Indulge Your Inner Fashionista at the Finest

Women's Clothing Boutique in Charleston, SC

When it comes to the latest trends in women's apparel, there's no better place to shop till you drop than Downtown Chucktown. And if you're searching for the finest threads in Charleston, look no further than Copper Penny - the Lowcountry's go-to shop for anyone that has a passion for fashion.

We have been dressing women in Charleston for over 34 years and offer upscale designer collections curated with a Southern eye. Here, women from around the United States discover sophisticated, effortless beauty for every season. Whether you're looking for a sassy new dress to impress that special someone or the perfect outfit for your next vacation, your options are endless at Copper Penny.

With easy-to-find locations close to Charleston's hottest spots, our curated selection of the newest, most popular women's clothing lines reflects the effortless glamour of Charleston. Whether you're a tidy professional or a fierce trend-setter, our goal is to help you find the perfect look for your own unique style. With designer brands like CK Bradley and Holst & Lee on hand year-round, finding your new look is easy and fun when you visit Copper Penny.

Our clothing lines give ladies a refreshing mix of one-of-a-kind authenticity with real wearability, allowing them to shine with confidence and style all year long. So, go ahead and spoil yourself - you deserve to look like a million bucks!

 Boutique Clothing Charleston, SC

Find the Perfect Dress to Impress

Diamonds are pretty and all, but honestly? Dresses are a girl's best friend. Dresses are fun, comfortable, and versatile. At Copper Penny, they're also fashionable and cute. We have a huge selection of women's dresses in Charleston, SC, from stylistic sheath dresses to drop-waist styles that will make your girlfriends jealous.

We offer several styles and shapes from which you can pick. Not sure what style fits best?
 Boutique Dresses Charleston, SC

It all starts at the waist:

 Cloths Shop Charleston, SC

A-Line Waist

These dresses are made to fit your waist and then gradually flare out towards the hem. A-line dresses are excellent for minimizing thighs, hips, and midsections while pulling the eyes to your bust. This style of dress is a great fit for almost any body type. There's a reason why so many brides settle on A-Line dresses for their big day! With plenty of varieties, this is a kind of dress that you can wear again and again.

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 Cloths For Women Charleston, SC

Empire Waist

Like the A-Line style, empire dresses are made to fit through your bust. Rather than creating a distinctly angular shape like the A-Line, the Empire style flows from the bust down. This is another kind of dress that fits many body types. From curvy to apple body shapes, the Empire draws focus to your bust and minimizes everything else. For lovely ladies on the shorter side, this style defines your silhouette, especially if you choose a maxi length dress.

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 Clothing Stores Charleston, SC

Drop Waist

A throwback to the roaring 20's style flapper dresses, Drop Waist dresses look best on lean, athletic bodies that don't have too many curves in the hip area. The key to pulling off a Drop Waist style dress is to ensure that it's not hugging you. This dress is best worn when it is able to hang freely on your body.

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Once you know the kind of waist that fits your body type, it's time to find your shape. A few of our most popular dress shapes include:

Fit & Flare Dresses in Charleston

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Fit & Flare Dresses in Charleston

Any clothing store for women in Charleston, SC, worth its salt, will have plenty of fit & flare dresses for you to try. This common-shaped dress is one of the most popular on the market, mainly because they look great on every woman, regardless of age or shape. A timeless choice, fit & flare dresses fit through the bodice and flare out just below your hip. This helps develop a balanced, slimming silhouette for most women. If you want to accentuate your best assets and hide everything else, ask our experienced fashionistas to show you some the most popular fit & flare dresses at Copper Penny.

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What body types are best for fit & flare?

Time to start doing your happy dance! Fit & flare dresses have very balanced proportions, making them a true winner for every body type. Women with athletic builds love this dress for the extra curves. Women with apple-shaped bodies love how fit & flare dresses define their waistlines. Because this dress already looks like an hourglass on the hanger, it will be a natural fit for ladies with such a figure.

 Fashion Stores Charleston, SC
 Fashion Boutique Charleston, SC

Shift Dresses in Charleston

What is a shift dress?

Shift dresses are typically rectangular in shape and tend to be comfy and forgiving since they aren't fitted. Also called a column dress, the shift dress is a great choice for polished professionals needing a conservative, fashionable outfit for work.

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What body types are best for shift dresses?

These dresses look fabulous on women with athletic, lean shapes and women with an apple-like figure. This kind of dress doesn't work well with a belt, so ladies with an hourglass figure may not be able to show off their curves in a shift. Try pairing this dress with a nice pair of heels for a beautiful new look!

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Wrap Dresses in Charleston

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What is a wrap dress?

Wrap dresses are one of the most popular styles on the market, because they give ladies of most shapes and sizes a flattering, fashionable dress option.

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What body types are best for wrap dresses?

If you have an hourglass, apple, or generally curvy body shape, you're going to love wrap dresses. This style of dress offers a natural waist while placing emphasis on your bust. Wrap dresses give you a balanced silhouette and, with a knee-length fit, are great for any type of color or style, both day and nightwear.

 Ladies Clothing Charleston, SC

Timeless Tops for Every Style

Unless you're feeling extra sassy, chances are you're wearing a top at this very moment. Tops are garments that cover the top half of your body. At Copper Penny, we have an endless selection of tops in a wide range of styles - from basic tees to blouses and everything in between. If you're looking for the highest quality women's tops in Charleston, SC, you just hit the jackpot!

With that said, finding the right top for the right occasion is easier said than done. However, at Copper Penny, we make finding the right top fun. Whether you're looking for a top that makes a statement or you need a classic button-down for a subdued style, we've got your back. We only carry the most popular tops from the best brands and designers around the world.

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Here are just of our most popular tops:

Boutique Charleston, SC

Women's Poplin Tops in Charleston

Sometimes called broadcloth tops, poplins have classic characteristics and are often woven with an over/under weave. This kind of weave gives more substance to your top while also giving you room to breathe. Poplin shirts are typically soft and smooth, and are great for everyday business attire, some formal occasions, and for certain ceremonies. Sweet and feminine, our Bruna poplin eyelet bib top features ruffles at the sleeves and an eyelet lace yoke at the front. Pair your poplin with your favorite pair of shorts or jeans for a contemporary, relaxed look.

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 Boutique Clothing Charleston, SC

Women's Wrap Tops in Charleston

Great for wearing solo or layered over a camisole or tank top, wrap tops are lightweight, versatile, and great for many different occasions. Wrap tops go well with jeans, maxi dresses, and high-waisted jeans or trousers. Our V-Neck Wrap SLV Top by Jayden is uber-popular at Copper Penny and the perfect choice for dressing down or dressing up. The choice is yours!

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 Boutique Dresses Charleston, SC

Women's Off the Shoulder Tops in Charleston

For a dose of feminine fashion, be sure you add an off-the-shoulder top to your everyday wardrobe. A casual, sexy choice, off-the-shoulder tops have unique necklines that cut across your upper arms and chest, leaving your shoulders bare. The result is a flirty flash of skin, which elongates your neck and gives a relaxed, "daytime casual" look. Our Nola off-the-shoulder top pairs perfectly with shorts or even a flowy skirt and is hand-woven in Spain using Jacquard fabric.

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 Cloths Shop Charleston, SC

Women's Tank Tops in Charleston

Who doesn't love a good tank top?! Tank tops are lightweight, versatile, and equally great for lounging in the yard or running errands on weekends. Tank tops lend an air of simplicity to your outfit and can be styled in endless ways. Take our Velvet Heart Victory Tank, for instance. This tank is a refreshing update on our classic sleeveless tank top, complete with fray details and a scoop neck. Throw in the fact that it's machine washable, and you have a wardrobe winner.

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Having trouble finding the best top for your size and style? As the most trusted women's clothing boutique in Charleston, SC, Copper Penny has helped women discover new looks in the Lowcountry for more than two decades. We take pride in providing a personalized, boutique experience for our customers. If you have questions, give us a call or swing by one of our locations. We would be happy to give you our professional opinion.

Until then, here's a quick guide you can follow to help you find the right fit for your women's top in Charleston:

Need help measuring?

Swing by Copper Penny and ask one of our friendly sales associates to help you out! While you're there, don't forget to check out our huge selection of women's tops in Charleston, SC.

Looking to take your style to the next level? You can also get in touch with a personal stylist directly from our website. With a personal stylist by your side, you can find stunning looks for specific occasions, using comfortable clothing in your favorite colors and cuts. Copper Penny is your one-stop-shop for fashionable, fun, fabulous designer clothing in Charleston. But don't take our word for it's come see for yourself!

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Latest News in Charleston, SC

The Business Narrative: Airport Connector Road Project In Charleston, SC, Receives Key Environmental Approval

Airport Connector Road Project In Charleston, SC, Receives Key Environmental Approval(123rf.com Image)Charleston County’s Airport Connector Road project has received a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) determination from the Fede...

Airport Connector Road Project In Charleston, SC, Receives Key Environmental Approval

(123rf.com Image)

Charleston County’s Airport Connector Road project has received a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) determination from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), a key environmental decision that officially concludes the lengthy environmental review period.

With this determination, the project advances into the right-of-way acquisition phase and toward completion of final design plans.

The FHWA determination letter read in part, “Based on the information provided to complete the environmental process the FHWA finds that the project will have no significant [human or environmental] impacts.”

Officials said the determination is a critical step in the project’s environmental review process and is based on the Environmental Assessment and other supporting information, which detail the project’s need, impact, and planned mitigation measures.

“This determination is a major milestone for the Airport Connector Road project and reflects years of careful planning, environmental study, and collaboration,” said Charleston County Public Works Director Eric Adams.

Adams added, “With this approval in hand, we’re one step closer to delivering critical infrastructure that will improve traffic flow, support economic growth, and provide a safer, more efficient connection to and from the airport.”

The Airport Connector Road project involves construction of a new access roadway to the Charleston International Airport.

Officials said the new five-lane road will help to alleviate traffic congestion caused by commuter traffic, airport-destined traffic, Boeing traffic, and general traffic associated with the North Charleston Coliseum/Performing Arts Center and surrounding area.

Additionally, the project will provide increased traffic capacity to account for future economic growth in the area, the officials said.

Construction is expected to begin in the third quarter of 2026 and is expected to take approximately two years.

The FONSI determination letter, Environmental Assessment, and other materials are available at www.airportconnectorroad.com.

Savor Restaurant Group Invests in The Wine Vault

Savor Restaurant Group, a boutique investment firm specializing in distinctive restaurant concepts, announced its investment in The Wine Vault, a wine bar and small plates concept with locations in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Each location features sommelier-curated wine lists with over 200 selections available by the bottle and 40 premium pours by the glass, complemented by seasonal, locally-sourced cuisine.

"This represents exactly what we look for in a partner – passionate operators who've created something with both soul and impressive unit economics," said Pat Martin, managing partner at Savor Restaurant Group. "We're excited to preserve what makes this brand special while supporting its growth into new markets."

The investment continues Savor Restaurant Group's strategy of investing in distinctive hospitality concepts with strong operational foundations and growth potential.

For this brand, the partnership provides access to capital, infrastructure, and expertise needed to scale while maintaining the intimate guest experience that defines the concept.

Financial terms of the transaction weren’t disclosed.

Initial plans include opening two additional locations in Virginia in 2027, followed by measured expansion into Nashville, Tennessee and Charleston, South Carolina.

Olympic Steel Welcomes Alex Hegler as General Manager

Olympic Steel Inc. (Nasdaq: ZEUS), a leading national metals service center, added Alex Hegler as general manager for its Action Stainless facility in Rock Hill, South Carolina.

Hegler joins the company with a background in sales and strategic leadership in the metals industry.

Most recently, he served as sales manager for a global specialty metals distributor and service center.

In his new role, Hegler will have responsibility for the day-to-day operations and sustainable growth of the Rock Hill facility. He will report directly to Jessica L. Burroughs, vice president – Action Stainless.

“Alex is an effective commercial leader with a proven record of strategic market expansion,” said Andy Markowitz, president – Specialty Metals. “His global experience will help drive fabrication-focused growth for the Rock Hill facility, Action Stainless and Olympic Steel, particularly as large OEMs and other market leaders evaluate reshoring options for metal processing.”

Hegler earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of South Carolina.

He replaces John McAuliffe, who will retire as the Rock Hill facility’s general manager after nearly 20 years with the company.

Founded in 1954, Olympic Steel (NASDAQ: ZEUS) is a leading U.S. metals service center focused on the direct sale and value-added processing of carbon and coated sheet, plate, and coil steel products; stainless steel sheet, plate, bar and coil; aluminum sheet, plate and coil; pipe, tube, bar, valves and fittings; tin plate and metal-intensive end-use products, including water treatment systems; stainless steel bollards; commercial, residential and industrial venting and air filtration systems; Wright brand self-dumping hoppers; metal canopy components; and EZ-Dumper dump inserts.

Headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, Olympic Steel operates from 54 facilities.

EY US Unveils Entrepreneur Of The Year 2025 Southeast Award Finalists

Ernst & Young LLP (EY US) announced the finalists for the Entrepreneur Of The Year 2025 Southeast Award.

The Southeast program celebrates entrepreneurs from Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee.

Now in its 40th year, the Entrepreneur Of The Year program celebrates the bold leaders who disrupt markets through the world’s most ground-breaking companies, revolutionizing industries and making a profound impact on communities.

The program honors entrepreneurs whose innovations shape the future and pave the way for a thriving economy and a hopeful tomorrow.

An independent panel of judges selected 36 finalists for their entrepreneurial spirit, purpose, growth and lasting impact in building long-term value.

"This year's finalists are leading examples of innovation, perseverance and resilience, illuminating paths to a brighter future for their industries and communities," says Chevy Arnold, Entrepreneur Of The Year Southeast Program co-director.

The program celebrates original founders who bootstrapped their business from inception or who raised outside capital to grow their company; transformational CEOs who infused innovation into an existing organization to catapult its trajectory; and multigenerational family business leaders who reimagined a legacy business model to strengthen it for the future.

The 2025 Southeast finalists are:

Marc Hodulich | 29029 | Atlanta, Georgia

Damon Stafford | Alpine Intel | Charlotte, North Carolina

Lou Hensley | Aspida | Durham, North Carolina

Matthew Dent | Buffalo Rock Company | Birmingham, Alabama

Melanie Little | Colonial Pipeline Company | Alpharetta, Georgia

Will Bartholomew | D1 Training | Franklin, Tennessee

Rene Diaz | Diaz Foods | Atlanta, Georgia

David Quirk | DLB Associates Consulting Engineers PC | Peachtree Corners, Georgia

Markus Scott | EyeQ Monitoring | Atlanta, Georgia

Jon Gosier | FilmHedge | Atlanta, Georgia

John Fitzpatrick | Force Marketing | Atlanta, Georgia

Dr. Barry Patel | Galt Companies | Atlanta, Georgia

Dr. Wade Smith | Galt Companies | Atlanta, Georgia

Charles Gillespie | Gambling.com Group | Charlotte, North Carolina

Kevin McCrystle | Gambling.com Group | Charlotte, North Carolina

Mike Griffin | Griffin Brothers Companies | Cornelius, North Carolina

Erin Hanson | Guardian Sports | Peachtree Corners, Georgia

Dan Beem | Hissho Sushi | Charlotte, North Carolina

Aaron Siegel | Home Team BBQ | Charleston, South Carolina

Marc Murphy | Ignite Digital Services | Charleston, South Carolina

Miller Chalk | Inglett & Stubbs, LLC | Mableton, Georgia

Liza Rodewald | Instant Teams | Southern Pines, North Carolina

Stephen Andresen | McClancy Foods & Flavors | Fort Mill, South Carolina

Travis LeFever | Mission Mobile Medical Group | Greensboro, North Carolina

Cyrus Mojdehi | Northway Homes | Charlotte, North Carolina

Connor Ryan | NutraSky | Alpharetta, Georgia

Fritz Owens | OTR Solutions | Roswell, Georgia

Christopher Chuang | Relay, Inc. | Raleigh, North Carolina

Kurt Jacobus | restor3d, Inc. | Durham, North Carolina

Tom Kendrot | Shearwater Health | Nashville, Tennessee

Teak Shore | Southern Lighting Source | Cumberland, Georgia

Cindy Eckert | Sprout Pharmaceuticals | Raleigh, North Carolina

Bryan Moore | TalkShopLive Inc. | Nashville, Tennessee

Tina Moore | TalkShopLive Inc. | Nashville, Tennessee

Igor Marinelli | Tractian | Atlanta, Georgia

Joan Butters | Xsolis | Franklin, Tennessee.

Learn more about the finalists at https://www.ey.com/en_us/entrepreneur-of-the-year-us/southeast/winners-finalists.

Regional award winners will be announced on June 25 during a special celebration.

The winners will then be considered by the National independent panel of judges for the Entrepreneur Of The Year National Awards, which will be presented in November at the annual Strategic Growth Forum, one of the nation’s prestigious gatherings of high-growth, market-leading companies.

Allow us to tell your company's Business Narrative. Send your press release to David Dykes or for more information email ddykes@intmedpub.com

Concert Countdown: We've got the best May concerts to attend in Charleston

Your May concert countdown is here, looking ahead at some of the best shows coming to Charleston this month. We've got quite the mix, and now that the weather has warmed up the outdoor venues around town are in full swing as well.And because outdoor venues are so tapped in this month, I'm including some clusters below for you to pick from all the stellar shows happening at particular venues, like The Windjammer and Credit One Stadium.Don't forget to slather on that sunscreen when you head to an outdoor show (trust me, I've lear...

Your May concert countdown is here, looking ahead at some of the best shows coming to Charleston this month. We've got quite the mix, and now that the weather has warmed up the outdoor venues around town are in full swing as well.

And because outdoor venues are so tapped in this month, I'm including some clusters below for you to pick from all the stellar shows happening at particular venues, like The Windjammer and Credit One Stadium.

Don't forget to slather on that sunscreen when you head to an outdoor show (trust me, I've learned the hard way)!

Windjammer shows (including Mark Bryan)

What: May is a packed month at The Windjammer, with so many bands to highlight playing the NUTRL Beach Stage. I'll give a shout out to a few here: Yonder Mountain String Band, Brent Cobb, Everclear, Leftover Salmon, Vincent Mason, GoldFord, two nights of Corey Smith, two nights of Umphrey's McGee, two nights of Futurebirds and two nights of Stoplight Observations.

Among the stellar lineup is also Hootie & The Blowfish's own Mark Bryan, a Charleston local who has released three solo albums beyond his Hootie years. I'll include those details below, but check out the general website for all the details on the others.

When: Doors at 6 p.m. May 3

Where: The Windjammer, 1008 Ocean Blvd., Isle of Palms

Price: $20 advance, $25 day of show

More Info: the-windjammer.com/event/mark-bryan

Credit One Stadium shows (including Sturgill Simpson)

What: It's a busy month at Credit One Stadium following a successful tennis tournament at the venue in April. This month, you can snag tickets to see the following artists there: Cody Johnson & Friends, Hank Williams Jr., two nights of Widespread Panic and Keith Urban.

Also on the list is Sturgill Simpson, known in the contemporary country music world for his traditional sound and introspective lyrics.

O2 Fitness in West Ashley surprises members with 'disappointing' news about closure

A West Ashley gym will power down for good next month, leaving customers crushed.O2 Fitness at 1119 Wappoo Road sent an email to members at 2 p.m. April 18, stating, "our lease terminates at the end of May and we have been unable to find a path forward to maintain."The final day is May 31 with the closure time scheduled for 7 p.m.The gym anchors the Ashley Oaks Plaza, situated in the middle of a grou...

A West Ashley gym will power down for good next month, leaving customers crushed.

O2 Fitness at 1119 Wappoo Road sent an email to members at 2 p.m. April 18, stating, "our lease terminates at the end of May and we have been unable to find a path forward to maintain."

The final day is May 31 with the closure time scheduled for 7 p.m.

The gym anchors the Ashley Oaks Plaza, situated in the middle of a group of tenants that include West Ashley Hardware/TrueValue, Los Reyes Mexican Restaurant, Kings Sushi, Lavish Nail Salon, Ultratan and newly added Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids.

"As a local company born and raised in the Carolinas, with roots in Charleston going back 25 years, this is a disappointing situation," the email said.

The Raleigh-based fitness chain first opened the West Ashley location in January 2019.

The gym was one of three workout centers, including Daniel Island and Moncks Corner, to replace existing facilities O2 inherited after its purchase of the former East Shore Athletic Club's Charleston-area operations in 2013.

"These three upgrades, along with the addition of our beautiful James Island club late last year, help showcase our commitment to providing the Charleston-area with first-class fitness facilities,” O2 Fitness founder and CEO Michael Olander previously told The Post and Courier.

Memberships to the West Ashley location remain active at O2 Fitness on Folly Road, with no action required, the company said.

The chain operates 19 fitness centers, mostly in North Carolina.

Kardea Brown's Southern Kitchen restaurant at Charleston International airport opens soon

A new restaurant run by a locally based celebrity chef is preparing to touch down at Charleston International.When visitors to the airport's Kardea Brown's Southern Kitchen sit down for "contemporary Lowcountry cuisine," Food Network chef Kardea Brown wants them to feel like family.A sign that reads "Hey cousins...

A new restaurant run by a locally based celebrity chef is preparing to touch down at Charleston International.

When visitors to the airport's Kardea Brown's Southern Kitchen sit down for "contemporary Lowcountry cuisine," Food Network chef Kardea Brown wants them to feel like family.

A sign that reads "Hey cousins!" was installed above the bar in the space that previously housed Jack Nicklaus Golden Bear Grill. Brown says fans of her shows or cookbooks will likely recognize the menu selections.

She's the host of "Delicious Miss Brown" and is known for known for her regional Gullah-inspired cuisine.

Brown was scheduled to hold a soft opening April 19 at CHS. A grand opening is planned for May 15.

The restaurant is part of a $6 million investment that airport concessionaire Delaware North plans to make in its latest shakeup of dining options.

Brown was onsite the week of April 14 to train staff and put the finishing touches on the space.

"As a Charleston girl born and raised, it's just a dream come true to have a restaurant named after me in the Charleston airport," she said.

Now on tour

A company that describes itself as the nation's largest operator of themed sightseeing vehicles has brought its Old Town Trolley Tours to Charleston.

Historic Tours of America Inc. launched operations in the Holy City earlier this month.

Old Town offers a 100-minute live narrated tour with two photo stops at the Battery and Hampton Park. The outings depart daily from the Charleston Visitor Center at 375 Meeting St. from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

The itineraries covers points of interest, including Rainbow Row, The Citadel, the Old Exchange, Broad Street, Liberty Square, the Powder Magazine, the Old Slave Mart Museum and historic churches. Trips to the historic plantations at Boone Hall in Mount Pleasant and Magnolia in West Ashley also are available.

Ticket prices range from about $36 to $75, according to Historic Tours' website.

CEO Chris Belland said the Key West, Fla.-based company had wanted to expand for some time to Charleston, saying it's "a perfect destination with history, attractions, fascinating stories and fabulous people, which is what we look for when going into a city.”

The company also launched a Hometown pass program for Charleston County residents that offers a free admission with the purchase of an adult ticket.

Old Town operates tours in eight other cities.

Reach Megan Fernandes at mfernandes@postandcourier.com.

BermudAir lands at Charleston International, offering a first-of-its-kind nonstop

Bermuda's pink-sand beaches are just a nonstop flight away for Lowcountry residents, now that BermudAir has launched its newests nonstop route."Ladies and Gentlemen, the first Bermuda flight to Charleston has just landed. We will be boarding shortly," an airline gate agent said over the airport's intercom as the direct flight from Bermuda touched down on the CHS runway April 19.It was followed by applause of passengers waiting to board....

Bermuda's pink-sand beaches are just a nonstop flight away for Lowcountry residents, now that BermudAir has launched its newests nonstop route.

"Ladies and Gentlemen, the first Bermuda flight to Charleston has just landed. We will be boarding shortly," an airline gate agent said over the airport's intercom as the direct flight from Bermuda touched down on the CHS runway April 19.

It was followed by applause of passengers waiting to board.

The excitement drew onlookers from nearby gates to the window to watch the plane marked with a colorful bright tail pull into gate A1. The pilots, still in the cockpit, waved at the crowd.

Fran Tucker Griffiths was among the group, waiting with her ticket and passport in hand to board. She lived in Bermuda for 38 years and raised her children on the island. To her, it's still home even though she spends most of her time in South Carolina now.

"The day they announced this flight, I booked it," Tucker Griffiths said. "I'm so excited. I've been waiting since 1982 for a nonstop route. We've had to fly Delta through Atlanta and make a whole day of it, but this two-hour flight saves us a day of travel."

She already has tickets booked for May and June trips.

"Bermuda has amazing golf and the most beautiful beaches and people. It's just a special place," Tucker Griffiths said.

The resort island's carrier will serve Charleston year-round with a once-weekly Saturday flight to and from L.F. Wade International Airport in the historic town of St. George.

The weekly flight departs CHS at 5:30 p.m. every Saturday and arrives in St. George's about two hours and 10 minutes later. The return leg will land around 4:45 p.m. every Saturday.

BermudAir took to the skies slightly over a year ago, with two Embraer ER-170 jets to serve three U.S. cities. Before the carrier hit its first anniversary, it had entered seven markets in North America. BermudAir now flies to 10 destinations in the U.S. and three in Canada.

BermudAir is the first carrier to be headquartered on the island, which is about 900 miles nearly due east of the South Carolina coastline.

CEO Adam D. Scott said year-round service is key to its goal of making Bermuda a destination for business and leisure travelers beyond being a summer destination.

"We're really pleased with the interest from both directions," Scott said.

Scott was on the inaugural CHS flight, which was more than 60 percent full. He said it's sometimes hard to anticipate how balanced the outbound and inbound traffic will be. He said seeing the balance from day one is "indicative of the demand in both markets."

"Charleston a great historic city with a lot of unique character, and so is Bermuda," Scott said.

More than 40 passengers deplaned at CHS, and another 30 boarded shortly after.

Among those landing in Charleston was a Daniel Island family returning from a spring break trip. Frank Pete and wife Katy and two children chose Bermuda as their vacation destination because they could take the BermudAir flight home.

"It was nice clearing customs in Bermuda, because it made flying back a breeze as if we were flying domestic," he said. "The experience was great. We enjoyed the stalagmite caves, beaches and cliff jumping on the trip."

While the once-weekly route is not ideal for those staying longer or less than a week, Scott, the CEO, said the goal is to move to a twice-weekly flight in the future if interest remains strong. He doesn't see it as a weakness in the meantime, since passengers can fly back to the U.S. with the carrier and get back to Charleston via a domestic connection. Alternatively, they can fly through another carrier, which also requires a connecting flight.

Bermuda is known as a vibrant, tropical and cosmopolitan getaway with blush-colored sand, coral reefs, historic sites and an international finance sector.

Travelers from Bermuda shared their favorite sights to see beyond the pink sand beaches it's most known for — like crystal caves, the historic town of St. George, Royal Naval Dockyard and other spots.

Charleston International CEO Elliott Summey said the schedule between the Lowcountry and Bermuda "marks a significant milestone for both regions" and promotes business and leisure travel between the two areas.

“This new route enhances our international connectivity and strengthens economic and cultural ties between the Lowcountry and the island," Summey said.

Debi Ray-Rivers is an example of that business demand. She's a Bermudian who just recently moved to Hilton Head Island full-time. She was on her way to Bermuda to manage her nonprofit and she has a return ticket booked for next week.

"I will be flying back and forth regularly, so I am very excited to have this convenient option," Ray-Rivers said.

Before BermudAir, she'd fly out from Savannah-Hilton Head International to a connecting flight in Atlanta.

"I hope people come visit Bermuda because of this route. We have the most beautiful island and it's an absolute gem in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean," Ray-Rivers added.

Beverly Connell, a Bermudian that lives in the Beaufort area, said the route saves her from the usual long layover in Atlanta or Charlotte airports.

"I couldn't believe there would ever be a direct flight to Bermuda from Charleston. The less airports you have to go through the better," Connell said.

Connell said the two pairings share much in common, with historic sites, beaches and big tourism industries.

"Bermuda is very unique in terms of its beauty, its people and culture rooted in English and Bermudian traditions," she said.

Reach Megan Fernandes at mfernandes@postandcourier.com.

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