Small Business Spotlight: Palmetto Carriage Works
About the Business
Palmetto Carriage Works is the oldest carriage tour company in Charleston! Family owned + dedicated to providing a professional experience while you make memories that will last a lifetime. With four different, customizable touring options, you are sure to find the right fit for your trip!
Image Courtesy of Palmetto Carriage Works
From the Owner
Image Courtesy of Palmetto Carriage Works
What is your name?
Tom Doyle, founder + owner of Palmetto Carriage Works!
Where is your business located?
Charleston, SC
What inspired you to start the business?
Didn't have much choice...It's my family’s business. That aside I have a love for the city of Charleston and showing people my city. I love animals and get to work with them everyday.
What about your business are you most proud of?
The emergence of carriage tours from one man to become an iconic symbol of the city and my company's commitment to making Palmetto Carriage a good place to work for animals + people.
What do you enjoy most about running your business?
I enjoy the interaction with customers and the camaraderie with employees and animals, and being able to run the business with my 4 children.
What challenges have you faced as a business owner?
The biggest challenge we have faced over the last few years has been the disagreements with animal activists. The fight has been tough on my business, family, employees and animals. Palmetto Carriage Works prides itself on the quality of care given to our working animals and no one is more concerned about animal welfare than our company! Like any challenge we have faced in our roughly 40 years in business we will adapt and overcome.
If you had to describe the business in 3 words, what would they be?
Educational , entertaining, surprising
What do you think makes your business unique?
The guides, mules, and teams!
Image Courtesy of Palmetto Carriage Works
The Fun Stuff
What is your favorite spot to visit in your city?
My barn at night + the Irish Memorial at Charlotte St. Park!
What is your favorite food or restaurant to enjoy in your city?
Pulled pork Bar-B-Que - personal choice
What is your favorite spot in the U.S to travel to and why?
Upper Arizona from Sedona to the Grand Canyon.
Do you have a travel memory that is important to you?
An elephant orphanage in Sri Lanka. Pay your fee (extra for the camera), and there you go. No fences, no rules, I'm wandering in the middle of a dozen elephants of all sizes, touching the smaller ones on the back, the bigger ones I reached up to pat their thigh. One of those moments you suddenly realize, this will probably never happen again.
What would the name of your biography be?
Urban Muleskinner
What is your favorite 90s jam?
I don't know what 90s jam is
Have any questions about Palmetto Carriage Works?
Let us know in the comments!
Ready to learn more + book your own tour? Click below!
Image Courtesy of Palmetto Carriage Works