Category Archives: Savannah

Shop Locally in Savannah and Richmond Hill this Season

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The holiday season is upon us. Ads for Black Friday and Cyber Monday are already vying for our attention. While you’re out please remember to shop locally in Savannah and Richmond Hill this Season!

Shop Locally in Savannah and Richmond Hill this Season

Shop Locally

As the name suggests the Savannah Bee Company is a local business that grew from a passion of bees, beekeeping and honey. Their products range from delicious honey and beauty products to pottery and gifts. An important part of their business model includes bee education and a sustainable business practices. For more information please visit their website or one of their retail locations.

Looking for some of the best chocolate in coastal Georgia? Visit All Things Chocolate and More in Richmond Hill. Specializing in truffles and cannoli, they invite you in to sample their assorted chocolates, creams, jellies, caramels and my personal favorite chocolate covered strawberries. Please note they are closed on Mondays.

All Things Georgia is located in the heart of the tourist district in Savannah – City Market. Everything they sell; handmade quilts, jams & jellies, olive oils, wines and many more items are all made or grown right here in Georgia.

The Furniture Parlor in Richmond Hill Georgia carries consignment furniture, decor items and accessories. There are plenty of unique gift options and the shop showcases plenty of decor ideas and inspiration. Please note that the store is closed Sundays and Mondays.

Looking for a piece of art? Visit the A.T. Hun Gallery owned by artist Chuck Hamilton. The Gallery boasts an eclectic collection of local and international artists in a fun and friendly atmosphere. Chuck, a fan of all things The Big Lebowski showcases a series inspired by the movie.

For a truly southern lifestyle shopping experience visit Ellas in Richmond Hill. The shop showcases decor, gifts and garden accessories.

Do you have a local shop you like to support with your holiday shopping? Please share in the comment section below.

Melanie Kramer Keller Williams Realty Coastal Area Partners
912-459-5001 Office
912-658-1390 Cell Direct Melanie Kramer Coastal Georgia Realtor

Events in Savannah and Richmond Hill November 2015

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November is a great time to check out the joys of Coastal Living. Savannah and Richmond Hill are brimming with activities and holiday decorations give the area a festive feel.

Events in Savannah and Richmond Hill November

Events in Savannah and Richmond Hill November

Rock ‘n’ Roll Savannah Marathon and 1/2 Marathon will take place this weekend. The downtown historic and surrounding areas will be blocked off for most of Saturday morning. If you’re not familiar with the Rock ‘n’ Roll Series it differs in that every few miles a live band will be playing music to help cheer the runners on. The finish line is in Forsyth Park and will also feature live bands. For a better idea road closures please take a look at this course map.

Georgia is home to fantastic breweries and The Hopped Up on Georgia Brews annual festival is a great way to try them all. Visit River Street Saturday the 7th from 2-6pm with your runner’s bib and receive a discount on your VIP tickets.

The Savannah Food and Wine Festival is a week long celebration running November 9th through the 15th. Check out the various locations and be sure to take in this year’s newest event: The Worlds Largest Lowcountry Boil which will take place the same day as the marathon.

Savannah’s Children’s Book Festival returns Saturday the 14th from 10 until 4 in Forsyth Park.

The Boat Parade of Lights is a do not miss event on the water front. On the evening of the 28th, 35+ lighted vessels will parade the river accompanied by live music and a fireworks display.

Melanie Kramer Keller Williams Realty Coastal Area Partners
912-459-5001 Office
912-658-1390 Cell Direct Melanie Kramer Coastal Georgia Realtor

1284 Mill Hill Rd Richmond Hill GA 31324

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1284 Mill Hill Rd Richmond Hill ga 31324Elegant Southern Living

The elegant South with a comfortable, low country lifestyle in this coastal beauty on deep water!

Watch sunrises on the same Ogeechee River and waterway as the Ford Plantation in Richmond Hill, GA. Dinners on the boat, and voyages on the Atlantic Intercoastal Waterway will only add to the joys of the southern lifestyle. Whether you love to watch the area resident bald eagle on the waterway, kayak the river, feed the fish in the 5ft deep koi fountain, paddle board or boat, manage your own herb garden, along with the fruit trees and rose garden or spend the afternoon fishing, your choices are limitless!

Just past the bronze mailbox sculpture, over your private bridge your private Estate awaits.

Finest quality craftsmanship and amenities will make it hard for any guest to leave. Museum quality finishing on amazing Brazilian hardwood floors can handle the largest crowd for entertaining as they flow through the formal dining, living, greatroom, porches, billiard room and theater.

And let’s not forget about our fur babies. Pamper your pets in their own pet shower and sink after they roam this estate protected by underground and hard fencing.

Features at 1284 Mill Hill Rd Richmond Hill GA 31324

  • Build in 2005
  • Lot 2.25 acres
  • Deep Water
  • Private Covered Dock
  • Waterfront
  • Patio
  • Porch
  • Elevator

For more information about this property and other homes for sale in Richmond Hill Georgia please contact Melanie Kramer at 912-658-1390 or melaniekramer@kw.com.

Melanie Kramer Keller Williams Realty Coastal Area Partners
912-459-5001 Office
912-658-1390 Cell Direct Melanie Kramer Coastal Georgia Realtor

4th of July Fireworks and Festivities in Savannah

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There are plenty of fireworks and festivities to participate in this weekend in the Savannah and Richmond Hill Areas.

fireworks and festivitiesFireworks & Festivities

River Street Fourth of July Celebration – 4 – 10pm Live music starts at 4pm. Bring your chairs and blankets to secure your spot. Fireworks start as soon after 9pm. First Friday Oyster Roast at the Westin will follow it’s normal schedule.

Fourth of July Cruises – There are a few options to tour the Savannah River during the fireworks display. From there hours cruises offer dinner, to one and half hour cruises with snacks and open bar. Please check with Savannah’s Riverboat Cruises for availability.

Tybee Island Fireworks – Tybee Island celebrates America’s birthday July 3rd. The island fills up quickly, so plan to get there early and stay late. The fireworks start around 9:15pm. They are staged on the pier but can be easily viewed by from any of Tybee’s Eastern Beaches.

The Sand Gnats play the Charleston Riverdogs at Grayson Stadium Friday July 3rd. Doors open at 6pm and the first pitch is 7:05pm. There will be fireworks after the game.

In Richmond Hill, the 4th of July celebrations take place at J. F. Gregory Park  July 3rd from 5 – 9:30pm. The festival atmosphere includes live music, great food as well as a Farmers Market. The evening with end with the traditional fireworks display.

Happy 4th!

Melanie Kramer Keller Williams Realty Coastal Area Partners
912-459-5001 Office
912-658-1390 Cell Direct Melanie Kramer Coastal Georgia Realtor

Summer in Savannah – June

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With Memorial Day behind us and the last school bell rung we can officially say the unofficial start to summer in Savannah is upon us.

And summer is the perfect time for making memories with the family. Here are a few family friendly events to put on your June calendar.

summer in savannah june 2015

Summer in Savannah

June 5-7 marks the 2nd annual Savannah Blues Weekend on Riverstreet. Local restaurants and catering companies share their best from the smoke pit while southern blues and smooth jazz fills the air all weekend. Check the website for the entertainment schedule.

June 6th the Exchange Club of Richmond Hill will host the Annual Kid’s Fishing Derby. Celebrating its 25th year, the fishing derby is free and open to children 15 and under. Check the website for admission forms and information

Enjoy live original music? The Savannah Songwriters have been hosting an original in the round format at Johnny Harris for the last few years. First Friday of the month Johnny Harris opens their round room to local and touring songwriters sharing their original music and the stories behind the songs. Check the website for the entertainment schedule.

June 16-17 Sesame Street Live visits the Savannah Civic Center celebrating friendship, cultural similarities with lots of singing and dancing. Visit the Civic Center’s website for more details.

Friday on the Train is hosted every 3rd Friday through the summer at The Station Exchange in Richmond Hill. This is a free community event. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy the entertainment, food and fun. Next event is June 19th. Check their Facebook page for more information.

June 20th marks the return of Movies in the Park. Every third Saturday in June and July at Memorial Park on Tybee Island a family friendly movie is projected on the side of the Tybee Gym. Check the website for details.

Come for a visit and want to stay longer? Whether a permanent move or a vacation home, I’d love to help find your dream home!

Melanie Kramer Keller Williams Realty Coastal Area Partners
912-459-5001 Office
912-658-1390 Cell Direct Melanie Kramer Coastal Georgia Realtor

Savannah Major Employers

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Although we are known for our port, tourism and health systems, Savannah’s Major Employers cover a variety of industries.

savannah major employers

Savannah Major Employers

With a new confidence in the job market, the percentage of people relocating for work in the US is on the rise (35% in 2013).

In Savannah Major Employers such as Gulfstream employ upward of 4500 and Memorial Health Medical Center and St. Joseph’s/Candler employ 8900.

Military related employment includes civilian personnel on the bases and can employee between 2000 – 5000.

Retail stores, such as Walmart, Kroger and fast food giants such as McDonalds also fall into the higher employer category, while Target and Publix employee 2000 respectively.

For more information on top employers in the area please visit The Savannah Area Chamber. The Champer shares a breakdown of manufacturing, non manufacturing and educational industries on their website.

If you are relocating to the Savannah / Richmond Hill area I’d love to help you find your perfect coastal empire home. Please contact Melanie Kramer at 912-658-1390 or melaniekramer@kw.com.

Melanie Kramer Keller Williams Realty Coastal Area Partners
912-459-5001 Office
912-658-1390 Cell Direct Melanie Kramer Coastal Georgia Realtor

Planning Valentine’s Day in Savannah

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For visitors and locals alike, the Savannah Richmond Hill area is one of the most romantic in the country. With Valentine’s Day around the corner now is the time to make your reservations and plan your night out.Planning Valentine's Day in Savannah Richmond Hill GA

I love sharing what the coastal empire has to offer, especially around a holiday that showcases the romance that hangs in the air as naturally as the moss that decorates the live oaks.

This time of year I often talk to those looking to either relocate or retire from the cold temperatures and snow and desire a move to a warmer climate. Valentine’s weekend is a great time to visit, do a little site seeing and tour a few homes. Valentine’s tends to mark the end of our winter and we start planning for Spring… after all the azaleas will be in full bloom in another month!

If you’re planning a visit here are a few options you might like to consider:

  • I Love You, Your Perfect, Now Change! Love is complicated, which is why it can be so funny. The talented cast at the Savannah Theatre offer up the perfect date night with this hilarious musical comedy that shines a light on everything from dressing for the first date to meeting the in-laws. More info.
  • Evening Savannah Riverboat Cruises fill up early during Valentines, but don’t forget they offer a sightseeing harbor tours during the day and offer wonderful brunches as well. More info.
  • Say “I do” in the Davenport House Garden. This has become a bit of tradition for this beautiful property in the historic district. Ceremonies are offered every 10 minutes from 5 to 7 with a licensed marriage officiant. Reserve your time slot in advance. More info.
  • A private carriage tour is one of the most romantic ways to see Savannah. Cozy up with your loved one and hear the history and stories that makes this area so enchanting. More info.
  • Bed and Breakfasts are romantic any time of year, but there is just something special about a Valentine’s Day get a way. The B&Bs of the area are rich with historic and architecture. They tend to book up so now is the time to make your reservations. More info.
  • Shopping for the perfect Valentine’s gift? Both Savannah and Richmond Hill offer wonderful local shops for the traditionalist looking for flowers, jewelry and chocolate as well as galleries and unique shops selling that one of a kind item.
  • Eating out in the greater Savannah area is treasure trove of flavors to amuse any palette and price point. It’s difficult to make suggestions so I’ll recommend checking out Yelp. You’ll see plenty of 4 stars by many of the restaurants and read a collection of reviews.

Coming in to town to do a little house hunting with your site seeing… please call or email me today. I can help you find the perfect home. The Coastal Empire is a wonderful place to call home.

Melanie Kramer
Keller Williams Realty Coastal Area Partners
912-459-5001 Office
912-658-1390 Cell Direct

Melanie Kramer Coastal Georgia Realtor

One Week Countdown to Holiday Events in the Coastal Empire

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With one week left until Christmas and a few candles lit on the menorah I’m hoping you will find time to enjoy a few of these Holiday Events.

Holiday events Savannah

Whether you’re out doing a little last minute shopping or you’ve been organized since before Thanksgiving, the Savannah / Richmond Hill areas offers plenty of activities and Lights.

Christmas Tradition Show at The Savannah Theatre runs through, December 24th – including afternoon performances. The show runs 2-3 hours and delights people of all ages. The Savannah Theatre opened in 1818 which makes it one of the oldest of its kind still operating in the United States. The Art Deco style will transport you back to the 1940s and adds a certain level of magic to all the events held there.

The Savannah Harbor Foundation Festival of Lights & Winter Wonderland is great family fun! Running through December 28th the event features a drive through light show around the Hutchinson Island Road Course. You can even take a tour bus if you don’t feel like driving it yourself. There is a fun zone for the kids and the kids at heart in Bryan Square along with holiday food and drink vendors. A ferris wheel is up on the Riverfront Esplanade. Inside the hotel the annual gingerbread village competition is not to be missed – makes me hungry just thinking about it. And of course a holiday event wouldn’t be complete without a picture with Santa.

Discover a Victorian Christmas at the birthplace of Juliette Gordon Low. The home where the Girl Guides Founder spent her childhood is on the corner of Bull Street and Oglethorpe Avenue in Savannah’s historic district and is open for tours through December 30th. Not only will you tour this historic gem of a home, you will have the added bonus of experiencing Victorian holiday customs, games and decorations.

How about a little winter activity in the Martin Luther King Jr. Arena at the Savannah Civic Center. Enjoy an afternoon or evening on the ice under a the twinkling lights. Skatefest runs through January 3rd.

This year the Habersham YMCA is bringing the snow! The Winter Wonderland features real snow, hot chocolate and cookies, story time and dancing to favorite holiday classics. I hear Santa might even make an appearance. Winter Wonderland is one night only, Thursday December 18th.

Stop by the Forsyth Park Inn for a little holiday cheer. Enjoy the beautifully decorated parlor while treating yourself to fresh baked goodies and hot apple cider or hot chocolate. The open house runs noon -2 daily through January 2nd.

This is my favorite time of year to enjoy a carriage ride through Savannah’s historic district. Pick up a coffee or hot chocolate in City Market and enjoy a personal tour with historic stories and holiday lights.

New Years Eve brings another round of entertainment and parties. Both City Market and the Savannah River Front offer a festival like atmosphere with music and fireworks. Tybee Island offers holiday celebrations New Years Eve.

Wishing you and yours the very best of the holiday season!

Melanie Kramer
Keller Williams Realty Coastal Area Partners
912-459-5001 Office
912-658-1390 Cell Direct

Melanie Kramer Coastal Georgia Realtor

Best Places to See Holiday Lights in The Coastal Empire

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With all the holiday lights the Coastal Empire shines this time of year.

I love seeing homes and businesses in the Richmond Hill area where I live decked out for the holidays. Savannah and the surrounding communities offer many holiday light displays for your viewing pleasure.

Best places to see holiday lights

Private Homes

A casual drive around the Coastal Empire will net a great show of holiday lights but Southern Mamas has compiled a growing list of private homes that go all out and have become a bit of a destination for the holiday light enthusiast.

And the holidays wouldn’t be complete without a little Clark Griswald action. The Peabody Light Show in Savannah is featured on the Tacky Light Tour. Here’s hoping we all get to toast with eggnog in moose head cups this year!

Holiday Lights Events

The Festival of Lights seems to grow every year. Located at the Westin on Hutchinson Island, the Festival of Lights and Winter Carnival features the not to be missed Gingerbread Village inside the hotel and a drive through light show around the road course. A Ferris wheel and other carnival rides are set up on Bryan Square.

Old Town Trolley Tours provides tours around the light show – a great way to allow everyone in your party to enjoy the holiday lights.

Looking for an evening stroll through a half a million sparkling lights? The December Nights & Holiday Lights at the Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens showcase 10 acres with a self guided walking tour through themed gardens and the historic farm house. Most of the displays are stroller and wheelchair friendly.

The shops and restaurants in Richmond Hill participate in a friendly holiday decorating contest. Voting for Light up the Hill runs through December 18th. Come by, support local and don’t forget to vote!

The Guido Gardens in Metter offer a FREE Night of Lights tour. Although the gardens are open 24 hours the lights are only on from 6-9 PM.

TMT Farms Christmas Lights Display in Statesboro is FREE to experience but they do accept non perishable food items to help those in need this holiday season.

Holiday Lights Road Trips

Shopping trips and visits to family often find us on the road this time year and there are amazing holiday light events that are worth the road trip.

Hilton Head is a great day trip from the Savannah area and offers two wonderful displays. The center piece of Harbour Town Lights features a 30 foot Christmas tree with activities and live entertainment. The Dove Street Festival of Lights at Shelter Cove Towne Centre has been a Hilton Head holiday tradition for 20 years.

The Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park in Charleston features over two million lights!

The Atlanta area offers many beautiful light displays. The Garden Lights, Holiday Nights at the Atlanta Botanical Garden are simply amazing.

If you come across any holiday light displays you’d like to see on the list please drop me a line. I’d be happy to add them.

Wishing you and yours the very best of the holiday season!

Melanie Kramer
Keller Williams Realty Coastal Area Partners
912-459-5001 Office
912-658-1390 Cell Direct

Melanie Kramer Coastal Georgia Realtor

Savannah Neighborhoods: from the Historic District to Tybee Island

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The Savannah Richmond Hill area offer many residential communities with prices and amenities to fit your budget and lifestyle. Today we’ll explore Savannah Neighborhoods from the Historic District out to Tybee Island via Victory Drive.

Savannah Neighborhoods

The Historic District

The “Hostess City of the South”, established in 1733, is the heart of the Savannah area. For the most part the city has maintained its original plan and is a walkable community laid out around 22 park like squares shaded by live oaks and Spanish Moss.

The homes are stately, historic (the oldest buildings date back to the 1700’s) and offer a full range of architecture styles including an area of Victorian homes. Since the 1950s, there has been a focus to reclaim and restore homes within the historic district. Many of the interiors feature hand carved wooden accents and modern updates to spaces with historic significance.

Elegant condos and town homes seamlessly blend into the landscape of the historic district and offer the charm and convenience of living in town.

Thunderbolt

Thunderbolt is a small town that was once the shipping point for many of the local plantations making it a perfect spot for those looking for something close to water.

Incorporated in 1856, Thunderbolt offers both historic and new construction homes as well as condo communities.

Whitemarsh and Wilmington Islands

Located half way between the historic district and Tybee Island, these islands offer wonderful residential neighborhoods with the convenience of in town living. Most of the homes and condos are within a few minutes of shopping and doctor’s offices.

Here you can find new construction as well as homes dating back to the 1950’s.

Looking for water access? This area is rich with water ways that could take you just about anywhere you’d care to go. Homes on the marshes tend to offer floating docks that move in relation to the tides.

Tybee Island

Looking for a fun and funky beach house? Tybee Island is a relatively quiet beach community. The condos and homes that line the beach lean a little more toward rental properties, but less than a block from the beach you will find the locals. Most of the construction dates back to the 1920’s through the 1950’s, but you can still find new construction and active renovation projects.

What sounds like home to you? Please call or email me today for more information or questions about your relocation needs!

Melanie Kramer
Keller Williams Realty Coastal Area Partners
912-459-5001 Office
912-658-1390 Cell Direct

Melanie Kramer Coastal Georgia Realtor