Yelp honors its top contributors with the first Yelp Charleston Awards at 5Church

By Mark A. Leon – Photo by Victoria Armstrong

Last evening, the most noted members of the Yelp Charleston community, arriving in dresses, tuxedos and bow ties took part in an award ceremony in an intimate room at the new 5Church Restaurant on Market Street. Hosted by community manager Scotty Carpenter, this dinner and ceremony celebrated the thriving restaurant and retail industry in Charleston, SC and decorated those that have dedicated themselves to providing insightful reviews for locals, tourists and future patrons.

Yelp is a multi-platform website and app where patrons can review businesses, provide tips and photos and make reservations through its online system SeatMe. This platform is used globally and allows for honest and open shared conversation about experiences including restaurants, retail, parks, sites and services.

Many geographic regions have a community of socially aware users that partner to provide the most detailed perspective so customers can make educated decisions on where to dine, shop and play. With the close microscope on the growing scene at home, Charleston is no exception. Each region has a manager who serves as event planner, coach and cheerleader. Charleston’s group is led by Scotty Carpenter, who just celebrated three years in the role.

Charleston’s cultural explosion in hospitality and retail has donned a great deal of excitement and competition and through nothing more than dedication, this group of “Elite” users are giving back by providing the best input of their personal experiences.

On Tuesday Night, 5Church, in the location formally housed by Mad River, hosted this group of super users with an Oscar worthy three course meal, wine and cocktails. The Yelp Elite community was treated to a night where Yelp corporate and the collective businesses of Charleston said thank you.

Photo by Victoria Armstrong

From Review of the Year to Most Valuable Yelper to Best Photographer, the winners came up through the red carpet, posed for pictures and there was even room for a speech for the Lifetime recipient.
The next time you are dining out and not sure if you want to take the risk, turn to Yelp and think about those that utilize their writing and photography skills to provide you with insightful content to help you make the most educated decision.

The key to life is happiness; the key to happiness is good judgement and the fuel is knowledge sharing.
To the Tim’s, Wendy’s, Mike’s and Lauren’s, bon appetite and thank you for sharing your thoughts on Charleston with the world.