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Lowcountry

How do you define “Southern Hospitality”? Has Charleston’s latest dining concept, Honeysuckle Rose created a new definition?

October 31, 2023

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

By Mark A. Leon

Recently, some of the most creative Lowcountry minds in marketing, branding and culinary excellence discussed this very question. How do you define “Southern Hospitality”?

What was learned is that there truly isn’t a single definition; that perhaps the one variable that makes Southern Hospitality such a sought-after experience is that it challenges itself and pushes to continually grow and provide a better experience. Without even realizing, Lowcountry restaurants have become coaches and cheerleaders for one another raising the bar of excellence in service and food by learning new techniques and creating an exceptional journey into cuisine.

In a way, “Southern Hospitality has parallels to our own universe and existence. It evolves; emulates; caters; and becomes “YOUR” own unique moment.

One restaurant has raised the bar of excellence and created an unprecedented model of dining, Honeysuckle Rose. Ripped from the page of Downton Abbey, Honeysuckle Rose takes you back to a place of refined elegance where you become the star of your culinary cinematic journey.

This one of a kind restaurant concept will challenge your palate by understanding you and your preferences to create the perfect 8 course meal with exceptional wine pairings.

Is this A.I.?
Is this foodie Heaven?
Is customized dining a future trend that can be scalable and become part of our daily narrative?
No, Yes, Perhaps…. But it’s Charleston!

Let’s paint a picture of what you and your guests will experience as you escape into this dining wonderland.

Upon completion of your reservation, the concierge team will contact each guest and get a deep appreciation and understanding of your food passions. They will then design a customized 8-course meal for each guest.

Upon arrival, a menu and place setting will be ready for each guest. At that moment, you first learn of how your evening will play out on your palate. This is YOUR night to experience the finest of your own culinary imagination.

Sit back, let the conversation guide you, as you are paired with food and wine that will linger as you retire to the streets of Charleston.

Honeysuckle Rose may have just created the latest definition of Southern Hospitality.

Are you ready for your journey?

Photos courtesy of Honeysuckle Rose

Lowcountry

City of Charleston breaks ground on the new Ashley River Crossing Bridge

October 31, 2023

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

This week, federal, state, county and city officials joined Mayor Tecklenburg to break ground on the Ashley River Crossing, a standalone bridge that will provide a safe connection for bicyclists and pedestrians traveling across the Ashley River.

This is a big step toward continuing our commitment to the safety and security of our pedestrians and bikers.

Click to read the full City of Charleston Plan Summary and Commitment: https://bit.ly/47eL4UW

Stay up to date and subscribe to Charleston Daily.

Lowcountry

World’s Largest Inclusive Playground at Park Circle Set to Open – Grand Opening November 11, 2023

October 29, 2023

by Charleston Daily 6 Comments

The City of North Charleston is thrilled to announce the grand opening of the eagerly awaited Park Circle redevelopment project, featuring the world’s largest inclusive playground, on Saturday, November 11, 2023 at 10am. The public is invited and encouraged to attend.

“The transformation of Park Circle is a dream realized, reflecting our unwavering dedication to the well-being of our community. The world’s largest inclusive playground is a testament to our commitment to inclusion, ensuring that every person, regardless of their ability, has a place to play, learn, and grow,” stated North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey.

The $20 million transformation of Park Circle has been a labor of love, driven by the vision of Mayor Keith Summey and City Council. It represents a remarkable achievement for the community, as the entire inner circle of Park Circle has been redeveloped to meet the modern needs of residents and visitors.

The centerpiece of this reimagined park is the North Charleston Inclusive Playground, the largest of its kind in the world. Designed to be an inclusive haven for people of all ages and abilities, this playground shows dedication from the North Charleston community to promote social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development through play.

The North Charleston Inclusive Playground features elements chosen with great care to ensure the highest level of inclusion. Families will have the opportunity to engage in play that nurtures their motor skills, sensory perception, cognitive abilities, and social and emotional growth. This one-of-a-kind playground exemplifies the spirit of true inclusion and will serve as an inspiring model for communities around the globe.

The newly redeveloped Park Circle boasts a stunning community building, complete with a theater and meeting rooms, where art, culture, and community gatherings will find a new home. An inclusive baseball field stands ready to host games that encourage friendly competition, and a versatile performance and event space is poised to become the stage for countless memorable moments.

Grand Opening Event

Parking Information: Handicap/Accessible Parking will be available on the inner circle, providing convenient access to the grand opening event. General Parking will be located on the disc golf green space. Attendees are kindly asked to use designated crosswalks for safe passage.
Playground Opening: The North Charleston Inclusive Playground will open its gates immediately following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, scheduled for 10 a.m. Be among the first to experience this incredible space of inclusion.
Entertainment and Activities: The grand opening celebration promises a day filled with family-friendly activities and entertainment. Live music, face painting, balloon twisters, and an array of vendors will be present to add to the festive atmosphere. You won’t want to miss this!

Lowcountry

Dreaming Farms: The Best Little Pumpkin Patch in Charleston, SC (James Island)

October 27, 2023

by Charleston Daily 1 Comment

Have you heard of Dreaming Farms Pumpkin Patch and Christmas Tree Farm located at 1540 Camp Road, Charleston, SC (James Island)? If not, you may be missing out on the cutest family experience in a more relaxed and intimate setting.

It’s all in their mission:

“From our family to yours; Dreaming Farms was never just a Pumpkin Patch or a Christmas Tree lot. Our business is the holiday experience, we supply a rich American tradition to families all across the Charleston area.”

What is a Dreaming Farms experience like?

Pumpkin Patchin
Gift Shop
Live Music – Weekends
Plants
Photo Ops
Farm appeal

Official Website

Click Here for a Coupon

Lowcountry

MY SALON Suite acquires six Cirque Salon Studios in Charleston, South Carolina

October 25, 2023

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

MY SALON Suite Accelerates Expansion with Another Six-Unit Acquisition, Demonstrating Commitment to Strategic Growth

As the brand surpasses 300 locations, salon suite franchise acquires six Cirque Salon Studios

(CARROLLTON, TX) Oct. 25, 2023 — MY SALON Suite, a salon suite franchise that focuses on providing stylists and beauticians a personal space to build their business and the beauty industry’s future, announced today its acquisition of six Cirque Salon Studios in Charleston, South Carolina, continuing its aggressive new growth strategy as the brand surpasses 300 locations.

MY SALON Suite’s strategic purchase of the six Cirque Salon Studio Charleston locations marks the second major acquisition in less than two months for the brand following the recent acquisition of six salons in Reno, Nevada.

Founded in Charleston in 2008, Cirque Salon Studios is a salon suite franchise with locations across South Carolina, Virginia and Florida. The Charleston salons, which will rebrand as corporate MY SALON Suite locations, join two existing brand locations in the area to bring the MY SALON Suite footprint in the market to eight salons.

“MY SALON Suite’s acquisition of Cirque Salon Studio’s Charleston locations represents a significant opportunity for the advancement of our salons, both for our beauty professionals and their loyal customers,” said David Manzi, founder of Cirque Salon Studios. “Cirque Salon Studios has grown tremendously since our inception, and entrusting the future of these six locations to MY SALON Suite aligns perfectly with the salons’ continued development. I’m thrilled the MY SALON Suite team will implement its exceptional resources and expansive network to continue the success of the Charleston-area locations.”

As the brand surpasses 300 locations, MY SALON Suite is continuing an aggressive growth strategy with the acquisitions of 12 independent salons so far this year. In addition, the brand is on pace for a record year of franchise development with multi-unit agreements and conversions of independent salons. Through targeting acquisitions in strategic corporate markets and franchisee conversions, MY SALON Suite will continue its mission to dominate the salon industry and accelerate the growth of its footprint across the country.

“MY SALON Suite has seen tremendous franchise growth throughout 2023, and expanding our corporate presence is the logical next step in facilitating continued development,” said Mark Jameson, chief development officer of MY SALON Suite parent company, Propelled Brands. “The addition of these outstanding salons to our portfolio underscores the strength of our network and resources. Continued acquisitions and conversions will be instrumental for both franchise and corporate locations, with corporate development allowing us to build a blueprint of the process for franchisees to capitalize on, ultimately amplifying our growth potential.”

The initial investment for a MY SALON Suite franchise is approximately $823,344 – $2,241,800, including a $50,000 franchise fee. Investment is typically lower for independent salon suite operators wishing to convert and receive the brand benefits. Ideal candidates have a net worth of $1.5 million, of which $500K is liquid. Additionally, MY SALON Suite offers a special incentive for veterans and first responders, including paramedics, emergency medical technicians, police officers, sheriffs and firefighters, which includes a 50% reduction on the franchise fee – a savings of $25,000.

For more information about MY SALON Suite franchise and conversion opportunities, visit https://www.mysalonsuite.com/franchise, or contact Mark Jameson at mark.jameson@propelledbrands.com or 214-346-5679.

About MY SALON Suite

MY SALON Suite is a salon suite franchise designed for individuals with an entrepreneurial spirit who are interested in diversifying their portfolio while enjoying a semi-absentee lifestyle. The company was established with the aim to inspire and empower the modern-day salon owner, providing a unique opportunity for a diverse range of beauty and health professionals to successfully manage their businesses. MY SALON Suite members are provided with ongoing training, support, and a robust referral network to bolster their business growth. The brand, which is ranked #66 on Entrepreneur’s Highly Competitive 2023 Franchise 500® List, is widely recognized for its rapid expansion and significant success.

A strategic alliance partnership with Propelled Brands has allowed the nation’s largest family-owned collection of salons to fuel the brand’s growth. Currently, MY SALON Suite boasts over 330 locations in 35 states across the United States and Canada, with 165 franchisees and over 8,500 Suite Elite Members. The franchise concept plans to continue its expansion in the coming years.

To learn more about MY SALON Suite, visit mysalonsuite.com.

Lowcountry

Coming Soon to Charleston, SC: Allora, a Coastal Italian Restaurant Concept (114 Spring Street)

October 23, 2023

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

On the corner of Spring Street and Rutledge Avenue will be seeing a new resident restaurant this Fall.

Allora, a Coastal Italian restaurant concept will be opening on 114 Spring Street in the Fall of 2023.

Allora is “designed to take a journey through the winding streets of Italy’s Amalfi Coast.” This sister restaurant to Southbound, Community Table, and Bar Pizza will be a four part space featuring the main dining room, Bar Allora, Rooftop Allora and a Coffee and Gelato window.

The main restaurant space will have an earthy color palette, with distressed brick and plastered wall will be a key part of the environment, Jones expressed. There will be classic light fixtures and rich textiles to create an old world, yet modern feel.

Ryan Jones is the executive chef and co-owner of this new restaurant concept.

Official Website – Sign up for updates

Lowcountry

How to secure a 4% property tax rate in Charleston, SC – Step by Step Guide in this new video

October 23, 2023

by Charleston Daily 1 Comment

Charleston, SC Property Taxes: Unlocking the 4% Rate – Step-by-Step Guide!

Realtor Christina Wilson offers a wonderful video guide on how you can reduce your property tax from the 6% default to 4% in this new video.

About the Video

In Charleston, property taxes are assessed at two different rates: 4% and 6%. These rates are related to the type of property and the owner’s eligibility for certain tax exemptions. 4% Tax Rate:

▫️ This rate applies to primary residences or legal residents of South Carolina.

▫️ To qualify for the 4% rate, the property must be your legal residence and not a second home or investment property.

▫️ This lower rate is designed to provide property tax relief for homeowners who live in their properties full-time. 6% Tax Rate:

▫️ The 6% rate typically applies to secondary or non-primary residences, including vacation homes, rental properties, and commercial properties.

▫️ If the property is not your primary residence, it falls into this category and is taxed at the higher 6% rate.

*It’s important to note that property tax rates can change over time due to local government decisions and reassessments. Property owners should consult with the Charleston County Assessor’s Office or a tax professional to ensure they are correctly classified and receiving any eligible exemptions.

Additionally, tax rates can vary within the Charleston area, so it’s essential to check the specific rates for your location.

Lowcountry

Sales Focus Inc. Expands Charleston, SC Sales Center to Meet Growing Demand

October 23, 2023

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

Sales Focus Inc., the global expert in sales outsourcing, enhances infrastructure and local job opportunities with the expansion of its South Carolina Sales Center.

CHARLESTON, S.C., Oct. 23, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Sales Focus Inc. (SFI), the world leading provider of outsourced sales solutions, expanded its Charleston, South Carolina Sales Center to meet the increasing demand for its services and further solidify its commitment to the Charleston area.

The expansion comes as a response to the remarkable growth and success that Sales Focus has achieved in recent years, as well as the increasing need for professional sales expertise. The Charleston Sales Center expansion enhances SFI’s ability to deliver first-class inside sales services to clients, offering a wide range of solutions for businesses seeking to boost revenue and acquire new customers.

Key highlights of the expansion include:

Increased Capacity: The office expansion increases SFI’s available workspace by more than 56 percent, allowing the company to accommodate more highly trained sales professionals. This enhanced capacity empowers the company to take on more clients and deliver exceptional results.

Job Creation: The expansion has already generated a significant number of job opportunities for the Charleston community, with plans for further hiring in the near future. Sales Focus is dedicated to supporting the local economy and providing valuable career opportunities for Lowcountry residents.

Enhanced Training and Development: Sales Focus has always been committed to employee growth and development. The larger facility enables the company to expand its training opportunities and support its workforce, ultimately leading to a stronger team and better service delivery.

“We are thrilled to announce the expansion of our Charleston Sales Center,” said Sale Focus Inc. Sales Director Zach Horwath. “This expansion reflects our commitment to providing top-notch sales outsourcing solutions for our clients and our dedication to the local community by creating job opportunities. We look forward to continuing to serve our clients with the highest level of service and expertise.”

The expansion of the Charleston Sales Center is part of SFI’s ongoing efforts to meet the growing demand for its services and maintain its position as the world’s industry leader in sales outsourcing.

For more information about Sales Focus Inc. and its expanded Charleston Sales Center, please visit https://www.salesfocusinc.com/.

Sales Focus Inc.

Sales Focus Inc. (SFI) pioneered the sales outsourcing industry in 1998. Put simply, Sales Focus hires, trains, and manages successful inside and outside sales teams for its clients. SFI utilizes its proven S.O.L.D.™ methodology to develop a sales plan and manage a sales team that excels in client acquisition and revenue growth. Sales Focus guarantees to launch a sales program of any size anywhere in the world in 45 days or less.

FOR IMMEDIATE CONTACT:

Angelica Iglesias – Marketing Coordinator

Sales Focus Inc.

7301 Rivers Ave, Suite 120
North Charleston, SC 29406
(803) 378-6111
367347@email4pr.com
SOURCE Sales Focus Inc.

Lowcountry

Sullenberger Aviation Museum Unveils New Logo, Completing Identity Evolution Ahead of Summer Opening in Charlotte, NC

October 23, 2023

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

The colorful new logo represents the museum’s multidimensionality and new mission of “expanding horizons”

CHARLOTTE, N.C., Oct. 23, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Sullenberger Aviation Museum, the premier aviation museum of the Southeast, this morning unveiled its new logo and visual identity, marking the final step in its brand evolution from the former Carolinas Aviation Museum to a reimagined transformational exploration of the power of flight with a mission to inspire, educate and elevate the next generation.

The new visual identity signifies not only a personification of the new brand, but an inspiring new vision for the 31-year-old organization. While the new facility – set to open in summer 2024 – will continue to exhibit historical aircraft, it will also serve as an elevated educational resource and innovation center to help shape the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) workforce development pipeline throughout the region.

The logo, created by integrated marketing agency Luquire, mimics the shape of a pilot’s wings and the tri-color visual is indicative of the museum’s varied and multidimensional experiences, while supporting the museum’s promise of “expanding horizons.” Comprised of blue, green and yellow colors, the logo is equal parts a celebration of aviation and an introduction to the new, inclusive space where the next generation of innovators and ambitious changemakers from the Carolinas and all over can learn about the wonder of flight.

“Housing one of the foremost collections of flying machines anywhere combined with powerful multisensory storytelling and interactive spaces, the Sullenberger Aviation Museum truly is a dynamic transformational and memorable experience, and this bright, innovative representation of who we are – unlike any museum logo we’ve seen – brilliantly showcases our mission and vision,” said Sullenberger Aviation Museum President Stephen Saucier. “In a world of seemingly unlimited options for entertainment and fulfillment, people are craving unique opportunities to exercise their sense of play and satisfy their expectations for immersive, interactive narratives – and we know this museum has the capacity to do just that.”

The logo’s bright colors were selected to represent the playfulness and interactivity of the museum and parallel its three distinct locational experiences – the welcome center, a main exhibit hall and a preserved historic hangar complemented by an outdoor plaza – in addition to its three thematic areas. The largest is a themed exhibition zone in the new Main Gallery known as Innovation Nation that presents the history of aviation as a testament to humankind’s capacity for creativity and imagination of possibilities beyond the known. The space will include stories of design, competition and safety while also offering interactive experiences for visitors including vertical wind tunnels, flight simulators, cockpits that visitors can get inside, games and make and take activities.

“Museums are special, offering visitors the chance to embrace and challenge the past while reimagining the future, and the aviation industry is filled with just that – individuals who have altered the course of history though their ingenuity,” said Katie Swaringen, the museum’s Vice President of Collections. “By sharing their stories, the museum will inspire visitors of all ages to pursue their own dreams and goals and explore their own potential.”

Innovation Nation will also house the A320 from US Airways Flight 1549, better known as the “Miracle on the Hudson,” and a corresponding exhibit. Flight 1549 has been part of the museum’s collection since 2011, but when the museum reopens it will include new artifacts and mementos, including letters from passengers to museum namesake Capt. C.B. “Sully” Sullenberger, who, along with his crew, landed the plane safely in New York’s Hudson River on Jan. 15, 2009.

“The Sullenberger Aviation Museum will not just help us know and understand past achievements, it will enable and inspire us to create a brighter future,” said Capt. Sullenberger.

The museum will also include a makerspace, in which visitors can learn about aviation via interactive, hands-on activities, and a Flight Forward Catalog, which will serve as a vital resource to help students and adults connect to careers in STEM-based industries. Open to all visitors in-person and virtually via the museum’s website, the makerspace will give visitors an opportunity to explore, design and problem solve via hands-on learning experiences and tools, including a paper airplane launcher and target, Lego robotics, 3D printers, snap circuits and more.

Spearheaded by Sullenberger Aviation Museum Vice President of Education Dr. Misty Sweat, the catalog will be complemented by the Flight Forward Program, a conglomeration of North Carolina aviation industry and educational professionals, several colleges and universities, trade schools, workforce development groups and the Charlotte AIR Institute, that will work together to create strategic opportunities for student training, networking and recruitment across STEM-based fields.

“STEM and career-focused exploration and accessibility are at the core of the Sullenberger Aviation Museum’s experiences, and we are dedicated to creating an opportunity pipeline for curious students to deepen their understanding of the diverse people, innovation, and opportunities in aviation, and lean into that curiosity through immersive and interactive touch points.” said Dr. Sweat.

The unveiling of this inspirational new logo is just the first in an exciting series of upcoming milestones for the museum leading up to its opening in summer 2024. For more information, visit www.sullenbergeraviation.org.

About Sullenberger Aviation Museum

Sullenberger Aviation Museum, renamed in honor of Capt. C.B. “Sully” Sullenberger, aims to Inspire, Educate and Elevate by re-imagining the greater Charlotte region as a hub for aviation and STEM innovation and creating more diversity and economic mobility by inspiring and empowering the next generation to pursue careers in STEM, aerospace and aviation. A Smithsonian affiliate, the museum receives support from the Infusion Fund, a partnership between the City of Charlotte, Foundation For The Carolinas and generous donors to support the arts and cultural sector. For more information, visit www.sullenbergeraviation.org.

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SOURCE Sullenberger Aviation Museum

Lowcountry

Charleston Business Spotlight: It’s a strike! Ashley Lanes and Tavern in West Ashley will bowl you over with fun

October 21, 2023

by Charleston Daily 0 Comments

We want to celebrate the place where folks gather to have fun, build a sense of community and love, enjoy some good down to earth food and knock down a few pins.

Ashley Lanes and Tavern is just that place. Whether you are reliving those childhood memories or making your first, Ashley Lanes is a great place to meet and place.

We also, cannot say enough about the warm and inviting staff. They are like family. From the moment you walk in they will set you up with everything you need to make your own lasting memories.

Whether you bowl a 225 average or 91, it doesn’t matter, because Ashley Lanes and Tavern welcomes all. The only thing they ask of you is: “Have fun”.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

Location: Ashley Lanes and Tavern – 1568 Sam Rittenberg Blvd, Charleston, SC

Hours: