News Summary
Charlotte residents Monica and David Hickman have founded SocialHub, an event planning business aimed at enhancing community engagement in apartment complexes. Since its 2021 launch, the company has rapidly expanded, offering diverse events that connect neighbors while alleviating management duties. With projections of $1.5 million in revenue for 2024, the Hickmans aim to grow their successful model across major Southern cities and nationwide, revolutionizing multifamily housing interactions.
Charlotte Couple’s New Venture: A Hit in Community Event Planning
In a heartwarming tale of ambition and community spirit, Charlotte residents Monica and David Hickman have successfully established SocialHub, an innovative event planning business tailored specifically for apartment complexes. Launched in 2021, this entrepreneurial endeavor has rapidly gained traction, aiming to enhance the sense of community among residents in multifamily housing.
Fostering Community Connections
With their unique offerings, SocialHub has introduced a plethora of events designed to create lasting connections among neighbors. From trendy espresso martini bars to creative crafting sessions, the couple’s insightful approach to event planning seeks not only to impress residents but also to alleviate the often-overwhelming workload placed on property management teams. The inspiration for this business was born out of Monica and David’s long-standing passion for community building.
Unique Challenges Faced by Property Managers
Traditionally, event planning within multifamily properties falls to leasing agents who juggle numerous responsibilities, making it challenging to foster genuine community engagement. Recognizing this gap in the market, the Hickmans set out to create a model that supports both residents and property managers alike. Their mission to develop communal ties is proving timely, particularly with evolving tenant expectations amid a landscape of rising apartment vacancy rates.
A Journey from Passion to Profit
The Hickmans devised their vision while engaging with property management companies during the pandemic, exploring the potential for their concept. The couple successfully raised $125,000 from friends and family, kickstarting SocialHub’s operations. Within a mere 18 months, this ambitious business became profitable, achieving $1.2 million in revenue during its second year and projecting a whopping $1.5 million for 2024.
Expanding Horizons
What initially began in a Greystar complex in southwest Charlotte has now blossomed into a flourishing enterprise, expanding its reach to Raleigh and Charleston. SocialHub has engaged with over 120 apartment complexes and added a remarkable 30 new clients within just the past year. Currently, a dedicated team of approximately 25 employees underpins the company’s expansion and service delivery.
Creating Engaging Activities
The events crafted by SocialHub offer something for everyone, featuring engaging activities like pumpkin carving, candle making, herb planting, and painting classes. All events come at a cost of between $750 to $1,000, an investment that property managers are increasingly willing to make to enhance resident retention. Amidst fierce competition, property managers recognize that fostering a strong community is vital; as David Hickman aptly points out, individuals may find it easier to leave an apartment, but it becomes much harder to depart from a community of friends.
Positive Praise from Industry Professionals
Nataile Roman, a well-respected portfolio manager, has lauded SocialHub for its effectiveness in enhancing interactions among residents. Such accolades underscore the company’s growing reputation within the multifamily housing industry and its contributions to creating vibrant living spaces.
Ambitious Future Plans
With its sights set on the future, SocialHub aims to operate in every major city across Southern states in the next decade and has ambitious plans to extend its services nationwide within the next 25 years. Beyond its current offerings, the company is exploring potential expansion into broader marketing programs specifically designed for apartment managers.
Conclusion
The success of SocialHub illustrates the burgeoning potential of community-focused businesses in the evolving landscape of multifamily housing. As the Hickmans continue to pursue their dream of fostering connection through creative events, their journey serves as an inspiring blueprint for others looking to make a positive impact in their communities.
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Additional Resources
- Gulf Shore Business
- Wikipedia: Event Planning
- Business North Carolina
- Google Search: Community Building in Apartments
- WINK News
- Google Scholar: Event Planning Trends
- The Cut
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Wedding Planning
- Charlotte Ledger
- Google News: Wedding Planning News
