The Vendue and Tides Folly Beach Introduce New General Managers

Born and raised in Richmond, Virginia, Nathan Foster has always had a passion for the hospitality industry. Foster worked his way through various roles in family-owned and franchised restaurants, including being a cook, bartender, server and manager. It was through these jobs that he developed a deep passion for leadership and supporting his colleagues to find their strengths. He decided to pursue a career in the industry and received a degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management from Virginia Tech. Upon graduating, Foster joined the team at The Jefferson Hotel in his hometown and worked his way up from Room Service Manager to Executive Steward.

Foster moved to Charleston, South Carolina in 2004 and has spent the last two decades of his career in the Holy City. He worked at The Charleston Place Hotel for almost 20 years where he first served as a Room Service Manager, and grew through the roles of Assistant Food and Beverage Director, Front Office Manager and Director of Housekeeping. In June 2023, Foster was appointed General Manager of Tides Folly Beach. In his role, he oversees daily operations of the 134 key hotel, BLU at Tides Folly Beach, and Pier 101. He looks forward to bringing his passion for leadership to the hotel, and creating an environment that fosters and supports his colleagues’ strengths, creativity and being the best version of themselves.

Foster is the father of two children, ages 10 and 14, and doting husband to his wife, Julie. When he is not working, Foster can be found solo backpacking, enjoying yard work or spending quality time with his family.

Carley Ford

Spending most of her life in South Carolina, Carley Ford has been with Avocet Hospitality since 2021 and has recently been appointed to General Manager at The Vendue in Charleston. In this new role, she is responsible for overseeing the overall operations of the property, as well as its award-winning Rooftop bar, fine dining restaurant Revival and the property’s gallery spaces, which hold over 200 rotating pieces of artwork on display.

Carley’s journey in the hospitality industry began over twelve years ago when she started working as a housekeeper. Her natural talent, dedication, and genuine love for creating exceptional guest experiences quickly propelled her career forward. Over these 12 years, Carley worked for various Marriott select service hotels, where she gained valuable experience in hotel operations and management. Her impressive performance and leadership skills led to key roles, including assisting in the opening of the ALOFT in Alpharetta, Georgia. In 2021, Carley returned back to South Carolina to be closer to family and transitioned to managing the Tides at Folly Beach, before taking on the position of General Manager at The Vendue.

In her most recent role as General Manager at The Vendue, Carley most enjoys the property’s innovative and creative approach to hospitality, which is reflected through The Vendue’s unique guest experiences such as the introduction of Guest Experience Managers (GEMs), who provide personalized and welcoming service akin to a “living room” atmosphere. Carley is dedicated to fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment among the hotel’s departments, promoting teamwork and overall cohesion throughout the property.

Outside of her professional pursuits, Carley Ford is a devoted mother to her 11-year-old daughter and a proud owner of a pet dog. She enjoys reading and crocheting, and exploring new vacation destinations, with the beach being a favorite spot.