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.
