Introducing Urban Outfitters: Spreading Christmas Cheer and Goodwill Throughout Charleston

Get your holiday gifts at UO!

This holiday season, retail stores of all kinds are getting their staff and customers in the holiday spirit, and Urban Outfitters is no exception to the rule!

Tourist and people of all types come into Urban Outfitters to admire its unique and distinct look, and to learn about that vast history that the building holds. However, many students from the local colleges come in with one intention: to shop!

Many of the employees at Urban Outfitters are fellow College of Charleston students and throughout the store and college campus, students are so excited about the holiday deals that Urban has in store for them.

Manager, Daniel Jobe

"We like to cater to our students because they are who really keep us in business," manager of Urban Outfitters, Daniel Jobe said. "When things are really slow, we can always count on the students of CofC.

Students from the College of Charleston say that Urban Outfitters is one of the number one retail stores that they go to when they are preparing for an event.

Rebecca Sowers, Sophomore

"Oh gosh I love Urban Outfitters! They have everything!," said Rebecca Sowers. I think what makes them so popular is how they appeal and cater to every type of event. From Election Day to Christmas gifts, party dresses to sweats and jeans, they have it all!"

With the holiday season rapidly approaching, Urban wanted to give back to their faithful local customers. In November, days before their huge Black Friday sale, they held a student discount event for students, where college students were able to come in and take 30% of their entire purchase.

Housewares manager, Tessa B.

"We spend so much time trying to figure out how we can give back to the community and our local customers because they are always so supportive," said housewares department manager Tessa Bergamini. "This year we really wanted to kick it up a notch."

And so they did. Urban Outfitters held two student appreciation days, one when school first resumed, and another right before Black Friday.

They are also helping their employees participate in giving back by hold a can food drive where employees will bring in canned goods and at the end of December, will be donated to a local soup kitchen on Meeting Street.

Employee and CofC Senior, Ryan Fender

"Urban Outfitters is just a cool store," said employee Ryan Fender. "Its your ultimate number one "go-to" store!"

That pretty much sums it up! For more interesting facts on the popular King Street retail store, fun and funky photos, and even getting the answers to some questions you may have, check out these links!

• History of Urban
• Urban FAQs 
• Fun Video Collage
• One-on-One with Daniel Jobe

From Garden Theatre to Urban Outfitters: The History That Lies Between the Walls of UO

Garden Theatre, 1918

Today, if you take a walk down King Street in Charleston, S.C., you'll be sure to pass by Urban Outfitters. If you step inside, you will find yourself staring in amazement at all the architectural masterpieces and perfections.

However, if you really stop and survey the entire store from top to bottom, you may ask yourself, "what was this building before it was a retail store?"

Many tourists travel from hundreds of miles away to see the store and to capture its beauty to take home with them and cherish forever.

Years and years ago, back in January of 1918, Garden Theatre opened its doors and provided entertainment in the form of silent, moving pictures.

By 1929, the theatre transformed and began making movies using the "Vitaphone" process, and showing both film and stage shows. Between the 1950's and 1960's, the theatre continued their successful venture in showing both stage and film movies, and also was used by numerous schools, churches and organizations.

Old American Fotoplayer 

The College of Charleston also used the theatre for its initial Fine Arts Series of lectures and films.

Inside near front staircase

In 2002, the city did not renew the theaters lease, and for months many businesses tried to revive the old building.

In 2003, Urban Outfitters stepped in and bought the building, restored it and opened their doors in 2005. Upon its opening, the store gained much attention, and also revealed a few hidden secrets. Inside the store, a stairway that was only to be used by African Americans during the Jim Crow days was left in its original state to remind customers of the past, and how far we have elevated.

Urban Outfitters has made great strides professionally, and now intend on making even greater strides within the community. This year, the local Charleston store will be encouraging their employees to bring in can goods so that they can be donated to the local soup kitchen on Meeting Street.

Between the breath-taking scenery of Charleston, and the stores significant historical background, this Urban Outfitters sure is one to try and compete with!

Between the breath-taking scenery of Charleston, and the stores significant historical background, this Urban Outfitters sure is one to try and compete with!

It's Always Happy Times At Urban :)

Here's a little video I made comprised of pics of my co-workers and some pictures of Urban before, when it was Garden Theatre, and after, as Urban Outfitters.

Also included is some holiday music, which I hope will put you in a Christmas mood!!

Frequently Asked Urban Questions

Here are a few of those questions that all our customers wonder, or always ask!

FAQ #1: What is your return policy?

You can return or exchange any unworn, unwashed or defective merchandise. Returns made within 30 days of the shipping date will be refunded to the original form of payment.

FAQ #2: How do you place a web order?

When you see an item you like, click on "Add to Bag" and continue shopping until you are ready to complete your purchase. Then, click on the Shopping Bag, located at the top right section of the screen. Click "Checkout" to confirm your items. After you have made any changes and updated the quantities as desired, click on "Place Your Order" to finish.

Please review your order carefully before placing it. Once your order is submitted, we are unable to modify or cancel it.

FAQ #3: What time does Urban Outfitters close?

Urban Outfitters is open Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m.-8 p.m., Friday-Saturday from 9 a.m.- 9 p.m., and on Sundays from 10 a.m.- 7 p.m.

FAQ #4: How long does it take for Urban Outfitters to ship out orders?

Most orders will ship out within a day of ordering. Your order will be shipped Standard Service unless you select an alternative. Once shipped, orders are generally received within 7 business days. We do not ship on Saturdays, Sundays, or holidays. While we will do all we can to ensure your order is delivered on time, urbanoutfitters.com cannot be held responsible for conditions beyond our control such as severe weather, service interruptions, etc.

You will be charged when your order has shipped. You will only be charged for the items that are shipped to you, along with the applicable shipping and tax charges. Orders are subject to verification and approval before shipping.

FAQ #5: Where is Urban Outfitters in Charleston located?

Urban Outfitters is located at 371 King Street in Charleston, South Carolina.

FAQ #6: Is there a number that customers can call for service?

Yes, to reach Urban Outfitters located in Charleston, you may contact us at (843) 720-5293. 

FAQ #7: What was the building on King Street before it became Urban Outfitters?

The building now known as Urban Outfitters was once a theatre; Garden Theatre.

FAQ #8: When are you all accepting applications?

Urban Outfitters is always open to taking applications. We usually look for new hires 

during the spring/summer and seasonal hires during the fall/winter.

Daniel Jobe: Full of Good Vibe and Urban Cheer

In the year that I have been working at Urban Outfitters, Daniel has been working three times as long! As manager of the popular retail store on King Street, Daniel has his hands full maintaining order throughout the store, making sure that the customers are satisfied, that his employees are stress free and filling the store with amazing vibe, and keeping in touch with the district office.

When he isn't locked away in the back office, Daniel is folding and re-stacking merchandise, assisting his employees and customers, working at the register and being a complete goof ball around the store.

Daniel is an absolute joy to be around, and recently, I took the time to sit down with him and chat it up on his time working at Urban Outfitters.

Q: So, what's a typical day for you, here at UO?
A: I wake up around 6 a.m. to prepare for a long day. I get downtown around 7 and come into the store. I go into the office and set up, maybe a have a conference call. By 10 a.m. the store opens and the customers are filing in. Depending on the day, I am out on the floor, doing my managerial duties assisting customers, helping out on the reg and whatever else is needed.

Q: What's it like being the manager of such a major store, such as Urban Outfitters?
A: Frustrating, exciting, a headache...yeah, that pretty much sums it up. It's a huge responsibility. I'm pretty much responsible and in charge of not only myself, but the store and everyone in it.

Q: What's the toughest thing, or most aggravating part of working in retail?
A: Having to deal with rude, obnoxious customers and when people come in and shoplift. There is nothing more annoying than dealing and waiting on a rude customer. For that moment, my day is just like shot to hell! And shoplifters are always a retail stores worst nightmare. Having to deal with the customers, who are most likely silly teenagers, and getting back the merchandise they attempted to steal. What's worse is if we don't get the merchandise back.

Q: What is the most rewarding part of your day?
A: Coming into an atmosphere where the people that I am surrounded by are all people who I enjoy working alongside. Seeing the happy faces of the customers after they make a purchase. Being able to interact with people from various backgrounds and walks of life.

Daniel is probably the funniest and goofiest guys you'll ever meet. Although he gains his employee's respect and jokes around with them on a daily basis, he still maintains order.

Q: How are you able to have such a friendly and personal relationship with your employees, yet still get them to stay on task and complete their jobs?
A: It's the delivery and approach that I use with my employees. I don't command or demand them to do anything. I encourage them and work with them when they need help. I talk to them and treat them like they are my equals, and not like they are beneath me.

Q: So would you say that there is no need for structure, or a chain of command, so to speak within a business---that everyone is equal?
A: I think that every successfully run corporation and business follows some sort of structure and chain of command. Without it, things would fall apart. I treat my employees like my equal, but that's not saying that they necessarily are my equals in a business sense. I was appointed manager for a reason, and so my job is not to belittle or treat harshly, but to motivate and encourage my team to work together as a unit.

Thank you Daniel for your time and all that you do for Urban Outfitters!!

What Does a Retail Store and a Live Theatre Have in Common?

Check out this video I put together showcasing Urban Outfitters: Then and Now! Hope you enjoy the holiday feel :)

Do you know that store on King Street that sells the coolest clothes and gives customers their most awesome vibe, Urban Outfitters? Have you ever been inside?

Look around, and what did you see? Probably tons of merchandise; clothes, silly gadgets and cool phone cases and iPad covers. You probably tried on a few shirts and jeans, or maybe one of the employees greeted you and offered to help you find those shoes you've been saving for!

Did you go upstairs and excitedly find the most awesome deals ever on items you thought would never go down?

For you, the trip was probably one in pursuit of finding the perfect dress or shoes for a night out on the town, however, look closer; there's more to the store than what meets the eye!

UO Then

UO Now

What you see today was once Garden Theatre, a historical landmark for downtown Charleston!

VOTE OR DIE!!!

After a long night of being anxious and awaiting the results of the 2012 Presidential Election, Barack Obama was re-elected as the President.

I went out on the streets to get some of the students of College of Charleston's feedback, and see how they felt about the outcome. (To view my the video check this link out: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oHb0CogTjXE

A student proudly supporting Pres. Barack Obama

Many students were hesitant to talk with me, however, many students were very happy with the outcome of the decision. 

One student wore a shirt, displaying heroic and prominent leader Martin Luther King Jr., and President Barack Obama.

"I was so excited to see the end results," a very excited Shannel Mowbray said. "At first, I was so scared, because the numbers were so close at one point, but I never lost faith in my President!"

Cardell Sims, a junior here at the college had a LOT to say!

Cardell Sims, Junior

"MITT ROMNEY FOR PRESIDENT," Sims said while laughing hysterically. "On a serious note, I liked a lot of the points that Mitt Romney made, however, for my situation, being a struggling college student, Obama was who I was happy with."

Many students felt like the popular vote and electoral vote was very confusing, and that their vote may not count.

"I heard a lot throughout the election that we need to vote so that "our voice can be heard," Ben Hogges said. "However, if what counts is the electoral votes, does our votes really matter?"

Annette, campaigning for Obama!

Annette Godbout was very vocal on her feelings regarding the election.

"I was so happy," she said. "When my friend told me Obama won I was like, you're kidding. But when I saw he won, I went screaming through the streets, "OBAMA! OBAMA!"

Regardless of the outcome, the most important part about this election was showcased on TV and throughout America, and that is the diverse world that we live in. We are all so lucky to be given such a privilege, such as voting, and because of that I think that it is very important that you educate yourself on BOTH sides. 

Although I view myself as a Democrat, I followed Mitt Romney's campaign and was quite impressed with some of his points. You cannot fight and be upset with the way of our society if you are not willing to educate yourself on both parties points!

Election 2012 was quite an exciting one! I'll see you all in four years to do this all over again! 

Talent for The Tata's: Raising Awareness for Breast Cancer

On Saturday, many Charleston businesses prepared themselves for early closing hours and slow shifts for their employees due to Hurricane Sandy.

Tiffani S., Cardell S., & Camille T.

However, at the College of Charleston, the ladies of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and Cardell Sims, a junior communication major, prepared themselves to put on a show of awareness for the students.

After weeks of preparing and promoting, the night had finally come and it was definitely a moving one.  Students were greeted by some of the members of AKA and as they took their seats they were served cupcakes and soft drinks.







The show began with a performance from the colleges belly dance team, Mirror, and then the evenings host, Cardell Sims took the stage. Over the night the students were informed and entertained, with songs, poetry, and facts on how breast cancer is plaguing not only women, but men too.

Cardell Sims, Junio

"I'm so passionate about this because I want people to know that breast cancer isn't just a woman's disease," said Cardell. "Men are also affected by this disease."

                                                                                                             

Cardell and Suzelle after the show

One of the performers was our classes own, Suzelle Santos, who performed an incredible belly dance routine.

To conclude the program, dance quartet Blessed Trinity performed a moving spiritual praise dance, and guest speaker, Dennis Smalls spoke to the students about his experience with the disease and how important it is, for both men and women, to keep a check on their body.

"I told the doctors that I will die from anything else, but I will not die from breast cancer, I refuse," Smalls said.

The night ended on a great note, with all proceeds going toward the MUSC Research Department in efforts of finding a cure.

To both men and women, please take your health seriously and keep a check on your breasts, in order to catch or prevent breast cancer.

Paving His Way, Chasing A Dream: The Nate Harris Story

Who is Nathan Harris? For many, in years to come, that question will be answered with "he's that movie producer guy!" However, for now, he is a 21-year old junior at the College of Charleston.

Nate Harris (21), Junior 

Nathan or Nate Harris was born in Chicago and moved to Summerville, S.C. when he was in elementary school.

"When I first moved here, the first three years were horrible," explained Harris. "The kids hated me and I felt miserable."

Nate explained how things got easier, and a huge impact and influence during that time and now came from his adopted granny, 91, and aunt and uncle, Sam and Sam.

"They're amazing people," Harris said. "It's so cool hearing Granny tell her stories and experiences of WWII and Samantha and Samuel really treat me like one of their own."

As time went, Nate excelled in high school and ran track. Now Nate his chasing his dreams to become a film producer, and he started perfecting his craft and getting exposure at an early age.

"My neighbor, Samuel, gets military materials for the show Army Wives," said Harris. "Since 16, I have been a reoccurring extra on the show."

Nate on Army Wives

Nate says that the experience has been an exciting one, and says that he has gained a lot of insight on the industry. He has learned to take things as they come, because from the advice and guidance from those in the field, you may not end up where you want to be, or where you thought you would, but somewhere better.

"I've done some really cool stuff with Army Wives; from meeting Catherine Bell, to ripping my pants during one of the scenes and feeling so embarrassed, I wouldn't trade the experience for anything in the world," said Nate.

Hyman's Seafood Co. located on Meeting Street

When he isn't interning at Creative Forge Production, a movie production company, Nate is serving and waiting on tables at Hyman's Seafood, a seafood restaurant located in downtown Charleston.

"The money is good, but somedays, you just have that feeling like, I don't want to be here," said Nate. "Its like being where you ultimately are doing what you want to be doing, and then leaving that place of feeling like a mature adult, to being treated like a nobody."


So now, lets ask this question again, "Who is Nate Harris?"

Nate Harris is an ambitious, fun-loving young man, whose been playing guitar since he was five, loves water skiing and spending time with his family and friends. He is chasing his dreams one day at a time and strives to be the best at whatever he is doing. From his experiences with Army Wives and Creative Forge, to working hard at Hyman's, Nate Harris is a name that you definitely want to remember!

"Pay Your Dues, Earn Your Chops": Achieving Success The Touhill Way

Mike Touhill

On Friday morning, Sept. 28, 2012 my class and I welcomed a very special visitor from the College of Charleston's Department of Communication Advisory Council, Mr. Mike Touhill. He spoke with us about how he got his start and discussed  his current job with us as well.

Touhill is a former mass communication major, who was interested in obtaining a degree and pursuing a career in journalism. During the fall semester of his senior year, he did an internship that he disliked, and when offered an intern position in the spring, he was very hesitant.

"I had a bad experience that Fall with an internship I was doing," Touhill explained to the class. "I didn't want to take it, but I did, and I am sure am glad I didn't pass up on it."

It's a great thing he didn't. He graduated college in 2002, and said that he missed obtaining his journalism degree by three credits. However, he got a job a week after he graduation with the Martin Agency.

"I thought I was going to be a reporter, but the good thing about internships is that it helps you learn what it is that you like and do not like to do," Touhill said.

The Martin Agency was founded in Richmond, VA in 1965 and while working there, Touhill shared how he learned a lot. He said that while working there it was one of his favorite jobs and he loved it. He shared how he learned a lot about media relations, and becoming an expert in his field.

"You have to be an expert in your field. This industry is very fast-paced and its all about being able to respond right away," he advised students.


While working at the Martin Agency, Touhill said he did promo for numerous companies such as, Nascar, Coca-Cola's Vanilla Coke, and the Geico Gecko and Cavemen.








His time with the agency ran out in 2009 when he was laid off, however, he didn't let that stop him.

"This is a dues paying industry, you've got to earn your chops," Touhill explained.

So what would Touhill say to a group of undergrad college kids? "Do stuff, do stuff, do stuff! Try as many internships as you can, build your resume, and find what it is that you like."

Kiawah Island Resorts

Today, Touhill is the Director of Public Relations at Kiawah Partners. Kiawah Partners is a real estate, family-owned business. It was bought by the prominent Darby family to make residential homes. The business has definitely expanded, now having hotels, golf courses and homes now added to there list, the resort has become a go-to place for locals and even celebrities. Just this past summer the PGA Golf Tournament was held at Kiawah Ocean Course, putting it on the map!






It was definitely a pleasure having Mr. Touhill come and speak with us. It was very interesting to learn his ups and downs and struggles in finding his way in the industry. It proves that with hard work, dedication and perseverance that you can achieve anything you want to.

I can truly say that I learned a lot from Mr. Touhill and that his tips and advice was very important. I intend to carry what he said with me throughout my own journey into the industry.