Marine Spotlight: JBM & Associates

Marine Spotlight: JBM & Associates

For over two decades, JBM & Associates has been a driving force behind some of the Southeast’s most beloved boat shows — including the Charleston, Savannah, Columbia, and Wilmington Boat Shows. At the helm is Jacqui McGuinness, the founder and president whose passion for events and the boating community has shaped JBM into a trusted name among exhibitors and attendees alike.

 

From Conventions to Coastlines

Jacqui’s path into the marine industry began unexpectedly in 2001, shortly after founding JBM & Associates.

“I had just started JBM after a career in the convention center and arena industry,” she recalled. “I was in Charleston when I got a call from the GM of the Charleston Coliseum and Convention Center Complex. He asked if I could help a marine association with their boat show. That was 25 years ago.”

What began as a single show partnership quickly grew into a full-fledged enterprise.

“After learning I had a passion for consumer shows and the boating industry, we kept going,” she said. “We currently produce the Charleston Boat Show, Savannah Boat Show, Columbia Boat Show, and Wilmington Boat Show.”

 

What Sets JBM Apart

When asked what makes JBM’s shows stand out in an industry full of large-scale events, Jacqui’s answer came easily: heart and grit.

“That is easy to answer. My team and I love what we do, and we care about the people we are working with,” she said.

Her goal from the start was to build a small, close-knit team grounded in resilience.

“There’s no surviving this business without grit,” she explained. “I hired the most dedicated, loyal, and beautiful people to be on this journey with. We’re a well-oiled machine at this stage, and I hope the love we have for our exhibitors and attendees shows in all we produce.”

 

The Challenges Behind the Curtain

While attendees experience the polished energy of each event, few realize what goes into making them happen. Jacqui has navigated every obstacle imaginable — from national crises to unpredictable weather.

“I signed my first contract on 9/11 with the Tri-County Marine Trade Association,” she shared. “We survived the 2008 recession (still have PTSD), then the pandemic, several hurricanes, and even a snowstorm in Charleston while moving boats in.”

Years later, that snowstorm remains a standout memory. “We had large boats slipping on ice and had to have staff shoveling around the tents,” she laughed. “But my team and I did what we always do — made the best of it by making snow angels.”

After 35 years in events, Jacqui has learned one key truth: “Expect the unexpected, and deal with obstacles with smiles and hopefully some grace.”

Looking Ahead to the 2026 Season

The future is already full speed ahead for JBM’s upcoming shows. “We’re already very busy planning the 2026 shows and have Charleston nearly sold out already,” Jacqui said.

Big changes are also underway in Savannah.

“There’s a gorgeous new IGY marina and expanded convention center space, which allows us to add an in-water element — something I’ve been waiting 20 years for,” she explained. “Savannah’s location between Charleston and Jacksonville, plus its growing population and destination appeal, gives this show an incredible future.”

A Community Built on Joy

For Jacqui, the most rewarding part of her work is the people she serves.

“My team and I love how we see families coming to the shows year after year,” she said. “We’ve watched kids grow up, become parents, and bring their own children to the shows. It’s a lifestyle and tradition.”

She credits that sense of continuity for fueling her passion.

“Community is one of the most important factors in my life, and being part of the boating community has been a blessing,” Jacqui shared. “People come to a boat show with smiles on their faces — how many jobs can bring joy to so many people?”

 

You can learn more about JBM & Associates and their upcoming events at www.JBMshows.com.

 

Marine Detail Supply Charleston is proud to regularly attend JBM’s premier boat shows — including Charleston, Savannah, and Wilmington — to connect with boaters and detailers across the Southeast. We’re honored to spotlight a company that brings the marine community together year after year.