Who We Are

“I founded Charming Inns^® in 1982, and it's always been a labor of love, just like raising a family. It started with me but the 'family' grew one Inn at a time adding family members to support the business. Many employees began in the Charming Inns^® family as bellmen, concierges and have grown within the company and are valuable members of management now. As the 'parent,' it's rewarding to watch the family work together to ensure that our guests receive a great experience. I enjoy Charleston for its friendliness and small town feel. Walking down the street or waving at a passing car, you always see someone you know.”

Favorite Spot

"I love to run the three-mile loop from Kings Courtyard Inn to Waterfront Park, around the Battery to the Coast Guard station, past Colonial Lake, past the Wentworth Mansion and return to King Street."

“I've been part of the Charming Inns^® family since 1999. I work with a wonderful group of people who genuinely care and support each other personally and professionally. We all work together for the same common goal: seeing our guests smile! For a small city Charleston has so many big city offerings. From the fine arts and history, to sporting events and great cuisine, to beaches and spectacular weather, Charleston is truly a fantastic place.”

Favorite Spot

The seawall along The Battery

“I began my Charming Inns^® career in 1993, and the people I work with make my job what it is and are the reason I want to come to work everyday. We care about each other personally just like you would siblings. Everyone takes ownership in their individual jobs - and we are all always willing to help each other out. As a native Charlestonian, I have so much history here. I love the beaches, the ocean, the friendly people, the beautiful historic homes, and the tree lined streets.”

Favorite Spot

Colonial Lake or The Battery if in the city

“I've been a part of the Charming Inns^® family since 2010. We're the first to cheer for each other, when goals or rewards are achieved. We're in your corner, during hard times. We support one another. It's more than a business; it's a family! There's much to love about Charleston, but I especially love the history and way the local citizens preserve and cherish it. The secret gardens you only find by walking down a one-way street and peeking through the wrought iron fences, and the greatest restaurant scene on the east coast.”

Favorite Spot

"The top of the Ravenel Bridge at sunrise or sunset."

"I recently relocated from Wisconsin to pursue a new career and say goodbye to Midwest winters! I now feel that Charleston is my home, and I am thrilled to be part of the amazing Charming Inns family. I hope to share my love for the Holy City and encourage others to embrace the Charming Inns^® experience."

Favorite Spot

Waterfront Park is a great place to enjoy the spectacular view of the harbor and unwind by the famous Pineapple Fountain. I also enjoy kayaking on Shem Creek and swimming at Isle of Palms Beach.

“I'm proud to say that I've been a member of the Charming Inns^® staff since 2000. These folks are hardworking, loyal, and passionate about their jobs. Like any family, we care for one another, we support one another, and we work together to be successful. We strive everyday to provide the best customer service and create memorable experiences for our guests. When it comes to Charleston, I love the history, the hospitality, the diverse culinary scene, and of course—the view!”

Favorite Spot

“Charles Towne Landing, Waterfront Park, Sunset Cay, shopping at any home décor store… GDC and Celadon are my faves.”

“I was born & raised in Oklahoma. I was lucky to have spent some time in Charleston while attending college in Oklahoma. 

I promised myself back then if I ever had a chance to move to this amazing city that I would, and I did just that in 2020.

I sought out Charleston for the culinary experiences, weather, culture, and wonderful people. 

I have been in the hospitality business for more than 20 years at all levels; from dishwasher to franchise owner.

I am very excited to be part of the Charming Inns family. 

In my spare time, I enjoy watching my beloved Liverpool Football Club, dining out locally, or watching the amazing sunsets.

Favorite spot: The Royal Tern, John’s Island.

I discovered Charleston when I was young while vacationing with my family for many years. I have always loved the combination of history and culture that abounds in Charleston and the Lowcountry. To be able to make a home in a community that embraces history and the arts and where I can also indulge my love of the ocean and outdoors is priceless. What I love best about the Charming Inns organization is their commitment to honoring the history of their properties and the city while at the same time providing a warm and welcoming environment to every guest that comes through their door.

Favorite Spot: Whether I am looking for Loggerhead turtle nests or just enjoying an evening stroll with my pup, the beach at IOP is my happy place.

“I've been part of the Charming Inns^® family since 2007, and they have supported me in my decisions through college and young professional life. The best thing about Charleston has to be its ability to appeal to many different lifestyles. From history buffs to beachgoers to "foodies" and to those who only come to town for a little retail therapy, there is a niche for all types of visitors and locals alike.”

Favorite Spot

“For shopping, I like Indigo on Vendue Range.”

I have been in Hospitality for more than 20 years, and I have been fortunate to manage fantastic properties in Costa Rica and San Francisco. I moved with my wife and two sons to Charleston in 2019 to be closer to our families and experience one of the best cities in the South. In my downtime, I love spending time with the family on Sullivan’s Island or playing mini-golf with my sons. 

“I have lived in Charleston since 2002 when I moved here from Port Orange, Florida. I love living here because every day I wake up there is something to do between the parks, beaches, harbors, local shops and restaurants. The Charming Inns^® team welcomed me in 2011. I love Charming Inns^® because it is like my family away from home.”

Favorite Spot

"Enjoying champagne and mussels on the outdoor patio of Rue De Jean on a sunny day."

“Born a Vermonter, I grew up in Massachusetts, but I've been part of the Charming Inns^® ‘family’ since 2004, and it's just that—family. A Dad and Mom, sisters, cousins, brothers, aunts. They say you can't pick your family… I'm fortunate enough to pick mine! I like the nooks and crannies of Charleston. The one balcony table at Muse, the back outdoor space of Blind Tiger, the alley called Pennsylvania Ave., and the Pineapple courtyard at Kings Courtyard Inn.^®”

Favorite Spot

“Washington Park, the park where my hubby and I first talked about moving to Charleston.”

"I moved to Charleston from Atlanta in 2010 to attend College of Charleston and completely fell in love with the city. I love that everything feels walkable and close like a small town, but we still have thriving culinary, shopping, and arts scenes like you might find in a larger city. I am thrilled to be able to channel my passion for Charleston into my role as part of the Charming Inns Family!

Favorite Spot:

Sunrise at Waterfront Park.

I grew up in Columbia, S.C. but spent many summer days in Charleston and Pawleys Island. I grew up in a Citadel family and have great memories of summer camp, football games and family time in the low country. I graduated from The Citadel in 1988, and was thrilled to move back to the low country in 2000. Since then, I have been extremely fortunate to work in hotel sales and management at Kiawah Island Resorts, the Francis Marion Hotel, and Hilton Hotels. I joined the Charming Inns family in 2018 and I found home. I also love the beach! Whether it’s a quiet run, a stroll with my daughter, or playing with my son, I can often be found at the Isle of Palms station #33 with a bag of boiled peanuts.

"My family and I started visiting Charleston in 2008 and completely fell in love. We relocated here in 2016 from South Florida and have continued to fall in love with this beautiful city. After recently graduating from the Culinary Institute of Charleston with an Associate Degree in Hospitality Management, I was fortunate enough to be hired by the Charming Inns Family. I love coming to work every day and experiencing the sights of Downtown and being able to share some of my favorite places to dine and shop with our guests."

“I'm an Erie, Pennsylvania, native who's been part of the Charming Inns^® team since 2001. To be part of this incredible team is to be part of a family committed to our guests' total enjoyment of Charleston. I believe the best things about Charleston are the weather and the people who support our great culinary scene.”

Favorite Spot

“Kayaking out of Shem Creek.”

“A native of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, I have been living and working in Charleston's hospitality industry for 10 years. I am ever inspired by our city's history, culture, natural beauty, and residents. I love to utilize my passion to create unique and unforgettable experiences for our guests. I am proud to work with such a talented group of people that make up Charming Inns, and I am grateful to have their support and friendship along the way."

Favorite Spot

Sullivan's Island Station 30. 

“Since 1998, I've been part of a close-knit group of individuals all graciously working towards the same goal, giving support and inspiration whenever either is needed. That's what Charming Inns^® is all about. There's so much to love about Charleston, but the water, history, hospitality, and diverse culinary scene are my favorites.”

Favorite Spot

“Watching CofC Cougars or Riverdogs.”

I was born and raised in Northern Michigan and moved to Florida as soon as I graduated from high school. I lived in Florida for 18 years and then relocated to Charleston in 2010. I joined the Charming Inns family in 2013. I have been fortunate enough to work for some of the top hospitality companies in the country and I have to say that Charming Inns is the top of the top. It's great to work for a company that allows such personal growth as well and promotes employees from within.

Favorite Spot

"Anywhere with a great glass of wine!"

With over a decade in luxury hospitality, Chef Ashley Cardona brings an eye for detail and creativity to the Circa 1886 team. Originally from North Carolina, Ashley attended Johnson & Wales University in Charlotte, where she received degrees in both Pastry Arts and Hospitality Management. Ashley found her passion for French technique and desserts when she attended École Nationale Supérieure de Pâtisserie in Yssingeaux, France. Today she combines this knowledge and skill with her Southern heritage, bringing to life modern Southern desserts. 

Ashley is excited to bring her industry knowledge and love of fine foods to the pastry program at Circa 1886.