CHS Happenings' Growth Story & Charleston Updates: New Developments, Events & Local News
Just as Charleston continues to grow and evolve, so do the ways we stay connected as a community. Today we're sharing some exciting milestones in local media, significant retail developments, and can't-miss events that showcase our city's vibrant lifestyle.
CHS Happenings is Charleston’s go-to source for learning about the best events, new restaurants and retailers.
Our subscribers are super-engaged, too.
From Blog Posts to Charleston's Must-Read Newsletter: The CHS Happenings Story
Remember when finding out about local happenings meant scrolling through endless social media posts or hearing about events after they happened? That's exactly what inspired the creation of CHS Happenings, which has grown from a series of blog posts into Charleston's go-to source for local insights.
Engagement That Speaks Volumes
In the world of digital publishing, numbers tell a story. For CHS Happenings, those numbers are turning heads:
An impressive 61% open rate since the first issue
Recent weeks showing 70% engagement
Click-through rates exceeding 6%
833 subscribers gained purely through word of mouth and social media
What makes these numbers remarkable? In digital publishing, a 50% open rate is considered excellent. CHS Happenings isn't just meeting that bar—it's shattering it.
Quality Over Quantity: A Community-First Approach
While reaching the 1,000-subscriber milestone was celebrated, the focus has remained steadfast on engagement quality. Rather than contributing to inbox clutter, CHS Happenings takes a unique approach: if subscribers aren't engaging, they're given a chance to reconnect through reminder emails. It's about building a community of engaged Charlestonians who genuinely value local insights.
Vision for 2025: Bold Goals Ahead
Looking forward, CHS Happenings has set ambitious targets:
Growing to 10,000 engaged subscribers by year-end 2025
Introducing more interactive polls to hear directly from readers
Launching strategic advertising to spread awareness
Offering local businesses paid sponsorship opportunities
Maintaining the high-quality, value-packed content readers love
Johns Island's Retail Renaissance: Major Grocery Store Upgrade Coming
Johns Island's Retail Renaissance: Major Grocery Store Upgrade Coming
Speaking of growth, Johns Island—once a sleepy area separated from James Island by the Stono River—continues its transformation into one of Charleston's fastest-growing communities.
From KJ's Market to Lowes Foods
The shopping center at Maybank Highway and Bohicket Road is poised for significant changes:
Current tenant KJ's Market likely transitioning to Lowes Foods
Complete façade modernization planned
New entry construction approved by Charleston's Design Review Board
This upgrade reflects Johns Island's changing demographics and growing appeal to new residents, including many of the 34 daily transplants (notably from New York) choosing to call Charleston home.
This Week's Must-Attend Charleston Events
1. Lowcountry Oyster Roast and BBQ at The Dunlin
Friday, December 27, 4:30 - 8 PM Experience coastal luxury at The Dunlin, Auberge Resorts Collection. Located at 6000 Kiawah River Drive on Johns Island, this event features:
Fresh steamed oysters
BBQ favorites from their smokers
Scenic Airstream park setting near the Spa
Perfect remedy for chilly coastal evenings Note: Limited parking available
2. Well Hung Vineyards Drag Brunch Party
Saturday, December 28, 11:30 AM - 2:30 PM Close out the year in style at 49 South Market Street. This iconic year-end celebration promises:
Fabulous entertainment
Downtown Charleston ambiance
Unforgettable brunch experience
3. West Ashley Cars and Coffee
Sunday, December 29, 8 - 10 AM Charleston's largest and longest-running Cars and Coffee event at Northbridge Shopping Center (1690 Olde Town Road) features:
Local cars, trucks, and motorcycles
Breakfast from Cold Shoulder Gourmet
Coffee service by Barista Bear
Family-friendly community atmosphere
Too busy to read, or on the move? Listen to this week’s CHS Happenings episode. 👇🏼👇🏼
What's New in Charleston?
Here’s some stories from this week's CHS Happenings you may have missed.
Downtown Dining Scene Changes
Barsa, a longtime fixture in Charleston's tapas scene, announces its closure after a successful run, marking the end of an era in downtown dining.
New York Influence Grows
16 Handles, a NYC-based frozen yogurt chain, brings its first location to the Point Hope development, further evidence of northeastern influences shaping our city's retail landscape.
North Charleston's Newest Social Hub
Combining two Charleston favorites—dogs and craft beer—a new dog park and beer bar concept opens in North Charleston, adding another unique gathering spot to our growing community.
Why These Updates Matter for Charleston Real Estate
Each development we've covered today—from media growth to retail upgrades and new entertainment venues—reflects Charleston's dynamic evolution. For current and future residents, these changes signal:
Community Growth
Continued investment in local infrastructure
Enhanced amenities across neighborhoods
Growing diversity in entertainment and dining options
Property Value Implications
Retail upgrades often correlate with property value increases
New amenities enhance neighborhood desirability
Community engagement strengthens local market stability
Lifestyle Benefits
More diverse shopping options
Enhanced entertainment choices
Stronger community connections
Final Thoughts
Charleston's rapid growth and incoming residents are reshaping the city in exciting ways. If you're thinking about buying or selling a home, staying informed about migration trends, new retail openings, and commercial developments can give you the edge.
Need some insider real estate advice? The Farrell Group has you covered. We live and breathe Charleston — and we're here to help you make the most of this dynamic market.
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