Spring has Sprung (and Hearts are Melting!)

Spring is finally here! You know what that means, right? Time to dust off your walking shoes and say hello to sunshine, baby lambs, and fields bursting with golden daffodils. Isn't nature amazing? It's a gentle reminder that new beginnings are always possible, even when things seem tough.  

Speaking of new beginnings, that's exactly what got us thinking about a recent trip we took with OneWorld Health to Uganda. It was an eye-opening experience, and we wanted to share it with you! 

A World Away, a Tiny Spark of Life 

Uganda is a beautiful country, but things can be pretty different there. Access to healthcare, for example, isn't always easy. This became very real for us when we visited a local clinic. We saw a tiny newborn clinging to life in an incubator, and let me tell you, it took our breath away. It was a powerful reminder of just how precious and fragile life can be. 

But here's the good news! We weren't about to just stand there. Seeing that little fighter made us ask ourselves, "How can we help?" We knew we had to do something, even if it was just a small step. 

Two Incubators for Two Tiny Chances 

OneWorld Health's Masindi Katara Hospital is building a brand new neonatal unit, which is basically a fancy way of saying a special place to care for these tiniest of patients. The clinic typically sees several babies each month who desperately need this kind of specialized care. 

So, guess what we did? We teamed up and bought two brand new incubators for the clinic! We can't wait to see all the healthy, smiling babies who will get a chance to thrive thanks to this new equipment. Just imagine all the laughter and joy that will fill those rooms! 

Springing into Action 

We all know that feeling of wanting to help when we see someone in need. That's why we wanted to share our story – because maybe it will inspire you too! Love is cyclical and generosity returns. Imagine the tiny fingers grasping those of a loving parent, the first curious gurgle, the bright eyes taking in the world. This is the future we're helping to create, one incubator, one tiny heartbeat at a time.

Spring may have sprung, but the power to bring new life and hope blooms year-round, and it's not limited to our work with OneWorld Health. As a team, we believe that giving back to the community goes beyond our professional endeavors. It's about sharing the blessings we receive and using our skills and resources to make a positive impact wherever we can. It’s why we give back, why we encourage the groups we work with to make an impact and why we challenge ourselves to do the same. In short, it IS our why. People matter. So whether it's volunteering at a camp, supporting a community garden, or mentoring a young student, our hope is to create a ripple effect of compassion that spreads far and wide.

Turning the Tables on Hunger

Most of us will never experience what it feels like to go hungry. But the truth is, over 800 million people worldwide are affected by hunger. This is a staggering number and an incredible need…a need our team got to see firsthand when we went to East Africa several years ago for our first (of many) trips.

We saw the effects of hunger and were greatly impacted. With hearts full of love, we decided we had to do something to help. That's when Feed the Need was born. Feeding the hungry goes hand in hand with The KLH Group’s mission of loving others and making a social impact. Over the years, we have done all we can to partner with groups to make an impact: to feed the hungry, help the homeless, and give hope to children and families who need it most.

Recently we had the pleasure of doing just that. We partnered with a great group and an international hunger organization to create a dynamic event! We set the table(s) for a friendly company competition: packaging meals for those affected by hunger globally.

From the word “Go!”, these teams brought the heat. This group of 70 competitors packaged 12,000 meals in a little over an hour! Each bag was filled to the brim with nutritious food designed to last for two years. And each box of meals was packed as fast as these teams could pour, measure, weigh, and seal! The team members kept up their pace, determined to reach their goal. They knew that each meal they packed would make a difference in someone's life.

We had so much fun doing it, with all the high-energy vibes of these energetic team members, a fun DJ, and Hope as the MC getting the crowd going.

When the last box was packed and stacked, there was an undeniable sense of joy, camaraderie and accomplishment. The feeling of unity was palpable.

We want to get the word out that it's FUN and energizing to serve others this way. We give because we have been given so much. And those who join us add even more!

Embracing Authenticity: The Story Behind our Brand

As a company, KLH Group has always believed in the power of authenticity. For us, authenticity is not just a buzzword, it’s a core value that drives everything we do. It's what sets us apart from our competitors and helps us build deep connections with our clients and partners.  

That's why when we decided to embark on a brand makeover, we knew we had to stay true to our roots and values. We wanted a brand that was not only visually appealing but also meaningful and reflective of who we are as a company. KLH stands for Ken, Liam and Hope, but we wanted to dig a little deeper.

After months of brainstorming and collaboration, we landed on a botanical-inspired logo that pays tribute to Liam’s roots in his birth province of Jiangsu, China and South Carolina, where KLH originated. The logo features a vibrant blend of yellow jessamine and jasmine, which symbolizes our commitment to growth, beauty, and deep connections.

So our brand makeover is more than just a change in our logo. It's a rooted transformation that reflects our commitment to authenticity, growth, and building meaningful relationships. We want our clients and partners to know that when they work with us, they're not just getting a service or product, but a genuine partnership built on trust and mutual respect. Authenticity is not just a value that we preach, but one that we live by every day.  

Living our values of authenticity isn't always easy, but we believe that it attracts the right people and opportunities into our lives. We're excited to see where this new chapter takes us and we're committed to staying true to our roots and values. We hope you'll join us on this journey of authenticity and growth!

Our Reason This Season

Happy Holidays!!  

As the principal of KLH Group, I wanted to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude and reflect upon the true reason for the season. The holiday season is not only a time for festivities and celebrations but also a time for thankfulness and spreading joy. 

First and foremost, I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the incredible team that makes this company thrive. Each one of you brings unique talents, dedication, and passion to our shared goals. You are the driving force behind our success, and I am truly grateful for your unwavering commitment. Your hard work and creativity continue to inspire me every day. 

Beyond our team, I am also grateful for the trust and support of our valued clients and partners. You have placed your confidence in us, allowing us to serve you and contribute to your own success. It is an honor to be a part of your journey, and we are grateful for the opportunity to work alongside you. 

In this season of gratitude, it is important for me to acknowledge that our core values play a significant role in shaping our company's values. I find immense joy in sharing the love, compassion, and generosity that this season represents. It is through our values that we strive to create a workplace that fosters kindness, respect, and inclusivity. We aim to treat each other and our clients with the utmost care, just as we believe we are called to do. 

As we gather with loved ones and celebrate the holiday season, let us remember the true meaning behind it all. It is a time to reflect upon the blessings we have received and a time to extend kindness and love to those around us. May the spirit of the season fill your hearts with joy and peace. 

Once again, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you. Together, we have achieved remarkable things, and I am excited to embark on another year of growth and success. May the holiday season bring you and your loved ones an abundance of happiness and blessings. 

Wishing you all a joyous holiday season and a prosperous new year! 

Love,  

Hope  

Fall is Golden, Not Forgotten

Into the span of weeks between the revelry of summertime and the hall-decking of the holidays, a merrymaking lull has been known to creep. Vacation bags get stored, kids return to school, and the flip flops and frozen drink blender get stored as deeply as the turkey platter and pre-lit wreaths. From the décor to the food to the vibe, everything seems so plain, quiet… normal. And it’s fine, really – there’s nothing wrong with a little subdue and reset. But we think the changeover to autumn is the perfect time to keep our dance cards just full enough that we don’t lose our social sparkle. Fall in the Lowcountry is temperate and calm and lovely, and we’d be silly to squander the opportunity to fill that little gap with some worthy DMC gatherings.

Here's a look back on the fruits of this season:

● We provided outdoor décor for the first-ever Oktoberfest at Hotel Bennett, held on the Gabrielle Patio overlooking Marion Square. There were traditional games, a live band, and of course beer and pretzels.

● We put on an indigo dyeing class on the lawn at The Sanctuary at Kiawah, followed by cocktails and dinner with a tropical autumn vibe.

● For the legendary New York Knicks, we coordinated a customized visit to the International African American Museum and Gullah Geechie cooking class at the Avery Institute with Chef Rashaunda Grant.

● We organized a private corporate catered dinner on the harbor-facing piazza of the Edmonston-Alston House, located on the historic Battery.

● With the welcoming of true Southern hostess and gardener-extraordinaire Louisa Pringle Cameron, we held a corporate lunch in the sun-dappled garden of her home, the famed Philip Porcher house.

● We threw a celebration event at Holy City's Brewery marsh-side Porter Room, festooned with fall florals, linens, candles, and string lighting.

● And, because Charleston is (blessedly) slow to transition seasons, we held a number of golf outings at Wild Dunes and Kiawah Island resorts, as well as a poolside corporate event near the beach at Kiawah.

Okay, so evidently, we were inspired to do more than just stay convivially conditioned. Maybe it’s because we hold this “golden” time – autumn as the magic hour inside the year’s clock – in such high esteem, that we can’t let it simply be the placeholder between summer hoopla and holiday frenzy. And we are so grateful to have the kind of DMC clients that are game to share – and celebrate – our soft spot for fall.

Gratitude: Fortifying the Feel-Good

In her study of human emotion, researcher Brené Brown found that we are hardwired to seek novelty and newness, such that our positive emotions tend to “wear off quickly.” The exception here is gratitude, which offers us something different: an appreciation for the value of something. The result here is then a sort of chain reaction where we 1) extract more benefits from that something, 2) celebrate its goodness rather than adapting to it, and 3) are moved to participate more fully in life. 

It is hard to imagine a more spot-on example of this than the story of Donna and Dustin and their five young kids. The couple has a history with Primland Resort in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains for years, both as employees themselves and as family members of several other Primland staffers. And so, figuratively and literally, the resort community is nothing short of an extension of their family – a phenomenon that has been proven time and again, and in which gratitude has been abundantly bred. 

In the overnight hours of December 12, 2016 (Donna and Dustin’s wedding anniversary), a flaw in their home’s chimney caused a fire. They credit their oldest son, Jay – just three years-old at the time – for waking them in time to escape with their lives. Still, the fire burned their house to the ground, taking everything else they owned with it. Within the first day of this devastation, their Primland colleagues rallied around them, literally putting shirts on their backs and shoes on their feet. 

As if that wasn’t enough, the couple’s second-oldest child, Early had been diagnosed with a rare disease known as LCH, which forms tumors and aggressively damages bones and organs. Following a lengthy regimen of relentless and punishing but effective treatment, Early – now eight years-old – is celebrating one year of being cancer-free. And the Primland family has again put their arms around Donna, Dustin, and their extraordinary children. 

On a gently overcast day this past August, resort staff and the Primland leadership teamed up with Prestige Global Meeting Source and KLH Group to build a clubhouse for Early. On the stunning grounds of Primland, Early and his family worked alongside familiar faces and new friends to construct a kid-sized haven with “real house” details like paned windows and roof shingles. Big and little hands maneuvered tools, applied paint, and patted soil into precious window box gardens. And the crew from Leica Camera, which had participated in a previous Clubhouse Build, was so moved by this family’s story that they came to Early’s event to chronicle the special day and its extraordinary background.  

Hard, joyful work was paused only to share a meal around one long table set with 25 chairs. Fittingly, it was a configuration reminiscent of Thanksgiving, matched by a spirit blending the curative factor of altruism with, of course, heartfelt gratitude. By day’s end, with the sun beginning to lower behind the Blue Ridge, Early and his siblings were christening the new play space with laughter and imagination. And though the clubhouse was novel, the value of what was shared that day was certainly not vulnerable to “wearing off” anytime soon. They – we – all benefitted, celebrated, and participated in truly sustainable ways. 

Twelve Snazzy Sneakers, Many Meaningful Footprints

Shoes say a lot about a person. Their affinity for color. Their sensibility. The degree to which they can boast excellent balance and sturdy ankles. Sometimes, their occupation. Often, their need to hustle.

And so it was both fitting and fun that the challenge OneWorld Health (OWH) posed to its CSR partner, Beemok Hospitality, was a shoe design. This friendly competition, named “Custom Kicks for a Cause,” called on members of the Beemok team to draw up conceptualizations for sneakers that would ultimately be worn by six OWH health clinic employees in Uganda. These amazing helping professionals work tirelessly at the clinic, serving thousands of patients each year. Clearly, they need footwear made for hustle – and stamina, strength, and comfort. But the leadership at OWH felt it was an opportunity to recognize more than just the physical virtues.

The teams were encouraged to create an original style that embodied the ideals of both Beemok and OWH, and nod to the global health mission of OWH. Earlier this year, the two organizations engaged in strategic planning to examine the similar spirit of their respective missions – the common factor was clearly an aim to bring people together to live a fulfilling life. Charleston-based OneWorld Health engages – on an international level but conspicuously on the ground - with communities in Africa and Central America to bring “permanent, sustainable” health facilities, resources, and care to an historically underserved population. And Beemok Hospitality Collection is the firm behind such beloved Lowcountry landmarks as Charleston Place, the Riviera Theater, Charleston One Stadium, and the stirringly-anticipated waterfront accommodations newcomer, The Cooper.

At the close of the campaign, the design that was chosen featured an ombre print that represented the shared values of the two organizations, as well as extra laces to symbolize adaptability toward “hospitality and healthcare that endures.” The shoes were produced with great care and presented to the six employees during a volunteer trip in July, and a video capturing the big reveal, lace-up, and collective happy dance commemorated the event. A close-up on the backs of the sneakers reveals the coolest detail: each one is personalized with the employee’s name.

Social impact events like these showcase the soul and creativity of our NGO and corporate partners. Our role at KLH Group – to facilitate these alliances and the critical humanitarian work they do – is nothing short of an honor, a dream. It is a feeling that is almost overwhelming, and certainly shared. In an expression of thanks for this collaboration, OWH executive director Michael O’Neal stated, “The pure joy and gratitude from the staff members who received the shoes is clear, and your thoughtfully designed shoes have instilled a sense of pride and motivation in their work as they help provide healthcare to people who desperately need it.”

Color schemes and fabrication aside, these will most certainly be big sneakers to fill.

Our View of the Perfect Pitch

You might think that event planning in the nation’s number one city (multiple years running) would be like batting softballs. Stunning landscapes, exceptional cultural experiences, the dreamiest places to stay, and a dizzying food scene. And, impossibly, it keeps getting better. So, with a pitch like that, is our destination doing our work for us?

While we do consider ourselves exceedingly blessed to live and work in this coastal corner of heaven, to say that the splendors of Charleston are self-curating minimizes our opportunities to more thoughtfully and enthusiastically offer its abundance to our fantastic (and singular!) clients.

Armed with a keen understanding of each visiting group’s personality and mission, we hatch a vision for the vibe, cadence, colors, and encounters of their Charleston experience. And though the KLH team is absolutely boots-on-the-ground and sleeves rolled up, the truth is that our vision would remain conceptual without the best (again, as in number one) hospitality partners. Not only are they some of the most gifted individuals in the business, but they are positively electrified by the hard work and hustle required to pull off our grand-scale events.

And so it is with gratitude that, in the late days of summer, we take a moment to slow down and celebrate the harmony we enjoy with our local partners. On a warm August evening, we gathered with them at Joe P. Riley Stadium for a night of Riverdogs baseball, a classic ballpark buffet, cold beverages, and post-game fireworks over the marsh. Of course, families came along for the fun, and we had our run of the field-side Murray’s Mezzanine and Shoeless Joe’s Hill. A kid’s zone, goodie bags, and a cameo by Charlie the Riverdog took the night to the next level.

Still, it was what happened at the start of the game – on the pitcher’s mound – that was the heartwarming highlight. Eight year-old Rush Horn of James Island, one of our Clubhouse Kids, experienced the swell of joy that comes with throwing out the first pitch. It is a feeling Rush has had to rediscover since losing his sister Insley – who was just two years older than him – to a brain tumor in 2021. His clubhouse build took place last November, and that special space became one that both honors Insley and his special bond with her, and also welcomes friends to help heal his loneliness. It was our great thrill to witness Rush’s big moment.

Looking around at our KLH crew, our collaborators, and the families that support us all, it was a reminder that we do this work together, and it’s all better for it. Sure, our field is pretty spectacularly situated, and we always aim for the grand slam. But loading those bases takes talent, planning, and teamwork. And Charleston, for all is generous hospitality, is not above throwing us the occasional curveball. 

My 30 Day Internship

Hi! My name is Marian Graffagnini and I am from New Orleans, Louisiana. As an upcoming sophomore at the University of Alabama, it is a tradition every year for some of us to spend a large portion of the summer in Charleston, South Carolina. As soon as I learned the news of this custom I became very excited. However, besides the entertainment, beautiful scenery, and lively atmosphere of Charleston there was one thing that I needed to consider and that was searching for a job. When looking for a job I knew that I wanted to find something that was beneficial to my education, would teach me a lot about life, and help me gain new experiences. I was fortunate to find the opportunity to be an intern with The KLH group. I learned of this opportunity to a family friend Katie (who helped produce the beautiful event in the photo below). After doing some research and browsing through their website I started to gain some knowledge about the group's mission and philosophies and about what they do in general. Although I was excited about the summer I had planned ahead of me, I was also a bit nervous for the upcoming tasks that lay ahead. I frequently thought to myself ridiculous questions like: What if I am not able to execute my work in the correct way? Or what if I am not good enough?

When most people think of work they think of sitting at a desk inside for most of the day; at least I do. My first week working with the KLH group was the complete opposite and something that I did not expect. I spent most of this week on Kiawah Island Golf Resort. I quickly learned that you are most definitely able to enjoy being at work whilst surrounded by the charming scenery of the Charleston coast. Working in a peaceful and scenic environment was definitely a bonus. This first week at Kiawah, Victoria really guided me and taught me everything there is to know about the corporate events that they plan. From learning how to properly toss linens, fold napkins, and create an enjoyable and spirited environment for guests I would say that my first week was a success. Along with all the successes l also learned that in the event industry, setbacks are likely to happen along the way as well. For instance, rain and wind are big obstacles that I learned can easily impact an event. However, there is always an alternative plan to make sure things run smoothy. For example, during the setup for an event at the Ocean Course, the dinner that was planned was supposed to take place under a large tent. However, due to the high percentage chance of rain the dinner was moved indoors. Despite this setback, we were able to set up a beautiful venue indoors for everyone to enjoy and as the rain subsided a beautiful rainbow emerged from the sky!

By the time the event was over, it was pouring down rain outside so Victoria and I collected the linens, I sprinted to the car in the rain, pulled my car up to the entrance, and loaded the car. It was definitely a night to remember! This was probably one of my favorite nights from work and I am glad I was able to learn so much.

Weeks two and three went a little bit differently. During week two, we set up two events at two different venues for Mercury Racing, which builds and provides outstanding quality marine and automotive propulsion systems. Although it is nice to have an ocean view at work, the two venues, the Cedar Room and Firefly Distillery, were just as beautiful and had a touch of Charleston flair. After setting up, the Cedar Room was very elegantly decorated. I had the privilege of helping to set this venue with Jenna and Rachel who are also a part of the KLH team. We came a day early to prepare because it was going to be quite a large event. It was cool watching everyone work together to help set everything up. This night made me realize all of the preparation and hard work that goes into every little detail to make sure things run according to plan.

The next day we set up Firefly Distillery for more of a laid back affair, consisting of a low country boil and a delightful bluegrass band. Guests enjoyed themselves as they were able to dive into the ultimate Charleston experience.  

As I neared the end of my internship, I felt as though I had accomplished my goals: to learn more about life, benefit my education, and to gain new experiences. Interning with The KLH Group was a memorable experience as they welcomed me with open arms and guided me throughout my internship journey. I am very grateful for the valuable lessons and involvement I have been able to gain during my time here. My newfound knowledge and insight of the event business will be beneficial and impactful during my years to come, especially when considering a career path! 

Setting the Stage

All the world’s a stage and we are merely… the builders of it! Did you know that in addition to planning great events, we fabricate great design and enduring backdrops?

The backdrop of the venue or meeting sets the tone and we nailed it from the start…literally! From fabricated designs at the Charleston Place Hotel to custom built backdrops at Palmetto Bluff and Sea Island Resort, these sets were labors of love to complete with many good returns.

The Charleston Place design installations were fan favorites with a singular but important goal: to bring JOY to the community. Our team enjoyed stretching their creative muscles to achieve this goal. From driving the Pink Figgy into the lovely Valentine’s Day Lobby Affair, to opening the community’s hearts and hands to the Giving Tree, to the delight of the Tennis Experience and Easter…to the Art Residency, Juneteenth, the Dog Days of Summer and Fall Harvest, it was a design experience we will never forget!

Professional, Warm & Approachable
When asked to design unique and custom backdrops for our corporate clients, we accepted the challenge and got to work. We dreamed and designed, and our build partners delivered.  

 Sleek & Clean Lines
If you are looking for a more modern style stage design, this beauty works for a 24’ stage. All you have to do is design the graphic and we’ll handle the rest!! What a showstopper in any ballroom!

Custom, Homey & Luxury
For this set, our client asked for a professional but warm and approachable design reflecting the tone of the meeting. We love the versatility of this design; the backdrop can be customized to the client and event with color, lighting, signage, fabric, stage furniture décor and more – proving that design can be functional AND fun.  

For this program, our client wanted to customize the ambience of a grand space. Construction of this beauty took 3 weeks, with three days dedicated to painting, and a team total of 10. This modular backdrop was an engineering feat... designed, constructed, transported and set up by our valued partner Bluebird Services. When asked about the project, Lee Hill said the most transformative part of the project was the painting because it “brought the project to life”. We ALL thought it was pretty fantastic watching her make her debut on the big stage! 

Let’s get started designing your dream set! Give us a call today.

In a Season of Debuts, We Count on the Comebacks

A fresh start. New beginnings. An annual awakening. 

Sheesh, that’s a lot of pressure for one season. 

Don’t get us wrong. We think spring is as worthy of the reputation as it is up to the task. How can you argue with creatures emerging from hibernation and sudden bursts of fragrant bloom?  

And yet, we think the feeling of spring doesn’t need to be bound by all things new and novel. What really gets us in our winter-worn guts is the spike in fellowship and conviviality that coincides with the longer days and reliably warmer temperatures. It’s as if the spring equinox pulls back the party curtain and says, “have at it, folks!” And, here in the Lowcountry, “it” is often the same stuff we loved to pieces last spring. And the spring before that. 

Charleston’s rich history, unique traditions, and exceptional landscape make for perennially-beloved pasttimes. Visitors and locals alike keep the Holy City’s festivals – art, food, and music – like holy holidays. Circled on calendars and scribbled in agendas are the oyster roasts, flea markets, and sporting events that make their robust returns. 

So, it was our pleasure to share with our latest guests the celebration of all that comes back to us in Charleston’s version of spring. In mid-March, an Atlanta-based company sent 100 employees and their spouses to be honored here, and asked KLH to coordinate some indulgent recognition. The land-locked firm asked only to have exposure to Charleston’s hallmark experiences, and we were happy to oblige. 

The gathering kicked off al fresco in Marion Square, as honorees were invited to choose for themselves a special gift from one of several local artisans. After checking in at the posh Hotel Bennett, the group departed for a welcome dinner at Lowndes Grove, where iconic dishes and cocktails matched the storied vibe of the historic waterfront estate. 

The blessing of more sunlit hours was in full effect the following day. Each guest was offered (and yet in the unenviable position of having to choose from) a half-dozen exceptional group activities, including sailing the harbor, private range skeet shooting, a cooking class with local chef Bob Waggoner, a tour of the historic peninsula, a fishing excursion, or a round of golf at one of Charleston’s famed courses. Though none regretted their selections, each was left wanting more (and several opted to extend their stay). 

The Lowcountry had enchanted our guests, just as it so reliably enchants us each spring. It is hard to pick a favorite time of year around here – and we’d be caught equally reveling in the other three seasons anyway. But it’s always a comfort and a joy to know that, amid all the newness of spring, that which returns to Charleston each year is way more than enough. 

The Powerful Provocation of Bragging Rights

In the domain of doing good, we all know it's not a competition. An aim to keep up with the generosity of the Joneses or out-do the do-gooder next door is a misdirected one. And yet...

There is something altogether awesome about the power of a little healthy head-to-head philanthropic combat.

Maybe it's the juxtaposition of compassion and generosity with hustle and bloodthirst. Or the evidence that social impact is as primal a need as ultimate victory.

Whatever the root, we tapped into the magic of friendly rivalry at an enthusiastic partner’s recent CSR event. With one hundred members of its sales force and leadership traveling to Kiawah Island Golf Resort for a national meeting, we saw a robust roster for a cause-driven contest. And to know it’s beneficiary, One80Place, is really all the motivation needed.

For nearly 40 years, the nonprofit that began as a small interfaith ministry has been feeding the hungry, sheltering the homeless, and bolstering the underserved in the Holy City. In that time, its staff and volunteers have served millions of meals and saved thousands of Charlestonians from a lifetime of homelessness. From the immediate comfort of a meal and a bed to a long-term path forward with skills training and legal aid, One80 Place meets critical human needs.

Toward that end, a hallmark of the organization is smoothing the transition from temporary shelter to permanent residence with a tradition of providing “move-in kits” at each homecoming. And that’s where our creative contest came in. In the arena of a resort conference room, 11 corporate teams found themselves surrounded by shelves of household essentials, presented with piles of empty bundle boxes, and tasked with a test of speed and agility: be the first team to complete assembly of all assigned cleaning, linen, and kitchen kits.

Mercifully, most team members wore sensible footwear. Readers went on focused faces, and hair ties pulled obstructive tresses. The DJ’s set list delivered high energy, and cold beer assured proper (well, sufficient) hydration. At the room’s center stood a huge ball pit, within which smaller kit items were submerged. First visits to the pit were conducted with decorum, as participants gingerly sifted through, respectful of colleagues around the perimeter. By the third trip to the pit, frantic for a missing pot scrubber or stain stick, competitors abandoned dignity in favor of domination, scaling the low walls and wading frantically through the knee-high fill.

At the buzzer, there was a clear victor. Actually, there were 66. That’s how many families would be receiving boxes of brand-new essentials for the simple tasks of daily life. And, tucked inside each box, were the notes of encouragement and humility that every single team member stopped their own clock to pen, seal, and insert.

We're generally pretty bullish on the human race. But this human race pumped our blood, warmed our hearts, and totally won the day.

L is for Liam, and Love

Many people ask us, “What does KLH Stand For?” and we are honored to explain the special meaning behind The KLH Group. 

There is no better person to tell the tale than Ken Caldwell, the K in KLH. 

Grandad was named Kenneth and that’s what most folks called him. Dad’s nickname was Buddy. My name is Ken and our son Liam is the fourth in line of Kenneth Caldwells, each bearing middle names as unique as our dispositions. 

Liam was born An Fan Lian on 11-18-13 in Jiangsu province in a small fishing village on the east coast of China. He was found with a birth certificate that supplied this information but didn’t identify his biological parents. An Fan’s first sixteen months were spent in an orphanage 8000 miles away from Charleston, SC.  

For a time, along our journey to parenthood, Hope and I wondered if we’d ever have a child to call our own. Doctors told us adoption was our only option. Devastated but determined, our hearts were quickly guided down the path of international adoption; specifically, China. So began a chain of events that would test our trust, patience and faith that a child, one child on Earth, was destined to join Hope and me on a lifelong journey of love as a family.  

Although the one-child policy had recently changed in the People’s Republic, Hope and I probably had an unmentioned assumption that adoption from China likely meant we would be parents to a baby girl. I’ll never forget the day when Hope came home and wanted to show me the latest of the many emails sent to us from Lifeline Adoption Agency with potential matches to orphaned children. “What do you think about a little boy?” she asked. That’s when I saw the picture of a small, very round-looking, handsome little boy. Time seemed to stand still as the child in the picture entered our hearts and immediately became a part of us; we were in love!  

Not so fast! There would be a home study, tons of paperwork and at times excruciating waiting we had to endure. Prayer was our divine companion! Our only connections to Liam were photos, videos and written updates on his progress. Thankfully we were allowed to send a present and cake on his first birthday while we celebrated at home.  

Finally, in February of 2015 we traveled to China. On March 2nd, “Gotcha Day” we finally were able to see and hold our baby boy. It was there that we gave him his American name; Kenneth Liam Caldwell. We were officially a family of three! After a long stay in China and what seemed to be an even longer flight home, Liam became a US citizen upon landing in Chicago, IL.  

Once back in Charleston, with his room already decorated, Hope and I began slowly and clumsily learning about the challenges of being parents. Liam began to pick up on the English language and his life as an Asian-born Southern-American was underway. His early experience in the US included surgeries and several leg casts to help correct the clubbed left foot with which he was born. The short time he spent in a wheelchair made for some daring yet hilarious adventures around town but especially at the Folly Beach pier. We also were blessed to find Charleston Bilingual Academy. CBA is a language immersion school that was starting a brand-new Mandarin program to go along with their established Spanish/English curriculum. We were thrilled to give Liam an opportunity to learn his native language, not knowing that by now, at 9 years of age, he would be learning to speak and read in Mandarin and Spanish all day, every day.  

 It was around this time that Hope’s many years of experience in the hospitality industry allowed us to consider pursuing the creation of our own company.  We understood the risks, however having the freedom to choose invaluable family time while still meeting the demands of Hope’s job outweighed the trepidation.  Alas, The KLH Group was born: focusing first on family – hence incorporating each of our initials into its name.  

Through persistence and a lot of grace we’ve experienced the many joys, hardships, challenges and adventures that define most families and continue to build and strengthen our love for one another, and hopefully those around us. Personally, Hope and I went through some very difficult times before and after we adopted Liam. I was very sick in body and spirit. The love and grace I received from God, as well as from Hope and Liam, and my love for them has made my recovery possible. They inspire me to live in full appreciation of the present moment, with what we have, and cherishing all things just as they are. 

In memory of Kenneth Mell and Kenneth Wayne Caldwell. 

New Year, New Love

A new year often brings new resolutions, new beginnings, new opportunities...how about a discovering a new love of a centuries old place?  

You don't have to look far to find love in Charleston. We're not talking the serendipity of meeting your soul mate over mint juleps at a rooftop bar (although that has been known to happen). We mean the love that's innate to this southern city, from the lovely Lowcountry backdrop to the beloved culture and cuisine. Honestly, it's almost too much for any one person... which is why we recommend sharing it. But whether you explore this romantic city on your own or with another, here are just a few over which we most swoon: 

1) Trace Waterfront Park past the Pineapple Fountain to the impressive pier, and work your magic to score a bench swing. Sway as you look out over the harbor, watching for dolphins and envisioning the past AND the future. 

2) Savor a meal on Sullivan’s Island, then head down to the beach. As you walk the water’s edge, collect butterfly or “kissing” shells. Marvel at the massive ships entering and exiting the harbor at the island’s south end, and imagine the adventures of each vessel. 

3) Simple, but tireless: grab a hand, or your camera, and follow on foot the length of the High Battery sea wall. Admire the grand antebellum homes lining White Point Gardens to one side, and the iconic harbor and Fort Sumter to the other. Compare historical acumen as you weave your own special history. 

4) From undeniably bewitching to downright spooky, walking tours on the peninsula combine fascinating tales of centuries-old Charleston with plenty of opportunity to snuggle close. Find a tour guided by candlelight, and be sure you experience a famed cemetery with rich haunted lore. 

5) Hold your loved one tightly 1,000 feet into the Atlantic Ocean – just be sure it’s as you stand at the end of the Folly Beach Pier. Climb to the pavilion’s second level, and stare at the horizon as the salty sea breeze blows. Too soon, the distant lights of the island town illuminate your way back to land. 

6) Make the scenic, live oak-canopied drive out to Middleton Place on the Ashley River. Meander unhurriedly through the fragrant gardens, then linger over a world-class southern supper overlooking the Mill Pond and Azalea Hillside. 

7) Sneak down a (somewhat) secret alley. From the Battery, follow the brickwork of Church Street and turn right at Stoll’s Alley. Hand-in-hand, under the cover of night or in the shadows of day, step quietly toward East Bay Street… then back again. 

Though only a sample of ways to share in the affection of our Holy City, exploring this storied place is a resolution worth keeping– not just as we head from January to February, but for all your days in Charleston. Think of it as finding new love.  

A Holiday Party Worth Remembering

Guess what? We don’t produce many holiday events during the season. But when Alex reached out with a vision to shower one special little girl we jumped at the chance to dive in!

Although sweet Izzy gained her Heavenly Wings not soon after this event, we know that the joy that was shared and the hearts that were touched brought us that much closer to what the season is intended for. To love, to put others first, to celebrate our brokenness because it moves us closer to being whole.

Today we reflect on Izzy’s Clubhouse Build™ as a time that, although short, we had the privilege to know this little lady full of laughter and tenacity and love for her little sister and her puppy.

May the season be upon you, and may the heavens rejoice, and the earth be glad - especially with a very special angel up there!!

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Gratitude and Thanksgiving

“Winter is an etching, spring a watercolor, summer an oil painting and autumn a mosaic of them all.”

KLHGroup created its own mosaic of successful and incredibly meaningful events throughout the Fall 2022 season. As always, the interwoven constant to each event is the incredible people with whom we get to collaborate. Hope and her team continue to make taking what could be an ordinary logistical plan from paper to a work of art look easy, here is a sampling of our fall at KLHGroup.

The River house at Lowndes Grove provided the most exquisite backdrop for an intimate gathering in early November. With luxurious table settings and an on point setup, the day set the Lowndes Grove catering team up for the delicious southern inspired meal to shine.

Working side by side with the wonderful people from CANFOR, we spread joy and laughter while impacting the lives of 12 families through our signature Clubhouse Build™ program.

We had a wonderful opportunity to work with The Charleston Place this fall in creating this beautiful installation complete with baskets that transitioned from September grasses to October pumpkins to November mums. How grateful we are to have had the opportunity this year!!

This year has brought many fresh faces and creative work to KLHGroup. We enter the holiday season, hearts full and thankful to the incredible clients who elevate what we do from work to a joy, to our team of dedicated employees committed to ensuring that each event is as successful as possible, and to our vendors who bring the special magic to make each event shine. Look forward to hearing from you in 2023!!

Social Impact Event at Seamark Ranch

“We don’t just dare to dream — we dare to act. This comes from our innate desire to find a better way and succeed...We execute every day, without ever taking our eyes off the possibilities ahead. We know that nothing great can be accomplished without courage. That’s why we roll up our sleeves, test our limits and dare to be bold in all we do.”

— Newell Brands

When given the opportunity to partner with a company like Newell Brands, everyone rolls up their sleeves and the dreams get big and real, quickly. Looking to connect this incredible team of volunteers with a larger and incredibly powerful social impact opportunity, KLHGroup delivered in spades creating a day of service at Sea Mark Ranch.

Seamark Ranch, located on a beautiful 468-acre campus in Northeast Florida, opened in 2007 and has since served over 100 children with its homes, on-campus school, and extensive childcare programs. Through the equestrian program, farm care, and the provision of a safe and loving home, each child is set on a journey towards healing, while developing life skills to support their future independence as adults.

KLHGroup’s exceptional team took care of all the logistics and preparations so that the teams of volunteers from Newell would be able to install shelving units in the pantry, re-furbish and update the physical buildings and the grounds through painting, pruning and planting, as well as have enough time to play kickball and provide a listening supportive ear to the children and staff at Sea Mark. “It was amazing to have everyone out here, we don’t get that very often. The people that came out were amazing people, I really appreciated having them here to talk to.”-SeaMark Ranch Resident

With the fundamental vision of “Dream Big, Dare to Act” driving both Newell and KLHGroup, the success of this event was like watching the grand finale of the fireworks at 4th of July- you leave in awe of what you saw and experienced!

The Feels of Fall

Have faith. Believe. Say it with me.

Fall is coming.

I know, I know. We're still ordering our coffee iced, parking under trees, and wearing our shortie PJs to bed. And the delineation between seasons grows ever-fainter with the rollout of Oktoberfest and pumpkin-spice-everything backing up earlier and earlier each year.

Still, the signs are there. The blanket of bright orange gourds lining the farm at Boone Hall Plantation. The competitive electricity of college football as each Saturday approaches. The chatter among kids (and youthful adults) revealing preliminary costume plans. And it's not just the sights and sounds. It's the actual engagement in the season: Immersing in all the play features of the pumpkin patch. Gearing up with fellow fans for game day at the stadium (or sports bar). Suspending reality for a night of elaborate dress-up, bewitching decor, and justified chocolate. In other words, as much as we dig the trappings of fall, what we really love is experiencing it. And, not "even" here in warm, coastal Charleston. Especially here.

Inspired by the transition to fall colors and textures, we recently collaborated with Blossom Bay Florist to create one of our favorite design installations to date. Dozens of seagrass-woven picnic baskets, handled totes, and round planters, adorned with native flowers and greenery, create an arch over the entrance to The Charleston Place Hotel. The feature is not only a visual depiction of Southern hospitality, but a lovely nod to the promise of autumn.

Energized by that expression, we embarked on a long-overdue team retreat. Filling the stunning space of a house on Folly Beach with bodies, souls, ideas and, yes, superpowers, our crew of seven renewed its commitment to the KLH Group mission, vision, core values, and "why." We did this in ways that were intentional and organized, but also within the spontaneous, less structured beach banter and late-night chats. It's hard to not have fun - and feel incredibly grateful - in a seaside home situated at the "Edge of America." But the real magic was what we brought back: conspicuously stronger cohesion and a reignited purpose.

In the weeks ahead, we have TWO clubhouse builds benefiting FIVE kids in TWO cities (Charleston and Mobile, AL). And both builds find us partnering with clubhouse "alumni!" First, we are again teaming up with CANFOR, following their big 12-clubhouse event this summer. Then we join forces once again with Zach, whose daughter Eliza Kate received a clubhouse this summer and has recently rung the "cancer-free" bell, as he sponsors a build to pay-it-forward. It might sound paradoxical to say that it is both humbling and rewarding to reconnect with past partners, but it's just the way I find the words.

I don't know how I got so lucky... to have this team, these partnerships, such opportunities. Maybe it was like my annual outlook on fall in the Lowcountry. I had faith. I believed.

An Evening with Chef Mallman

The bar for our client's board June retreat was already set sky-high, simply by virtue of the mountaintop venue, Primland Resort in southwest Virginia. So if we were going to host it at a level worthy of the locale, we needed to really loft our ideas, expectations, and execution. 

Turns out, that Blue Ridge resort was the perfect vessel for our ambitious vision. 

Our twenty guests arrived to an evening that appeared intentionally themed relaxed, refined, and illuminated. We encouraged the group to take a minute... to take it in. But, really, the stunning, sprawling grounds of their retreat, cradled in a tree-lined, rolling range of mountain that seemed to go on forever needed more than a minute. So we lingered, basking in our exclusive access to this property, this view, this hospitality. Cocktails on the terrace moved unhurriedly to dinner inside the great lobby hall with its floor-to-ceiling windows. Even as each course was savored and glasses clinked, we never had to take our eyes off the landscape. Our first night's vibe was "get comfortable," but also, "remain in awe." 

Night two was truly a singular encounter. At a nexus of good fortune and tenacity, we were able to arrange for our guests a true dining odyssey. To witness – and taste – the primitive splendor of open-fire cooking inspired by the method master Francis Mallman would have been delightful. But having the famed chef, author, and restauranteur on site for a rare private demonstration and personal meal prep was mind-blowing. Inside a domed "cage," whole roasts, pineapples, and cabbage heads dangled by twine over smoldering wood, flickering flames barely visible. Witnessing our guests engage with Chef Mallmann's team in a shared encounter they’ll never forget was gratifying beyond measure. How are we so lucky to do what we do? The extraordinary meal was served under sprawling white tents, native blooms softening the distressed dining tables. As dusk slowly curtained the Blue Ridge, guests hunkered into sumptuous leather seating to imbibe in spirits, cigars, and the soundbath of breeze-blown live music. 

For our final evening, our guests were treated to dinner in Primland’s signature restaurant, elements, where the menu is dictated as much by the bounty of the season as by the brilliance of the chef. And when darkness drenched our mountaintop, we defied the night drawing to an end, allowing ourselves to get swept up in the revelry of dueling pianos. The Blue Ridge mountains may be known for bluegrass, but no genre seemed to escape the high-energy, rapid-fire play of the pianists. 

Indeed, that's what you call ending an incredibly elevated experience on an even higher note. 

IS "IT" WORTH "IT"?

For such a little question, it sure is loaded - particularly when you consider that two tiny pronouns bear the load. One "it" carries your purchase, the other your price. They are your protagonist subject and your antagonist object, and their relationship is, well, complicated.

What is your second "it": Time? Money? Risk? And if it's risk, what form does that take: health, reputation, faith, ego? Sometimes, it is a combination. Always, it is what is being expended, sacrificed, put on the line. And to meet that measure of worth, that first "it" better be something pretty special.

I know I'm not the only one feeling particularly worn down by the pervasiveness of this question in the last two years. In anomalous and unrelenting ways, we have faced the kind of decision-making that constantly attempts to balance - or even perhaps detect a suitable imbalance. We weigh the prudent and the pragmatic against a likelihood to satisfy or gratify. Often, we pit the head versus the heart. Lately, it also feels like the science versus the soul.

A recent reach for some crystal "old fashioned" glasses, oddly enough, offered a metaphorical answer. Unwrapping them at a wedding shower years ago, I was struck first by their beauty, but it was quickly followed by their impracticality. I'm not a big home-cocktail person. Sensing my failure to see their function, the gift-giver suggested that I use them as everyday glassware, offering even the simple experience of sipping water a feeling of special intention, perhaps even extravagance. I wasn't sure I would follow the advice.

But when the glow of the wedding and honeymoon had faded, and I found myself in the post-party routine of life, I conceded one afternoon to iced tap water from the fancy old fashioned. The weight of the crystal grounded me in the moment, while the texture of its pattern made every new grip on it a surprise. The clink of the ice cubes quieted the more complicated noises in my head. And, yes, somehow the water tasted better - more crisp, pure, refreshing. The glass had surely been expensive. The set took up some precious real estate in my cabinet. And every piece had to be hand-washed. But I would take that grand set of four over a nondescript dozen any day of the week.

Maybe that's our approach during these times when that pesky latter "it" comes with more frequency and force. There is a higher cost - real or perceived, certain or uncertain. So, we choose our former "it" more mindfully - but also with more gumption and gusto.

Let's produce that big event, travel to that stunning locale, and pull out all the stops. Let's go for quality over quantity, limited luxury over recurrent thrift, unshakeable inspiration over fleeting revelry.

I know that an event is truly impactful when it moves a person's heart, and that movement is most enduring when it is mobilized by all the senses. I also know that, right now, we are conditioned more for caution, and scaled-down feels safer. But that is gulping tepid water from a flimsy vessel. Let's sip from the good glassware. It will be worth it.