“After the sea, this is home.” —Emeline
For well over a century, 181 Church Street has witnessed many incarnations, from a burgeoning grocery business to a provisions company that catered to local hotels, restaurants, and ships readying to set sail. It even lived a life as a bank before Emeline landed on South Carolina’s shores with little more than a monogrammed steamer trunk and the big, audacious dream of setting down roots in America.
Growing up a ship captain’s daughter, she loved the open ocean and opening her heart and mind to new people and cultures.
But captivated by Charleston and all of its charms, Emeline decided to become her own port, of sorts, and opened this very hotel, using all of the grace, grit and determination she learned at sea. We’ve been hosting travelers here from far and wide ever since.
It was Emeline’s aim to create a home away from home for guests—an outpost of lighthearted luxury without a hint of pretense. A place where people felt infinitely welcome and utterly engaged. You can’t help but feel her presence here—at once curious and gracious, well-traveled and welcoming, adventuresome and unexpected.
In the spirit of ingenuity and reinvention—our time-honored legacy at 181 Church Street—let us be your threshold to historic downtown Charleston, as well as a portal into a storied past. We hope you’ll stay a while, but as long or short as your schedule allows, we are at your service.
On behalf of our host and muse, and our entire staff—the warmest of welcomes to all that is Emeline.
One last thing: Never let the truth stand in the way of a good story.
Emeline’s unquenchable curiosity, adventurous spirit, passion for hosting and love of a tall tale can be felt throughout every inch of 181 Church Street. We invite you to step into her story.
The Archive
Emeline’s Archive celebrates the Charleston Renaissance, a time in history beginning in 1920 through World War II that fostered the city’s cultural renewal.
In the curated collection you will find art, books, and inspired imagery from artists, writers, architects, and historical preservationists depicted life in Charleston and the Lowcountry. And, if you’re lucky, you just might find a few artifacts that belonged to Emeline herself…
From blooming greenery to sparkling skies, Emeline’s signature spaces set the stage for private events that feel intimate, timeless, and unmistakably local. 🌿
Vendors:
Planning/Florals/Design: @tight_knot_events
Co-host: @custom_vows_by_casey
Photography: @jenniferbradfordphotography
Content Creation: @jennifermaryphotography
Rentals: @cheers.chs
Linens: @stradleydavidson
Cakes: @mirinadlercakes
Wine: @scoutandcellar
Hair: @tresses.by.tracie
Makeup: @beambeautychs
🍷✨️ Experience elevated comfort with Emeline’s suite-only perks: plush spa robes and slippers, curated vinyl on Crosley turntables, a stocked mini-bar, and a keepsake water bottle. Enjoy personalized turndown service, exclusive Soothe spa treatments, and the convenience of a Nespresso machine—luxuriously designed for your perfect stay.
📚️ Heading to Charleston to explore campus, celebrate alumni, stroll down memory lane, or inspire minds as a visiting professor? From C of C to MUSC to The Citadel, unlock exclusive rates crafted to elevate your stay.
Discover exclusive rates to make your trip a seamless home away from campus. 🔗 in bio.
