The Hat Ladies of Charleston South Carolina

The Hat Ladies of Charleston South Carolina are a stylish brigade of volunteers who are making a difference in their community and in their own lives. Founded in 2001 by Top Hat, Archie Burkel, a simple love of hats has become a powerful symbol of bringing people together in a spirit of camaraderie and community. The Hat Ladies believe that 'When you look good, you feel good, and when you feel good, you do good'. The Hat Ladies is for you if you love hats of all colors, enjoy making a difference in the community, and want to feel connected to Charleston. For those women who want to wear hats of all colors and do not always have the confidence or occasion to wear them on your own, The Hat Ladies is for you. The Hat Ladies offer women the perfect opportunity to meet Ladies native to Charleston and Ladies who got to Charleston as quickly as they could. With a blend of fashion and compassion, The Hat Ladies are making a very positive impact on the Charleston community.

The Hat Ladies have a strong, positive perspective that permeates their relationships with one another and their reputation. As one hatsister wrote, "Joining The Hat Ladies has been one of the best things that has happened to me. I deeply value our time together and the chance to do goo things". Another said, "I cannot tell you how much I appreciate The Hat Ladies. It's been a monumental lifesaver for me during this first year of relocation & transition from New York to Charleston. Thank you for creating this wonder Hat Ladies Team. How lucky we all are".

The Hat Ladies monthly calendar, know as Hatpenings, includes a Luncheon and a Hatpy Hour. Two volunteer activities are also givens. The first is a hat decorating with the children at the Medical University of South Carolina. The second is a visit to an assisted living facility, where hats and songs are shared with the residents. The rest of the month is spent volunteering for cultural, social, and educational causes. Ladies choose those activities that fit their interest and availability. Of course, their Signature Event is The Hat Ladies Easter Promenade, the Saturday of Easter Weekend. This elegant stroll reflects the charm and grace that is Charleston and resurrects a tradition from the days of yore. Tourists and locals line historic Meeting Street to wave at them, photograph them, and receive 'HaTpy Easter' greetings in return.

The Hat Ladies have taken their love of hats to international levels. Every January they travel to The Romanian Embassy in New York to host The Hats of The World Luncheon for the female ambassadors and officials of The United Nations. With a hat on their head and a smile on their face, the world becomes a better place thanks to the enthusiasm they pull out of a hat.

Wait no longer to toss your hat in their ring! Check out their website www.hatladies.org, and then contact Archie! You will be haTpy you did!

Danielle Snyder
Charleston SC Events