Moody Fall Magic at 44 Queen Street: A Charleston Evening of Local Artistry

When autumn settles over Charleston, it softens everything it touches — the brick walls, the oak-lined streets, even the air itself. To celebrate the season’s warmth and the artistry of local creatives, 44 Queen Street, one of downtown’s most charming historic venues, hosted an intimate fall vendor showcase. With candlelight flickering beneath the trees and guests gathered in velvet lounges beneath string lights, the evening felt like stepping into a dream — a perfect blend of history, color, and Charleston charm.

The Inspiration Behind the Gathering

Every collaborative event begins with a spark of inspiration. For this project, our goal was to highlight the diversity and creativity of some of our best friendors (vendor friends) while showcasing 44 Queen as a beautiful venue option for private events. Each vendor brought something special to the table, whether it was impeccable & delicious bar service from Chug-a-lug Wagon, whimsical floral design by Roadside Blooms, top-notch bites from Harvest Catering, or cozy & eclectic lounge peices from yours truly (The French Eclectic).

We wanted to create a visual narrative that not only showcases their products but also tells the story of their craftsmanship and dedication. For instance, we organized the shoot around the seasons to reflect how each vendor incorporates seasonal elements into their creations. We envisioned a series of images that would capture the essence of each vendor, allowing their individuality to shine through.

Meet the Vendors

The Venue: 44 Queen

44 Queen - the offices and bridal suite for the French Huguenot Church in downtown Charleston, SC - captured the magic that happens when creative souls (with years of experience) come together to show off one of Charleston's most quaint & romantic courtyards.

Tucked away in the French Quarter of downtown Charleston, 44 Queen is where timeless architecture meets modern romance. Once a residential single house, the house was built in the early 1800s and the church has done a remarkable job of restoring the home so that it's balanced with modern ammenities but still carries a historic charm and classic French design style.

The venue’s back couryard is framed by weathered brick walls, hedgewoods, and a large open hearth & chimney - all of which created the dreamiest stage for this autumn evening. A cellist (Claire Allen-Solomon) was perched on the 2nd floor balcony, which added another layer of romantic charm. As the sun dipped low, shadows stretched across the floor, wrapping the space in an irresistible sense of intimacy — a reminder that history has its own kind of warmth.

The Design: Autumn Mood and Velvet Warmth

Every detail of the event design reflected the moody palette of fall in the Lowcountry. The French Eclectic brought our signature touch to the courtyard, layering it with curved velvet sofas in golden ochre and rust, rich brown armchairs, and antique glass tables. The textures alone told a story: soft fabric against rough brick, candlelight flickering on metal and glass. The layout encouraged connection — intimate seating clusters nestled beneath the trees, each accented with petite floral arrangements and votives that caught the light. It was both stylish and inviting, the kind of design that makes you want to linger just a little longer.

We also showcased a new offering: custom bar wrapping! It's something we've been considering for awhile, and this event gave us the perfect opportunity. We love how it turned out - I mean, how perfect is that dark floral motif on the moody Onyx Bar?!

The Bar: Craft Cocktails by Chug-a-lug Wagon

Against the backdrop of the courtyard’s brick wall, Chug-a-lug Wagon set the tone for the evening’s flow. Their Spritz Menu offered several sparkling options that were a delight to taste. On top of perfectly blended cocktails, they offered what they are most known for: charming, elegant, top-notch bar service.

You'll notice that they set up behind our 10-foot Onyx Bar, but Chug is also known for their adorable collection of mobile bars - check those cuties out here!

The Florals: Wild Elegance by Roadside Blooms

The florals by Roadside Blooms were the evening’s heartbeat — lush, textural, and perfectly untamed. Warm rusts, deep burgundies, and faded golds mingled with foraged greenery, echoing the tones of the surrounding garden.

Low arrangements adorned the tables, while the bar was transformed into a floral focal point — vines spilling across its dark facade, blooms peeking through the soft glow of tapered candles. The result felt organic and alive, as if the courtyard itself had bloomed for the occasion.

The Menu: Seasonal Flavor by Harvest Catering

Harvest Catering curated a menu that tasted like fall in Charleston — comforting, flavorful, and elevated. Guests enjoyed passed apps of pickled shrimp, mushroom tarts, and roasted tenderloin toasts, each dish reflecting the rhythm of the season.

Served with casual grace and thoughtful detail, the food complemented the atmosphere — sophisticated but welcoming, just like the city that inspired it.

The Experience: Connection in the Glow of Candlelight

Captured beautifully by Sarah Elaine Photography, every image from the evening tells the story of connection — of local artisans coming together in a shared space to celebrate creativity, beauty, and community.

It wasn’t just a showcase; it was a reflection of what Charleston does best: blending history with artistry, creating moments that feel rooted and inspired all at once.

A Love Letter to Fall in Charleston

From the velvet lounges beneath the trees to the golden cocktails shared under string lights, this evening at 44 Queen Street was a celebration of everything we love about fall — warmth, texture, and togetherness.

Charleston has a way of making even the simplest moments feel timeless, and with the creative touch of The French Eclectic, Roadside Blooms, Harvest Catering, and Chug-a-lug Wagon, the result was nothing short of magic.

Creative Team

• Venue: 44 Queen Street — Charleston, SC

• Event Rentals: The French Eclectic

• Florals: Roadside Blooms

• Catering: Harvest Catering

• Bar Service: Chug-a-lug Wagon

• Photography: Sarah Elaine Photography

• Cellist: @clairemarie.cello