We were lucky to catch up with Meredith Rutland recently and have shared our conversation below.
Meredith, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?
My goal is to provide affordable services to bachelorette parties visiting the Charleston, SC area. It all started when I was planning my sister’s bachelorette party across the country. I knew we wanted a very insta-worthy party because she is very extra, but would be flying in. It was a logistical nightmare. I came across a few companies that offered very helpful services for decorating and planning but they were WAY out of our budget. I still needed to buy my bridesmaid dress, throw a bridal shower, buy the outfits for my kids to be in the wedding, and pay for my portion of the bachelorette trip. It is so expensive to be in a wedding but we love our Bride and want her to feel loved and special and give her an unforgettable experience. I knew Charleston was coming up on almost all of the top places to visit for a bachelorette party and being from the area, I knew there would be a market for this. Thus, Charleston Bachelorette Services was born!
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
Being the oldest of three siblings, a former teacher, the “mom” of the group, and a real life mom of two, I have been keeping everyone and everything organized for as long as I can remember. As soon as I began to plan my kid’s birthday parties, I quickly realized how much I enjoyed going all out planning themed parties. It easily transferred to all of my sister’s bridal festivities.
As my sister’s Matron of Honor, I started planning her 2022 bachelorette party across the country. I came across some bachelorette planning businesses and realized how incredibly helpful they were but also how incredibly unrealistic the prices were for the average bachelorette party group. Knowing the group is already spending enough on a dress, showers, etc., I hated the thought of asking our friends to pay even more for decorations that would just end up in the trash.
That is when Charleston Bachelorette was born! As a Charleston native and a budget-conscious planner, I am so excited to offer affordable options to other frugal bachelorette party babes like me.
I primarily decorate for our clients but can do everything from stocking the fridge, to hangover kits. I got really good at making balloon garlands and decor so to allow us to reach a broader market, I created Lowcountry Party Mom.
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
Attending networking events has helped me grow so much! Not only have I created some amazing partnerships, but I have also made some best friends! Networking events allows you to get your name out there and also interact with other businesses so that they can refer you and get to know you and your character. Through some of the networking, we have planned photoshoots and other partnerships that have helped each other’s businesses grow. It’s a win/win for everyone.
How did you build your audience on social media?
Consistency. It is so hard to get started and can be really discouraging but you have to keep at it. Something else that has really helped my social media page grow is doing giveaways with other businesses to get my name out there and get shares to other people who wouldn’t likely come across my page. I also have a freebie linked out to drive people to my website and offer value. I could talk for hours about social media but it is constantly changing. There are some great accounts you can follow that will keep you up to speed on the latest trends.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.chsbach.com
- Instagram: @Charleston.Bachelorette
- Other: @lowcountrypartymom