Quirkpod, I live about an hour away, in Kure Beach, NC (just south of Wilmington). I know there are members here from that area and there are gardening groups. What they are though, I don't know. Hope someone responds. If they don't, I would contact some of the nurseries in that area. They would know of groups. Barb

It appears that eli17zn6 has a great suggestion. After researching it looks like the Phoenix Theoprastii or the Cretan date would be a better choice in Columbia SC. We are on the border between 8a and 8b. This plant looks like the Canary Island but may be more cold hardy. Now if I could only find a place to buy this plant with some size on it. I don't care to try to start from seed. Does anyone have any idea where I could purchase a nice plant? Thanks for your help and input- George

If you love the blended look stay on track. I think you are going for the right look to make you happy. And you are not alone. Check out these images. Maybe they can help with the confidence and show your FIL that it will be BEAUTIFUL. Keep in mind each slab of White Spring or Giallo or Santa Ceci, is going to have slight variations. If you love the blended look stick to the granite that is going to have the best match to the cabs. It is hard to pick from an image, being up close and personal to each rock is the way to choose. ~boxerpups Pictures of various granites that blend with the cabs and have a contrasting island. this one is Giallo O

That a LOT of cabinets, unless I'm misunderstanding. I'm counting 16 feet main run uppers&lowers + 2.5' oven run + 5.5 feet fridge & gables + 18' additional lowers for fridge run, laundry, dining + say 12' vanities + island. Say approx 80 lineal feet or so of cabs? I think going custom for 30K for all those cabs would be a non-starter. Maybe someone will have a great source for you, but I can't see it myself based on my own experience. You never know though, so good luck to you.