The Greater CWC Chamber of Commerce has partnered with West Metro News and the City of West Columbia to promote businesses that attract visitors to our community, and visitor/tourism opportunities.

“Chaye Alexander of Chayz Lounge, Phillip Blair of WECO Bottle and Biergarten, and Lewis Williams of Crave Artisan Market are perfect fits for our ‘Love Local’ promotion,” said Tim James, president and CEO of the Greater Cayce-West Columbia Chamber of Commerce. “All three enrich the hospitality landscape and make our community more attractive.”

Chaye Alexander opened Chayz Lounge in June of 2019. On a whim, she ventured across the bridge from Columbia, stopped and peeped in the window at a vacant building at 607 Meeting Street.

“I had been looking for a year,” Chaye said. “I knew right away that this was the right building. I loved it, especially the ceilings. It fit the image I had for Chayz Lounge.” 

It took some work to get the building remodeled, but the permitting process through the City of West Columbia “was a breeze” Chaye said. 

In addition to a cooperative relationship with the City of West Columbia, Chaye got something else that made her feel good. 

“I got a call from Tem Miles, who was Mayor Pro-Tem at the time,” she said. He said ‘I’m happy to have you here. It made me feel welcomed to the community.” 

Since opening, Chaye has succeeded in bringing high-quality talent to West Columbia. The shows at her lounge are routinely sold out. She has a relationship with the TownePlace Suites of West Columbia and buses come in from as far away as Philadelphia to catch a show at Chayz Lounge. 

Across the street from Chayz Lounge is  WECO Bottle and Biergarten. It opened in January 2020, and the business has become a solid part of the community. Owner Phillip Blair is a lifelong resident of West Columbia. He recently received a visit from West Columbia Mayor Tem Miles and Chamber President Tim James. 

“I am enjoying my relationship with West Columbia,” Phillip said. “I’m in a great location. We really like it here.”

WECO Bottle and Biergarten has the best beer and wine, with great service. And there is a food truck on-site daily. There is always a selection of great brews and select brewers are featured on tap.

WECO Bottle and Biergarten also has an outdoor porch that provides space for special outdoor events. It’s the perfect stop on your way home from work. It’s also a great place to spend a Saturday afternoon with friends.

Louis and James Williams are the owners of the Crave Artisan Market that is scheduled to open in the latter half of June at 725 Meeting St. 

“We were looking for a place to open our second Crave Artisan Market. We already have a location in Columbia,” said Louis. “We really like West Columbia. We found the right building and jumped at the chance. West Columbia is growing, and businesses are coming from all over. There are good people here, and we’re looking forward to being a part of the community.” 

Crave specializes in regional products, artisan sandwiches, and salads made with fresh, local ingredients. Crave is known for its tomato pies, paninis, chicken pot pies, quiches, salads, and more.

Chayz Lounge, WECO Bottle and Biergarten, and the new Crave Artisan Market are three excellent reasons to “Love Local” in WECO.