Fig Columbia | Fall 2026

City of

Columbia

The Arts & Culture Issue I S S U E N o 5 2 | FA L L 2 0 2 6 Celebrating local shopping, dining, arts, events, and community

Drawn to relaxation Step inside Gateway Supply’s Columbia showroom, and the details start to feel easier to picture. Gateway Supply has helped professionals and homeowners across the Carolinas find the right products for their spaces since 1964. With tubs, showers, faucets, sinks, and vanities on display, their team will walk you through the options and help you imagine how each choice comes together at home. With showrooms in Columbia and Lexington, Gateway Supply makes the early stages of planning something you can actually see and touch.

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803.771.7160 | 116 WHITEFORD WAY, LEXINGTON

803.951.1607 | GATEWAYSUPPLY.NET

I N T H I S I S S U E As the air turns crisp and the city comes alive with the energy of fall, Columbia’s creative spirit takes center stage. In this Arts & Culture issue, we celebrate the artists, performers, makers, and visionaries whose work enriches our community. From inspiring local leaders to unforgettable performances, exhibitions, and cultural experiences, these pages highlight the people and places that make Columbia a city of creativity, connection, and inspiration.

Contents

On the cover: Gracing the cover of this season’s Arts and Culture issue are Ballerina Claire Rapp and Principal Dancer Joshua Van Dyke of the South Carolina Ballet, beautifully posed in front of The Nativity by Sandro Botticelli in the Columbia Museum of Art.

Fig Authentic: William Starrett

William Starrett, executive director of the South Carolina Ballet, continues to inspire dancers while making classical ballet more accessible to the community.

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Social Mission: Good Samaritan Clinic

At Good Samaritan Clinic, the mission doesn’t end with accessible healthcare— they are expanding their reach with accessible mental health programming and resources in the Midlands.

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Immersed and Inspired Immerse yourself in the arts and culture that sculpt the community that we call home. Explore the city through its many offerings of performing, musical, and visual arts from local and nationally touring artists. Attend workshops and markets throughout Columbia to discover emerging talents.

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How BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina serves women in business 6

And of course great shopping, dining, arts, events, and community— as always. Keep Reading

Catch up with The Sweeten Group 12 Columbia’s Fall Events 26 Autumn in Aiken 72

ISSUE 52 / FALL 2026 / COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA / THE ARTS & CULTURE ISSUE

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P R O D U C E D B Y B Y FA R R D E S I G N H O U S E

Learn more about our mission and meet our team at byfarr.com

PUBLISHER Fig Industries DIRECTOR Brynley Farr CREATIVE DIRECTOR Laura Windham SENIOR DESIGNER Makayla Rippy COPYWRITERS Chesson Merritt Madison Chiang Lake Killman Trinity White DESIGNERS Ryan Fleming Emma Laing PRODUCTION Michaela Williams

T H A N K YO U T O O U R C O M M U N I T Y S U P P O RT E R S Blue Cross Blue Shield of South Carolina The Sweeten Group S O C I A L M I S S I O N PA RT N E R Good Samaritan Clinic S TA Y C O N N E C T E D Follow Fig Columbia on Facebook and Instagram for daily coverage of loving local in Columbia A D V E RT I S E I N F I G Own a business and want to share your story?

Contact figcolumbia@byfarr.com

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Credits

T H E A R T S & C U LT U R E I S S U E

ACCOUNTING Allyson Milot

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PHOTOGRAPHERS Tanner Caldarola Joshua Aaron Photography Zach McKinley

Fig Industries, LLC has made every attempt to ensure that all information contained in this publication has been obtained from reliable sources, but all such information is provided “as is” with no guarantee of completeness or accuracy. The views of contributors do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of Fig Industries, LLC. Fig Industries, LLC cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions contained in, or reliance made upon the contents of, this publication. Copyright: Copyright 2026 © Fig Industries, LLC. All rights reserved. Photography or page layout contained in Fig shall not be reproduced, in whole or in part, without the specific written permission of Fig Industries, LLC. Contact 717.394.7737 or studio@figindustries.com.

Autumn in Soda City

A note from Fig

As summer gives way to fall, Columbia begins one of my favorite transformations. The temperatures may still remind us it’s South Carolina, but there’s an unmistakable energy that returns to our city. College students fill the sidewalks again, our local restaurants and retailers come alive, Saturdays belong to the roar of Williams-Brice Stadium, and before long, we’ll be eating donut hamburgers beneath cotton candy-colored skies at the South Carolina State Fair.

Our cover captures that spirit beautifully.

Inside the Columbia Museum of Art, South Carolina Ballet dancers bring elegance and movement to one of our city’s most inspiring spaces. This year is especially meaningful as South Carolina Ballet celebrates 65 years, and we’re thrilled to celebrate Claire Rapp’s promotion from Principal Dancer to Ballerina.

We’re also honored to feature South Carolina Ballet Executive Director William Starrett as our Fig Authentic, recognizing his enduring leadership and extraordinary impact on the arts in our community.

Columbia is filled with incredible arts and cultural experiences, but what makes our city truly extraordinary is the people behind them. Artists, entrepreneurs, volunteers, nonprofit leaders, educators, and neighbors

all contribute to the story of this place. Their passion, creativity, and generosity are what transform a city into a community.

We’re honored to partner with BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina to celebrate Women in Business Month by recognizing inspiring women whose leadership is shaping our future. You’ll also find a special pink feature supporting Walk for Life, where more than 5,000 walkers and runners unite to honor those affected by breast cancer, and a purple feature celebrating Sistercare’s 45 years of providing hope and healing for survivors of domestic violence.

Thank you for supporting the businesses, artists, nonprofits, and dreamers who continue to make Columbia flourish. I hope this issue encourages you to experience something new, celebrate a familiar tradition, and be reminded that while our city is rich in art and culture, its greatest masterpiece has always been its people.

Here’s to a wonderful fall.

Warmly, BRYNLEY FARR

ISSUE 52 / FALL 2026 / COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA / THE ARTS & CULTURE ISSUE

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Leading with care Behind every successful team is a leader making decisions that often go unseen. Decisions that strengthen a business and support the people who keep it moving forward.

In celebration of National Women’s Small Business Month this October, BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina is honoring women whose leadership extends far beyond the bottom line. Across industries—from finance and nonprofit leadership to marketing and healthcare services—these leaders share a common commitment: caring for their employees as much as they care for the organizations they’ve built. Providing quality health coverage is one of the most meaningful ways they put that commitment into practice.

No two businesses are exactly alike, and neither are the people behind them. That’s why BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina offers health plans designed to meet employers where they are. Whether a company is growing its team, managing a budget, or looking for greater flexibility, businesses can choose from a range of solutions backed by South Carolina’s largest provider network and local support.

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Alex Chastain Shareholder & Principal, Abacus Planning Group Every financial plan begins with understanding the person sitting across the table. As a shareholder and principal at Abacus Planning Group, Alex Chastain brings that same approach to the firm’s employee benefits.

Health insurance has long been one of Abacus’ most valuable employee benefits. As the firm has grown, Chastain has made it a priority to revisit its coverage, recognizing that employees’ needs change over time.

“Just because you picked one thing one year, you’re not always necessarily locked into that forever,” Chastain says. “We’ve gotten bigger over the years. As your company changes, the needs of your employees change. It’s important to look to see what other options you have within that scope.”

That perspective led Abacus to BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina. A broad provider network allows employees to continue seeing the doctors and hospitals they trust, while a wide range of plan options gives the firm the flexibility to choose coverage that fits its team. Different deductibles, co-insurance levels, and Health Savings Account-compatible plans allow Abacus to build coverage around its employees, rather than expecting employees to build around a single plan.

For business owners exploring health insurance, Chastain’s advice is straightforward: ask insightful questions and revisit your options as your business evolves. The right plan isn’t necessarily the one you’ve always had—it’s the one that continues to meet the needs of your people.

Scan the QR Code to hear more from Alex!

ABACUSPLANNINGGROUP.COM

Leah Wicevic Chief Executive Officer, Sistercare Leah Wicevic has built her career around serving others. As CEO of Sistercare, which supports thousands of domestic violence survivors and their children across the Midlands each year, she knows that meaningful care begins with the people providing it.

“We have staff that are on the front lines in our emergency shelters providing these services to survivors day in and day out,” Wicevic says. “It’s really important to me that I’m able to provide them the health insurance that they need so they can take care of themselves to be able to do this important work.”

With nearly 65 employees serving survivors across shelters, satellite offices, and administrative locations, Sistercare’s workforce spans generations and life stages. To meet those varying needs, the organization offers two health plan options through BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina, giving employees coverage that reflects where they are in life while remaining affordable for the nonprofit.

For Wicevic, quality health insurance is more than an employee benefit.

It’s an essential part of recruiting and retaining the compassionate professionals who make Sistercare’s mission possible. In the nonprofit sector, where organizations compete for talented staff with limited resources, offering strong benefits helps level the playing field.

After many years with BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina, Wicevic values the relationship the organization has built with Sistercare.

Transparent communication, an understanding of the nonprofit’s unique needs, and the ability to provide quality coverage at competitive rates have made BlueCross BlueShield a trusted partner.

Her advice to other business leaders is to take the time to build a relationship with your insurance provider. The more they understand your organization, your employees, and your goals, the easier it becomes to find coverage that supports both your people and your mission.

Scan the QR Code to hear more from Leah!

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SISTERCARE .ORG

Merritt McNeely Chief Executive Officer, Flock and Rally Flock and Rally has spent more than a decade helping organizations rally communities around great ideas. Behind every campaign is a team of people bringing those ideas to life, and Merritt McNeely has never viewed employee health insurance as a line item to shrink. It’s part of the culture the agency has chosen to build.

Every renewal season means starting over. Numbers are compared. Coverage is evaluated. Questions are asked. Then comes the decision.

“BlueCross BlueShield is superior, both from a customer service perspective and in what it offers and covers,” McNeely says.

That conclusion has held steady year after year. Rather than searching for the lowest premium, Flock and Rally looks at the complete picture—provider access, prescription coverage, copays, customer service, and the experience employees will have long after enrollment ends.

Choice matters, too. Employees can select between Silver and Gold plans, use Health Savings Accounts, access telehealth services, and take advantage of a wellness fund that encourages them to define wellness on their own terms rather than someone else’s.

“You get what you pay for,” McNeely says.

“Quality has lasting value.”

Scan the QR Code to hear more from Merritt!

FLOCK ANDRALLY.COM

Teri Todd & Beth Bunge Co-founders, Bright Start

Bright Start’s team of more than 130 employees provides early intervention and case management services in communities across the Upstate, Midlands, and Lowcountry, helping individuals with special needs and developmental delays reach their greatest potential. For co-owner Teri Todd, a team that reaches across South Carolina deserves health coverage that does the same.

A provider network that stopped at county lines simply wasn’t an option. BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina offered the statewide reach Bright Start was looking for.

“Our experience with BlueCross BlueShield has been amazing,” Todd says. “Community is something we’re deeply committed to, and being able to partner with an organization that shares those values over the past 15 years is something we truly appreciate.”

Just as important as a broad provider network is the ability to give employees choices. Bright Start offers multiple plan options, allowing employees to select coverage that fits their lives while keeping costs as manageable as possible.

With employees working in communities from the Upstate to the Lowcountry, Todd wanted more than a provider network. She wanted every member of the team to know quality care was never out of reach.

Scan the QR Code to hear more from Teri!

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BRIGHTSTARTSC.COM

Health Plans for Businesses The right health plan does more than check a box during onboarding. It helps small businesses recruit, retain, and care for the people who show up every day. BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina offers affordable health coverage for businesses, backed by access to every hospital in South Carolina, more than 26,000 in-network physicians statewide, and a nationwide network of more than 3 million doctors and hospitals. Along with preventive care, every plan includes access to telehealth and exclusive member discounts on fitness centers, travel, and health and wellness products, while dental plan options give employers even more flexibility.

“The women featured here remind us that leadership is measured by more than business success. It’s reflected in the opportunities they create, the people they invest in, and the lasting impact they have on their communities. BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina is proud to celebrate their leadership and stand beside the teams that help make it possible.”

SCHEDULE A COFFEE WITH US TO TALK THROUGH YOUR OPTIONS!

803.264.8231

Stephanie DeFreese VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES & MARKETING

BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.

Settle into the season Finding the right home is about more than square footage or a street address. It means discovering a place that reflects your lifestyle, feels welcoming the moment you walk through the door, and gives you room to build your next chapter. With deep roots in the Midlands and a personalized approach to every client, Kate Sweeten and The Sweeten Group (RE/MAX At the Lake) make buying and selling feel more seamless from beginning to end.

Kate was named the top residential RE/MAX agent in South Carolina, but her clients know her for more than her expertise. She serves as a trusted guide, helping people move forward with confidence while experiencing the joy of homeownership. Every move is personal, and with The Sweeten Group, each step toward home can feel a little sweeter.

SERVING RICHL AND COUNT Y, LEXINGTON COUNT Y, AND L AKE MURR AY

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Get to know the team by following @thesweetengroup on Instagram

Authentic | Leading the way through innovation and example

Authentic William Starrett William Starrett has spent four decades proving that the arts don’t end when the curtain falls. As CEO and Artistic Director of South Carolina Ballet, he’s inspired generations of dancers, introduced nearly three-quarters of a million students to ballet through educational outreach, and helped shape a thriving arts community across South Carolina.

Ask Starrett what ballet means, and he doesn’t start with dance. He starts with people.

“People don’t always realize how enriching the arts can be,” he says. “People come together to celebrate what the human spirit can create, and that’s what’s most important.”

welcoming a child into the theater for the first time or giving professional dancers a reason to build their careers in South Carolina, his work has always been rooted in creating opportunities for others.

“My dream was to build a professional ballet company here,” he says. “Before, talented dancers had to move away. I wanted them to have a reason to stay.”

Today, his legacy can be found in the dancers who stayed, the students who discovered something new, and the audiences who continue returning—season after season.

That belief has guided him since childhood. Growing up in Southern California, Starrett discovered ballet almost by chance after his father’s construction company accepted dance lessons in place of payment for a remodeling project.

What began as childhood curiosity eventually earned Starrett the bronze medal at the first U.S. International Ballet Competition and carried him to stages in 29 countries and all 50 states. Yet the place that would define his life’s work wasn’t New York or London—it was Columbia.

“I began my love affair with Columbia,” he says of his first guest appearance with South Carolina Ballet in 1977. Less than a decade later, he returned as Artistic Director with a much bigger vision. Building a season of performances wasn’t enough. He wanted to create a lasting home for professional ballet in South Carolina. Today, that vision lives on through South Carolina Ballet, now the state’s largest performing arts organization, with productions ranging from Dracula: Ballet with a Bite to Sleeping Beauty.

Starrett’s impact extends well beyond the stage. Through the Educational Outreach & Engagement Series, hundreds of thousands of students have experienced ballet for the first time. Sometimes all it takes is one performance to spark a lifelong curiosity about the arts. “You have to meet people where they are,” he says. “Then you can bring them forward.”

For Starrett, that has always been the goal. Whether

Interested in bringing your class to South Carolina Ballet?

Learn more and complete the Educational Outreach inquiry form at southcarolinaballet.com. A member of the team will follow up to help plan your visit.

SOUTHCAROLINABALLET.COM

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Artful events await Host your next unforgettable event at the Columbia Museum of Art, where inspiring architecture, world-class art, and versatile event spaces create a setting unlike any other in the Midlands. From elegant weddings and corporate gatherings to nonprofit galas, private celebrations, and intimate dinners, the museum offers beautifully curated spaces paired with exceptional service to help bring every vision to life. Every event supports the museum’s mission while giving guests an experience they’ll remember long after the last toast.

1515 MAIN STREET

803.343.2188

COLUMBIAMUSEUM.ORG

With a passion for creating seamless, personalized experiences, Alexis Doktor, Associate Director of Rentals and Events, works closely with every client to transform ideas into extraordinary celebrations, ensuring each event is as memorable as the setting itself.

Event photos: Jessica Hunt Photography

Held in color Interested in owning an original? Browse available works or commission a custom portrait at jamiepeterson.com. For weddings and special events, Jamie also offers live oil paintings and watercolor guest portraits through United in Paint.

Paint has a way of noticing what the camera can’t. Jamie Peterson has spent more than 20 years painting portraits, capturing thousands of faces with the patience only a brush can offer. Those quiet observations and fleeting expressions become original oil paintings that feel just as alive years later as they did the day they began.

JAMIEPETERSON.COM Dress by Bella Bridesmaids

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Immersed and Inspired

As the first hints of fall settle in and the pace of the season begins to shift, Columbia’s cultural scene comes alive with renewed energy. From intimate live music and thought-provoking theater to inspiring gallery exhibitions and can’t-miss performances, this is the time of year when the arts invite us to get out, gather together, and experience something new.

Columbia continues to flourish as a place where local talent shines alongside nationally touring artists, creating a vibrant tapestry that reflects the many voices and traditions that call our city home.

The arts introduce us to new perspectives while celebrating the stories that unite us as a community. As the season unfolds, there’s no better time to take in the performances and exhibitions that showcase the heart of Columbia’s creative spirit.

Whether you’re planning a night out or simply looking for a little inspiration, we hope these pages encourage you to explore all that’s happening across Columbia’s expansive arts scene this season.

Hear, here

listen

Every city has its own sound. In Columbia, it’s never just one. It’s applause echoing through historic theaters, a vinyl record crackling over dinner, guitars passed from one musician to the next, and voices rising together on a Wednesday night. The city’s music scene offers plenty of ways to listen—and even more ways to be heard. Take a seat, grab a microphone, or simply follow the sound.

Vino & Vinyl with Preach Jacobs Every Tuesday | 6:30PM | Lula Drake

Finlay Fridays

Every Friday | 6–8:30PM | Finlay Park

Concert in the Gardens

Sept. 29 | 6–7PM Hampton-Preston Mansion & Gardens

Rewind: 2000s Rave

Oct. 9 | 9:30PM | The Senate

Andy & Friends

Nov. 2 | 7PM Satterlee Hall at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral

The Masters of Melody

Nov. 13 | 7:30PM | Koger Center for the Arts

learn

Slow Jam

Second Saturday of each month | 1–3:30 PM Bill’s Music Shop & Pickin’ Parlor

Freeway Music Private Music Lessons By appointment | Freeway Music

Inside the Section: The Little Big Band Residency Mondays, Sept. 14–Nov. 2 6–8PM | ColaJazz Foundation

Congaree New Horizons Band Program Dates and time vary by class University of South Carolina School of Music

Music Play À La Carte: Newborn–Toddler Every Friday (Sept. 11–Nov. 20) 9–9:30AM | Outdoors at Senate’s End

bonus tracks Karaoke Night

Every Wednesday | 8PM | Art Bar

Bluegrass & Acoustic Open Stage & Jam

Every Friday | 6PM Bill’s Music Shop & Pickin’ Parlor

Listen over Dinner

The Joint @ 1710 Main Settle in for dinner while live jazz fills the room on weekend evenings.

Browse the Bins

Papa Jazz Record Shoppe or Scratch N Spin Spend an afternoon flipping through new releases, vintage vinyl, and unexpected finds at one of Columbia’s independent record stores.

Wander Main Street

Between First Thursday celebrations and Saturday mornings at Soda City, live music often spills into the sidewalks and storefronts downtown.

CONSIDER THIS YOUR CUE

watch

This season, the spotlight shines on Columbia. Discover performances that will leave you applauding long after the curtain falls, then find your own rhythm through dance classes, live music, improv, and opportunities to join the creative community. Whether you’re taking a seat in the audience or stepping into the spotlight, there’s a place for everyone in Columbia’s performing arts scene.

Winnie the Pooh

Aug. 17–Nov. 16 | Columbia Marionette Theatre

Mike Super: Magic & Illusion

Sept. 18 | 7:30PM | Harbison Theatre

Columbia Classical Ballet: Don Quixote Oct. 2 | Koger Center for the Arts

Beetlejuice JR.

Oct. 16–18 | Village Square Theatre

Gypsy

Oct. 16–Nov. 1 | Town Theatre

South Carolina Ballet: Dracula: Ballet With A Bite

Oct. 23–24 | 7:30PM | Koger Center for the Arts

The Courage to Right a Woman’s Wrongs

PLAY

Nov. 13–20 | Longstreet Theatre

Tuesday Swing Dance Lessons

Palmetto Swing Dance Association Every Tuesday | 7–8PM | Church of the Apostles

Thursday Night Modern Shag Every Thursday | 8:30–11PM Bill’s Music Shop & Pickin’ Parlor

Savage Salsa Sunday

Every third Sunday | 3–7PM | Savage Craft Ale Works

Village Square Theatre Lessons

Lessons available in acting, acting for the camera, audition preparation, public speaking, voice, dance, and directing | By appointment

Columbia Children’s Theatre Classes

Classes are available for young performers from preschool through 12th grade, with options including Theatre for the Very Young, Fantasy Fun, The Youth Experience, and Teen Studios.

Tuesday Improv Comedy Every Tuesday | 8PM | Art Bar

FEAST YOUR EYES

SEE

Columbia is a canvas where creativity spills from gallery walls onto sidewalks, storefronts, and unexpected corners of the city. Home to celebrated artists and emerging voices alike, the city’s visual arts scene reflects a community that values expression as much as innovation. From thoughtfully curated exhibitions to hands-on classes that invite participation, Columbia offers countless ways to become part of its ever-evolving artistic narrative.

Over the Mantel Gallery

Bobbi Sorensen Solo Exhibit

Midlands Fall Arts and Craft Market

In the Making: Contemporary Craft from South Carolina

Tuesdays–Saturday | 11AM–5PM

September 19 & 20

Sesquicentennial State Park Artisan Market Nov. 8 | 10AM–4PM

Third Thursday Art Night: Wayne Thornley

Nov. 19 | 5:30–7:30PM | Koger Art Center

Sept. 2–13 | Stormwater Studios

Opens in Oct. | South Carolina State Museum

Live GlassBlowing

Daily | One Eared Cow

Body Matters Exhibit

Aug. 22–Jan. 3 | Columbia Museum of Art

Halloween Hoopla

MAKE

Oct. 30 | 5:30-7:30PM | EdVenture

Beginning Wheel Throwing Classes Sep. 3–Oct. 8 | Thursdays 6–8PM Columbia Arts Center

Paint your own pottery

Monday–Saturday | 10AM–6PM The Mad Platter

Create Your Own Jewelry at Tenfold Collective’s Charm Bar

Paint like Bob Ross

Sept.–Dec. | Second Sundays 2PM–4PM | Artistic Aspirations

Open Paint

Every Saturday | 10AM–4PM Lexington Paint and Pour Art Studio

Tuesday–Saturday | 10AM–6PM

Want to see more art in your backyard?

Take yourself on an Instagram tour of Columbia’s murals using Onecolumbia.com as a guide!

Lights. Camera.

Conversation.

Many screenings include post-film discussions with filmmakers, community leaders, and local experts.

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1607 MAIN STREET

803.254.8234

NICKELODEON.ORG

Some stories are better experienced together. At The Nickelodeon Theatre, every screening is an invitation to step into someone else’s world, then return to your own with a fresh perspective. Through independent films and documentaries, The Nick creates space for laughter, meaningful conversation, and connection. Make a girls’ night of it this fall and discover stories that remind us our own lives are often more connected than we realize.

The stage is set For more than four decades, Trustus Theatre has brought bold storytelling and thought-provoking performances to Columbia audiences. Through inventive staging and original works, the theatre creates experiences that invite audiences to see the world from a different perspective. That tradition continues this season with plays and musicals designed to entertain, challenge, and spark conversation.

SEASON 42: UNMASKED CABARET 9/25–10/25

FAT HAM 4/16–5/2

CULT OF LOVE 11/20–12/13

THE SHARK IS BROKEN 5/14–5/30

THE NICETIES 1/15–1/31

JAGGED LITTLE PILL 6/18–7/25

DEAR EVAN HANSEN 2/19–3/21

HOME-GROWN PLAYWRIGHT’S FESTIVAL AUGUST 2027

520 LADY STREET 803.254.9732 TRUSTUS.ORG

Fall into State

EVERY AUTUMN, Fall Back Fest brings State Street to life. Local businesses spill onto the sidewalks as live music fills the air, artists create temporary murals, and the Meeting Street Artisan Market Night Edition showcases one-of-a-kind pieces from local makers. Spend November 6 discovering new favorites and taking in one of West Columbia’s favorite traditions.

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200 N. 12TH STREET, WEST COLUMBIA

Fall Back Fest returns Friday, November 6, from 5:30–9:30 PM with good food, live music, and seasonal fun!

803.791.1880

WESTCOLUMBIASC.GOV

The

CAMDEN HORSE &HOUND EXPO | SEPT 26 Springdale Racecourse (Gate 2) Camden, SC 9:00 AM–5:00 PM See world-renowned horseman Pat Parelli live, cheer on thrilling equestrian exhibitions and watch high--ying DockDogs make a splash at the Camden Horse & Hound Expo Meet South Carolina’s beloved Boykin Spaniels, explore hands-on conservation displays, shop regional vendors and enjoy great food and family fun.

P R E S E N T E D BY SENSOR ENTERPRISES

THE CAMDEN HUNT THE CAMDEN HUNT CONSERVANCY

TICKETS & SCHEDULE CAMDENHORSEANDHOUND.COM

Fall Events

GREEK FESTIVAL September 17–20 Experience four days of Greek culture and tradition at Columbia’s 39th Annual Greek Festival. Enjoy authentic favorites like gyros, baklava, and souvlaki, watch lively folk dancing, browse vendor booths, and tour the historic Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral—all with free admission. columbiasgreekfestival.com

COLA CAFÉ FEST September 27 Mark your calendars for Columbia’s first-ever Cola Café Fest. Discover your next favorite café as you sip signature drinks, sample fresh bites from local bakeries, browse vendors that make Columbia unique, and cheer on talented baristas during the latte art throwdown competition. colacafefest.com

JUBILEE: FESTIVAL OF BLACK HISTORY AND CULTURE September 19 Celebrate Black history and culture at Jubilee, a celebration that honors the shared stories, rich traditions, and experiences that bring the community together. historiccolumbia.org/jubilee

GREAT AMERICAN WHISKEY FAIR October 2 Raise a glass to the 14th Annual Great American Whiskey Fair. Sample over 300 whiskeys from around the world and meet the industry experts behind your favorite pours. Be sure to come hungry, Bourbon will be serving up barbecue to round out the experience. greatamericanwhiskeyfair.com

OKRA STRUT September 25–26 The Irmo Okra Strut is bringing the flavor! Enjoy live music, local vendors, family fun, and plenty of the festival’s famous fried okra at this beloved Southern tradition. okrastrut.com

ITALIAN FESTIVAL October 10 After an 11-year hiatus, the Italian Festival is finally returning to Columbia. Savor classic Italian dishes, jam to live music, and experience beloved traditions that celebrate the city’s Italian heritage. italianfestivalcolumbia.weebly.com

PALMETTO PEANUT BOIL September 26 The Palmetto Peanut Boil is steaming with fresh competition! Spend the day with live music, delicious food, and a friendly showdown to see who has the best boiled peanuts in South Carolina.

Admission is free, and all proceeds from food sales benefit The Animal Mission. animalmission.org/palmetto-peanut-boil

SC STATE FAIR October 15–25 Start making room for funnel cake, the South Carolina State Fair is back. From heart-racing rides for thrillseekers to classic fair favorites, there’s something for everyone. Indulge in all the delicious eats, discover the work of local artists and makers, and soak up the excitement of one of the state’s most beloved annual traditions. scstatefair.org

SAVAGE CRAFT OKTOBERFEST September 26 Raise a stein to Oktoberfest at Savage Craft Ale Works.

Spend the day enjoying live music, German beer, a festival-inspired menu, local vendors, and plenty of brews and bites from 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Prost to a full day of festive fun in West Columbia. savagecraft.com

FAMOUSLY HOT PRIDE FESTIVAL October 17 The Famously Hot Pride Festival is back in the heart of Columbia. Enjoy live music, unforgettable drag performances, and more as Main Street comes alive for a day of community, connection, and celebration. scpride.org/festival

26 ISSUE 52 / FALL 2026 / COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA / THE ARTS & CULTURE ISSUE

TRUNK OR TREAT October 26 Put on your best costume and grab your pillowcase because Trunk or treat is back. Bring the family to enjoy a night full family fun games, trick-or-treating, and a costume contest. historiccolumbia.org

Now’s the time to schedule your holiday shoot! Visit Stephanie’s website to get yours on the calendar!

FALL BACK FEST November 7 Fall in love with live painting, musical performances, and local vendors at Fall Back Fest. Indulge in food and drinks from local restaurants as you walk along the 100-300 blocks of State St in West Columbia.

Keep your eye out for unique handcrafted gifts as the Meeting Street Artisan Market is hosting a special night edition during Fall Back Fest. westcolumbiasc.gov/fall-back-fest MIDLANDS CHRISTMAS ARTS & CRAFTS MARKET November 7–8 Find the perfect gift before the holiday rush at the Midlands Christmas Arts & Crafts Market.

More than 150 local vendors and artisans will fill the South Carolina State Farmers Market with handmade goods and distinctive seasonal finds.

Admission and parking are free, and the event is pet-friendly, making it an easy outing for the whole family. bit.ly/4g6s3eo WHISKEY WINE AND BLUES November 14 Wine and dine at the Whiskey, Wine and Blues Festival. Dance you way through the aisles of vendors as you enjoy with spirit tastings, free food tastings, and live band performances while shopping local vendors. All proceeds go to the Dream Her Forward program, which provides scholarship opportunities for young single mothers. whiskeywineblues.com

Picture perfect Every portrait begins as a blank canvas. Stephanie Williams transforms the people, places, and moments that matter most into an original work of art. With a thoughtful approach to light and composition, she creates imagery that feels as timeless as the memories themselves. Whether displayed as custom wall art or preserved in heirloom albums, each piece tells your story beautifully for years to come.

803.816.1591

STEPHANIEWILLIAMSPORTRAITS.COM

Reflections of the past Nestled in the heart of Columbia, McIntosh Cottage offers a curated selection of English and French antiques.

From grand enfilades and gilded starburst mirrors, to charming pine chests and well-loved dining tables, their offerings reflect the rich heritage of a time gone by.

McIntosh Cottage also carries a selection of smaller gifts and goods for all of life’s special occasions.

714 BELTLINE BOULEVARD

803.834.4341

Love in bloom Guests may not remember every flower, but they’ll remember how the room felt. Fern Studio Flowers intentionally keeps its calendar small. Every celebration receives the team’s full creative attention, allowing flowers to become part of the atmosphere rather than simply the décor. It’s the kind of difference that can only come from creating one wedding at a time. The result is beautiful florals that feel as personal as the vows themselves.

Fern was named one of Martha Stewart Weddings' Top 33 Floral Designers in the Country!

Venue: 701 Whaley Wedding Planner: Jessica Rourke Weddings Photographer: Tejas Photos

2855 DEVINE STREET

803.767.8506

@FERNSTUDIOFLOWERS

FERNSTUDIOFLOWERS.COM

MCINTOSHCOT TAGEANTIQUES.COM

Love at first site Some people see studs and blueprints, but for Ansley Dorn and Meilian Campbell of Adorn Interiors, they see your future favorite place. Their two distinct perspectives come together in one shared vision as they guide large-scale projects from the earliest plans through the final details. Creativity, organization, and masterful execution shape every decision, helping even the most complex process feel personal. The result is a home that reflects who you are and feels like somewhere you cannot wait to return to.

Research, Development, Procurement, Installation, and Follow Up form the five-phase process behind every Adorn Interiors project.

803.429.8519

ADORNINTERIORSSC.COM

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A portion of every purchase at Tenfold Collective is donated to anti-trafficking efforts, both locally and internationally, in an effort to aid in the fight to end human trafficking.

Shop with purpose Tenfold Collective is proof that beautiful things can do a whole lot of good. The handwoven baskets, jewelry, and heartfelt gifts that owner Misty Burton has filled her store with are made by artisans from around the world. She ethically sources every unique treasure and supports fair, dignified work along the way. The result is a shop full of things worth bringing home—and feeling good about.

115 E MAIN STREET, LEXINGTON

803.665.1751

TENFOLD - COLLECTIVE.COM

Fluent in fabric Long before opening The Drapery Shop, Jodi Jenkins was learning the language of fabric.

More than 20 years later, she continues helping clients discover designer textiles and trims that are rarely available outside the trade. What begins as a single material becomes drapery, bedding, and soft furnishings designed specifically for the space they'll call home.

Schumacher

Thibaut

Anna French

Samuel and Sons Cole & Sons

Lee Jofa

Bassett McNab

Kravet

Dana Gibson

3146 CARLISLE STREET

Brunschwig & Fils

Stroheim

Clarke and Clarke

Marcus William

803.917.2235

GP & J Baker

Stout

Fabricut

S. Harris

Texture

Matouk

JODIJENKINSDESIGNS.COM

Pindler

John Robshaw

The future is bright AT BEN LIPPEN SCHOOL, students are encouraged to dream big and discover how their gifts can serve a greater purpose.

Rooted in Christ, their education prepares them to lead with confidence and embrace whatever lies ahead. Music, art, and theater become more than forms of selfexpression—they give students meaningful ways to glorify God through their talents.

Those experiences shape thoughtful leaders who are ready to share their gifts with the world.

From the first day of school to the final curtain call, Ben Lippen gives students in Pre-K3 through 12th grade opportunities to explore where their talents can take them.

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7401 MONTICELLO ROAD

803.807.4000

BENLIPPEN.COM

Grayson Norene ‘26 in Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella.

Some Columbia traditions come around once a year. Others have been a part of this community for more than a century. Rose Talbert Paints has been manufacturing premium paints locally for over 100 years, with the Walker family continuing a legacy built on craftsmanship, quality, and hometown pride. Brothers Bobby and Pope Walker—and Pope's daughter, Virginia Shropshire—are carrying that tradition forward, proving that when something is made right, it never goes out of style.

2521 FOREST DRIVE, 803.799.7011

549 KNOX ABBOT T DRIVE, 803.796.6260

Rose Talbert Paints can be found all over Columbia, including the iconic Rocket at the South Carolina State Fairgrounds.

ROSETALBERTPAINT.COM

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Impressions that last What makes ByFarr Design House different is that the work doesn’t stop at the design. Inside their studio on Sumter Street in downtown Columbia, you’ll find the team printing, foil stamping, embossing, letterpressing, and custom die cutting many of their projects by hand, preserving time-honored printing traditions that have become increasingly rare. Every impression reflects a belief that craftsmanship still matters and that some of the best things are worth making the old-fashioned way.

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2112 SUMTER STREET

803.200.1004

BYFARR.COM

Make this year's holiday card one that's designed to be displayed long after the season ends.

Reserve your spot with ByFarr Design House this fall and watch as they bring your vision to life.

Marketing

Branding

Social Media

Letterpress

Weddings

Fig Columbia

Create a memorable moment at your next event with a signature cocktail, styled to your taste and your experience.

Raise the bar You already know Southern Way Catering for their culinary masterpieces that have set the table for celebrations across the Midlands for decades. Their bar service deserves a spot on the guest list, too, with beautifully presented cocktails, experienced bartenders, and seamless service that keeps every celebration flowing. Every drink menu is thoughtfully paired with the same attention to detail that has made Southern Way Catering a trusted name for generations. It's one more way their team brings people together around life's biggest moments.

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100 E EXCHANGE BOULEVARD

803.783.1061

THESOUTHERNWAY.COM

A trusted hand Every unforgettable celebration begins with a vision and ends with the feeling that it unfolded exactly as imagined. Allow Melanie Murphy, Ashly Sloan, and the team at

By Invitation Only...Event Planning & Design to take the reins and guide your wedding with a sense of elegance, intention, and ease from the first detail to the final farewell. With a discerning eye and a passion for creating truly genuine experiences, they bring each couple’s story to life with effortless sophistication.

When the last toast has been shared and the evening draws to a close, the only thing left is to ride off into the sunset together, knowing every element was flawlessly brought to life.

701 WHALEY STREET, #104 803.467.9822

Photo: Joshua Aaron Photography

MURPHY WEDDINGS.COM

Gather for gameday

The Party Darling believes every reason to gather deserves a little extra personality—from football Saturdays to birthdays, backyard dinners, and everything autumn brings. It starts with invitations that give everyone something to look forward to and balloons that brighten the room. By the time the serving trays are passed around and the piñata comes down, an ordinary gettogether has become a fall tradition.

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813.766.7337

THEPART YDARLINGS.COM

Football season is just one of many reasons to celebrate— The Party Darling also specializes in birthdays, baby showers, holidays, and more.

Brilliant blooms

Shaking things up

For Vicki Walker of Carolina Blossoms, flowers have always been a part of life’s most meaningful moments. Her love for them began with garden time with her grandmother, who passed down not only a love of beautiful blooms, but also the joy of sharing them with others.

It’s always 5 o’clock somewhere, and Margarita Man is ready to bring the party anywhere you are! With more than 30 flavors to choose from—and the margarita machine delivery, set up, and next-day pick up handled for you—entertaining is as simple as choosing your favorite flavor and inviting friends to join you. Keep things cool with Summertime Lemonade, add a seasonal twist with Apple Cider, or find a favorite among the many margarita flavors in between.

Tailgates, office parties, holiday gatherings, and backyard celebrations all get a little more fun with frozen drinks on the menu and stress-free service.

Vicki and her talented team use the knowledge and passion that have been passed down from one generation to the next to create breathtaking floral arrangements for weddings, grand celebrations, and life’s most meaningful moments.

The result is floral artistry that feels as natural as it is unforgettable telling a story long after the last bloom has faded.

Made with real cane sugar, their premium mixes aren’t just for margaritas.

Enjoy them as familyfriendly slushies or add your favorite spirit for the perfect frozen cocktail.

CAROLINABLOSSOMS.COM @CAROLINABLOSSOMS

803.766.8322

MARGARITAMANCOLUMBIASC.COM

Shop Luxury Online

At RRvive Luxeries, they believe luxury shopping should be effortless. Their website features a carefully curated collection of authenticated, pre-owned designer handbags and accessories, each selected for its quality, craftsmanship, and timeless style.

DISCOVER AUTHENTICATED, PRE-OWNED DESIGNER TREASURES FROM THE COMFORT OF YOUR HOME. BROWSE RRVIVE’S CURATED COLLECTION ANYTIME, ANYWHERE.

RRvive is proud to serve fellow South Carolinians and luxury lovers everywhere. Explore their newest arrivals, shop with confidence, and find your next designer piece—all from the comfort of your home.

Visit their website and experience luxury reimagined.

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@RRVIVELUXERIES _ LLC

RRVIVELUXERIES.COM

Seamless Journeys, Thoughtfully Curated.

The best journeys don’t just take you somewhere new—they lead you to places that feel like they were waiting for you all along. Postcard & Co. creates thoughtfully personalized travel experiences designed around the way you want to see the world.

Let’s design your next journey.

803.687.8991

POSTCARD - CO.COM

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Good times on tap COOLER WEATHER has a way of making a beloved neighborhood spot even better.

Savage Craft’s outdoor patio becomes especially inviting once temperatures begin to drop, particularly with an in-house brew in hand and a plate of something delicious on the table. With live music on the calendar and WilliamsBrice Stadium just down the road, it’s the perfect place to keep the festivities going this fall. Pregame pints, post-game bites, and every moment in between are all better at Savage Craft.

Bring your next party to Savage Craft—With two private event spaces, there’s plenty of room to celebrate.

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430 CENTER STREET, WEST COLUMBIA

803.888.6005

SAVAGECR AFT.COM

Wellness, your way Meet Zoë, a nutrition and wellness coach who helps people feel at ease with food, for good.

She works with people who know what to do but struggle to stick with a plan, as well as those who are tired of starting over and are ready for something that holds up, even on the hardest weeks. If you want food to finally feel simple, Zoë is the person you’ve been looking for.

707.367.7396

Taste the season The changing seasons bring new inspiration to the kitchen at il Giorgione. Fall specials highlight the ingredients and flavors of the moment, adding another layer of discovery to a menu already known for its timeless Italian flavors. With a patio made for lingering and a dining experience that feels effortlessly inviting, il Giorgione remains a favorite spot for enjoying Italian cuisine at a slower pace.

ZOELILLIANNUTRITION.COM

Take the first step and schedule a free, 15-minute phone call with Zoë.

Make a reservation and discover the flavors of the fall from the chefs at il Giorgione.

Pictured at Publico on Bull Street

2406 DEVINE STREET

803.521.5063

ILGIORGIONE.COM

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Caramel-covered conversations Drawn in by the smell of decadent cakes and the promise of dessert cocktails that offer a new take on beloved classics, there’s no better way to end a night out than at Kaminsky’s Dessert Café. Found beneath the warm glow of the Vista, it is the perfect place to linger over seasonal specials, house-made cobblers, and classic pies. Prefer a cozy night in?

Take home a slice—or a whole dessert—and bring a little piece of heaven with you.

Pictured: White Chocolate Macadamia Cake, Apple Crisp Cake, and Mountain of Chocolate Cake Slice.

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930 GERVAIS STREET

803.550.9979

K AMINSK YS.COM

K AMINSK YSVISTA

Flavors worth celebrating FOR DELICIOUSLY DIVINE DISHES that wow your guests, appetizers that epitomize the perfect bite, and desserts that hit the spot every time, Loosh Culinaire always delivers. Their team of skilled chefs has decades of experience crafting a symphony of flavors that capture the warmth and tone of any event. For award-winning cuisine, look no further than Loosh Culinaire.

Looking to add some flavor to your next event? Visit looshcatering.com to discover what’s on the menu.

2030 GREGG STREET, SUITE A

803.787.004 4

LOOSHCATERING.COM

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Guidance, guaranteed Understanding Medicare doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. At Lourie Life & Health, knowledge is shared long before decisions need to be made. Led by a team with decades of experience in Medicare, as well as in health and life insurance, every conversation is rooted in education, giving clients the confidence to choose coverage that fits their lives.

It’s an approach built on trust, guidance, and a genuine commitment to serving the Midlands.

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3710 L ANDMARK DRIVE, SUITE 206

803.256.2067

LOURIELIFEANDHEALTH.COM

President and CEO Joel Lourie has dedicated more than 30 years to serving South Carolinians. After spending 18 years in the South Carolina House and Senate, he has spent the last 15 years leading Lourie Life & Health, where he trains and empowers an exceptional team of agents to stay current on every aspect of Medicare, health, life and group insurance.

Creating Abundance, One Habitat at a Time Abacus is an outspoken proponent of a clean and healthy environment. One of their leading voices is portfolio manager Bailey Davis, Cofounder of the Abacus Sustainability Team.

Bailey and the team set their sights on the arduous process of having the gardens and greenspaces surrounding their office becoming a Certified Wildlife Habitat® by the National Wildlife Federation. And they achieved it! A proud day for Abacus and a happy day for the bees, chickens, birds, and other critters that call Devine Street home. Thank you Bailey for your leadership and for investing your passion into a greener future for the entire community.

2500 DEVINE ST, COLUMBIA | 115 EAST CAMPERDOWN WAY, GREENVILLE

803.933.0054

ABACUSPL ANNINGGROUP.COM

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Gallery worthy smiles Just as every work of art deserves patient attention, so does every smile. At Carolina Dentistry, Dr. Natalia Antley takes a boutique approach to dental care, one where advanced technology and personalized treatment plans go hand in hand in providing care to each patient. The result is an experience that feels less like a routine appointment and more like a practice built around comfort, connection, and exceptional care.

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Cosmetic Dentistry

General Dentistry

2329 DEVINE STREET, SUITE 2

803.799.3368

Restorative Dentistry

CAROLINADENTISTRYSC.COM

Genuine people, genuine results Skincare is personal, and Stacey O. Studio is, too.

Stacey and her team of massage therapists and estheticians take the time to get to know you and your skin, creating holistic, results-focused treatments tailored to your individual needs. It’s customized care designed to help you feel confident and comfortable in your skin.

Massage/ Cranial Sacral

Oxygen Facials

Peels

LED Light Therapy

Holistic Facials

Organic Skin Care

2911 DEVINE STREET 803.741.8687 STACEYOSTUDIO.COM

Serious about fitness With the return of crisp mornings and full calendars, fall is the perfect time to find your rhythm again. Anytime Fitness on Devine Street makes it easier to build a wellness routine that feels achievable. Their supportive team is there every step of the way, as they provide personalized training and nutritional guidance to help meet your fitness goals. It's not about starting over—it's about creating habits that help you feel stronger, healthier, and more energized throughout the season.

2808 DEVINE STREET 803.546.8578 ANY TIMEFITNESS.COM

Check out their customizable membership options to find a plan that is right for you.

A familiar face As life changes, so do the ways we care for ourselves. About You Aesthetics takes the time to understand your goals before recommending treatments tailored to you, creating results that feel natural rather than trendy. From HydraFacials and laser treatments to injectables and body contouring, every service is designed with your individual needs in mind.

Looking refreshed doesn’t have to mean looking different—it means feeling like the best version of yourself.

Beyond injectables, About You Aesthetics also offers CoolSculpting®, microneedling with PRP, GLP-1 injections, and laser tattoo removal.

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4700 FOREST DRIVE, SUITE 200 -A

803.978.9128

ABOUT YOUAESTHETICS.COM

Be kind to your mind NEWS FLASH: THERAPY IS COOL, especially when care feels like it was made for you. At Jill Smith and Associates Counseling, a range of specialties, perspectives, and approaches come together under one roof, giving you more ways to find support that feels right. Because healing isn’t linear, the next step looks different for everyone.

JSA’s therapists take the time to understand your story and connect you with an approach that feels personal rather than prescribed. Three welcoming locations and flexible telehealth options make it easier to fit therapy into real life. Because taking care of your mind deserves a place on the calendar, too.

Individual counseling Family therapy

Marriage counseling

Gender affirming counseling

Counseling for children, teens, & parents Telehealth online therapy

Group therapy

Trauma-informed practice

1777 BULL STREET

803.814.5559

JSACOUNSELING.COM

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Refresh your look, rediscover your confidence Dream Aesthetic blends artistry and advanced treatments to create natural-looking results that help you feel confident in your own skin.

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5101 FOREST DRIVE

803.358.8375

DREAMAESTHETICSC.COM

Exceptional surgical care, centered around you

From consultation through recovery, the experienced team at Carolinas Dermatology and Plastic Surgery provides personalized plastic surgery care in a comfortable, private setting. With their in-house operating room, you can receive your procedure and follow-up care from one trusted team in one convenient location— making your experience seamless, comfortable, and focused on you.

Schedule your consultation today!

1777 ST. JULIAN PL ACE, SUITE 402

803.509.5405

CAROLINASDERMATOLOGY.COM

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A future in focus Southeastern Health and Wellness Institute is proud to announce an exciting new chapter in healthcare education as an officially approved degree-granting institution. This year, the Institute is launching its Associate of Applied Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography, preparing the next generation of highly skilled ultrasound professionals through innovative technology, hands-on clinical education, and exceptional faculty. This milestone represents more than the addition of a new program—it is an investment in the future of healthcare, expanding access to high-quality education while helping meet the growing demand for compassionate, highly trained medical professionals throughout South Carolina and beyond. Southeastern Health and Wellness Institute is creating life-changing opportunities for students while strengthening the healthcare workforce that serves communities every day.

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201 EXECUTIVE CENTER DRIVE, SUITE 300

803.814.1772

SEHEALTHANDWELLNESSINSTITUTE.COM

The method that moves with you, for life PVOLVE combines strength, mobility, and stability training in its Sculpt, Weight Training, and Cardio classes. When combined, PVOLVE is a complete integrated training system for long-term health and movement longevity. Whether you're just beginning your fitness journey or looking to take your training to the next level, PVOLVE's trainers personalize the experience to meet you where you are and help you progress at your own pace. In addition to group classes, they also offer one-onone personal training. Discover the difference in the BullStreet District!

Scan to learn more about PVOLVE Columbia’s studio membership benefits!

803.263.8271

2140 PICKENS STREET

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New Heidts on Devine NOW LEASING FALL 2026 Devine & Heidt brings a fresh residential experience to one of Columbia’s most soughtafter neighborhoods. Located on the corner of Devine and Heidt Streets, the boutique community features 55 beautifully designed residences with spacious one-, two-, and three-bedroom floor plans. Inside, light-filled spaces and sophisticated finishes bring ease and intention to daily life, while inviting areas for gathering, working, and unwinding extend that experience beyond each home. From the rooftop sky deck to the details inside each residence, every element is designed to make life feel a little more exceptional.

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LEASING NOW!

2712 LEE STREET

803.881.6881

DEVINEDISTRICT.COM/COMMUNITIES/DEVINE-HEIDT

Setting the stage Some stars take center stage.

Others make magic happen behind the curtain. For more than 80 years, Wolfe & Taylor has helped Columbia residents find the perfect place to call home while supporting the arts community that makes the city shine. Whether volunteering with local organizations or investing in hometown initiatives, they’ve long believed that the strongest stories begin with neighbors who show up for one another.

Because every unforgettable production needs an exceptional cast, and Wolfe & Taylor is proud to play a part in Columbia’s story.

Dana Wolfe and Steve Taylor at Town Theatre.

1216 PICKENS STREET

803.771.4567

WOLFEANDTAYLOR.COM

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Complimentary in-home consultations are the first step in every Closet Factory project, giving homeowners the chance to collaborate one-on-one with a designer.

Better by design

Closet Factory has built its reputation on asking better questions. How do you start your mornings?

Where does life tend to pile up? What would make your home work better? Those conversations become the foundation for personalized solutions that rethink everyday spaces—from closets and pantries to home offices and entertainment centers. It's a process that feels just as personal as the finished design.

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2146 SUMTER STREET

803.794.9414

CLOSETFACTORY.COM

NMLS ID 2667182 Licensed in SC, NC and GA

Mortgage solutions for life’s biggest moves

Whether you’re buying your first home, upgrading to your dream home, investing, or refinancing, Scott Truitt helps you choose the financing option that makes the most financial sense—not simply the one that is easiest to sell.

Obtaining a mortgage is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. The mortgage you choose matters just as much as the home itself.

As a wholesale mortgage broker with LifeTree Lending, Scott shops a network of top-tier wholesale lenders to find competitive rates and financing solutions tailored to your goals—not just a single offering.

Scott provides guidance through every step of the financing process, helping clients purchase primary residences, vacation homes, and investment properties while navigating specialized financing options for self-employment, new construction, physician loans, VA, FHA, USDA, jumbo, and bank statement programs.

Talk to Scott before you start shopping. Scan the QR code to schedule a consultation or begin your application.

Scott helps you build a financing strategy that positions you for success today—and for years to come.

803.292.0681

LIFETREELENDING.COM

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Business Law Estate Planning & Probate Nursing Home Abuse or Neglect Personal Injury

Whether you’re protecting what you’ve built, planning for what comes next, or seeking support when life takes an unexpected turn, Goff Law Group is ready to guide you.

A firm foundation A firm foundation means more than legal experience to Dylan Goff. His approach is shaped by a long-standing commitment to Columbia, four generations of family business ownership, and 26 years of service in the Army. Dylan founded Goff Law Group in 2017 and has carried those values into every client relationship through individualized attention, thoughtful guidance, and representation grounded in trust.

Together, Dylan and the Goff Law Group team are committed to standing beside their clients with purpose, integrity, and a steady hand.

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1518 RICHL AND STREET

803.216.1008

GOFFL AWGROUP.COM

from left: Birgit “Sam” Lumpkin Laura Culler, Jill Kearse, Dawn Scholl

To learn more and apply for future funding, visit anchorinvestmentmanagement.com

Anchored in community At Anchor Investment Management, LLC, investing has always been about more than portfolios. It’s about creating lasting value for the people, organizations, and communities Anchor serves.

Established in celebration of the firm’s 25th anniversary, the Anchor Impact Fund recently awarded its first grants, providing $12,000 to three Midlands nonprofits serving our community. It’s one more way Anchor is investing in a stronger Midlands—today and for the future.

3205 DEVINE STREET

803.766.2100

ANCHORINVESTMENTMANAGEMENT.COM

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Frenzy is proud to partner with Prisma Health Foundation and produce this year’s Walk for Life and the Famously Hot Pink 10K + 5K shirts.

Made to be worn The best branded apparel gets worn long after the event is over. It becomes the sweatshirt someone reaches for on a cool morning or the polo that represents a business with pride. Frenzy combines premium embroidery with digital printing to create apparel that reflects your brand with lasting quality.

Every stitch and every print is produced with precision, giving businesses, schools, and organizations apparel they’ll be proud to put on again and again.

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1227 ROSEWOOD DRIVE

803.256.5281

FRENZY TEES.COM

Lace up for a cause Early detection makes all the difference. Prisma Health Breast Centers are committed to providing comprehensive breast cancer care, from screening and diagnosis through treatment and beyond. This October, Prisma Health Midlands Foundation’s signature fundraising event, the Walk for Life and the Famously Hot Pink 10K & 5K, will raise funds toward bringing another mobile mammography unit to the community, making lifesaving screenings more accessible. Lace up, show up, and help move the fight against breast cancer forward.

36TH ANNUAL WALK FOR LIFE AND FAMOUSLY HOT PINK 10K & 5K Saturday, October 17, 2026 • Segra Park

7:45am: Aflac Kids Fun Run 8:10am: 10K & 5K 8:15am: Walk for Life

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2026

WALKFORLIFECOLUMBIA .ORG

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Social Mission | Making a difference in the lives of others Good Samaritan Clinic believes lasting change begins with community. Volunteers, healthcare providers, churches, businesses, and local organizations each play a role in helping its mission continue to grow.

Social Mission Good Samaritan Clinic Twenty-five years after opening its doors, Good Samaritan Clinic is expanding its mission beyond providing healthcare alone. While the nonprofit has long provided no-cost medical care to uninsured adults across the Midlands, its next chapter focuses on something equally vital: helping patients build connections, access support, and find hope alongside the care they receive.

That vision is taking shape through expanded mental health programming. In addition to one-on-one counseling, the Clinic will introduce free support groups on a variety of topics, creating opportunities for patients to build relationships before connecting them with additional resources when needed.

“We want people to know we’re here for more than just bumps, bruises, and bandages,” Executive Director Mike Young says. “Our goal is to help people identify the biggest challenge they’re facing and connect them with the care and resources they need.”

The Clinic’s community health worker model reflects that philosophy by helping patients navigate challenges that often extend beyond a doctor’s visit. Recognizing the close

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LEARN MORE AT GOODSAMARITANSC .ORG

connection between physical health and overall wellbeing, staff and volunteers work to provide the guidance and resources each person needs to move forward.

As Good Samaritan Clinic celebrates its 25th anniversary, it is also laying the groundwork for the future. Expanded mental health services, innovative partnerships, and plans for Good Samaritan Clinic Thrift Store all reflect a broader vision of care—one designed to strengthen the Clinic’s ability to serve patients for years to come.

“We’re setting the foundation for the next 25 years,” Mike says. “We want people to know we’re here for them.”

The Clinic’s work has always been about more than treating illness. It’s about walking alongside neighbors through life’s challenges, helping them find the care they need today while building a healthier future for tomorrow.

Scan to learn more about Good Samaritan Clinic!

The love of learning From first grade through graduation, Sandhills School provides a steady, engaging foundation of knowledge for students with learning differences like dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia. Their teachers are trained in the Orton-Gillingham Approach, a proven method that tailors a student’s instruction to their individual needs and strengths. With a high teacher-to-student ratio and a small, friendly community atmosphere, your child will always be a top priority. Schedule a visit, and learn how Sandhills School can transform your child’s school experience this next school year!

1500 HALLBROOK DRIVE

803.695.1400

SANDHILLSSCHOOL.ORG

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More than a gala Life’s hardest moments shouldn’t be faced alone. Ronald McDonald House Charities of Columbia gives families a place to stay close to one another— and to the care their child needs—so they can focus on what matters instead of where they’ll sleep that night. This September, that mission comes to life at Havana Nights, the organization’s annual fundraising gala, where an evening of live music, dining, and auctions helps ensure more families find a home away from home when they need it most.

Havana Nights takes place Saturday, September 26 from 7–11 p.m. at The Laundry at Bull Street. For sponsorships, tickets or auction donations, contact Ashley Barr at ashley.barr@rmhcofcolumbia.org

presented by

45 years strong Every survivor deserves safety. Every family deserves hope. For 45 years, Sistercare has worked to reduce the occurrence and impact of domestic violence in the Midlands through crisis support, advocacy, education, and trauma-informed support services—all at no cost. Join Sistercare throughout Domestic Violence Awareness Month this October as they mark 45 years of serving the Midlands and recommit to creating safer, more hopeful futures together.

Inspired by Nashville’s iconic Bluebird Café, Songbird Café brings nationally acclaimed singer-songwriters Eric Paslay, Patrick Davis, Marc Broussard, and Channing Wilson to Columbia for an intimate evening where music, storytelling, and generosity come together in support of Sistercare’s mission. Gather your guests, reserve a sponsored table, and help create lasting change this October.

October 3: EmpowerRun 5K • October 5: 45th Anniversary Press Conference October 22: Songbird Café • October 24: Mayor’s Walk & Run Against Domestic Violence 24/ 7 CRISIS LINE: 803.765.9428

803.926.0505

SISTERCARE.ORG

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75 years of excellence As Heathwood Hall Episcopal School celebrates its 75th anniversary, it honors a legacy of educational excellence while embracing a future rooted in curiosity, character, and connection. For generations, Heathwood has inspired students to become thoughtful learners, compassionate leaders, and engaged citizens.

Serving students from Early Childhood through Grade 12, Heathwood offers a continuous educational journey where every child is known, challenged, and supported. Through exceptional academics, meaningful relationships, and opportunities to explore, create, and serve, students develop the confidence and character to thrive in college and beyond.

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3000 SOUTH BELTLINE BOULEVARD

803.765.2309

HEATHWOOD.ORG

Every dinosaur in Fossils to Futures is built entirely from recycled and repurposed materials.

Walk with

GIANTS

Homework can wait. Fossils to Futures transforms an afternoon at EdVenture into an adventure through time, where towering dinosaurs, hands-on exploration, and immersive environments encourage children to ask big questions about the world around them. While kids are busy playing, they’re also building curiosity and a deeper understanding of the planet they’ll inherit. It’s learning disguised as play—and that’s exactly the point.

211 GERVAIS STREET

803.779.3100

EDVENTURE.ORG

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Smarter solutions for skin At Skin & Brows Redefined, their mission is simple: “transforming skin through innovation.”

Behind every laser treatment is a team committed to combining advanced technology with extensive training, skin expertise, and thoughtful pre- and posttreatment care. Under the direct medical supervision of Amanda Clark, DNP, and Dr. Lindsey Crenshaw, MD, their laser team includes three Certified Medical Assistants who bring their experience as Licensed Estheticians into every treatment. Each laser service is performed supporting their commitment to safety, education, and responsible aesthetic care.

At Skin & Brows Redefined, they believe technology is only as powerful as the knowledge behind it. By combining advanced laser technology, experienced skin professionals, and comprehensive pre- and post-treatment care, they also create personalized treatment plans designed to help their clients achieve healthier, more confident skin.

JEWELS ANDERSON Acne Specialist

SANDRINE AGUILAR Lead Laser Technician

TRACEY OSBORNE Lead Esthetician

Sandrine specializes in advanced laser treatments, laser hair removal, and corrective skincare.

Known for her expertise in safely treating diverse skin tones, she combines advanced technology with personalized care to help clients achieve healthier, more confident skin.

Tracey brings experience, precision, and a refined skill set to every treatment. Her thoughtful technique and attention to detail allow her to customize each service to the individual, combining her knowledge of skin with advanced treatment methods to support long-term skin health and confidence.

Jewels brings a thoughtful, personalized approach to every client she treats, with a special passion for corrective skincare and acne-focused treatments. Her warm personality, genuine connection with her clients, and commitment to continued education allow her to guide each person with confidence and care throughout every stage of their skin journey.

2100 NORTH BELTLINE BOULEVARD 803.556.9679 SKINANDBROWSREDEFINED.COM

Now Open in Forest Acres

Find quality care close to home at Lexington Health’s new, state-of-the-art medical office building in Forest Acres.

Residents now have access to a wide range of cardiology services at Lexington Health Heart and Vascular Center and comprehensive primary care for adults at The Columbia Medical Group Forest Drive, the practice’s second location.

5115 Forest Drive Columbia, SC 29206

Fall in full color When the air turns crisp and the streets of downtown Aiken take on their autumn glow, the season feels worth savoring. Fall invites visitors to slow down and experience the charm of a historic downtown filled with character, where every storefront and corner offers something worth noticing. Oktoberfest brings the spirit of the season to life with an inviting celebration that captures the warmth and energy of the community. In October, Fall In Love With Downtown Aiken transforms the district with its beloved scarecrow displays, adding a touch of creativity and whimsy to the fall landscape. A stroll downtown becomes more than a visit—it becomes an opportunity to embrace the season at its most inviting. Take a road trip down I-20 to Aiken this fall and discover a destination that feels timeless.

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406 BARNWELL AVENUE NORTHWEST, AIKEN

803.649.2221

DOWNTOWNAIKEN.COM

FALL EVENTS September 3-5 Labor Day Sidewalk Sale September 26 4-9pm Oktoberfest October 13-24 Scarecrow Contest October 24 10am-5pm Fall In Love With Downtown Aiken November 12 5-8pm Holiday Open House

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Ready for what’s next A move is more than a change of address—it’s the start of a new adventure. The road ahead comes with plenty to look forward to, and Two Men and a Truck is there to make every mile feel easier for you. Their team brings the experience, energy, and care needed to take the stress out of moving day so you can focus on where you’re headed next. The journey becomes part of the excitement when you have their reliable help by your side.

Need more room as you move? Two Men and a Truck offers local storage solutions to help you keep the items you love safe until you’re ready for them.

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126 ATL AS COURT, SUITE B

803.310.74 45

TWOMEN.COM

Pieces of the Palmetto State Fill your head with history and your basket with local finds at the South Carolina State Museum. Palmetto State treasures fill the Museum Store shelves, including artisan-made goods, books, teas, stationery, gourmet foods, collectibles and gifts, each with a story to tell. Explore South Carolina’s past and take home a piece of the place that inspired it, all while supporting the museum’s mission.

Find a taste of the state across 4,000 square feet of décor with deep Southern roots and everyday finds with plenty of Carolina character.

301 GERVAIS STREET

803.898.4921

SCMUSEUM.ORG

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2112 Sumter Street Columbia, SC 29201

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Fig Industries is redefining success through social impact and environmental accountability to the communities we serve.

Please pass this Fig on or recycle it.

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