Aiken, SC May 2024

Girl Talk

This month, while we celebrate all the fabulous women of Aiken, we had the privilege of profiling a few who significantly impact our community in their own unique ways.

Entrepreneur Alley Keene—She has a stake in several well-known Aiken establishments, including Alley Downtown Taproom, Whiskey Alley, Draft Society Taproom and The Red Door Sake Bar & Kitchen.

Advertising executive Allison Hilton's agency, A Is For Advertising, has a national footprint and just moved into a beautifully renovated space on Park Avenue. If you've wondered about the new space with the spectacular outdoor lighting and the pink A on the front door, we'll take you inside.

Polo player and team owner Alison Patricelli is blazing a trail through all the Aiken polo clubs as a player and team owner.

Alley, Allison, Alison. I am sensing an unintended theme here.

For fun, we accompanied the ladies of Aiken Medical Aesthetics as they enjoyed a Girls’ Night Out at some downtown Aiken hotspots.

Finally, we were privileged to preview a special Mother's Day event that Maggie from Cleanse Gourmet and Haley from Aiken Wellness Spa cooked up. When you look at the pictures inside, you will know that it is an event not to be missed.

I have been blessed with a beautiful team of women who help me bring you this magazine each month. Ashley Elvis, Nikita Hanif, Carolyn Dawn McCoy, Meghann Padgett, Rebecca Judy and Shelby Mayer all use their God-given talents to make Aiken City Lifestyle better every month. Cheers to them!

See you next month!

GAYLE BRYAN, PUBLISHER

@AIKENCITYLIFESTYLE

CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/AIKEN

May 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

Ashley Elvis, Nikita Hanif, Carolyn Dawn McAvoy, Gayle Bryan

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Rebecca Judy, Meghann Padgett Photography and Film, Scott Webster, Gayle Bryan, Richard Schmon

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

AD DESIGNER Rachel Collins

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

Let’s Talk Relationships

We’re wired for connection, right from the start. But let’s face it, navigating relationships can be hard.

Let’s make this journey a little smoother together. Our team of licensed and nationally certified counselors is here to support you on your journey back to God and back to healthy relationships.

Counseling Services Include: Pre-Marital Counseling, Marriage Counseling, Separation and Divorce, and more.

Aiken Mother’s Day Brunch

Girls’ Night Out in Downtown Aiken

McMillian and Sam Grimes

city scene

1: Pups were welcome at the $100,000 Conceal Grand-Prix Eventing at Bruce’s Field. 2: Attacking the course at the $100,000 Conceal GrandPrix Eventing at Bruce’s Field. 3: Vikki Crossland, Scott Linkenhoker and Cindy Linkenhoker at $100,000 Conceal Grand-Prix Eventing at Bruce’s Field. 4: David Bryan (Certapro Painters) and Sarah Denero (Oaks at Aiken) at Spring Steeplechase. 5: Rosi Hancock (Budget Blinds) and Rechelle Dallas enjoy the Spring Steeplechase Aiken City Lifestyle Tailgate. 6: Dan and Michelle Finn (Sol Himalayan Salt Cave & Spa) at Spring Steeplechase. 7: Kristin Roy (Mortgage Solutions Financial) and Fayth Roy at Spring Steeplechase. Photography by Gayle Bryan

city scene

8: Barbara Austin Lindsey made the trip from Texas to attend the Aiken City Lifestyle Tailgate. 9: Leilani Pacheco (Gold Wowie) and Vikki Crossland (Aiken Homes Team) show off their Steeplechase fashion. 10: Off to the races at Aiken Spring Steeplechase. 11: Sheri Osburn (Certapro Painters) and Connie Wheatley Powell tailgate at Aiken Spring Steeplechase. 12: Jan and JD (Aiken Transport Express) enjoy a bite at the Aiken City Lifestyle Tailgate. 13: The Aiken Medical Aesthetics team enjoy a drink at the Aiken City Lifestyle Steeplechase Tailgate. 14: Bobby Ard (Beyond Bijoux) and Kristin Cadavos (Aiken Medical Aesthetics) tailgate with Aiken City Lifestyle. Photography by Gayle Bryan

Want to be seen in the magazine?

TAG YOUR INSTAGRAM PHOTOS WITH @AIKENCITYLIFESTYLE

ARTICLE BY GAYLE BRYAN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA JUDY

Brunch

Aiken City Lifestyle loves a beautifully styled shoot, so we jumped on it when Maggie Rasmussen of Cleanse Gourmet and Haley Maness of Aiken Wellness Spa and Boutique offered a sneak peek of their Mother’s Day event. They call it Aiken’s Mother's Day Brunch, and it will be held on Saturday, May 11, from 11 to 2 p.m. For $125, guests will be treated to a sumptuous brunch with custom cocktails, a mimosa bar, Belgium waffles and toppings, charcuterie, fresh fruit and appetizers.

Styled by Maggie Rasmussen/ Cleanse Gourmet

No one will leave empty-handed, as Rasmussen and Maness have styled super fun make-and-take stations for a delightful experience and some special goodies to take home.

Guests can create their unique mini floral arrangements from a gorgeous display of spring blooms, including ranunculus, peonies, garden roses, eucalyptus and delphinium.

The next station is a Bath Salt Bar, where guests can choose from a variety of pure essential oils to create aromatherapy-infused custom bath salts with dried flowers and gourmet salts.

Finally, each guest will receive a mini cake to decorate and garnish with a variety of fresh fruit, dried fruit, edible pressed flowers, fresh edible flowers and custom meringues.

Grab your mom or a gal pal and register at  aikenwellnessspa. com or cleansegourmet.com

“Rasmussen and Maness have styled super fun make-and-take stations for a delightful experience and some special goodies to take home.”

Crudité - Christian Carslile / Blue Collard

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.

MUMZ HELPING HAND LLC LICENSED & INSURED

USE PROMO CODE

CITYLIFESTYLE04 FOR 25% OFF OF YOUR INITIAL CLEAN!

DID YOU KNOW WE ARE FULLY STAFFED WITH W2 EMPLOYEES WHO PASS BACKGROUND CHECKS AND DRUG SCREENINGS?

EACH EMPLOYEE MUST COMPLETE TRAINING FOR THE SPECIFIC SERVICES THEY WERE HIRED FOR.

WE OFFER COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL SERVICES! 803.226.6127 // MUMZHELPINGHANDZ@GMAIL.COM

Salty Tomatoes

ARTICLE BY CAROLYN DAWN MCAVOY | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

CHEF KELSEY LUCIUS

Chef Kelsey Lucius started out on a journey to spread good pastry and good food with good people. She owns Salty Tomatoes Restaurant & Bar in Aiken and Bottomline Bakery in Augusta.

Step into the culinary world of Salty Tomatoes Restaurant and Bar and indulge in the exquisite Shrimp Scampi, crafted by Chef Kelsey Lucius. This signature dish never fails to impress, whether you are a devoted seafood enthusiast or simply seeking an unforgettable dining experience.

Chef Kelsey’s mission is to bring community together around a table with simply cooked fresh, delicious food, which is what ultimately lead to the creation of Bottom Line Bakery and, later, Salty Tomatoes Cafe.

Dive into perfectly seasoned shrimp, served atop a bed of linguine pasta and cooked to perfection. You will not want to miss out on this mouthwatering creation. Visit Salty Tomatoes today and indulge in a culinary experience you won’t soon forget. Chef Kelsey’s expertise shines through in every bite, promising flavors that will leave you craving more.

ARTICLE BY NIKITA HANIF | PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA JUDY

GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT IN DOWNTOWN AIKEN

Aiken Transport Express escorted the beautiful ladies of Aiken Medical Aesthetics on a fun-filled night out in Downtown Aiken. They traveled in style and were able to enjoy their evening without worrying about logistics. Consider them and these Aiken establishments next time you head out with your gal pals.

Unleash your inner warrior at Woodchukkers Axe Throwing! Feel the adrenaline rush as you master the art of throwing axes. Surrounded by laughter and friendly competition, it’s a unique and thrilling experience that promises exhilarating memories with your closet girlfriends.

“Aiken Transport Express allowed my friends and me to enjoy a girls’ night out where convenience met style. We enjoyed our evening, making unforgettable memories without the worry of transportation.”

There is no better place to experience an endless supply of brews while enjoying laughter-filled conversations than The Alley Downtown Taproom. Grab your girlfriends and enjoy a lively night in everyone’s favorite local taproom.

Electric Eats is your go-to local bar and grille and a promising place to start your girls’ night out! Indulge in a mouthwatering menu showcasing flavorful appetizers, enticing entrees and the most refreshing cocktails!

With a vibrant ambiance and attentive bartenders, it’s a picture-perfect spot to unwind with your girl gang. Buckle up for a night of giggles, great food and tastebud-tingling cocktails.

Allison Hilton

The Woman Behind the

ARTICLE BY ASHLEY ELVIS

BY MEGHANN

PHOTOGRAPHY AND FILM

If you’ve been to downtown Aiken in the past couple of months, you’ve probably seen the new place tucked between the back of Nandina and Park Avenue Oyster Bar. It boasts only a pink A on its storefront. Many have been curious as to what it is, which means that the simple, lone letter is doing exactly what it was intended to do: spark curiosity, promote questions and pique interest.

A is for Advertising is the business, and it’s owned by Allison Hilton. Though the storefront may be new, the business itself has been successful nationwide for 14 years, but it’s not where Hilton began her career in advertising. She’s a hardworking, tenacious

businesswoman who started at the bottom and worked her way up to where she is today. And we’re fortunate she landed in Aiken!

Born in Aiken, raised as a young child in Charleston SC, Hilton is a Southern girl at heart.Her family moved to Barnwell where she went to high school making her a forever Warhorse! She knew from growing up in such a small town that she wanted to experience more after graduating from the University of South Carolina. She knew that her career had to be in television. She began searching for jobs and applying for what she could. In 1990, after eight intense interviews and two weeks

of boring trainee VHS tapes, Hilton was hired as the youngest salesperson in the country working at an NBC affiliate in Savannah, GA, called WSAV.

Working in a sales department in TV means selling advertising slots to businesses and being able to tell their story and condense their selling points down to thirty seconds in some cases. Still, Hilton knew what she was doing and was a successful salesperson. She eventually became the national sales manager for major national brands and managed seven offices between Fox and ABC stations. But Hilton wanted to try her hand in New York, where some of the toughest competition was. Having never been to NYC or even flown on a plane before, she landed in the Big Apple and found herself interviewing with every

“TO ME , A DVERTISING IS PUTTING A PUZ

TOGETHE R AND I CAN DOITWITH MY EYES

affiliate there. By referencing the Looney Toons episode where the Coyote and Sheep battle each other every day but say their friendly goodbyes at the five o’clock whistle, Hilton explains what working in New York taught her. She learned to go after it during work hours, fight for business, and win the account, but at the end of the day, everyone returns to being friends and sharing a beer at the pub down the street. This kind of environment taught her to be a great manager. She can balance working hard, being honest, and holding people accountable with professionalism and consideration.

Hilton knew she wanted to put those managerial skills to use by becoming a General Manager of a TV station, and when that position came open in 2008 in her hometown of Charleston, SC, it seemed perfect; she’d be headed back to her roots and to a town ideal for raising her young daughter, AnnaBelle.

But, of course, that’s not how her story goes. Hilton was told she’d never become a GM because she does things her way and doesn’t fit the mold or like the systems managers must follow. And though that initially made her mad and hurt her feelings, Hilton now sees that as a compliment. She’s always been one of the best in her career because she does her thing, her way, and it works. Hilton’s path veered from making it as a GM to advertising business owner in Aiken, SC, by creating a TV station for a research scientist, buying media for a lawyer, and wheeling and dealing as a ghost buyer.

In July of 2009, A is for Advertising started, and one lawyer after another came in for Hilton’s advertising expertise. By 2013, Hilton and her family and business moved to Aiken, where she worked out of The Mill. Now, A is for Advertising has opened its official office on Park Avenue. Through all of the experiences, hours of teaching herself, and learning the ins and outs, Hilton has ended up right where she wants to be-focusing on advertising and marketing, doing it her way and writing her own rules to fit her clients’ needs. She stated, “To me, advertising is putting a puzzle together, and I can do it with my eyes closed.”

Hilton travels nationwide to create and produce advertising, but she’s excited about working with some local small businesses in Aiken. A is for Advertising is a tiered company offering many services: web design, radio and print, social media management, business influencer management, and film production for TV, social media, and digital billboards. Allison Hilton doesn’t fit into a mold, and neither does her work. She strives to be creative and think outside the box to achieve the most significant return on investment possible for business owners.  Stop in, check out the new office space, and meet Hilton if you’re looking for help with any type of advertising.

ZZLE ES CLOSED.”

Alison Patricelli

ARTICLE BY GAYLE BRYAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY RICHARD SCHMON AND GAYLE BRYAN

Alison Patricelli has been riding horses since she was three years old. She trained and competed as a hunter/ jumper, but her love of team sport eventually led her to polo. The team she owns and plays on, LBL Polo, has dominated the Aiken Polo 8 goal series since 2021, winning 14 of the 17 tournaments they entered and going undefeated in both 2021 and 2023. Aiken City Lifestyle caught up with Patricelli to get some insight into the world of polo from a woman's perspective.

BLAZING HER OWN TRAIL THROUGH AIKEN POLO CLUBS

AS

A PLAYER AND TEAM OWNER

“I ALSO APPRECIATE THE TREMENDOUS CHALLENGES THAT PLAYING POLO PRESENTS PHYSICALLY, MENTALLY AND EMOTIONALLY.”

WHY POLO?

I have always been an athlete and have enjoyed many sports and equestrian passions. Polo is the perfect mix of team play and partnership with your horses. I also appreciate the tremendous challenges that playing polo presents physically, mentally and emotionally.

COMPARE AND CONTRAST PLAYING ON A MIXED TEAM VERSUS A FEMALE-ONLY TEAM.

Both mixed polo and women's polo offer exciting and competitive experiences. Still, they differ in terms of the physical challenges faced, the style of gameplay and the opportunities for skill expression. Mixed polo requires me to adapt to playing against larger opponents and contend with testosterone-driven advantages. In contrast, women's polo provides a more level physical playing field and emphasizes close contact and fast, skillful play.

WHAT DOES THE POLO SEASON LOOK LIKE FOR YOU?

I play polo in the fall and spring in Aiken and in the summers in Connecticut. In Aiken, I support all of the polo clubs that I can. I live in New Bridge Polo and Country Club and play in all their 8-goal tournaments. I will play in all the women's tournaments at Aiken Polo Club and New Bridge Polo Club this year. I also occasionally play in a 6-goal tournament at Wagener Polo Club or at Aiken Polo Club and at some exhibitions at La Bourgnone Polo Club. In Connecticut, I play at the Farmington Polo Club during the season. The polo ponies get a vacation from November through March. That's when I foxhunt with the Aiken Hounds!

WHAT IS YOUR PERSPECTIVE ON POLO IN AIKEN?

Polo is an essential part of the equestrian history and community in Aiken. The polo here is fast-paced and competitive while avoiding much of the elitism and politics in other communities. The fields are incredible here, and I hope all the clubs continue well into the future. Polo requires lots of resources, and I hope that polo remains a priority in Aiken.

Sunday, 5/12 9am-3pm

Sunday, 5/12 9am-3pm

www.neon-fig.com

www.neon-fig.com

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

ALLEY Kneece

A Story of Entrepreneurship, Motherhood and Empowerment

ARTICLE BY NIKITA HANIF | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SCOTT WEBSTER

Alley Kneece is not your typical business owner. She’s not just a successful entrepreneur; she’s also a devoted mother, navigating the intricate dance of balancing work and family with grit and determination. Neece's journey into entrepreneurship was far from conventional, but it’s a testament to her resilience, passion and unwavering commitment to creating a life that aligns with her values and aspirations.

Before Neece became the powerhouse behind multiple successful businesses, she was a teacher grappling with a sense of disconnection from her career. Despite her dedication, Neece realized that teaching

wasn’t her true calling. During this period of self-reflection, she returned to her passion and taught yoga, which served as a catalyst for her journey into business ownership.

Leaving behind her teaching career, Neece embarked on a quest to explore her newfound passion and purpose. Her first venture, Aiken Organics, was evidence of her belief in the sustainability of the farming community. She enabled people to support local farmers selling organic products through an online platform, fostering connections between producers and consumers.

Neece’s entrepreneurial spirit didn’t stop there. She established a series of successful businesses, including The Alley Downtown Taproom, Whiskey Alley, Draft Society Taproom, Aiken Augusta Aviation Flight Club and The Red Door Sake Bar & Kitchen. Each venture reflected her vision of creating vibrant, inclusive spaces where people could come together and enjoy exceptional experiences.

However, Neece’s journey wasn’t just about building businesses but also about embracing motherhood. Balancing the demands of entrepreneurship with the joys and challenges of raising a child required Neece to learn valuable lessons in time management, boundary setting and prioritization.

One of Neece’s insights was the importance of investing in key moments with her daughter, from breastfeeding to her first steps

“There IS no such THING AS Failure IF YOU learn FROM THE experience.”

and words. She recognized the significance of family support and was grateful for the assistance provided by her motherin-law, allowing her to navigate the complexities of being a working mom.

Learning to set healthy boundaries and delegate responsibilities was crucial for Neece’s success. She realized that asking for help and trusting her team were signs of strength, not weakness. She created a supportive work environment that fostered growth and collaboration by relinquishing control and empowering her employees.

As Neece embraced her role as a mother and business owner, she gained a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by working parents. She gained empathy for her staff, especially when dealing with scheduling conflicts or surprises. Neece strived to provide a supportive environment for working parents.

As a business owner, Neece learned that it wasn’t just about problem-solving but also about entrusting her team to take ownership and responsibility. She encourages her staff to handle challenges independently, fostering a sense of accomplishment and pride in the work.

Neece stressed the importance of showing herself grace and embracing challenges as an opportunity for growth. Neece said, “There is no such thing as failure if you learn from the experience.” She also recognizes the importance of selfcare and prioritizes exercise, sleep and dedicated time to her family to maintain balance and perspective.

Other fundamental advice she shared for business owners is to ensure they understand their role within their business. She emphasized the importance of recognizing your strengths and leveraging them effectively. She discussed how functioning in your strength contributes well to a business because you can delegate some everyday roles to others. This approach allows business owners to focus on tasks that align with their expertise to drive growth and success.

Beyond the confines of the workplace, Neece is passionate about instilling essential values in her daughter, even at a young age. She believes in exposing her to all aspects of the business, teaching her that every role is important and deserves respect.

Neece takes pride in the fact that her daughter can witness firsthand the inner workings of the business and learn valuable lessons about responsibility, teamwork and gratitude. She stresses the importance of teaching her daughter to appreciate the flexible time the business affords them as a family, enabling them to enjoy activities like her daughter’s gymnastics and family trips together.

In essence, Alley Kneece’s approach to business ownership extends far beyond the bottom line. It’s about empowering oneself and others, fostering a culture of teamwork and respect, and instilling values in the next generation. Through her guidance and leadership, Neece inspires her team and her daughter to embrace the principles of integrity, gratefulness, and collaboration in business and life.

Shop Shop

events

MAY 1ST - 12TH

Aiken Charity Horse Show I & II

Bruce's Field | 8:00 AM

The Aiken Charity Horse Show is a special event held at Bruce’s Field in Aiken. It's a free, fun-filled day that pays tribute to Bruce Duchossois' memory. Everyone's invited to enjoy the show and honor Bruce in a way that he'd surely love. Join in for a great time and celebrate the spirit of giving back.

MAY 4TH

May the Fourth Be With You

Aiken Symphony Orchestra | 7:30 PM

Experience the magic of "May the Fourth be With You: A John Williams Celebration." Join us for an unforgettable evening featuring timeless compositions from blockbuster classics like Star Wars, Raiders of the Lost Ark, Jurassic Park and more. Prepare for a mesmerizing musical journey that will transport you to galaxies far, far away.

MAY 4TH

Annual Kentucky Derby Party

Newberry Hall | 4:00 pm- 8:00 pm

Put on your fanciest hats and enjoy horse racing, delicious food and exciting auctions. Place your bets and watch the Derby live on the big screen. Participate in the silent auction with fantastic prizes, all benefiting the Aiken Equine Rescue.

MAY 11TH

Ag + Art Tour

Aiken County Farms | 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Join us for the second year of the South Carolina Ag + Art Tour! Explore our fantastic farms, artisans and unparalleled hospitality. Visit Boondock Farms, Eudora Wildlife Safari Park, Jenks Farmer Crinum Lily Farm, Proveaux Plantation, Purebred Compost, Rutland Ranch LLC, Southerlee Farm and Trusty Farm for an unforgettable experience!

MAY 12TH

Purrs and Pours

Alley Downtown Taproom | 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM

The SPCA Albrecht Center for Animal Welfare, in collaboration with The Alley Downtown Taproom, presents Purrs & Pours on May 12th, an afternoon of good beer, quality cuddles and adorable kittens. Enjoy $0 adoption fees during the event.

MAY 17TH & 18TH

The Aiken Garden Show

Aiken County Historical Museum | 8:30 AM

Join the Aiken Council of Garden Clubs for a two-day garden event. Explore beautiful gardens in historic downtown Aiken, shop local vendors, attend informative sessions on native plants, savor delicious food from local food trucks and admire the National Garden Club Flower Show. Transportation will be provided to the gardens. Don't miss this opportunity to enjoy nature and community.