love of travel and the fine artisan-level luxury products I scout out and bring home from European, Asian, and North American craftsmen I meet. I am excited to bring these sources, developed over many years, back to my U.S. clients. It’s a chance for The Wren’s clients to own customized home design products handcrafted by artisans who have devoted decades to perfecting their trades. Each of these culturally based products tells a story, which is a wonderful way to bring interest and beauty into the home while supporting artists high level of commitment to their craft and to global causes,” says Bate.
The Wren carries fine products with a storied past, such as Carlo Moretti hand-blown glasses, vases and lighting from Murano, Italy, and hand-sewn custom pillows using Fortuny fabrics originating from the ancient Italian studio and factory of Mariano Fortuny. The Wren also engages with expert modern artists, such as Irish-born and London-educated gilder Fiona Blunden, who applies gold leaf to mirrors and antique furniture using age-old techniques that have not changed since Medieval times.
Many of The Wren’s collections have a sustainability and philanthropic focus, such as Vista Alegre’s Amazōnia Collection of fine Portuguese porcelain. By setting the table with these tableware products, homeowners and designers are supporting artisans and the reforestation of the Amazon, as part of the proceeds are diverted to these causes.
The Wren is dedicated to giving back to the communities and cultures from which its products are derived. “The world isn’t a perfect place, and there is much need,” Bate says. “One of our goals is to help in some small way by supporting organizations that assist people and advance education and research into health and sustainability issues.”
Portuguese porcelain plates from the Amazōnia Collection
About The Wren
The Wren is a lifestyle brand that celebrates high-end craftsmanship around the globe and the spirit of slow shopping. Its community is a group of like-minded consumers that appreciate the stories behind unique handmade products. Only the highest quality custom products make the cut into The Wren’s inventory and must be products that add meaning and luxury to homes. The Wren is a treasure trove for shoppers and designers and also a platform for the world’s top artisans to tell their stories. Learn more at https://thewrenhome.com/.
Bar Polari, located at 1813 Reynolds Avenue, Suite C, North Charleston has opened. This new bar is working to redefine the traditional LGBTQ experience by providing exceptional cocktails, a welcoming culture, great conversations and a place of warmth and socialization.
Here are a few key things you need to know about the new Bar Polari:
Location: 1813 Reynolds Avenue, Suite C, North Charleston
We would like to spotlight a new women-owned and operated cocktail bar with a good vibe and a great name. Introducing “All My Exes”. This new bar provides thoughtfully curated cocktails with sophistication and love and welcomes all with the cornerstone of its culture written clearly in their mission: Cocktails + Community.
Let us tell you all you need to know to help you prepare your first and hopefully many happy return visits. Of course, feel free to bring along your exes. I am sure there are great stories to tell!
Where: All My Exes is located at 825 Savannah Hwy, Suite B, Charleston, SC, 29407
COLUMBIA, S.C. – Low Tide Brewing, a craft beer manufacturer, today announced it is expanding its operations in Charleston County. The company’s $22.2 million investment will create 33 new jobs.
Founded on Johns Island in 2016, Low Tide Brewing produces award-winning craft beers from quality ingredients. The company’s brewery and taproom also offer a variety of one-of-a-kind experiences for the community.
Low Tide Brewing will expand into a 26,800-square-foot facility, located at 0 Beer Garden Way on Johns Island, which will include a state-of-the-art brewing system and event space. The new facility will expand the company’s manufacturing operations to meet demand for its wholesale products and increase capacity for visitors.
Operations are expected to be online in mid-2026. Hiring will begin two months before opening. Individuals interested in joining the Low Tide Brewing team should email careers@lowtidebrewing.com.
QUOTES
“Low Tide Brewing is thrilled to expand our brewing operations in Charleston County. Demand for our products has grown steadily as we continue to strengthen our reputation in the community. We are excited to expand our capabilities so we can support our community even more while producing plenty of tasty brews.” -Low Tide Brewing Founder Mike Fielding
“Low Tide Brewing is making a strong impact on Charleston County’s economy with this $22.2 million investment that will create 33 new jobs. This expansion reflects our state’s thriving business environment, and we’re proud to see a South Carolina-founded company continue to find success.” -Gov. Henry McMaster
“Today’s announcement by Low Tide Brewing showcases that South Carolina and Charleston County have the resources businesses need to thrive. We congratulate this South Carolina-based company on its success in the Lowcountry and look forward to watching Low Tide Brewing continue to grow for years to come.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III
“The expansion of a homegrown South Carolina agribusiness is a cause for celebration. I thank Low Tide Brewing for their commitment to our state, its workers and to making a great product.” -Commissioner of Agriculture Hugh Weathers
“Charleston County is thrilled to see Low Tide Brewing expanding its operations. This homegrown success story perfectly exemplifies the innovative spirit that drives our local economy. Their commitment to quality and community aligns perfectly with our vision. Creating 33 new jobs and expanding their unique visitor experiences will be a bonus for Johns Island and the entire county.” -Charleston County Council Chairman Herbert Ravenel Sass III
FIVE FAST FACTS
Low Tide Brewing is expanding its operations in Charleston County.
The company’s $22.2 million investment will create 33 new jobs.
Low Tide Brewing is a craft beer manufacturer.
The company’s new, larger facility will be located at 0 Beer Garden Way on Johns Island, S.C.
A crux of the American dream since the post-war boom, suburbs continue to attractmore movers than any other type of neighborhood. With their promise of stability, community, and homeownership, they offer the space and amenities that many seek. They’re known as family-friendly havens, safely outside the noise of the employment-rich cities around which they sprawl.
Essential to the ideal of suburban homeownership is steady employment. Today’s top suburbs drawing interest from relocating Americans are known not only for their lifestyle appeal, but also for their strong job markets.
In 2024, which of America’s suburbs have local job markets strong enough to attract movers from all over the country?
Using search data from the moveBuddha Moving Cost Calculator, we found that among more than 210K move inquiries made so far in 2024, there are 43 suburbs where this aspect of the American dream is alive and well. In addition to generating more searches from people looking to move in compared to out, these top suburbs also have annual job growth over the August 2024 national average of 1.55%.
Big Takeaways
Growing gems: Just 43 American suburbs in 2024 are popular with movers and are in metros that can boast above-average job growth.
Southern coastal cities dominate move searches, with 9/10 of the most popular cities located within the region.
#1 Summerville, SC, a Charleston suburb, soars almost 38% above the closest competition for desirability: 3.76 people search for a move into this popular suburb for every outbound search.
The best for affordability, Broken Arrow, OK, a Tulsa suburb, sees average home prices of just $275,250. On the flip side, famous and Hollywood-adjacent Beverly Hills, CA sets buyers back more than 11x Broken Arrow’s average: a typical home here will cost buyers $3,511,964.
The 5 job-magnet suburbs everyone wants to move to in 2024, in metros with the fastest-growing job markets, with 2023-2024 job growth from 4.2% to 2.9%, vastly higher than the national 1.55% average: Summerville, SC; Mount Pleasant, SC; Meridian, ID; Henderson, NV; and Bentonville, AR.
The job-magnet suburbs everyone wants to move to in 2024: Summerville, SC
While not every suburb in the top ten for popularity has ocean waves lapping at its shores, all are within 2 hours of a beach day. The coastal South reigns supreme for its suburbs where people want to move in, and where far fewer residents considering a move-out.
The 10 top job-magnet suburbs everyone wants to move to in 2024, with the highest in-to-out move ratios:
Summerville, South Carolina
Conway, South Carolina
Beverly Hills, California
Winter Garden, Florida
Davenport, Florida
Bluffton, South Carolina
Cary, North Carolina
Clermont, Florida
Wake Forest, North Carolina
Conroe, Texas
Eight of the ten most popular suburbs fall within just three states: North Carolina, South Carolina, and Florida. In North Carolina’s Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill metro area, Cary and Wake Forest both rank as top suburban destinations. In Florida, three Orlando-area suburbs take the prize: Clermont, Winter Garden, and Davenport. South Carolina’s top suburbs are spread across the state.
With the highest move-in ratio, Summerville, SC, sees 3.76 people searching to move in for every resident looking to leave. A suburb of Charleston, Summerville’s popularity among prospective movers may be due to the incredibly strong job growth in the metro area – 4.2% between August 2023 and 2024. Known for its red-brick historic district, farmer’s market, and community events like the Flowertown Festival, Summerville is also one of just three suburbs in the top ten with an average home value under $400K (the others are Conway, SC, and Davenport, FL).
The juggernaut of southern suburbs is broken by only Beverly Hills, CA, where 2.54 new residents express a desire to move in for every outbound search.
I am writing this letter to express my sincere gratitude for all that you have given me. From the moment I arrived in your beautiful city, I was struck by your charm, your warmth, and your rich history.
You welcomed me with open arms, and I felt immediately at home amidst your beautiful architecture, cobblestone streets, and stunning waterfront. Every day, I was enchanted by the beauty of your landscapes and the elegance of your culture.
I cannot express enough how grateful I am for the opportunities you have given me. I have had the pleasure of exploring your many historic sites, from Fort Sumter to the Magnolia Plantation, and have learned so much about your unique history and culture.
I have also had the pleasure of experiencing your culinary delights, from your famous biscuits to your seafood and Southern cuisine, which have all been delicious and memorable.
Most importantly, I have had the opportunity to meet some of the kindest and most welcoming people I have ever encountered. Your residents have gone above and beyond to make me feel at home, and I will forever cherish the memories of our conversations, shared experiences, and laughter.
Charleston, you have given me so much, and for that, I am eternally grateful. I will carry your beauty, your charm, and your spirit with me always, and I look forward to returning to your shores in the near future.
East West Partners Debuts Revitalization of 152-Year-Old Landmark Building
Nationally awarded real estate development firm champions historic preservation with the remarkable transformation of 71 Wentworth into contemporary residences
CHARLESTON, S.C. (November 14, 2024) – East West Partners, a premier, nationally awarded residential and commercial real estate development group with a flagship office in Charleston, announces today the grand opening of 71 Wentworth, a collection of 12 exceptional residences in the heart of historic Charleston. Located on the iconic King Street corridor on the corner of King and Wentworth Streets, the project marks a complete, top-to-bottom revitalization of a circa-1872 historic building with a richly layered tenure in the community.
“Restoring 71 Wentworth allowed us the opportunity to pay homage to the architectural integrity of Charleston’s past,” says Chris Frampton, CEO of East West Partners. “An incredibly creative collaboration, the end result is a collection of thoroughly modern homes set inside an absolute gem of a building. After years of dreaming about this architectural landmark, we’re proud to debut its next era and to welcome residents and guests alike.”
East West Partners’ vision for 12 distinctive residences was brought to life alongside an industry-leading design team including Kevan Hoertdoerfer Architects, Cortney Bishop Design, and Trident Construction. The residences were initially offered starting at $1.7M and sold out within several months.
RICH HERITAGE IN THE HOLY CITY
Representing an integral part of the Charleston skyline for more than 150 years, the iconic landmark was originally a palatial Masonic Lodge designed by famed Charleston architect John Henry Devereux in Tudor Gothic Revival style with richly molded and arched windows soaring as high as 18 feet tall and cathedral ceiling heights of 20-40 feet. In 1877, due to financial challenges, the Freemasons came to an agreement with South Carolina militia unit the Washington Light Infantry, giving the organization access to utilize meeting spaces on the second and third floors rent-free in exchange for financing the building. The Freemasons ultimately sold 71 Wentworth in the mid-1940s. Thereafter, the first floor was used primarily as retail space, while the second and third floors would be used for performances, office space and storage. The building’s first floor is still utilized today as retail space along Wentworth and King Streets.
In the 1950s, as part of the building’s modernization efforts, the original 16′ and 12′ Tudor Gothic-style windows at 71 Wentworth were replaced with small metal, international-style windows to allow for one of the first central HVAC systems in the Southeast. As a significant piece of East West Partners’ restoration efforts, a team of nine tradesmen and more than 20 crewmen meticulously restored the 41 original windows, a nearly $2 million investment in the overall project. Due to the age of the building, each window opening varied in size and had to be laser-measured for fabricating. Each custom-made window is comprised of five different pieces, some of which weigh close to 300 pounds and had to be manually installed.
“71 Wentworth represents a once-in-a-lifetime project for East West Partners and our partners, and it has been a true honor to usher this architectural icon into the modern age while paying homage to its rich history,” says Graham Worsham, East West Partners project manager.
A FRESH PERSPECTIVE ON LUXURY CHARLESTON LIVING
Seamlessly blending historic architecture with contemporary touches, 71 Wentworth’s mix of two- and three-bedroom residences feature soaring ceilings; historically replicated Gothic-style windows; exterior loggias in select residences; exposed antique brick and salvaged heart pine timber and beams; luxury kitchens; and more. East West Partners collaborated with acclaimed designerCortney Bishop on the interior finishes for the residences and common areas. In addition to selecting interior and exterior finishes, Bishop furnished a two-story pied-à-terre in the building.
“As a Charleston native, I’m incredibly honored and proud to have had a hand in restoring this iconic landmark with such historical significance in the city,” says Bishop. “We made a concerted effort to preserve as much original detail as possible, while making highly considered updates to suit modern living – from plumbing to light fixtures, tile to floor finishes, and kitchen cabinetry to space layout.”
Through a partnership with hospitality company Inspirato, 71 Wentworth owners have an opportunity to enroll their residence in the company’s luxury vacation club and enjoy access to the Inspirato network of rentals across the globe. Homeowners also enjoy a variety of high-touch services such as dedicated resident concierge; weekly property inspections; grocery delivery and stocking; valet laundry and dry cleaning; and more.
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About East West Partners:
East West Partners is devoted to building, selling, managing, and supporting high-quality real estate and lifestyle experiences with a focus on innovation, sustainability, and community. Since 1986, the firm has developed and sold over $7 billion of residential and commercial real estate across the country. East West Partners is one of only a few companies to have received three Urban Land Institute Awards for Excellence for its projects, including Beaver Creek Village in Beaver Creek, Colo. and Union Station Neighborhood and Riverfront Park, both in Denver, Colo. In Charleston, the team is recognized for developing community projects in the downtown area, including condominiums at One Vendue Range, Gadsdenboro Park’s The Gadsden, 71 Wentworth, as well as mixed-use development of residences, townhomes, and marshfront homes at The Waterfront on Daniel Island, Mount Pleasant’s Tides IV and recently completed The Cape on Kiawah Island.
Inspirato is a leading luxury hospitality company that creates extraordinary vacations both through our private destination club and through partners who leverage our industry management expertise. As the only hospitality company to exclusively manage a portfolio of branded luxury vacation homes and curate one-of-a-kind adventures through our Inspirato Only experiences, we can provide a luxurious experience and first-class service that discerning travelers can rely on wherever they travel. For more information on Inspirato, please visit www.inspirato.com.
Cortney Bishop is an internationally renowned interior designer. As principal and owner of Cortney Bishop Design (CBD), a full-service, Charleston-based interior design firm founded in 2007, she works with clients to design modern eclectic interiors in some of the most sought-after locations along the east coast and around the world. Her work has been recognized by leading publications such as Architectural Digest, Better Homes & Gardens, Domino, ELLE Décor, Luxe Interiors + Design, House Beautiful, RUE, The New York Times, and The Wall Street Journal. Beyond running CBD, Bishop is also founder of Harwood House, a premier line of woven textiles created in collaboration with Holland & Sherry, and the founder of album: an experiential and immersive e-commerce platform featuring a hand-selected collection of furniture, decor, and art from the world’s leading artists and artisans, made available for a limited time.
Photo Credit: Courtesy of East West Partners / Nick Cann Photo.