Aiken, SC April 2024

If you’re one of the millions of Americans drowning in high-interest credit card debt, you know how hard it can be just to keep your head above water.

If you’re one of the millions of Americans drowning in high-interest credit card debt, you know how hard it can be just to keep your head above water.

Fortunately, your home can protect you against more than just the elements.

Fortunately, your home can protect you against more than just the elements.

Contact us today for a free loan analysis and learn how refinancing your mortgage can be the financial life preserver you’ve been looking for.

Contact us today for a free loan analysis and learn how refinancing your mortgage can be the financial life preserver you’ve been looking for.

mortgagesolutions.net

mortgagesolutions.net

Kristin Roy

Branch Manager | NMLS# 118498

Kristin Roy

Branch Manager | NMLS# 118498

Direct: (803) 9890428

Direct: (803) 9890428

Kristin.Roy@mortgagesolutions.net mortgagesolutions.net/location/aiken-sc

Kristin.Roy@mortgagesolutions.net mortgagesolutions.net/location/aiken-sc

Empowering Life Transformation At Cedar Creek Church

Locally, we partner with organizations who help the marginalized in our community. Globally, we practice the PEACE Strategy: Plant Churches, Equip Servant Leaders, Assist the Poor, Care for the Sick, and Educate the Next Generation.

You’re Invited to Outreach Spotlight Sunday on Sunday, May 5th · 9am or 11am

You can visit with each of our partners and explore how you can make a difference!

Luke Black with Hands of Hope Trust school Students in Lusaka, Zambia (Africa)

Home Group Members Serving Locally at ACTS.

Savannah Black with Hands of Hope Trust School Students in Lusaka, Zambia (Africa)

Guatemala Clean Water Project through partnership with ASOCAVIVA

India Clean Water Project through partnership with Set Free

Invest!

As April unfurls its petals, Aiken City Lifestyle welcomes a fresh theme — Invest. As we embrace the season of renewal, our minds naturally turn to growth, and what better way to foster it than through investment? We tackled the obvious first and asked financial expert, Alice Kough (Edward Jones), to share some investment tips to help us prepare for our futures.

One of the biggest investments most of us make in our lifetime is our home. Brandi Cook and Vikki Crossland from Aiken Homes Team took us inside their listing at 6059 High Meadow Loop and revealed the special touches and loving care that transformed this house into a home and added value for resale.

Beyond the spreadsheets and home tours lies an investment even more precious — the one we make in ourselves. It's about nourishing our minds, bodies and spirits through learning, wellness and meaningful connections. Speaking of nourishing our bodies, aesthetician Jeanette Mosley, owner of Flawless Glow, reveals investments we can make in our skin to keep us looking our best for a lifetime.

Finally, Rick Lee from Cedar Creek Church provokes us to invest in our spiritual health by seeking out genuine community with others.

I invest in myself by being a lifelong learner. Whether it’s learning guitar in my thirties, delving into birding in my fifties or my recent interest in Cuba’s history, my busy brain is not satisfied unless I’m learning something new.

Make sure to invest in yourself and those in your community this month, and let me know if you can recommend a good book about Cuba!

See you next month!

GAYLE BRYAN, PUBLISHER @AIKENCITYLIFESTYLE

April 2024

PUBLISHER

Gayle Bryan | gayle.bryan@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Nikita Hanif | nikita.hanif@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Carolyn McAvoy | carolyn.mcavoy@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Ashley Elvis

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Nikita Hanif, Shelby Mayer, Carolyn McAvoy, Rick Lee CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Meghann Padgett Photography & Film, Scott Webster, Gayle Bryan, Moose Nicholson

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

OPERATING OFFICER

Perry

DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Rachel Collins

DESIGNER Antanette Ray

Changing

•

•

• Roll it over to an Individual Retirement Account (IRA)

• Cash out the account subject to early withdrawal penalties

We

talk through your financial goals and find the option that works best for you.

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. Send Patrick an email with your survey request, and he will get back to you in a hurry! Don’t forget to mention this ad.

Patrick Boylan, PLS | pboylan@boylansurveying.com

boylansurveying.com

CARE THAT’S FOCUSED ON YOU

Total Care Medical Center and J&L Compounding proudly serve the people of Aiken and surrounding areas.

Care Options for You and Your Family:

Retail Pharmacy | Custom Compounding | Lift Chairs

Home Medical Equipment | Compression Hose

Hormone Replacement Therapy: On-Site Practitioner with 20+ years of experience

Stop by and see us today or call to setup an appointment. Also visit us at www.totalcaremc.net

803.648.7800 // 190 Crepe Myrtle Ct, Aiken, SC

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Vikki Crossland catching up with friends at the Cocktails and Collectors’ Preview Party. 2: Cissie Sullivan and Elier Alberto celebrating Whiskey and Easy at Tailored Gents. 3: Dean Bull and Lisa Castles at the Aiken Antique Show. 4: The bar was hopping at the grand opening of Electric Eats.

5: Enjoying the outdoor seating at Electric Eat’s Grand Opening. 6: Leading the Mardi Gras Parade through The Alley. 7: Gayle Bryan and Vikki Crossland dressed up for Cocktails and Collectors’ Preview Party. Photography by Gayle Brtyan

Want to be seen in the magazine?

by Gayle Brtyan

8: Caroline Gwinn welcoming guests to the Cocktails and Collectors’ Preview Party at the Antique Show. 9:Downtown Aiken is a great place to celebrate Mardi Gras! 10: Southerlee Farm’s Kate VanCantfort lending a hand at Cocktails and Collectors’ Preview Party. 11: Celebrating Mardi Gras in style. 12: Stephanie Sheridan and Eva Finnan at Whiskey and Easy’s launch party at Tailored Gents. 13: Aiken Center for the Arts’ Rebecca Ray at the Aiken Antique Show. 14: Workout Anytime’s Sarah and Cody Melvin at the Mardi Gras Celebration. Photography

ARTICLE BY SHELBY MAYER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SCOTT WEBSTER

Future INVEST IN YOUR

Q & A WITH EDWARD JONES’ ALICIA KOUGH, AAMS™

With the world of personal finance always shifting, figuring out investments and securing your financial future can feel overwhelming. In this exclusive interview, we sat down with Accredited Asset Management Specialist Alicia Kough, AAMS™, a seasoned financial advisor at Edward Jones, to get some professional tips on managing wealth and investing wisely. She broke down her best advice and insights, giving us the lowdown on how to lay sturdy financial groundwork.

You can start with less than $1,000 and make monthly contributions. Just think of it as another bill — except this is one you’ll use to eat during retirement.

What advice do you have for brand-new, first-time investors?

To start out, you have to look at your current standard of living, budget, etc. and then forecast what your standard of living looks like in the future. We want to first make sure that the amount you’re saving is adequate for the future you’re dreaming about. We also want to ensure that you’re maxing out any opportunities within your employer’s retirement plan. If you’re not, you’re leaving part of your salary on the table.

If someone has limited funds to invest, where would you recommend they start?

A lot of this depends on their risk tolerance. Mutual funds tend to be a well-diversified option. Exchange-traded funds (ETF) can also be a good option. But the most important thing for people to know is that you don’t have to have a ton of money available to get started investing. Many times, you can get started with less than $1,000 and make contributions on a monthly basis. Just think of it as another bill — except this is one you’re going to use to eat during retirement.

What do you think about investing apps like Stash or Acorns?

I think they’re great for introducing people to investing. But mistakes can also be made pretty easily on those platforms. I always tell clients that if they’re already on those apps to use it for your hobby money, not your serious money. You need to have good, professional advice for the money you’re going to live on in your retirement. That’s why working with a financial advisor can be so beneficial. You really need to be able to work with someone you can be fully transparent with and whose advice you totally trust in order to effectively grow your wealth.

THE POWER OF A SKILLED LOCAL TEAM

The spring 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 the CSRA show you the power of transformation. Schedule your FREE on-site or remote estimate today.

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.

Ask About Certapro’s New Flexible Payment Options

803-295-5160

ASK HOW YOU CAN GET $350 OFF YOUR INTERIOR OR EXTERIOR PAINT JOB!

Each CertaPro Painters® business is independently owned and operated.

Invest in Your Spiritual Health

TIPS FOR BUILDING A COMMUNITY THAT PROMOTES YOUR PHYSICAL, MENTAL AND SPIRITUAL HEALTH

ARTICLE BY RICK LEE

Technology can be a wonderful tool, but community is not found in a device. Disconnect electronically and find somewhere to connect spiritually.

Early 2020 marked an interesting transition in the way that we as a society think about health. With the breakout of the pandemic and the cultural shifts that accompanied it, we have, in many ways, revitalized the conscientiousness that all of us feel toward basic practices that help us maintain a healthy world.

Investing in physical health is important without a doubt, but according to the National Institute of Health (NIH), our spiritual health plays a large role in creating balance between the physical, physiological and social aspects of our human experience.  In other words, a case could be made that how we view and maintain our spiritual health plays an impactful role in every other area of our lives. After all, spirituality is often where people find meaning, purpose and direction... So, what does it look like to invest in spiritual health? What are the hand sanitizers, social distancing, better eating, and stricter hygiene routines that allow us to see our spiritual health growth chart stay on track at each check-up?

A great starting point as we consider the enhancement of our spiritual health has to be community. Spirituality is never a solo sport. It may have some individualistic practices and procedures, but one would be hard-pressed to find a spiritual venture in the past that was solely individualistic. People are biologically (and I would make a strong case for spiritually) crafted to be in relationships with one another. So, this month, as you hopefully engage in investing in your spiritual health, consider the places of worship around this incredible town that we call home, plug into an organization and volunteer with friends to make our community even better; jump off the phone for a few minutes and authentically connect with those around you. Technology can be a wonderful tool, but community is not found in a device. Disconnect electronically and find somewhere to connect spiritually. Invest in our community as you build yourself a community that promotes your physical, mental and spiritual health. After all, we are better together!

INVEST IN YOUR SKIN

THE KEYS TO RADIANT AND HEALTHY SKIN FOR A LIFETIME

ARTICLE BY NIKITA HANIF PHOTOGRAPHY BY SCOTT WEBSTER

Skincare often takes a backseat amidst the grind of our daily lives but the importance of investing in quality skincare cannot be overstated. I had the privilege of speaking with Jeannette Moseley, owner of Flawless Glow Cosmetics Studio, who shared invaluable insights into why prioritizing skincare is essential for achieving and maintaining glowing and nourished skin.

“As Jeannette affirms, taking care of your skin is an investment worth making – for both your appearance and well-being. ”

Jeannette emphasized the significance of using high-quality and clean products in our skincare regimens. She stressed that products we apply to our skin play a crucial role in its health and appearance. By opting for clean and safe formulas that are free from harmful chemicals and toxins, we can nurture our skin and unleash its natural beauty.

One of the many advantages of working with a skincare professional is the personalized guidance they offer. Jeannette explained how she tailors skincare

routines to individual needs, considering multiple factors such as age, skin type and specific goals. By consulting a professional, individuals can ensure they are using products that are not only suitable for their skin but also effective in addressing their unique concerns.

Jeanette’s commitment to excellence is evident in her dedication to research and product testing. She personally tries every product she sells and conducts extensive research to guarantee they meet her standards of safety, cleanliness and efficacy.

Attending conferences, participating in webinars and staying abreast of the latest developments in skincare are all part of her ongoing effort to provide clients with the best treatments.

When it comes to essential products, Jeanette highlighted the importance of a few key items: a quality cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen and Vitamin C Serum. Cleansing effectively removes impurities and prepares the skin for subsequent treatments while moisturizers hydrate and nourish, helping to maintain a healthy skin barrier. Sunscreen is a non-negotiable for protecting against harmful UV rays and preventing premature aging, while Vitamin C provides beneficial antioxidants and promotes collagen production for a youthful complexion.

Jeannette also discussed the importance of facials. Monthly facials keep pores unclogged, promote cell turnover and rejuvenate skin, leaving it fresh and radiant. Jeannette stated, “Beautiful skin requires commitment, not a miracle.” By prioritizing time in caring for our skin, we achieve lasting results and enjoy the confidence that comes with supple skin.

Investing in your skincare is about nurturing the health and vitality of your skin from within. By applying clean, quality products, seeking professional guidance and committing to a consistent skincare routine, you can unlock your skin's true potential that glows from the inside out. As Jeannette affirms, taking care of your skin is an investment worth making – for both your appearance and well-being.

Kate

Red Door Delights

A CULINARY JOURNEY AWAITS AT THE RED DOOR SAKE BAR & KITCHEN

ARTICLE BY NIKITA HANIF | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MOOSE NICHOLSON

Make your way to The Red Door Sake Bar & Kitchen where elevated Asian cuisine will romanticize even the toughest food critic. From exquisite ramen to flavorful Kolmbu salad, each and every dish served reflects a fusion of tradition and innovation, promising a memorable dining experience.

Step into the world of traditional Japanese cuisine and indulge your taste buds with Chef Chad's exquisite creation, the classic Tonkotsu Ramen. Crafted with precision and passion, each bowl is a symphony of flavors that takes diners on a gastronomic adventure.

At the heart of this culinary masterpiece lies a rich Tokyo Tonkotsu pork broth, simmered to perfection over 18-20 hours to achieve its unparalleled depth and complexity. Tender roasted chashu pork, soy-marinated eggs, crisp scallions, savory menma, and delicate nori come together harmoniously, creating a perfect balance of texture and taste.

From the first sip to the last slurp of noodles, Chef Chad's Tonkotsu Ramen is a testament to the artistry and dedication behind authentic Japanese cuisine. Prepare to delight your senses and experience a true taste of Japan with every spoonful.

A Toast to Great Oak

SUNDAY,APRIL21,2024 11:30AM–2:30PM

BRUNCHFAIRECOURTESYOF AIKEN'SFINESTCHEFS

DEMONSTRATIONS,LIVEAUCTION&COCK

PLEASEVISITWWW.GREATOAKEAP.ORGT

TAILS RSVP

“A well-maintained landscape, inviting front entrance and attention to detail in exterior finishes can leave a lasting impression on potential buyers.”

conversation with two of Aiken’s seasoned realtors, Vikki Crossland and Brandi Cook, the significance of investing in real estate became abundantly clear.

One of the fundamental principles emphasized by Crossland and Cook is the importance of maintaining your property to always ensure it is market-ready. A clean, clutter-free home not only enhances its appeal but also lays the groundwork for a successful sale or rental. Simple yet effective measures such as hardwood floors, stone finishes and updated appliances can significantly elevate the value of your property, making it more attractive to potential buyers or tenants. Additionally, investments in essentials like a new roof and energy-efficient windows not only enhance aesthetics but also improve the functionality and long-term sustainability.

Crossland highlighted the crucial role of neutral color palettes in maximizing market appeal. First

impressions are paramount in the real estate world, and there’s no room for second chances. Neutral tones create a blank canvas for potential buyers, allowing them to envision their own style and preferences within a space. This small yet impactful detail can make all the difference in captivating buyers and securing a favorable deal.

Another pivotal item that plays a role in your home's overall ambience and value are the light fixtures. Not only do they illuminate spaces effectively, but they also contribute to the aura and style of the property. Well-designed light fixtures can instantly amplify the perceived quality and sophistication of a space, creating a sense of luxury and comfort. Whether it's sleek pendant lights in the kitchen, an elegant chandelier in the dining room or stylish sconces in the bathroom, carefully selected fixtures add a touch of personality and charm to every room.

Aiken Homes Team realtors Vikki Crossland and Brandi Cook

Crossland aptly refers to them as the “jewels of the home,” recognizing their significance in making a lasting impression on potential buyers.

Updated light fixtures are often associated with being energy efficient, appealing to eco-conscious buyers who prioritize sustainability and lower utility bills. By investing in quality fixtures that blend seamlessly with the home, sellers can effectively differentiate their property in a competitive market and command a higher selling price

Furthermore, both realtors stress the importance of partnering with experienced professionals who possess in-depth knowledge of the local community and real estate market dynamics. Choosing the right realtor can significantly streamline the buying or selling process, providing valuable market insights and negotiation skills to maximize your sale price and ensure a smooth and stress-free selling process. Conducting thorough interviews and assessing how a realtor can add value to your specific goals is essential in ensuring a successful outcome.

In addition to professional expertise, Crossland and Cook advocate for strategic enhancements to elevate the curb appeal of your property. A well-maintained landscape, inviting front entrance and attention to detail in exterior finishes can leave a lasting impression on potential buyers. Simple additions such as flower beds and a welcoming door mat can instantly elevate the aesthetic appeal of your home, setting the stage for a positive viewing experience.

Beyond the tangible aspects of property enhancement and market readiness, investing in real estate offers numerous financial advantages. Real estate has historically proven to be a reliable long-term investment, offering the potential for appreciation and passive income through rental properties. Unlike volatile stocks or speculative ventures, real estate investments provide a tangible asset with intrinsic value and utility.

Top: A sleek tile backsplash compliments state-of-the-art appliances.

Bottom: A sparkling chandelier adds opulence to this space and transforms it into a luxurious retreat.

“Well-designed light fixtures can instantly amplify the perceived quality and sophistication of a space, creating a sense of luxury and comfort.”

Moreover, real estate investments offer a hedge against inflation and market fluctuations. Rental income from investment properties provides a steady stream of cash flow that can withstand economic downturns, providing a sense of stability and security amidst uncertainty. Additionally, favorable tax incentives such as mortgage interest deductions and depreciation benefits further enhance the financial viability of real estate purchases.

Diversification is another key benefit of incorporating real estate into your investment profile. By spreading risk across different asset classes, investors can mitigate potential losses and optimize returns over time. Real estate offers unique diversification

benefits, as its performance often behaves independently of traditional financial markets, providing a valuable counterbalance to stock and bond investments.

You will find investing in real estate is a prudent financial decision with multifaceted benefits. From enhancing property value and market appeal to providing lasting financial stability and diversity, real estate offers unparalleled opportunities for wealth creation and preservation. By heeding the insights of experienced professionals like Vikki Crossland and Brandi Cook and taking strategic steps to optimize your real estate investments, you can unlock the full potential of this dynamic asset class for your financial future.

The contrast of black countertops and stark white cabinetry exude sophistication and luxury.

INVEST IN YOUR WARDROBE

Three Local Boutiques Show Off Fashion Worth Investing In

In a world of fast fashion and fleeting trends, investing in timeless pieces for your wardrobe is a savvy choice that pays off in the long run. Luckily, for fashion-conscious locals, Aiken is home to many unique boutiques like Beyond Bijoux Aiken, Tailored Gents Boutique and Curated Clothiers. They offer hand-selected collections of investment pieces designed to stand the test of time.

ARTICLE BY CAROLYN DAWN MCAVOY PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA JUDY

Curated Clothiers’ Terri Rourk evokes timeless elegance in this navy blue silk taffeta dress by Bigio.

Top Right: Hat by Canadian Hat Company styled with silk ribbon by Sabina Savage, England.

Back: Terri Rourk stuns in Abbey Glass

Bottom Left: Each Sabina Savage scarf is hand illustrated and tells a unique story.

Elier getting ready for a round at the course in his personalized Tailored Gents Boutique golf wear.

Formal and casual belt collection at Tailored Gents Boutique.

Elier Alberto is styled from top to bottom with Handmade Wool Fedora, Collars and Co long-sleeve semi spread dress shirt, Euro Chinos, Twillory Plum Contrast Blazer, Ghost Golf Woven Belt and Anthony Veer Tassel Loafer.

A gemstone necklace from Chic Style featuring luxurious gold chains and a stunning large accent stone make this the perfect statement piece.

Lightweight earrings by Chic Style are the ideal accessory for spring, adding a touch of elegance and flair without weighing you down.

Beyond Bijoux’s Nikita Hanif pairs Jodiful’s colorful striped top with YMI’s white flair pants for a fresh and chic ensemble that exudes springtime charm.

Beyond Bijoux’s Bobby Ard shines in Jodiful’s vibrant floral dress, the perfect choice to usher in spring with its lively colors and elegant design.

APRIL 2024

events

APRIL 9TH

Aiken Art Walk

Downtown Aiken | 5:00PM - 8:00 PM

Experience Aiken's vibrant art scene during the Aiken Art Walk featuring 50+ artists, live performances, artisan goods, food trucks and more.

APRIL 21ST

A Toast to Great Oak

Great oak | 11:30 AM - 2:30 PM

Experience Great Oak's event, 'A Toast to Great Oak,' celebrated with equestrian exhibitions, fine dining and community support for transformative programs.

APRIL 27TH

Aiken Brunch Fest

Downtown Aiken |10:00 AM - 3:00 PM. Join us for Aiken Brunch Fest in Downtown Aiken! Enjoy brunch, drinks, live music, shopping and traveling between Beer Gardens.

APRIL 27TH

RUN UNITED Half Marathon, 10k, 5k and Kid's Fun Run

Newberry Street Festival Area • Downtown Aiken, SC | 7:00 AM

Sign up with Aiken Electric Cooperative to race in Downtown Aiken and  make an impact. Participants will get a chance to  win cash prizes, recognition plaques and more. The proceeds of the race will go to programs that  support our community members in matters related to health, education, income stability and crisis management.

TOUCH AT

Let Us Handle the Hard Stuff.