Meet Chelsye Harp

We had the good fortune of connecting with Chelsye Harp and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chelsye, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I found my passion for the creative world while working in the Marketing & Graphic Design industry. Transitioning from designing websites, product branding, and logos to planning corporate and social events for our existing clients was a natural progression. When one of our clients asked me to plan their wedding, I initially thought they were crazy. However, I gave in, and I am so thankful that I did. Intrigue Design and Events was established a year later in 2008.

It’s one of the greatest feelings to be a part of an event that will ultimately change someone’s life. Having the opportunity to turn someone’s dream into a reality is priceless and extremely rewarding.

Intrigue doesn’t just stop at weddings. I have curated our brand to represent all aspects of the hospitality and event industry. From venue consulting and corporate events to festival production and design, our network of possibilities is endless, and our creativity is unparalleled.

We are thrilled to announce the launch of our bridal line, Michael Addison Bridal, coming in the fall of 2024. Named after my sister, who carries our grandmother Addison’s name, and myself, Michael, a name passed down from my father, this line is close to my heart. Michael Addison Bridal is designed for the traditionally modern bride, offering unique styles and flair that embody both elegance and contemporary charm.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.

I never imagined that I would be designing weddings and producing events on this scale. When I was a child my dream was to be a marine biologist training killer whales at SeaWorld. That of course didn’t last too long. Then when applying to college, I loved the idea of family psychology, but ended up majoring in business, with a minor in marketing. I think the universe was trying to tell me something as I started my graphic design and marketing business with my best friend during my Junior year. The beginning was challenging, as we were often seen as young and inexperienced despite our talent. However, through hard work and perseverance, we built a solid reputation and eventually began working with some of the top hospitality groups and developers in Hilton Head Island.

After almost 4-years in business I could tell my creative side was craving something new, but had no idea what that might be. I just found that I was happiest when planning and executing events for our clients launching new products or hosting branded social events.

Now 16-years later I have built an amazing brand and get to do what I love every day. Our philosophy at Intrigue is to always provide honest and thoughtful guidance! Our commitment is to craft luxury weddings and events that are not just visually striking but also deeply meaningful. Our motto is “Nothing is more memorable than the unexpected”.

We believe that true luxury lies in the personalization and significance behind every design element, creating a unique experience. Our team of event planners is adept at curating unforgettable moments, drawing upon our creative knowledge and expertise for each event we undertake.

We are proud to have an amazing partnership with the College of Charleston, a collaboration that has been thriving for about 12 years. This partnership offers students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in event design and production, allowing them to explore different career paths and gain a deep understanding of what this industry is all about. I believe it is incredibly important to provide students with real-world experience, as it not only helps them build valuable skills but also inspires and shapes the next generation of event professionals.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
It seems that anyone who visits Charleston for a week ends up wanting to move here a few months later. This city I call home is truly special and has so much to offer so narrowing down the options to a week trip can be difficult, but I think I am up for the challenge.

Though I live here I feel that we would have to immerse ourselves in the downtown culture, and would recommend one of the boutique-style hotels for us to stay at such as the Palmetto Hotel. Once we check-in we would make a stop by Callie’s Hot Little Biscuits for a delicious treat, and then take leisurely stroll through the historic district, starting at Charleston City Market.

That evening we could enjoy an amazing dinner at Husk, a renowned restaurant that focuses on locally sourced Southern cuisine, followed by a ghost tour to keep things interesting.

The following day we would take a drive out to the historical gardens such as Magnolias or Middleton Place and enjoy breakfast at 82 Queen. Once we return to downtown we will have to stop at the Palmetto Hotel lobby bar to enjoy their famous Espresso Martini before heading out for dinner at the Ordinary.

At this point, I am sure we would be ready for a little R&R, and no trip to Charleston is complete without a beach day. So we would venture out to Sullivans grabbing lunch at Poe’s Tavern followed by an amazing dinner at FIG.

Throughout the rest of the week, we would be exploring the amazing Historical Sites and museums, and doing some shopping while enjoying some of my favorite restaurants, Caviar & Bananas, 167 Raw, The Grocery, Jack Rabbit, and Halls Chophouse. Transitioning from our day tours to the nightlife we would have to stop by Cocktail Club, Felix, and The Belmont.

Then before their departure, we would have to do a farewell breakfast at The Park Café, a cozy neighborhood spot, and take a final stroll along the Battery and Waterfront Park to take some last-minute selfies.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I owe a great deal of my journey to my parents. My dad, an inspiring entrepreneur, instilled in me the values of hard work, determination, and the courage to follow my dreams. My mom, an extremely creative person, was always planning everything for everyone, filling our home with beautifully orchestrated events and celebrations. Her knack for creativity and meticulous attention to detail profoundly influenced my own passion for event planning and design. They always allowed me to try and experience new things. Together, their entrepreneurial spirit and creative flair laid the foundation for me to find a career I am extremely passionate about.

Website: www.Get-intrigued.com, www.Michaeladdisonbridal.com, www.eventvenueconsulting.com, www.Intrigueevents.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/getintrigued/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsye-harp-b1b44111/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClv0V2MOzre-OPYFX4aTDhQ 

Image Credits
https://www.madisonbanksphoto.com/ https://katherineandtylerphoto.com/ https://jacquelineandlaura.com/ https://billiejoandjeremy.com/ https://www.avamoorephotography.com/