News from the river...

You didn't think we were taking a break out at Lowndes Grove, did you? Don't be mad, as they say across the pond. Check out the progress on the catering kitchen! You might ask, how are you currently getting that delicious food of yours over to Lowndes Grove, if there's no catering kitchen currently on-site? Actually, I have a small moped with a lovely basket. They fill me at at the Fish catering kitchen and then I ZOOOOOMMMMMM over to Lowndes Grove. You didn't seriously believe that, did you? (Not that I wouldn't courier over some tasty tidbits on a moped in a pinch, but that's not how we currently roll over here.) We'll keep you updated on the progress.

This Thursday, Lowndes Grove is playing host to the Montessori of Mt. Pleasant Boosters Club Annual Auction & Student Expo. It's called Bluegrass for A Green Planet. Great name and should be an outstanding event.

Happy Birthday, Steve-O!

I believe I have mentioned before on this blog that the PP team has this tiny little mischievous streak (about 50 miles long). Anywho, today is our Accountant Steve's birthday. Now, Steve is a really funny guy and a Jersey native (HOLLA!), but he and the spotlight? Not so much. With that in mind, Managing Partner Randall Goldman placed a call to the lovely and talented Tammy Walters, who put on a gorilla suit and came armed with music and balloons to humiliate, I mean entertain, our pal Steve. Notice in the photo: Steve shrinking away in horror and Tammy dancing so fiercely she's really a blur! Go, gorilla!

I must state, for the record, that I got a tiny bit concerned for the safety of the gorilla (Tammy) when I saw the horrified look on Steve's face. But, good sport that he is, he ever so slightly smiled while the rest of the PP team was hooting and hollering. (Note to self: take the day OFF on your birthday.)

In other news, I can really be a sucker for a good people-watching experience and last night's private Lowndes Grove launch was the perfect setting for it. It was wonderful to watch architect Glenn Keyes, general contractor Jim Rhode and interior designer Paula Adams as a mostly local crowd of revelers ooohed and aaahed their way through the Main House and grounds. As if on cue, the sun set in a warm and spectacular display of orange and red and I thought to myself: this place is alright.

Come & knock our door...we've been waiting for you...

Our big, honkin' Lowndes Grove front door welcomes you. (Another lovely shot from our recent shoot.)

I can't write another word without sharing this unbelievably gracious comment card we received IN THE MAIL from a recent guest at Fish.

"This is not nearly enough space for all the words of praise and thanks I'd like to send to you. Of all the places in Charleston that we ate, Fish is by far the best. I loved the room, the decor, the ambience. The meal was absolutely incredible - best seafood in your city! 1/2 price wine night was a nice surprise (didn't know about that one!)!! Our server, Lexi, was as nice, pleasant and friendly as she could be! A lovely lady indeed! Oh, and the jazz trio was perfect. Not too loud for a room that size and very good players. Finally, Jodie Battles (General Manager) could not have been any more gracious. She was so nice to show us around just "chat" after dinner. Thank you, thank you!
-Tom Anderson

In other marketing news, Starbucks just keeps on keepin' on. Today, they gave away FREE 8 oz. cups of their new Pike's Place brew, which according to CEO Howard Schultz is "bold, robust flavor profile that customers have come to expect of Starbucks coffee, but with a smoother, buttery finish." Mmmm, buttery. In my coffee? Anywho, I do admire their tenacity to get, you know, back to the cawfee love. I get so mystified by marketing brouhaha, even if it IS my job. It's constantly changing and engaging.

Run Charleston Run!

The weather turned out to be wonderful for today's Bridge Run Press Luncheon at Lowndes Grove. Warm with a perfect breeze. Yes, we ordered it special!

I had this funny thought as the many generous sponsors presented GIANT checks to the Bridge Run folks and an array of non-profits. Who came up with the idea of giant checks? The lottery gives them out; big corporations give them to non-profits. Wouldn't it be hilarious if you HAD to actually use the big check. You'd walk into the bank with it, all awkward, have trouble getting through the door, possibly hit a few people with it by accident, approach the teller and say,"Hi, I'd like to cash this." I'm laughing just typing that.

ANYway, I digress. To our Director of Human Resources Elizabeth Kitchin, good luck on the Bridge Run tomorrow! Goooooo Tide!

Off to face the Bridge Run traffic jams. Good luck to all you runners. And to you non-runners, we'll see you at the bar at Fish.

When in doubt, throw tens & twenties.

POW! Call it waterfront. Call it historic. Call it LOWNDES GROVE! Sorry, I got all caught up in this fantastic photo by friend and photographer Lynn Mitchell. The other photos are just as lovely and don't worry, more will be shared soon.

Received some great feedback on the Lowndes Grove renovation on a scouting trip this morning with a well-known Charleston publication (I'll let you know who it is if they decide to shoot here.) Our guest mentioned that she had attended events at Lowndes Grove in the past and was always struck by “how much unrealized potential it had.” When we walked through the front door of the Main House, she exclaimed, “YAYYYY!!!” And you know, you can't really ask for better than that. (Well, other than throwing tens and twenties at me. That's pretty darn nice.)

In very cool marketing news, I read an interesting article with W Hotels president Ross Klein about their concept "inclusive exclusivity."

"Our guests, be they straight, gay, transgender, bi, whatever, they expect us to be truthful and authentic, and they can smell it a mile away...We're going to have an experience for you by your own self-described definitions of who are as a traveler. But it's going to be done in a very exclusive way. It's reall about an emotional appeal. It's not necessarily about an income level appeal or a professional appeal or any of those things. It's really more about people who relate to an aesthetic that is comfortable and slightly cool, and a level of service that is respectful but not necessarily servitude."

Love it. All of it. May I book a room, please?

P.S. Today kicks off Fish's printemps menu! And yes, I know it's April Fool's Day, but this is the truth. Trust me.

Charleston's Green Acres

A near-perfect day for a photo shoot at Lowndes Grove! We were there at 8 am this morning to catch the gorgeous morning light, and we're soon heading back for some late afternoon sparkles. Many thanks to friend and photographer Lynn Mitchell.

Our local grower friends are getting some nice press today. It kicks off with Rita Bachmann and Pete Ambrose of Ambrose Family Farms. Rita currently farms a few acres at Ambrose Family Farms in Wadmalaw Island. A year ago, owner Pete Ambrose was nearly ready to leave the acres he'd worked for 32 years due to competition from large, commercial farms/corporate monsters. Then he met Rita, a passionate and well-known grower and local product advocate, and everything changed. It helped that three farmers announced Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs in the Charleston area. The CSA concept? Consumers pay a set fee for a share of the season's harvest. (Approximately $300 for a family of four.)

Other Wadmalaw growers, Dan and Karen Kennerty of Kennerty Farms, were profiled in today's Post & Courier. The couple, who work the land with their two children, specialize in unique gourmet and heirloom produce, a favorite with chefs constantly searching for that next new thing.

And, on that note, Fish's upcoming printemps (French for spring!) menu is chock full o' great local ingredients. Like arugula and radishes from Rita. Tomatoes, cucumbers and Bibb lettuce from Moncks Corner. And goat cheese from Split Creek Farm in Anderson, SC. Yum, yum and might I add, yum.

Alright campers, off for more pretty photos. See you tomorrow!

Victory Gardens, Starbucks, Photo Shoots or A New Jeopardy Category Waiting to Happen

So, was talking with a friend recently about the fact that we've been at war for 5 years. And today, The New York Times ran a mind-blowing, eerie, albeit creative piece about the 4,000 soldiers who sacrificed their lives over the past 5 years.

I wonder if we would be reacting differently to this war if we were all faced with the restrictions of a 1940s wartime America. Food rations. "Victory gardens." According to the Food + Wine magazine blog, some 20 million gardens were planted in the U.S. during the 1940s. Why not now? If I was working in a factory that made munitions for the "war effort," would I feel more connected to the 49 South Carolinian soldiers who died? Would my government get them home sooner? Something to ponder.

Okay, radical topic change. Starbucks launched a new social networking site that empowers their customers (fans, detractors, lovers, haters, etc.) to "Share. Discuss. Vote. See." In their valiant efforts to get back to the coffee that made them famous and loved in the first silly place, they're asking YOU, dear reader/coffee drinker what YOU THINK. Check out the "ideas." Free coffee and Wifi seem to be the big winners. P.S. If Starbucks turns your idea into a kajillion dollars, you get...nuttin'. Maybe a free cup of coffee? (I make no promises.) And, in the category of "someone's-always-watching-category," I give you this genius blog.

Finally, we'll be out at Lowndes Grove for a photo shoot tomorrow. Will have new loveliness to share soon!

Roadtrips, military vehicles, weddings, photography & other pursuits

Back from Columbia and a great interview with Mike Switzer at ETV radio. Managing Partner Randall Goldman and I did NOT break the sound barrier on the roadtrip as planned but hey, you do what you can. Will let you know when the piece on us airs. Should be sometime in the next two weeks.

What we did see on our roadtrip was a rather somber reminder that we are five years deep into a war. The Anteater, as it's called, is a super-resilient military vehicle made by company called Force Protection. I hate that there is still a need in the world to build them.

In OTHER news, The photo of the gorgeous Lowndes Grove staircase above is courtesy of Arthur Howe, a location scout for film, TV and photography based here in town. Thanks, Arthur!

And, check out these lovely photos from a recent wedding at The William Aiken House on photographer Evan Laettner's blog.

Gooood mooooorning, South Carolinaaaaa!

On our way to Columbia shortly for an interview with Mike Switzer, host and producer of the South Carolina Business Review on ETV radio. Roadtrip!

Last night, Snyder Events hosted an informational meet and greet at Lowndes Grove for local planners and event folks to showcase their latest and greatest tents, which just happen to be up on our property. Our Pastry Chef Susie Ieronemo made sure everyone got a little to-go gift of deliciousness: a mini chocolate, cream cheese wedding cake!

Am also awaiting word on how our soccer folks did last night...Team? More later today.

Bob Carter Throws Down with Bobby Flay at Lowndes Grove

My head's about to pop off.

Not only did Lowndes Grove open Saturday for its first wedding of the season to rave reviews by a most thrilled bride and groom. Not only did The Food Network set up early this morning to film Peninsula Grill's Chef Bob Carter cooking up his award-winning coconut cake...But shortly into the shoot, a non-descript SUV quietly pulled up to the front of Lowndes Grove...and out rolled none other than...wait for it, WAIT for it: Bobby Flay, celebrity chef and host of Throwdown with Bobby Flay. Shut. Up.

It's safe to say that the audience on hand went a little nuts for Mr. Flay (decked out in a green shirt for St. Patrick's Day, by the by). The next thing we knew, Bob Carter and Bobby Flay were engaged in the heat of battle: bring on the coconut cake! Let's just say: there were dueling Kitchen Aid mixers, , some serious smack talking, great cooking tips and the gorgeous backdrop of the Ashley River at our very own Lowndes Grove. (Seriously, not bad for day 3 at our little waterfront gem.)

Once the cakes were prepared, two local judges were called on to do a taste test. I cannot tell you who won the contest. You MUST tune into The Food Network in the coming weeks (I'll share the air date as soon as I hear), and find out for yourself! In the meantime, enjoy the photos.

In other news, thanks to Robert Behre of The Post & Courier whose wonderful piece on Lowndes Grove came out today.

And, congratulations are in order for the winners of the 2008 Addy Awards given out by The Charleston Advertising Federation. This year's festivities were held at The Riviera Theater, and a big time was had by all. Mad props go to our friends at Gil Shuler Graphic Design, Blue Ion, Brainstorm Web Design, Garden & Gun and Amy Reed at Helium (to name a few!)

What a day. Many, many thanks to Chef Bob Carter who recommended Lowndes Grove to The Food Network and the Charleston CVB who are always wonderful support for us.

Pre-Opening Jitters? Ha!

Jitters, we scoff at you! Actually, it's a buzz of excitement, not jitters that's permeating every square inch of Lowndes Grove. Tomorrow's the big day! I think we may be more excited than our lovely bride.

This morning, several members of the renovation team met with Robert Behre of the Post & Courier. (Glenn Keyes, Jim Rhodes, Paula Adams, Managing Partner Randall Goldman, Director of Events Jennifer Goldman, General Manager Ashley Gunnin and lil me.) I think it's safe to say that Mr. Behre was quite awed, not just by what he saw but by the passion and care that's apparent in each story the renovation team told. It's quite something to hear about the level of detail that goes into a project like this, from the architect, the Managing Partner, the head of construction and the interior designer.

I will regale you with some of the finer stories next week. In the meantime, here are the facts: this phase of the Lowndes Grove renovation began right after Thanksgiving. It reopens tomorrow. That's what we call a tight timeframe, folks. Congratulations to the hundreds of hands that made light work of this incredible project. Take a deep breath, the magic's about to begin.

Fun Fact & Lowcountry Still Life

Fun fact: the window seals at Lowndes Grove have nails in them that are numbered. To what do those numbers correspond? To their matching shutters, which are also numbered. So smart, those 19th century craftsmen.

I did not go to Lowndes Grove today, mostly because I didn't want to get caught up in the melee that is the last push to get things ready for Saturday. I liken the flurry of activity to a small, localized, highly organized tornado. Lovely!

Tomorrow, I'll be meeting with calligrapher extraordinaire Elizabeth Jones (thanks to Amy Pastre of Gil Shuler Graphic Design for the recommendation). She's going to help us with some in-room messages that are both beautiful and entertaining.

Ok, it's too pretty out. The opening photo is ode to a Charleston Spring Day. Until tomorrow...

Fish is "Fancy!" And has a garden! More Lowndes Grove pics too!

Holy exclamation points, Batman. It's exciting times here at PP.

And with spring comes a garden. That's right, there is a lovely garden beginning in Fish's backyard. Sous Chef Chou Duong was hard at work this afternoon tilling the soil. Yes, really! When asked what's being planted, Chou enthusiastically launched into a laundry list of goodies: jalapenos, thai basil, green onions, cherry tomatoes, mint, lavender, chives, thyme and rosemary.

In other Fish news, many thanks to the folks at the Post & Courier who ranked us tops in the Fancy Seafood category in their 2008 Restaurant Guide. Also, congrats to EVO for picking up tops in the Pizza category. I have to admit the FANCY seafood monider does make me giggle a bit. As in, who you callin' fancy?

But I do so LOVE the P&C's definition: "For our purposes, a "fancy" seafood dinner is about the imagination, innovation and creativity of the chef in making the most of the best seafood he can get. It's about knowing when to let the beautiful fresh tuna or grouper or scallops or shrimp speak for themselves. It's about attention to detail. And it's about a certain grace in the presentation."

What else, you say? Spent a few moments at Lowndes Grove today. Again, my kingdom for a time-lapse camera! The landscapers are in full-effect and the lovely and dramatic greenery is highlighting the spectacular house and grounds. Take a look at the latest pics.

Lowndes Grove, The Food Network, Ace Hotel & Madonna, in that order

Hi, hospitality fans. Sorry to have missed you yesterday. Had a trying day full of bad sinuses and car trouble. But Tuesday is a new day and with it, we are one step closer to the Lowndes Grove reopening.

Big news: Our Corporate Sales Manager, Jessica Kafer (you recall her and her heart-shaped self, don't you?) was contacted by the lovely folks at The Food Network who were venue shopping for a shoot showcasing Peninsula Grill's Bob Carter and his uber yummy coconut cake. A few conversations and photographs later, poof! A TV shoot at Lowndes Grove during our very first week. We are utterly stoked and extremely grateful.

By the way, tonight is Tuesday which means Dollar Dim Sum at Fish. And if you haven't been yet, I'd like to know what exactly it is you're waiting for, mister. Show me any other Charleston establishment where you can eat your fill of fresh dumpling goodness for a few dollars. For real, grab your co-worker, your girlfriend, whoever. Sit at the bar and let Sean spoil you. The last time I partook of the dollar dim sum, Sean made me the best dirty martini I've ever had. 'Nuff said.

What else? My newest hotel crush, actually it's ongoing, has GOT to be the Ace Hotel, who will soon be opening their New York location. Oh rapture, oh joy! Not only am I a huge fan of their graphic design, their copy and concept are just spot-on. "They (the partners) also wanted their hotel to be linked to the local culture, a living part of the community -- like an experience of staying with friends who are plugged into the local scene."

And I cannot leave today without saying: 1. Congratulations to Madonna on her induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. (Say what you will. She was an integral force during my formative years.) 2. Who but Madonna could get Iggy Pop and The Stooges to perform covers of "Burnin' Up" and "Ray of Light" with such frenetic energy?

Thoughts from the Lowndes Grove sette

Lots to report on this rainy Friday. First: Lowndes Grove. Tick, tick, know what I'm saying? A mere 8 days until the mighty reopening and first wedding of the season. New photos are up.

It's now interior designer Paula Adams' moment to shine. Yesterday, we took a peek at some of the incredible furnishings. It's fascinating to see how each part of the renovation works together with the next for this overall WOW effect. You'll see.

Sat down with Chef Nico and Pastry Chef Susie Ieronemo earlier to discuss the upcoming spring menu and, more importantly, WEDDING CAKES. (Sidebar: Nico was wearing a GREAT French soccer scarf.) As you may recall from earlier posts on Susie, she has mad wedding cake skills. In fact, the mini version of her wedding cakes at January's Client Appreciation/CVB Travel Council Party nearly caused a riot. (Word to the wise: NEVER, EVER get between a Southern woman and her dessert.) I just love that we now have wedding cakes in our repertoire. And it has nothing to do with the fact that I can occassionally score a free sample. Nothing at all.

On the tomfoolery front, friends and Mac-enthusiasts over at Blue Ion cracked me up this morning with this little homemade gem that highlights the fun you can have with the upgraded Photobooth.

In style news, was reading Mouthing Off, the Food + Wine blog and ran across this intriguing website for tableware that, in effect, lets you set your own table. It's like a dressing room for your dining room. Just go look.

And, finally: I can't believe that I forgot to mention that Master Sommelier Bob Bath spent some time with us over Food + Wine Festival Weekend. Friday evening before dinner service began, the Master Sommelier spent a few minutes talking wine with the Fish staff. (Of course, I sneaked in to catch some of his brilliance.)

This is a man who loves his job. His enthusiasm, in-depth knowledge and passion were evident in every moment. He encouraged questions and wanted so much to hear about what our guests are looking for in their dining and wine experience. I have to say: in just the 10 minutes I spent eavesdropping, I took notes AND left feeling energized and excited. Thank you again, Bob. It was our sincere pleasure to spend time with you.

This Old (And Fabulous) House

No, not the PBS show. It's the Lowndes Grove renovation in full effect! Progress is being made daily, and it's quite something to see. Take a peek.

This used to be a shower in a closet. Um, yeah. That's what we thought, too.

Goodbye forever, heart-shaped shrubberies! (Fountain's going too.)
Neither was original to the property.

The River House gets some framing for the...ooh,
you'll just have to wait and see.

It's good to have a plan. In fact, we have many.

Someone, Hand Me My Pink Bass!

Inspiration is coming from all sides this week. Went out to Lowndes Grove with my trusty photographer yesterday to check out the renovation progress. It was absolutely incredible to stand in the Main House, free of furniture, window treatments and decor of any kind. In its raw state, you can see the wood and the architectural touches in their simplest form, and it is all simply stunning.

Standing by the river, we watched the sun begin to set over the golden marsh. It was so peaceful and beautiful, we didn't even want to move for fear of breaking the magic of the moment.

Had a brainstorming session this morning with the sharp minds at The William Aiken House. Let me tell you something, these women know their business, know what's classic and what's a trend and darnit, they KNOW how to throw a party.

And last, but certainly not least is this. Watching The Today Show this morning, I was absolutely blown away by Miss Gabi Wilson, a 10-year old musical prodigy who played A Touch of Honey's "Boogie Oogie Oogie" like it's never been played before. I have my new hero. She is 10 and plays a funky bass.

Check it out. (Note: You have to watch a short commercial first.)


This young girl has a musical gift!

Bird Is The Word

Greetings from the heartland where my Mom is currently wrestling/cleaning a 20-pound turkey. The turkey says hi too (notice wing wave). And the weatherman just said the dreaded words, "wintry mix." Just a quick post to say safe travels to all of you who are currently or soon to be on the road. And for those of you who are up to your elbows in turkey giblets, I hope next year you get upgraded to gravy or potato mashing. Cheers.

Time For Our Winter Refreshing

You know those people who disappear for a few weeks during the winter months and then emerge like a spring flower: refreshed, rejuvenated and somehow more fabulous than before? (Tip: check their hairline!) We're sort of feeling like that, but in a no-stitches, feel-free-to-peruse-our-hairline kind of way. Here's why.

The season's last wedding at Lowndes Grove is Saturday, November 24. Come November 26, the refreshing begins! As we've mentioned before, Lowndes Grove is undergoing a multi-dimensional renovation with some of Charleston's heavy hitters at the helm: Glenn Keyes Architects, Sheila Wertimer landscape designs and Paula Adams interiors. All to restore the historic gem to its stately splendor, and of course, make it the ideal venue for both brides and corporate clients. We'll be talking to you a lot during the refresh, giving you sneak peeks and otherwise whetting your appetite. Why? Because we like you. Feel free to call 843.853.1810 to be among the first to see us in our finery come spring.

The 3 Most Pressing Things On My Mind Currently

Much to tell you. Where to start? Sometimes I do best with a list, so here goes...

1. We're super happy to announce the launch of the Lowndes Grove website. You'll see that it has a very handy calendar so you can know when "the peninsula's last great waterfront estate" is available for your fabulous party. You like that, don't cha? Sure, you do. You're a planner.

2. Um, the weather is truly chilly in Charleston today. My suggestion for the perfect little warm up? So glad you asked. Evan and Sean, our illustrious Fish bartenders, have come up with some very tasty beverages made with the season's freshest ingredients. If you dig on cosmos, I can totally recommend the fig-infused vodka. And my personal favorite: the pumpkin-infused bourbon. Over ice. Are you kidding me? It will warm the cockles of your heart. I promise I would not steer you wrong.

3. I'm going to Chicago tomorrow. Why, you ask? I would tell you, but that might spoil the surprise. Actually, I'm going to do some R&D (research and development) on boutique hotels. Yes. I'll be assessing the thread count of linens, stealing, I mean SAMPLING luxurious toiletries and deciding which bathroom lighting makes me look the most lovely. Now, I must away to pack my heaviest sweaters. It's 41 in Chicago currently, and my Charleston blood is thin. More tomorrow from the Windy City!