Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Bon Annee!
Monday, December 29, 2008
Have yourself a merry little painting party...
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Simple pleasures & the PP year in pictures
Here's a peek at the PP year in pictures for your enjoyment. Safe travels and cheers to all of you.
Friday, December 19, 2008
The Giving Tree
So, to support these great women and spread some holiday cheer, Lowndes Grove hosted a festive gathering, complete with homemade cookies, hot chocolate, holiday music and gift cards hung on an evergreen tree for the moms and children’s most needed things. Macy Gray, Lowndes Grove GM Ashley Gunnin's cat, was a hit with the ladies too, even if she is a bit shy.
Was talking to some friends about the "state of things." It only takes a minute to get truly down about the economy, war and all around struggle. It's enough to stop you in your tracks and keep you from doing anything at all, which is the greatest trap of all. I suppose when it comes down to it, you just do what you can. Like Mother Teresa said: "We can do no great things, only small things with great love."
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Puttin' the BAR back in BARgain
But truly, Happy Hour drink prices (subhead: during these trying economic times) are nothing to sneeze at. As a reminder, Fish now proudly offers Happy Hour, or as the French call it, Bonne Heure, Monday through Friday, from 5:30 until 8 pm. During which time, you can partake in:
$2.50 Bud & Bud Light
$3.50 well drinks
$4 specialty cocktails
$5 house wine
$1 dim sum!
And, far be it from me to reccomend something I did not actually try. I was present for Fish's inaugural Happy Hour and I must say it was an extremely pleasant, yummy, relaxing and affordable experience. Hip hip hooray!
While we're talking economic conditions, I must say I am always fascinated and delighted by what advertisers, artists, writers, marketers and creatives of all shapes and sizes will do to make us laugh in spite of our worries, anxieties and other things that make our shoulders crawl up toward our ears. AND reveal little moments of greatness and beauty while they're at it. For instance, take a look at this WWII propaganda redux that is just as true today as it was in 1939.
Check this out, too. I was talking to some folks the other day about our collective "need to know," especially during times of uncertainty. We want to know and feel good about our decisions: from who is growing our vegetables to taking the time to handwrite a note...or NOT, as the case may be. This is genius and also somehow disconcerting. Pay someone to write a lovely card for you (strict no stalking policy). I'm just not sure how I feel about it and yet, as a writer and lover of paper, I'm thrilled. Mmm, mixed feelings. Still, nice stationery! Take a letter, Maria!
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Patrick Properties, how refreshing!
In other news, several of the PP staffers and I are partook of Fish's inaugural Happy Hour last night. I'm pleased to report that the mood at the Fish bar was, in a word, HAPPY. One might even say CONTENT. One could so far as to say DOWNRIGHT GIDDY. I am NOT making this up. Who knew $4 specialty cocktails could make one feel so dandy?
In WAY other news, I have been utterly obsessed with this vintage advertising blog. May I ask, for one quick second, why the golden light in the 1960s and '70s? Did it say comforting? Trustworthy? Anyone? Anyone at all?
Monday, December 15, 2008
Gardens, red snapper, HAPPY HOUR!
It's not such a revolutionary idea. It's a request to bring hope and change to what is perhaps our most basic need: nourishing ourselves.
While I'm on the subject of food, the Post & Courier ran a piece this weekend about the plight of the red snapper. It seems that the federal government is poised to shut down the harvest of red snapper in the South Atlantic, commercially and recreationally, and close down miles of the offshore to bottom fishing due to research that shows the species is in steady collapse. Local fishermen, including our own Mark Marhefka of Abundant Seafood, are, as you might imagine, worried about their future. FYI: Fish has already substituted vermilion snapper for red snapper on the menu. But the passionate debate continues, on and off the water. For more information, go here.
Let's segue to something a bit more fun: HAPPY HOUR at Fish! It begins today. Details are as follows:
5:30 until 8 pm, Monday through Friday
$3.50 well drinks
$4 specialty cocktails
$5 house wine
$2.50 Bud/Bud Light
$1 dim sum
Are we clear? Fabulous. Meet you at the bar.
Actually, I spent a moment at the Fish bar on Friday night. And many thanks to PP staffers Courtney Jo, Charlotte, Rachel, Shannon and our own Managing Partner Randall Goldman who helped add some panache to Brennan Wesley's photo shoot. If you play your cards right, you may get to see some outtakes later in the week.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
A visit with Peter Kaminsky
It was so interesting to talk about the sustainability and local products with: 1. Megan, who's work is to educate, advocate and put producers together with chefs and the masses. 2. Mark, who's actually out there in the high seas catching fish. 3. Nico, who's honoring the fish and produce with his creativity and culinary skills and sharing it with all who enter the restaurant. 4. Peter, who makes his life diving deeply into the beautiful minutia of food, chefs, culture and how it all melds together.
Sidestory: Peter told us about the origins of Bibb lettuce. First of all, "created" by a man aptly named Bibb. Secondly, it comes from Kentucky which is a state rich in limestone. Limestone, it seems, is wonderful for all living things, like Bibb lettuce and say, thoroughbred horses. So, then Mark adds in that he heard that Wadmalaw, which produces some tasty local Bibb lettuce, used to have an actual limestone quarry back in the day. Fascinating!
So, we ate, talked, laughed (Peter "named" our new Molly Right bottlecap art piece, "Our Lady of Perpetual Dr. Pepper"), mused and generally enjoyed our time together. And I for one, came away knowing a little more, questioning even more and loving the opportunity to meet up and share some time over great food.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Tap your foot if you love LOCAL!
- Walking around the property with Lowndes Grove General Manager Ashley Gunnin and lighting votives together
- Listening to Nico talk about the Pho lentil soup
- Meeting members of the V-Tones, especially a man named Noodle from Texas. Yes, really.
- Loving every minute of Cary Ann Hearst, especially when she got behind the drum kit!
- Oh that pate!
- Seeing Alan and Erin's baby girl, Olivia, all bundled up
- Warming my hands by the fire pit next to the Ashley River
- Watching a brilliant sunset
You can check out a write up here and stay tuned for more photos in the coming days. Congratulations to Lowcountry Local First and to the many hands who helped make it happen. These local get-togethers just keep getting better.
Friday, December 5, 2008
Hi, we've made your plans for the weekend and they are FUN!
Then, tomorrow is Shopping with Friends on King Street. And, since we would rather you not shop until you actually DROP...Fish is offering $3 house liquor drinks from 5:30 until 8 pm.
Should you need a little nosh, our $6 - $8 small plates are the perfectly delicious way to fuel up and keep on shoppin.’ Then, DJ Todd Cadley starts spinning at 10 pm. Fun fact: he's a Jersey native and used to be in music production where he helped promote folks like used to promote Lauryn Hill, Bjork and Tricky. Cool!
Finally, Sunday is Lowcountry Local First's Buy Local Bash at Lowndes Grove where Fish, FIG, Monza, Taco Boy, Maverick Southern Kitchens and many more dish up local favorites. Cary Ann Hearst is playing too! Get your tickets online now now now!
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Skirt! sirens & carnival weddings
Came across this utterly cool carnival wedding shoot. I especially love the shot of the Tornado! Really, nothing says I love you like a little motion sickness. Ear of roasted corn, honey?
Should you be on James Island tonight, don't miss checking out the documentary Independent America at the Terrace Theater in celebration of Buy Local Week. $15 cash or check at the door also gets you into the after party next door.
Can't leave you without sharing the Lowndes Grove sunset photo one more time. It's just that good.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Whose Birthday Was It?
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Moon, planets & holiday things!
In other local news, the Give Local Bazaar is already underway at 10 Storehouse Row. It's a fabulous afternoon of evening of local artisans, cooks, musicians and nonprofits all gathered together to showcase Charleston’s rising talent and philanthropists. And hey, great local gift ideas!
I walked into Fish earlier to find Evan (Cherub) up to his eyeballs in festive greens, lights and poinsettias. Woohoo, holiday cheer!
And thanks to yesterday's reader/commenter, more photos of Charleston in-season coming soon!
Monday, December 1, 2008
Quick list of 3 good things
By the by, we're officially in a recession. (Um, duh.) During my Turkey Day travels, I got some firsthand glimpses of how our economic troubles are manifesting across state lines and businesses. As I walked into Hertz at the Cleveland Airport to pick up my rental car, I was amazed at how eerily quiet it was. I asked the woman helping me what was up. She reported that they had laid off about half of their staff, as well as reduced their fleet of cars by half. That's at the airport in Cleveland, people. Wow.
Then, while at my Mom's house in Findlay, Ohio, I noticed she had a poster in her window that read: We heart Cooper Tire. When I asked her when this love affair with a tire company began, she informed me that sales for Cooper Tire have been awfully low due to high raw material costs and competition from low-cost imports. So, they're going to close one of their manufacturing plants: one in Findlay; Albany, Georgia; Tupelo, Mississippi and Texarkana, Arkansas. And the folks in Findlay are hoping they'll stay online.
So yes, the economy is for real and goodness knows we need to take the appropriate steps. However, let us not panic, there are good things for which to be grateful.
Quick list of 3 good things:
1. Buy Local Week. It kicks off tomorrow. I know you know this already but it bears repeating and perhaps tattooing on your arm: buying local helps sustain our city and neighbors, and plus it just feels good, knowing exactly where your money is going.
2. Louisville, Kentucky. One of the women I work with spent the holiday in Louisville, AKA her hometown. This morning she regaled me with tales of her adventures with such fervor, I am now compelled to take a trip there. P.S. If anyone out there is listening (Reggie Gibson), Charleston is simply crying out for a 21c.
3. Infused bourbon. Our resident mixologist (and cherub) Evan makes it. It makes you feel warm and toasty on the inside and really, when it comes to an economic brouhaha, every little bit helps. Please proceed directly to the Fish bar.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Pre-Thanksgiving Happiness
Nothing says happy holidays like seafood on a treadmill
Here at PP today, we're gathering for a Thanksgiving staff lunch. Potluck thankfulness if you will. I will try to snap a few pics to share.
In other pre-Turkey news, you're cordially invited to Fish tomorrow evening to prepare for the familial onslaught. We'll have $4 holiday-inspired cocktails and $6 to $8 small plates. And, we have very nice bartenders that can talk you down from most any family anxiety/stress you might have. They're good like that.
Oh and don't forget to put the Buy Local Week events on your calendar for next week. Seriously, do it now because you might forget after all the turkey and stuffing and then you'll start next week feeling behind and then you'll be all stressed and who needs it? (See what I did there? I nurtured.)
Ahem, to review:
Monday, 12/2: Give Local Holiday Bazaar, 3 to 8 pm, 10 Storehouse Row at the Navy Base
Tuesday, 12/3: Eat Local Night at select area restaurants
Thursday, 12/5: Watch Local: the documentary Independent America at The Terrace Theater at 7:30 pm. After Party at Zia Taqueria
Sunday, 12/7: Buy Local Bash at Lowndes Grove: 12 area restaurants, live music, local beer, wine and fantastic local food, 6 to 10 pm
For tickets and more information, simply go to www.lowcountrylocalfirst.org.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
The American Theater, Wings & things
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
William Aiken House Holiday Ornaments: Just $19.95!
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
It's international day at PP!
Monday, November 17, 2008
Equality, DJs, etc.
Friday, November 14, 2008
Birthday scone cake, anyone?
First of all, Happy Birthday to PP Managing Partner Randall Goldman. Our fabulous Pastry Chef Susie Ieronemo made the fantastic scone cake pictured above expressly for one Randall Goldman, founding member of the scone of the month club. And no, I don't know how old Randall is. I think we'd have to cut him open and count his rings to find out.
PP is abuzz with activity. Check out Lowndes Grove in the Party Scene for Charleston Magazine for Charleston Ballet Theater's recent shindig.
Some lovely moments from Laura and Chris' wedding at The William Aiken House captured by photographer Olivia Griffin.
Nico cooked up some crab rangoons at last night's grand opening for our new neighbors at King Street Kitchen Company. The store is beautiful and the opening was jam packed with fun folks. And, Nico got some help with the rangoons from his new pal, Olive.
If you're out and about tonight, you need to stop by Fish to hear the sweet sounds of DJ JAZ (aka John Zahl). Take a listen. JAZ starts at 10 pm. Come get your groove on. You know you want to.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Pecha Kucha
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Lowndes Grove: the Ralph Lauren Rugby shoot
Friday, November 7, 2008
Well, hello & welcome to Lowndes Grove!
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Bacon, Ballet...mmmm good!
Director of Events Jennifer Goldman just popped by on her way to Lowndes Grove for tonight's Charleston Ballet shindig.
In other Goldman news, beginning December 1, PP Managing Partner Randall Goldman is VP of the Charleston Civic Design Center (CCDC), whose mission is to enhance the quality of life in Charleston by engaging the community in creating a dynamic urban design. Congratulations, Randall!
Vintage cars, Pecha Cucha, Twittering
Nico received an incredible invitation to be part of next week's Pecha Cucha get together. If you haven't heard about Pecha Cucha (once you start saying it, it's quite addictive), you must read this now. In a nutshell, it's happy hour meets open-mic meets creative conflab (I can die happy now. I used the word conflab in a sentence.) Nico and all the presenters get approximately 6 minutes to do their thing. It's fast and furious and I can't wait. Really cool folks are in the line-up. Again, check it out.
Met with one of the PP interns earlier this week. She's a hospitality major at COC and all about metatags and Google analytics. It's interesting to watch the hospitality industry wrap their collective arms around technology. Along those lines, check out this Twitter-er. P.S. A little "vernacular" tip. To "Twitter" is the verb. The result of Twitter-ing is a "Tweet." You are now one step closer to tech dork status.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Voting stories, New York stories, Fish stories
So, here I am, back from points north. I have to say it was quite wonderful to unplug for a few days. I recommend it whenever you're able. I spent Halloween with my best friend, his wife and their 17-month old daughter (see bunny here.) We took the baby trick or treating, and it was just big fun. From surburbia, I moved to New York City to visit recently engaged friends who live in a Chelsea co-op with a fantastic view of the Empire State Building. When I arrived, my friend and I went up to the rooftop deck for sparkling red wine, bread, cheese and honey. We watched the sun set, ate, drank and just reveled in the goodness of the fall evening. Couldn't ask for more.
In other news, I voted (2 hours from start to finish), and I hope you have too or are on your way to polls.
Here's my sweet story from the poll line: standing in front of me was Alice Guess from Gibson Thompson Guess Architects and her daughter. In front of her was a couple she knew and their two young daughters (one 7, the other, 2). As we finally got into the school itself (line was wrapped halfway around it when we began), the 2 year old jumped up and down, and with great exuberance, shouted O-BA-MA! (She emphasized the BA, which made it that much cuter.) And to that I say, go girl.
Charleston Weddings and an array of local planners and floral purveyors spent today at The William Aiken House shooting gorgeous bridal bouquets and centerpieces for the Winter issue of the magazine. The few peeks I got this morning were just incredible. Thanks to Melissa Bigner and the whole crew for thinking of us for the shoot.
And finally, don't forget to join us at Fish when you exit the polls. We'll be sporting $5 politically-inspired cocktails, $6 - $8 small plates and two T.V.s for your viewing pleasure.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Notes before I go...
Thus, I shall regale you with several tales before I depart.
1. Fish is launching our new, late Automne menu (French spelling, people) tonight. Main course highlights include cassoulet, coq au vin (Keegan Filion Farms chicken) and triggerfish. Personally, I am all about some cassoulet.
2. Election Day at Fish goes a little something like this. All of you good citizens get out there and vote (sidenote: have you seen this?). Upon exiting the polls, enter Fish. The bar has two T.V.s for your viewing pleasure. Plus, $5 politically-inspired cocktails (Ask Evan.), $6 - $8 small plates, and of course, our new dinner menu. Bring your posse and belly up to the bar I say.
3. For the upcoming Ralph Lauren photo shoot at Lowndes Grove, they're looking for a circa 1970s Cadillac convertible and/or a 2002 TTI BMW. If anyone has either of these, could you drop a line? Thanks.
4. Happy Halloween, since I won't be seeing you. Remember, pennies do not treats make.
Friends in need
Monday, October 27, 2008
Neither rain nor downpour nor torrents of water...
Yesterday, Nico cooked for a small group of about, ohhhhh, 200 for the Aquarium's Sustainable Seafood Festival. And he still had time to create a new, late Autumn menu to be launched this week.
Oh, and breaking news: we just confirmed a photo shoot at Lowndes Grove for Ralph Lauren. They'll be shooting photos and video for their Rugby line. Preppy co-eds on the river, y'all!
Friday, October 24, 2008
Design Walk Highlights!
We here at PP had a thoughtful strategy for the evening and it worked out even better than planned.
1. Meet at Fish for pre-walk cocktail. (I had the Upper King Design Walk signature cocktail, the High Fashion.) Got to see pals from Blue Ion and MUSC.
2. Said hi to super songstress Elise Testone and pianoman Gerald Gregory. Sipped our drinks.
3. Said hey to Margaret from Skirt! and fabulous photographer Marni Rothschild Durlach who popped in to shoot Elise for perhaps an upcoming edition? Finished drinks.
4. Walked in and out of neighborhood shops, ate some delicious snacks, had a yummy snowcone (thanks, Elizabeth!), saw innumerable friends and colleagues (you know you who are!) and shopped (a supersweet fedora and amazing green bag were among the purchases. Thanks, Gus and Andrea!)
5. Returned to the Fish bar, now packed, to listen to Elise and Gerald. P.S. "Boogie On Reggae Woman," "Walking After Midnight" and "Virtual Insanity" were a few of the highlights. I KNOW!
To sum up, the Upper King Design Walk was incredible. Personally, it was especially moving to watch our neighbors and friends who have gutted it out these past few months, amid much uncertainty, revel in their respective businesses, the thing they love to do most and just shine brightly.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Upper King Design Walk Tonight
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
All manner of good stuff
As I've mentioned before, all manner of interesting things happen here at PP. Recently, Ginny Deerin, CEO/founder of wings contacted Managing Partner about our use of social media (blog, Twitter, Flickr). So, yesterday Randall and I met with Ginny to talk about what's worked for us, and, more importantly, we got to take a peek at wings in progress. In a nutshell, wings is an after school program for kids at Memminger Elementary and Chicora Elementary. But it's much much more. Wings is about nurturing social and emotional intelligence in children in a dynamic, fun and safe environment. At one point, Program Director Ericka Parker asked the children to recite the wings creed, and let me just tell you, more than 50 voices, ages 5 through 12, spoke those words (and it's NOT short) with unbelievable exuberance. It was impossible not to feel hopeful and wonderful after a moment like that. What's happening in that classroom is something we can all feel hopeful about, no matter what the news tells us.
Tomorrow is the Upper King Design Walk and, of course, it's also the day that Elise Testone and Gerald Gregory perform, so it's sure to be big fun. All of our neighborhood shops will be staying open late, and you know Fish will be jumping, too.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Naked moo shu, the death of Zima & Whole Foods
If you haven't been outside yet today, you need to stop reading this blog immediately and get out there. Go ahead, I'll wait.
Lovely, right?
While you're feeling good, please brace yourself for this rather upsetting bit of news. The malt-liquor magic that was Zima is coming to an end. (Moment of silence.) When I shared this news earlier with a few PP staffers, I was regaled with no less than three stories of the Jolly-Rancher-in-the-Zima phenomenon. Class? Anyone? Rite of passage or just unfortunate common first-time drinking story? You decide. At any rate, don't fret, there's still Boone's Farm.
In tastier news, tomorrow at 6 pm, Nico will be doing a fabulous cooking demonstration at Whole Foods in Mt. Pleasant. Our main Frenchman will be preparing slow cooked triggerfish, which is just ridiculously good. Stop by for fun and fantastic prizes, including a recipe card, Q&A time with Nico and, the best part, a sample of the dish. Several PP staffers will be on hand to heckle, I mean, cheer Nico on. We'll save you a seat.
Monday, October 20, 2008
Lowndes Grove Super Trooper
Friday, October 17, 2008
So, about that economy...
Thursday, October 16, 2008
For our next trick, pumpkin carving!
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Fish loves a good debate: join us tonight at the bar!
The American photo shoot
Monday, October 13, 2008
Friday, October 10, 2008
It's random Friday at Patrick Properties!
At left: our pals and neighborhood quality beef producers at Cordray's apparently dabble in other forms of...um, game? GATOR!
Below are Hanz & Franz, former residents of the Lowndes Grove Main House, now adding "character" and not just a little levity to the Lowndes Grove sales office.
And finally this is Hitachino, a lovely Japanese beer with one of the best designed labels (you know what a sucker I am for design) I have seen in a while. It's served at Fish. I highly recommend it. Especially after a week like this. Hanz and Franz haven't tried it yet, but they are more into Prosecco anyway.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Class is in session
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Instant moo shu, like instant karma, but tastier.
Okay, new topic. If you happen to be the person at your company who is responsible for the holiday party, may I offer a couple of suggestions. (Not that there is, in theory, anything wrong with pigs in blanket and Swiss Miss, but you know, just in case.)
We here at PP have a lovely array of historic properties just perfect for your holiday shindig. For instance, go holiday-Deco at The American Theater Grand Ballroom. Or, live the estate life for a hot minute at the Lowndes Grove Main House. Better yet, go downhome at the Lowndes Grove River House. Perhaps a Lowcountry supper at The William Aiken House? A seated dinner at Fish. You think about it. Let us know.
Monday, October 6, 2008
The $10 lunch. Yes, really.
So, say you come in and order shrimp moo shu with the local tomato salad and a coke. $10.
Or maybe you fancy the seared tuna salad with the cilantro yuzu dressing and a sweet tea. Oh, just $10.
Actually, what you really want is a bowl full of steamy pho noodle soup with chicken and a seltzer. That will be $10, thanks.
Friday, October 3, 2008
Did someone say speakeasy?
You see, we (me + clients) talk about the old theater and how it is hard to imagine that this new space exists, and we need to sing about it from the rooftops. We admire those ridiculously cool new chandeliers. We talk about making custom posters for the marquees. We have this great idea about pre-dinner cocktails in the lobby with parmesan truffle popcorn and old fashioned cocktails. We talk about cigarette girls and speakeasies, we become like family or at least old friends then we hug it out, grinning ear to ear. It is good times, and I love every minute of it.
I know it’s not up to me what you type of event you plan at the theater, but I love that space and it deserves a good party. If you care about my happiness at all, then here are my wishes.
1. Speakeasy! Secret knock or password at the street front ticket booth. Bathtub gin and moonshine. Oysters Rockefeller. Live music and guests dancing the Charleston. Debauchery!
2. A holiday party with a fake fireplace projected on the 9x12 screen on the stage. The Beach Boys and the Partridge Family Christmas albums piped in through the sound system. Turtlenecks, gaudy cardigans, lots of laughs, corny gifts. Don’t judge.
3. A realistic holiday party with a fun-loving group of folks. Hot cider, secret Santas, cranberry, pumpkin, roasted game, red wine. A trio of musicians in the background.
4. Ryan & Grayson’s wedding. Theme is The Notebook (one of their favorite movies & so happens the big date scene was filmed here). Okay, so it’s not a theme per se, it is art deco elegance and style. Dapper. Candlelit, creams, gold. Tuxes, gowns.
5. Corporate meeting that uses every inch of new technology in our projection booth. Now that the presidential debates are over, I guess I’ll settle for the State of the Union Address. Does it have to take place in DC or is location optional?
Call me. (843) 737.9225
Email me. jessica@patpropevents.com
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Good and good for you.
What a day here at PP. Busy, busy. Executive Chef Nico Romo and Chef de Cuisine Charron Henry will be cooking tonight at the 13th Annual Charleston Stage Gala at the Gaillard. The fundraiser will feature 15 chefs and Greg Tavares from the HaveNots! is master of ceremonies who will lead the party in a Musical Salute to Hollywood Musicals. THAT should be priceless. Sneek peek of Nico's menu:
amuse bouche
Local Shrimp Lollipop
Sweet Soy Ginger Ice Cream with Spicy Crushed Cashew
first course
Bouillabaisse
Grouper, Clams, Mussels, Fingerling Potatoes, Bok Choy,
Fennel, Mushrooms, Thai Coconut Broth
second course
Chocolate, Ginger Braised Short Ribs
Nori Rice Cake, Candied Haricot Vert
dessert
A Trio Mini Cheesecakes
Hot Chocolate, Raspberry and Peach
In other news, our pals Elise Testone and Matt Chase are playing at Fish tonight from 6 to 9. Don't miss it.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
The Divine American Theater
I use the word DIVINE on purpose and believe you me, I don't throw Miss M's image around lightly. But I am just saying this Grand Ballroom is just that. Details include two, handmade milk glass chandeliers and a warm, stylish Art-Deco palette (think creams and celestial gold). Very gorgeous, very elegant, very retro. And also, so very modern with all the hot tech/A/V equipment one needs for a truly fabulous celebration. (a 9 x 12 screen with ceiling mounted projector, state-of-the-art AMX A/V system, multiple handheld, lapel and headset microphones and a 340-square-foot stage for presentations/performances)
I'll tell you a secret: Corporate Sales Manager Jessica Kafer and I are both dying for someone, somewhere to have a Prohibition-themed party in the Grand Ballroom. Wouldn't that just be the most fun? Do it. Who isn't crying out for a Prohibition-themed company holiday party? Call Jessica, she has special packages and pricing too. 843.737.9225
Monday, September 29, 2008
When in doubt, half-priced wine.
As a rule, I am not one to push the panic button, though I would be fibbing if I said I wasn't personally feeling the result of higher gas and food prices. But, bear in mind, I am the child of a father who was born in 1929, the year of the stock market crash.
To say that my Dad was prudent when it came to all things financial just might be the understatement of my life. Growing up with a Dad that was forever turning off lights ("Do you think I own stock in the power company?") or turning down the thermostat ("Put on a sweater!") was, during those moments, a bit of a burden to bear. Now, years later, I see that the reality of his rants is actually darn pragmatic and dare I say, more sustaintainable. Something to mull over.
At any rate, my thought for the day is this. Breathe in and out. Take a walk outside. Try not to panic. And should you still feel twitchy, remember, Fish has half-priced select bottles of wine tonight.
Friday, September 26, 2008
Kazoos & congrats
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Wednesday evening on Upper King
Friends from the Upper King Design District also joined us last night for the neighborhood meeting. Can I just say? When you gather all the amazing people in our neighborhood together, the creativity and energy in the room is palpable.
Had coffee and a great talk with Jamee Haley from Lowcountry Local First the other morning about an upcoming Buy Local Week. That's right, the first week of December will be proclaimed Buy Local Week by Mayor Joe Riley, and the tentative events will be a perfect blend of all things local. We here at PP are hoping to have a major role in one of the events. I can say no more...Stay tuned for details!
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Poetry & basket weaving
Monday, September 22, 2008
Sometimes you just need theatrics.
Anywho, I will regale you with the many outstanding details soon, but for now, I will just say that this space is worthy of once-in-a-lifetime events, like say an incredible corporate incentive gathering, a 1940s-inspired wedding reception or perhaps a royal coronation. It could happen.
And if you don't think it's a romantic setting, may I just remind you of Love, American Style?
Friday, September 19, 2008
Skirtastic!
This is Nico running away from General Manager Jodie Battles in the parking lot like a movie star running from paparazzi! Again, may I say? Nice gams.
And though I didn't have much time to sit and really enjoy the music, the few moments I got to share with Elise Testone and Matt Chase last night were just perfect. We're so thrilled to have them with us. Remember, Thursdays from 6 to 9 pm.
In neighborhood news, congratulations to Gus and Andrea Serrano, owners of B'Zar. Suite Sole, their new sneaker boutique, opens on Spring Street this weekend. Go get some sweet new kicks from some of the coolest people I know.