The Christmas Issue
E N TE R TA I N M E N T
CH RISTM A S M EM O RIES WITH AIKEN N ATIVE J O H N BERRY SHOPPING
H O LIDAY GIFT GU IDE LI F E + C U LTU R E
H O O FBE ATS & CH RISTM A S CARO L PARADE
D E C E M B E R 2 022
Taking Augusta and Aiken Luxury Real Estate International.
Certified Residential Specialist Accredited Buyer’s Representative Military Friendly Specialist
Certified Residential Specialist Accredited Buyer’s Representative Seniors Real Estate Specialist
IT’S A BIG DECISION, WE KNOW. WE’RE HERE TO HELP! AIKENHOMES.COM
THEBEST BEST I PRESIDENT CLUB I MEYBOHM’S TOP 25 I BEST BESTOFOF
H O L I D AY
– W R E AT H S – FR
ESH
IE & HAND T
D.
SOUTHERN MADE TO DRY NATURALLY AND LAST FOR YEARS TO COME. VISIT OUR AIKEN STORE FOR MORE BEAUTIFUL & DISTINCTIVE HOLIDAY DECOR & GIFTS. SHOP WREATHS ONLINE, FREE SHIPPING. WWW.COLDCREEK.NET 398 HITCHCOCK PARKWAY, AIKEN
803.648.3592
December 2022 PUBLISHER
Gayle Bryan | gayle.bryan@citylifestyle.com EDITOR IAL COOR DINATOR
Rebecca Williams rebecca.williams@citylifestyle.com
LIFESTYLE LETTER
The Most Wonderful Time of the Year
AD DESIGNER
Rachel Collins LAYOUT DESIGNER
Antanette Ray CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S
Rebecca Williams, Gayle Bryan CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S
Christmas truly is the most wonderful time of the year. It seems like everyone is a little bit nicer. We smile more. We sing a little bit louder. We give a little bit more, and are more sensitive to the needs of others. Sometimes busyness can steal some of the joy of the season. To help lighten your load this year, we’ve compiled a gift guide to make your shopping easier and support our local Aiken retailers at the same time. This month we highlight the magic of the season and the Aiken traditions that help spread holiday cheer. One tradition for many Aiken families is to cross the river in December for John Berry’s Annual Christmas Tour. Our own Rebecca Williams spent some time with John before he embarked on his 26th annual tour, to reflect on Christmas and his memories of Aiken. Speaking of singing louder, we went behind the scenes with the organizers of the Annual Hoofbeats and Christmas Carols Parade as they were putting the finishing touches on their 13th endeavor. We can’t wait to see Aiken streets filled with hundreds of horses, riders, carriage drivers, and dog walkers dressed to the nines in their Christmas finest. And, as you know, the best way to spread Christmas cheer is by singing loudly for all to hear! Finally, lest we forget New Years, our friends at Neon Fig share some tasty southern recipes to help us ring it in right. As this year unwinds, I can’t help but reflect on what a joy and privilege it is to bring you Aiken City Lifestyle every month. I am grateful to be a part of such an amazing community and look forward to sharing the best of Aiken with you in 2023. I will close this letter the same way Santa closed the letters he included with his gifts to my children every year (after threatening that if they didn’t behave better next year, he would not be so generous). Be Kind to One Another and Always Remember the Reason for the Season! G AY L E B R YA N , P U B L I S H E R @AIKENCIT YLIFEST YLE
Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/AIKEN |
Rebecca Williams, Gayle Bryan, Tony Gouge, Moments By Moser
Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Randy Radosevich DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell
Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise Proverbs 3:5-6 Aiken City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Aiken area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Aiken City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the
4
L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R
accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
Christmas in
DOWNTOWN
AIKEN Look ahead!
Are you truly protected? We’re an independent agency that can meet all of your insurance needs. Auto
Aiken 215 Silverbluff Rd. 803.649.6461
|
Home Farm
| |
Business | Life | Retirement Commercial Trucking North Augusta 921 Georgia Ave. 803.279.8046
17
Holiday Open House
18
Pink Friday
25
Blessing of the Hounds Bloodies + Bagels One Table
26
Small Business Saturday
Belvedere 853 Belvedere Clearwater Rd. 803.593.4208
heathinsuranceandfinancial.com
November
1
December
Night of 1000 Lights
2
Downtown Christmas Tree Lighting
8
Ladies Night Out
11
Downtown Aiken Christmas Parade
17
Hoofbeats + Christmas Carols Parade Letters to Santa
Write your letter + deliver to the Santa Mailbox and receive a letter back!
Eric Rickenbach President
113 Laurens St. SW
Santa Sightings
Saturdays: 11am - 4:30pm Sundays:1-4pm During December
Extended Business Hours in December Thursdays + Fridays until 6pm Saturdays until 5pm Sundays open 1-4pm D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E. C O M / A I KE N
5
DECEMBER 2022
inside the issue The Holiday & Giving Issue
18
10
22
14
F E ATU R E D
D E PA RTM E NTS
10 Holiday Gift Guide
4
Lifestyle Letter
8
City Scene
10
Gift Guide
14
Must See
18
Back Stage
22
Artist’s Palette
26
Culinary Creations
30
Giving Back
34
Events
Local Picks for All Your Special Someones
14 Christmas with John Berry
Aiken Native and Grammy Award Winner Talks Christmas and Memories of Aiken
18 Aiken Christmas Traditions
The 13th Annual Hoofbeats and Christmas Carols Parade
22 Aiken Artist Julie Adams
Artist and Her Students Prepare for December Exhibition at Aiken Center for the Arts
O N T H E C OV E R
Photography: Rebecca Williams Grammy Award Winner and Aiken Native, John Berry.
6
S HO PPI NG
LI FE + C U LT U R E LI FE + C U LT U R E A RTS + C U LTU R E FO O D + B E V E R AG E
LI FE + C U LT U R E
DECEMBER 2022
city scene
Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1
3
6
4
2
7 5
1: Alex and Abbie Gambill sporting their finest whites at Chukkers of Hope. 2: Lizzy Longears alongside handler Joanna Caldwell of Black Burro Events at Chukkers of Hope. 3: Terry Lee (Overflow Foundation) and Sam Radford (Cedar Creek Church) at Women Today luncheon. 4: Martha Wise (White Rose Eclectics) and Stacey Idica (Aloha Aesthetics) at Women Today luncheon. 5: 2022 Founders’ Award Winner, Beverly Zimmer, and Caroline Gwinn at Aiken Center for the Arts. 6: Caroline Gwinn with Jean Bowman Award Winner, Booth Malone, at Aiken Center for the Arts. 7: World’s cutest ice cream sundae at Downtown Dog’s Howl-oween Costume Contest and Lauren Street Parade. Photography by Gayle Bryan
8
C I T Y SC E N E
8
9
10
8: Three friendly ghosts patiently waiting for Downtown Dog’s Howl-oween Costume Contest and Lauren Street Parade. 9: The grooviest participants in Downtown Dog’s Howl-oween Costume Contest and Lauren Street Parade. 10: Clowning around at Downtown Dog’s Howloween Costume Contest and Lauren Street Parade. Photography by Gayle Bryan
Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @AikencCityLifestyle
> edwardjones.com | Member SIPC
How much will you need to retire? Let's talk. Mention This Ad & Receive Free Cleaning With Inspection - DECEMBER ONLY -
803 455 2446 www.dirtychimney.llc
Alicia S Kough
Financial Advisor 407 Hayne Avenue Southwest Aiken, SC 29801 803-649-5138
MKT-5894K-A-A1 AECSPAD
D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E. C O M / A I KE N
9
01
Hol id ay
Gift Guide 02 CHECK ITEMS OFF YOUR CHRISTMAS LIST WITH THESE OFFERINGS FROM LOCAL MERCHANTS
05
06
03
04
06
01 THE LILA & VINE CAPRI GARDEN TOOL SET FROM GRASS ROOTS YARD SUPPLY. This Lilac & Vine Garden Tool Set comes with cultivator and trowel that feature an extra-strong design that will not bend, even in the toughest soil types for the gardener on your list. grassrootsyardsupply.com 02 PARK HILL CANDLES FROM GRASS ROOTS YARD SUPPLY. This clean burning soy wax candle invokes memories of a generous plate of gingersnaps, milk and the magical anticipation of Santa. grassrootsyardsupply. com 03 PERUVIAN PEPPERBERRY FROM CLEANSE GOURMET. Peruvian pepperberry glycolic acid honey peel is a powerful anti-inflammatory + antibacterial + antioxidant + brightening skin elixir. cleansegourmet.com 04 AVENUE ELECTRIC BICYCLE FROM PEDEGO ELECTRIC BIKES AIKEN. Low-price electric bike without compromises that is fast, lightweight, and practical for everyday use. pedegoelectricbikes.com/dealers/ aiken 05 CRANBERRY WINE AND SIMPLY OLD FASHIONED CRAFT COCKTAIL KIT FROM THREE STAR VINEYARD AND ORCHARD. The gift shop offers a selection of gifts including wines, jellies, jams, salsa, home goods, jewelry and more. threestarvando.com 06 CUSTOM COLLECTION FROM APRICOT LANE. Includes: Candle, Spongellé, Mix•o•Logie, Watermelon Rose Water Grapefruit Mask, Avocado Banana Milk Mask, and H20 Activated Charcoal Lemon Juice Mask. apricotlaneboutique.com/store/aiken/
ARTICLE BY GAYLE BRYAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AIKEN CITY LIFESTYLE AND PROVIDED
10
G IF T GU ID E | SHOPPIN G
07
08
10 09
11 12
07 PERSONALIZED GIFTS AT AIKEN EMBROIDERY AND DESIGN. The Penguin Snuggle Blanket, Santa Ornament, Personalized Name Gift Tag and Crossbody/Wristlet Purse are a small sampling of personalized gifts available. aikenead.com 08 WINE CLUB FROM CORK AND CAP. Taste, discover and explore the world of wine with the gift of Cork and Cap’s Wine Club. Hand-selected and expertly curated, each edition offers an exciting trip for your tastebuds. Annual, semi-annual, and monthly subscriptions available. shopcorkandcap.com/wineclub 09 GIFTS FOR HER FROM GINGER BEE BOUTIQUE. Make any woman in your life happy with the Ginger Bee Glass Candle, Layer Textured Twisted Hoops, or the Five Row CCB Bracelet from Ginger Bee! gingerbeeboutique.com 10 ONE OF A KIND JEWELRY DESIGNS AT AIKEN CENTER FOR THE ARTS. This Savannah River Agate, Pink Sapphire, and Diamond in hand-fabricated 14K Rose Gold and Silver Pendant is one of several pieces by local artist, Danielle LoMonaco, available for purchase at Aiken Center for the Arts. aikencenterforthearts.org 11 GOURMET GIFT BASKET AT THE LUCKY PECAN STORE The Lucky Pecan Store is your one-stop Christmas shop for all things gourmet pecans, antiques, and jams! theluckypecanstore.com 12 HONEY BAKED HAM FROM HONEY BAKED HAM OF AIKEN. Delicious Honey Baked Hams make the perfect gift for employees, friends and loved ones. honeybaked.com/stores/1585
D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E. C O M / A I KE N
11
POND CONSTRUCTION | MAINTENANCE | REPAIR
Your oasis awaits... (803) 226-1002 AMENCORNERPONDS.COM
SERVICE
Signature Honey Baked Ham Meal
Includes a Bone-in Half Ham which is handcrafted in store with our signature sweet & crunchy glaze. Also includes your choice of two varieties of our frozen Heat & Serve Side Dishes. Choose 2 Varieties and Get 2 Packages of Each
CONNECTION
FLEXIBILITY
Serves 10-16
Mention this ad to receive
$5 OFF Cannot be combined with any other coupons or promotions, not of cash value. Limit one coupon per customer, per visit.
www.honeybaked.com/stores/1585 803.649.6038 • 1701 Whiskey Rd Aiken, South Carolina 29803
12
Free public charter school that serves Aiken and surrounding counties
Where relationships matter
hcacs.net | 803.226.0160 1200 Toolebeck Rd Aiken, SC 29803 @HCACS
@hca_wearethevillage
803.226.0340 GINGERBEEBOUTIQUE.COM 110 LAURENS ST SW | AIKEN
SALES • SERVICE • RENTALS • TOURS
PEDEGO AIKEN
4019 PAVILION PASS AIKEN IN THE VILLAGE AT WOODSIDE 803-226-9007 PEDEGOELECTRICBIKES.COM/DEALERS/AIKEN
EDU C AT E
|
ADVOCATE
|
That’s My Nurse helps you better understand and manage your chronic health conditions, medications, and healthcare so you can stay active, healthy, independent and out of the hospital! ThatsM y N urse.com
|
803 . 5 99. 665 5
COOR DINATE CAR E
“ That’s My Nurse is the the best thing that has
happened to me! Liz took me to my doctors’ appointment and went as my advocate. It helped me communicate better with my doctors.” - CG
|
in fo @th a ts myn u rs e. co m D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E. C O M / A I KE N
13
14
M UST SE E | L IFE + CU LTURE
Christmas with John Berry Aiken Native and Grammy Award Winner Talks Christmas and Memories of Aiken ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA WILLIAMS
Aiken City Lifestyle caught up with Grammy Award winner and Aiken native, John Berry, in Nashville for a quick photoshoot, and to talk about his 26th annual Christmas Tour. Country music fans know John for hits like “Your Love Amazes Me” and “Standing on the Edge of Goodbye”. His latest album, Find My Joy, is a gospel collaboration with Songwriter Hall of Fame inductee, Steve Dorff, and offers fresh takes on traditional hymns as well as some original titles. Christmas and faith are passions for John, and his enthusiasm is contagious. During our shoot, John and his wife Robin recounted memories of their childhood growing up in South Carolina. Being in the presence of country music royalty (especially during his impromptu serenades) was a bit surreal, but his humble and down-to-earth demeanor made Nashville feel a little more like home. Check out our Q & A with John Berry:
ACL: WHAT SPECIAL MEMORIES DO YOU HAVE OF AIKEN? John: I have a lot of fun memories of Aiken; growing up in Crossland Park, spending time with family, going out on the weekends to see my grandmother in Windsor, spending the day with my uncle who ran the Greyhound bus station, seeing the Beatles movie “Help” at the old theater downtown, and getting a brand new pair of shoes at the shoe store downtown.
ACL: WHY CHRISTMAS? John: It all started at our home church in Athens, Georgia, Christmas of 1988. The pastor, Fred Rowell, who became a dear friend to me and Robin, asked if we would do a Christmas program. It was a lot of fun and a great success! After I had a record deal with Capital, my producer, Chuck Howard, heard us talking about our Christmas program and suggested we go in and record a couple of songs. We recorded “O Come Emmanuel" and "O Holy Night" in June of 1994. I had just had brain surgery to remove a keloid cyst and it was a pretty emotional time. We captured something very special. The following year, we went out and did a handful of dates which turned into 26 years of sharing music celebrating the birth of Christ.
ACL: ANY FAVORITE CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS? John: My favorite Christmas tradition was at our old farm just north of Athens, Georgia. We would take our children, nieces, nephews, and anyone else who wanted to ride, on a hayride around our farm Christmas Eve, and then gather around a bonfire and enjoy the evening together. Good memories! John’s annual Christmas tour makes a stop across the river in Augusta, at the Imperial Theater on December 18th, at 7:30 pm. The show has become a holiday tradition for many locals. Tour details and John’s latest album, Find My Joy, are both available at johnberry.com.
D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E. C O M / A I KE N
15
Eco-Luxe Skincare + Bath Product Boutique Featuring Fresh Unique Flowers And Gifts
Our Healthy Beauty Collection Is Hand Blended In Our Studio With Organic Botanicals + Essential Oils + Results Driven Actives For Glowing Skin. 803 761 2784 | www.cleansegourmet.com 942 Millbrook Avenue Suite 1 Aiken
Embroidery
Custom Patches Plasma Cut Signs Laser Engraving Photo Gifts
(803) 845-0230 | aikenead.com 117 Laurens St NW Aiken, SC 29801 16
In-Home Care | Private Duty Nursing | Covid Testing
CALL US TODAY TO SCHEDULE A FREE IN-HOME ASSESSMENT 706.945.2334 | www.comfortathomehealthcare.com
2541 Jefferson Davis Highway, Warrenville
Patrick Boylan has been surveying since 2014, and a licensed Registered Land Surveyor in South Carolina since 2019. Living in the Aiken area, Patrick can get to any survey in a hurry. Give Patrick a call or send him an email with your survey request, and he will get back to you in a hurry!
Patrick Boylan, PLS | 803-480-4495 pboylan@boylansurveying.com | boylansurveying.com
Keeping You Cool for Five Generations
Family Owned Since 1909 EMERGENCY SERVICE 24/7/365 | (803) 649-6551 REASONS TO WERM
PLACES TO WERM
• Slip Resistant • Cushioned • Non-Porous • Durable • Seamless
• Barn Floors • Trailer Floors • Stalls • Wash Racks • Shop Floors and more
Now available locally in Aiken! 762.250.4234 | Decorative Concrete Solution 3027 River Watch Pkwy, Augusta, GA 30907
D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E. C O M / A I KE N
17
Aiken Christmas Traditions The 13th Annual Hoofbeats and Christmas Carols Parade ARTICLE BY GAYLE BRYAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AP GOUGE PHOTOGRAPHY There is no denying that Aiken is a horse town. There are world-class equestrian events to be enjoyed year-round, but possibly none more eagerly anticipated than the Annual Hoofbeats & Christmas Carols Parade. Every December, hundreds of horses, riders, carriage drivers, and dog walkers bring the magic of Christmas to downtown Aiken. The parade was born out of a former riding group known as The Mock Hunt. Samantha Spitler, developer of Hatchaway Bridge Farms, was inspired by realtor, Billy Bennett, to create a way to show off the property by getting riders out on trails without the formality of a traditional fox hunt. The Mock Hunt soon became a
Wednesday tradition with riders of all disciplines exploring fabulous Aiken trails, followed by a potluck feast. As Christmas neared, Sam decided caroling on horseback was in order and the parade was born. “When we first started, we could never get anybody to come out and see us so we could carol to them. We were thrilled when somebody’s dogs came running out so we could sing to them!” The next year, Mock Hunt rider, Trish Leslie, approached Sam with the idea of moving the parade downtown to spread holiday cheer on horseback through the streets of Aiken. They organized with the Aiken Department of Public Safety and the parade began to grow. The first couple of years, a Wednesday CONTINUED >
18
B ACK STAGE | L IFE + CU LTURE
D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E. C O M / A I KE N
19
afternoon parade often had more horses than spectators. After some trial and error with dates and time of day, they landed at midday on a December Saturday, and the crowds and participation have grown each year. For over a decade, Sam, Trish and fellow rider, Linda Murphy, have organized the Hoofbeats & Christmas Carols Parade. It is one of the most looked forward to holiday events in Aiken, not only for locals, but for participants and spectators coming from up and down the East Coast. The 2021 Parade had over 300 horses and 100 dogs. As you can see from the photos, the participants go all out in outfitting themselves, the horses, and dogs in Christmas finery. The first year downtown brought a big challenge - manure! Sam recounts her husband, Jerry Spitler, being mortified by the horses doing their business on downtown sidewalks. From that mortification, Jerry and Dan Murphy put their heads together, and PEPSA (Professional Elf Pooper Scoopers of America) was born! PEPSA is made up of the 70-plus-year-old husbands of some of the riders. They have embraced the poop challenge with gusto, dressing as elves, decorating their shovels and performing with kazoos during the parade. And not just anyone is admitted to the “PEPSA Union”. There are standards! The quality of the caroling has improved since the early years of singing to the dogs. Sam recruited lifelong friend Kendall Standish, a New York Cabaret singer, to help elevate the music. This year, the organizers have added multiple choral groups headed up by Keely Rhodes. They have also partnered with Beasley Broadcasting’s new Aiken station, Sunny 102.7, to broadcast two hours of uninterrupted Christmas carols during the parade. They will have speakers along the parade route, and are asking downtown merchants to tune in as well to fill downtown with the music of Christmas. The current parade committee, consisting of Sam, Trish, Arlene Swindle and
20
B ACK STAGE | L IFE + CU LTURE
“When we first started, we could never get anybody to come out and see us so we could carol to them. We were thrilled when somebody’s dogs came running out so we could sing to them!”
Karen Tappenden, work hard throughout the year to make the parade a success. This year, they will partner with Equine Rescue of Aiken and the SPCA. These organizations will provide additional structure for this growing endeavor, and the organizers are thrilled to highlight the great work done by both charities. The 13th Annual Hoofbeats & Christmas Carols Parade saddles up December 17th at 2 pm. It will begin its two-and-a-half mile journey at the intersection of Barnwell and Greenville, passing by Trinity on Laurens Senior Living, progressing through downtown Aiken, looping around to The Willcox, and circling back through downtown. Further details and the full parade route are available on the 2022 Hoofbeats & Christmas Carols Facebook page.
D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / A I KE N
21
Aiken Artist Julie Adams ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA WILLIAMS
Artist and Her Students Prepare for December Exhibition at Aiken Center for the Arts
22
A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | ARTS + CULTURE
Former interior designer and Aiken native, Julie Adams, began her artistic journey in her free time as a mother taking classes when she could. By the 1990s, Julie’s boys were in college and she had time to nurture her talent while living in Atlanta. Fast forward to 2008, Julie moved back to Aiken, opened her own studio, and began to teach. She started with five students in her cozy loft studio on historic Laurens Street. At present, she has 23 students, some who have been with her since the very beginning, and has expanded into an additional studio. Julie’s niche is figurative and portrait art, but as a lifelong learner, she's currently exploring landscapes. Julie begins teaching her students art basics. Once they have that mastered (usually around four weeks), the students are encouraged to be unique and explore their personal visions while they paint. Many students enjoy bringing their friends and families to observe their artistic journey in action. Julie especially enjoys seeing the students’
bond and friendships within the class, feeling that this synergy aides in the creative process. She stresses that feeling comfortable in the creative environment will mold camaraderies that will last outside the classroom. Julie’s paintings have been shown in the Sumter Gallery of Art, Atlanta College of Art, Quinlin Art Center, Brenau College, The Etheridge Center and the Aiken Center for the Arts. When asked if anyone has shaped her as an artist, she fondly mentioned Phillip Carpenter and Al Beyer, both former instructors. The artwork of Julie’s students will be exhibited at the Aiken Center for the Arts December 8th through January 19th. The Opening Reception will be held December 8th from 6 pm to 8 pm. Over 140 pieces will be on display and for sale encompassing a variety of styles from abstract to impressionism. Julie Adams Fine Art is located at 143 Laurens Street NW.
The work of Silversmith, Danielle LoMonaco, will also be on exhibit at the Aiken Center for the Arts beginning December 8th. Danielle has been making jewelry for over a decade. She spent more than 7 years working in a fine jewelry store specializing in custom bridal, stone setting, and repair before opening her own studio in February of 2021. She now focuses on one of a kind designs featuring hand selected, all natural, and ethically sourced stones from independent stone cutters in the US. All of her pieces are made to the highest standards and are completely hand-fabricated from Sterling Silver. Her pieces in this exhibition will feature Savannah River Agate, a stone native to the CSRA.
D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E. C O M / A I KE N
23
THE POWER OF A SKILLED LOCAL TEAM Fall is a new opportunity to turn your home from “so-so” to “whoa!” Whether your exterior or interior needs a refresh, we’re the Pros to help you do it right. Let CertaPro Painters® of show you the power of transformation. Schedule your FREE on-site or remote estimate today.
803-295-5160
Ask About Certapro’s New Flexible Payment Options
ASK HOW YOU CAN GET $350 OFF YOUR INTERIOR OR EXTERIOR PAINT JOB! Each CertaPro Painters® business is independently owned and operated.
WWW.STJAIKEN.ORG | RICHLAND AVE. & NEWBERRY ST. | (803) 648-6891
FAMILY OWNED | LOCAL MILITARY & SENIOR DISCOUNT
St. John's United United Methodist Methodist Church Church
All are welcome at St. john's! we invite you to join us at any of our worship services.
FR E E E S T IM AT E S
8:30 am 9:02 am 11:00 am 6:00 pm
F ENCE INSTAL L
24
Sanctuary Faith Center Sanctuary Around the Fountain
WOOD | VINYL | CHAIN LINK | AND MORE 803.507.5729 | YARDBARBERLANDSCAPING.COM
Our vineyard has been family owned and operated for 30 years.
803.275.3200 ThreeStarVandO.com 172 Holmes Pond Rd. ∙ Johnston, SC 29832
TASTING ROOM | GIFT SHOP | EVENTS
BRUNCH LUNCH DINNER
Located in downtown aiken Call or visit our website for more info!
Beer wine Cocktails
803. 226. 0424 www.neon-fig.com
Now Open AT A I K E N C O M M O N S
WE CAN’T WAIT FOR YOU TO SEE OUR NEW BOUTIQUE! VB APRICOT LANE AIKEN 803.433.2117 1944 WHISKEY ROAD, SUITE #102 | APRICOTLANEBOUTIQUE.COM D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E. C O M / A I KE N
25
Southern Style Tasty Treats from the Kitchen of Neon Fig!
HOLIDAY TREATS Milk Punch INGREDIENTS 2.5 oz Bulleit Bourbon 1 oz Flor de Caña Dark Rum 2 oz milk 2 oz cream 1/4 oz vanilla 1 oz brown sugar simple syrup (1:1 ratio of brown sugar to hot water)
INSTRUCTIONS
Combine all ingredients, shake for thirty seconds to froth and chill. Pour into glassware rimmed with cinnamon sugar, top with grated nutmeg or cinnamon.
26
C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE
Black Eyed Pea Pâté INGREDIENTS
1 can drained and rinsed black eyed peas 1 T lime juice 1 T olive oil 1 finally diced jalapeño 1 t cumin 1/2 t salt 2 cloves minced garlic
INSTRUCTIONS
Place all ingredients in food processor and blend to desired consistency. Top with choice of pickled veggies and serve with crostinis or crackers! CONTINUED >
ARTICLE BY NEON FIG PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA WILLIAMS D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E. C O M / A I KE N
27
Cranberry White Chocolate Cookies Paige Chapman Harden of Betsy’s Round the Corner created a special Aiken City Lifestyle holiday treat. We can’t wait for you to try it! Photography by Rebecca Williams
INGREDIENTS 1 Cup Melted Butter
½ Tsp. Salt
¾ Cup Sugar
2 Tsp. Cinnamon
2 Eggs
3 Cups Plain Quick Oats
1 Tsp. Vanilla Extract
3 Cups Dried Cranberries
2 Cups All Purpose Flour
1 Cup Dark Brown Sugar
1 Tsp. Baking Soda 2 Cups White Chocolate Chips
INSTRUCTIONS In a mixing bowl with paddle attachment, combine butter, eggs, sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla. Stir on medium speed until thick and creamy. Add the remaining ingredients and stir to combine. Let dough rest for 30 minutes. Spoon or scoop onto parchment lined baking sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 12-18 minutes. Yields 24 mini cookies or 12 jumbo.
28
C ULIN A R C R E AT ION S | FOOD + BE VE RAGE
DON’T SETTLE FOR LESS!
When it comes to managing your land, make no compromises!
LAND CLEARING & FORESTRY MULCHING
803-998-8575 | RSForestry.com
D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E. C O M / A I KE N
29
The City Lifestyle
Giving Campaign Now in its third year, the City Lifestyle Giving Campaign will give away $300,000 this holiday season to help individual community members who would benefit from a helping hand during their time of need. But they need YOUR HELP to make it happen! Maybe you know of a single parent struggling to provide, an elderly person who has experienced loss, a child enduring a health issue, a co-worker suffering a sudden, unexpected tragedy or a neighbor with a financial hardship who has fallen between the cracks of getting assistance. Chances are you know someone with a specific need—even if nobody else does. To preserve and protect the dignity of every recipient, the City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized in ANY way. (Even those who nominate others may remain anonymous if they choose.) Last year, City Lifestyle was able to give to more than 70 recipients all over the country by sending checks in the mail through New Year’s Eve. (This year, the goal is to double that number with checks ranging in amount up to $3,000 each.) With nominations flooding in from community members and leaders such as judges, police officers, teachers, nurses, social workers, mentors and readers like you, we were able to reach people who might otherwise go unnoticed. “We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is all about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.” Together with Matthew Perry, Chief Sales Officer, Steven adds that the outpouring and gratitude from the recipients was overwhelming and affirmed that this is a tradition they want to continue. “We believe God has blessed our company with continued success,” Matthew adds, “so we in turn want to be a blessing to others.” City Lifestyle has also enacted an internal giving program whereby every employee in the company receives $100 to give away to someone in the community. “The idea is to encourage our employees to keep doing it on their own,” Steven says. “Taking care of one another and blessing others is so rewarding that it perpetuates a cycle of giving. It’s extremely important to me as a person and as a company to foster that culture of generosity.”
30
G IV IN G BAC K | L IFE + CULTURE
“This Giving Campaign is all about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
W here ha s t he c a mpa ig n g i f t e d?
Scan Code to
Nominate between Dec. 1 – 15, 2022
Follow @citylifestyle on Instagram for reminders! To submit a nomination, follow @citylifestyle on Instagram and fill out the form found in the bio link. All entries will be read, and because this is not a raffle, there is no need to nominate someone more than once. The amount given to each recipient will be based on need. D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E. C O M / A I KE N
31
Karen Peterson Interiors Full Interior Design Service Window Treatments Color Selections Furniture Placement Re-upholstery Service
Wallpaper Interior Design Consultation Shopping Service
Call for an in-home appointment 803.641.9769 | karenpetersoninteriors.com
It’s the PEOPLE N e x t H o m e i s c l i e n t - c e n t r i c . We f o c u s o n o u r c l i e n t ’s s u c c e s s b y p r o v i d i n g p r o g r e s s i v e t e c h n o l o g y, c r e a t i v e e n e r g y, u n i q u e m a r ke t i n g and superior service. S e r v i n g c l i e n t s a c r o s s t h e A i ke n , G r e e n w o o d , Le x i n g t o n , C o l u m b i a , & A u g u s t a , G A a r e a 803.741.5048 | nexthomerealtyconsultants.com 1305 Georgia Avenue, North Augusta, SC 29841
MAKE YOUR SEASON
Whether preserving history or preserving your vehicle, East Coast Custom Detailing can help you. Free Glass Ceramic Coating included with all Ceramic Coating Packages
803.306.4946 32
wine-derful AT CORK & CAP!
Cork & Cap Bottle Shoppe 146 Laurens St. NW Aiken, SC 29801 shopcorkandcap.com
transmisSion work • exhaust work general & computer repairs • A/C • brakes
ANTIQUE STORE
GOURMET CANDY
AND MORE MON. - SAT. 8AM - 6:00PM
JAMS | JELLIES | SAUCES | UNIQUE GIFTS ANTIQUES | GOURMET NUTS AND PECANS | FRESH PRODUCE
(803) 522-4642 | theluckypecanstore.com 15758 Atomic Road Beech Island, South Carolina 29842
3773 Whiskey Road • Aiken, SC 29803
The Legends Grille
We offer memorable lunch and dinner cuisine.
OPEN:
Wednesday – Saturday 12:00 PM until 8:30 PM
555 Highland Park Drive SW Aiken, SC 803-226-0137
OVERHEAD DOOR COMPANY OF AUGUSTA™ 1529 Crescent Dr. // Augusta, GA 706-736-8478 // 803-642-7269
www.ohdaugusta.com
D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E. C O M / A I KE N
33
DECEMBER 2022
events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.
D ECE M BE R 1 ST
Night of 1,000 Lights
DOW N TOWN AIKEN | 6:00 PM Kick off the Christmas season in downtown Aiken on the most beautiful night of the year! Enjoy walking downtown streets lined with luminaries. Shops will be open late, and expect appearances of carolers, elves and Santa himself!
D EC E M BE R 2 N D
Christmas Open House
T HREE STAR VIN EYARD AN D OR C H A R D | 5 :0 0 P M Enjoy light refreshments and extended shopping hours from 5 pm to 7 pm.
D E C E M BE R 2 N D & 3 RD
52nd Annual Christmas Craft Show
D E C E M BE R 9TH - 17TH
Elf the Musical
D EC E M BE R 1 0 T H
H . ODELL W EEKS ACTIVITIES C E NT E R Get a jump on your holiday shopping at the 52nd Annual Christmas Craft Show. Shop handmade items by crafters from all over the Southeast. Choose from home decor, wreaths, wood furniture, paintings, jewelry, holiday ornaments, clothing, ceramics, needlepoint creations, door hangers, delicious treats, and more. Local food vendors will be onsite.
AIKEN COMMUN ITY THEATRE The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear. Follow Buddy the Elf in his quest to find his true identity. Join the talented cast at the Community Theatre as they present this modern-day holiday classic. It is sure to make you embrace your inner elf.
Pancakes and Pajamas with Santa and Mrs. Claus
AIKEN S HRIN E CLUB | 7:00 AM Join Santa and Mrs. Claus for breakfast including pancakes, eggs, drinks and crafts. Tickets are $10 per person and can be purchased at the door. Take your own photos. Proceeds will benefit the work of the Aiken Shrine Club.
D E C E M BE R 10 T H - 2 2 N D
Christmas in Hopelands
H OPELAN DS GAR DEN S The Annual Christmas in Hopelands event will transform Hopelands Gardens into a beautiful holiday wonderland. This enchanting walk-through exhibit features over two miles of lit pathways and holiday displays. Over 100,000 twinkling lights create the perfect backdrop for special holiday memories with friends and family. There is no cost to enter the event or to utilize the shuttle service.
Want to be featured?
Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Aiken
34
EVE N TS
OPEN HOUSE
January 25 2023 10AM
NEW ACTIVITIES
803 648 5447 • AIKENSENIOR.ORG/ENRICHMENT 1310 East Pine Log Road Aiken, SC 29803
AND SPECIAL EVENTS
FOR SENIORS
From window cleaning and roof stain removal to gutter cleaning and mildew removal, Sunshine Pressure Washing has you covered.
Serving Aiken for 25 years
(803) 642-6341 thesunshineboys.com D ECEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E. C O M / A I KE N
35
803-335-2272
budgetblinds.com/northaugusta