Visions, Fall - Winter 2013

VISIONS VISIONS

// section name

THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF GREENVILLE • FALL 2013

The

Holiday

Issue

1 • Fall 2013

www.jlgreenville.org

contents & features // fall 2013

VISIONS 2 4

10 18 22

12 Fashion Forward History of the Junior League of Greenville’s Nearly New Shop

6 7 24 28 30

Letter from the President Letter from the Sustaining Advisor Letter from the Editor

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Meet the Board

Learn a little about the League’s leadership

Shop Local this Season How to Give Back During the Holidays Cookies for Santa

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‘Tis the Season

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VISIONS

// President’s letter

S

Making Ourselves at

Home

Since 1929, the women of the Junior League of Greenville have played an important role in bettering our Greenville Community. “So, you are in the Junior League? What exactly is that? What do you do?” Even our own Members can and do get stumped with those questions. Depending on whom you ask, the Junior League of Greenville can be something very different to each and every person, but one thing is for sure – the Junior League of Greenville has made its mark on the landscape of the Greenville community and is continuing to do that today.

The mission of the Junior League of Greenville is clear. We are an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving the community through the effective action of trained volunteers. We are smart, educated women who stand behind the issues in our community that we are most passionate about and then, do something to combat them. That’s what effective action is. Playing an early role in the revitalization of downtown Greenville, the Junior League of Greenville was an early advocate of both the arts and children’s education, contributing early to the Peace Center for the Performing Arts and the Warehouse Theatre, as well as the Roper Mountain Science Center and The Children’s Museum of the Upstate.

This year, the Junior League of Greenville celebrates the Nearly New Shop (NNS), our largest and longest-standing fundraiser. A community outreach in its own right, the Nearly New Shop provides quality clothing, housewares, and furniture at affordable prices to members of our community. The Nearly New Shop is celebrating its 65th Anniversary and the growth in both sales and coustomers served since moving from 17 West North Street downtown to Greenacre Road in the Pleasantburg Corridor.

Having made a significant contribution to early revitalization efforts downtown, the leadership of the Junior League of Greenville moved the Nearly New Shop with the promise to contribute to the revitalization of its new neighborhood. With sales more than doubling since the move 10 years ago, the Junior League of Greenville is ready and willing to make good on our original promise. Now that we are settled, we are excited to truly begin – Making Ourselves at Home. We are thrilled to be an early partner with both First Steps and the United Way, supporting the issue of early childhood education in our very own neighborhood and working to develop an early learning center in the Nicholtown community...right in our own backyard.

I invite you to join us in making a difference, and make yourself at home for the holidays with the Junior League of Greenville!

Anna Kate Brown

All my best,

Anna Kate Brown Anna Kate Brown

President, 2013 - 2014 Junior League of Greenville

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Anna Kate, Will, Beau (7), Lucy Mac (5) and Mary Dot (3) Brown

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VISIONS

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VISIONS STAFF

The Gift of

PEACE AND JOY

Editor Kerry Ellett Senior Writer Melissa Stroud Photographers Melissa Robinette, Wendi Witek

EACH YEAR, AS THE HOLIDAYS APPROACH…Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s, Hanukkah, my birthday, my daughter’s birthday, my niece’s birthday, my brother’s birthday, my nephew’s birthday, my sister-in-law’s birthday, my sister’s anniversary…I get very excited – and very, very stressed! With all of this happening within the span of a very short 34 days at most (and Hanukkah taking up 8 all by itself), you would think I would dread even the mention of Halloween (because, as we all know, the snowflakes and Santa’s village go up at the mall before the jack-o’-lanterns and spider webs are cleared from our front porches)! But…even though it might be a stressful time of year, it is without a doubt my favorite. The traditions, the time with family, the guessing if there might be a white Christmas, all keep me grounded in the chaos. As I have gotten older, I have learned to appreciate the opportunity to celebrate special days…and regular days…more and more; and I know that I am blessed to have family and friends to enjoy it all with me. I have also begun to notice the sometimes great divide between those who feel blessed and those who feel like the blessings are passing them by.

This is where the Junior League of Greenville (JLG) comes in. One of the many, many ways that we help those who feel less-than-blessed is with our holiday bags for cancer patients. Facing a battle with cancer can be overwhelming. Facing it when the whole world seems to be celebrating - or preparing to celebrate – seems terribly unfair.

Each year, our Sustainers fill hundreds of bags with goodies and deliver them to the Cancer Society of Greenville County so that they can be given to patients in need of a little TLC. Although our little goodies in our little bags can’t erase their battle, they can certainly make a big difference by bringing joy to an otherwise dreary day.

Speaking of making a difference…at a recent JLG meeting, President Anna Kate Brown shared a video about “lollipop moments” – moments when a seemingly small action on one person’s part can change another person’s life. We don’t always know when we have created that moment for someone, but isn’t it nice to think it might happen? Our bags are a small step in giving joy to cancer patients during the holidays, and we do many, many other things throughout the year to bring peace and joy to thousands in our community. All of this is done because we want to make a difference.

We want to create some “lollipop moments.”

I’m proud to be part of an organization that cares…that tries at every turn to make a difference…and brings peace in the chaos of the holidays as well as the other 331 days of the year. Watch and see the great things that the JLG can do!

Fondly,

Angi Einstein Angi Einstein

Sustainer Representative, 2013 - 2014 Junior League of Greenville

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Guest Photographer Josh Norris Advertising Sales Courtney Crandell, Crystal Boyd Contributing Writers Anna Kate Brown, Angi Einstein, Mandy Bullock, MK Allen Design & Production Ryan Wilcox, Jean Piot, Mallory Baxter SC Biz News Publications

BOARD OF DIRECTORS President Anna Kate Brown President-Elect Kathryn Freedman Communications Vice President Jennifer Bloodworth Community Vice President Barbara Kremenliev Finance Vice President Sandy Brown Fund Development Vice President Meredith Morgan Membership Vice President Amy Hunt Corresponding Secretary Heather Cox Recording Secretary Traci Larkins Strategic Planning Emily Cox Parliamentarian Frances Zacher Sustainer Representative Angi Einstein

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VISIONS

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VISIONS Letter from

THE EDITOR IT’S THAT TIME OF YEAR AGAIN...the time when you begin making a list and checking it twice. One of my favorite things to do during this season is come up with that perfect Christmas gift for friends, relatives and coworkers. As we wrap up this “Holiday Issue” of VISIONS, I began to reflect on all that the League has given to me.

The mission of the Junior League of Greenville is to promote voluntarism, develop the potential of women and improve the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. What a privilege to be able to surround myself with like-minded women who allow me the opportunity to give back to the community, develop leadership skills and gain new friendships along the way.

I am thankful for all that the League has given me. From the ability to chair Oscar Night® America, to running the cash register at the Nearly New Shop and playing stylist for its many customers, I have made memories and developed friendships that I will cherish for years to come. Now I have the privilege of editing the latest issue of VISIONS, one that I hope you will find interesting, entertaining and informative. Our committee has had a wonderful time putting the magazine together and we hope that you enjoy it.

I encourage you to jump in and get involved in the Junior League. I am speaking from experience when I say that you will truly get out of it what you put into it.

Wishing you peace and love during the holiday season,

Kerry Ellett Kerry Ellett

Editor, VISIONS Magazine, 2013 - 2014 Junior League of Greenville

Kerry Ellett and Lindsay Powers, Chair and Vice-Chair of Oscar Night® America 2011

COMMUNITY ADVISORY PANEL Tim Cassidy, Attorney Dority & Manning, P.A. Chandra Dillard, Comm. Relations Dir. Furman University S.C. House of Representatives Chris Farinella, Regional V.P. Belk Austin Goforth, V.P. Southern First Derek Lewis, Executive Director Greenville County First Steps Jeanne McCoy, Past President Junior League of Greenville Jamie Moon, Executive Director Institute for Child Success Laurie Rovin, Executive Director Pendleton Place for Children and Families Myra Ruiz, Anchor WYFF 4 Paul Savas, Executive Director The Warehouse Theatre Lara Shaw, Sr. Account Executive Clear Channel Sheila Snoddy, Director Upstate Region Services Girl Scouts of South Carolina Robin Stelling, Comm. Relations Mgr. Greenville Health System

MISSION STATEMENT The Junior League of Greenville, Inc. is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable.

VISIONS is published twice a year. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission, except by other Junior League Publications is prohibited. The office is located at 118 Greenacre Rd. Greenville, SC 29607. This publication is free.

Please recycle after you have enjoyed this publication.

We’d love to hear from you! Email Kerry Ellett with your thoughts about our magazine or to learn how to become more involved. editor-visions@jlgreenville.org For more information about the Junior League of Greenville or becoming a member, visit us on the web | www.jlgreenville.org

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Meet the Board Every year the Junior League of Greenville, Inc. (JLG) appoints a new set of leaders within the organization who serve on the Board of Directors (BOD). These women are not only responsible for the operations and ongoing financial stability of the organization, but also serve with a strategic focus, preparing the JLG for future changes by assessing ways to develop and strenthen the JLG for years to come. The BOD is comprised of 12 women who serve a single year term committed to making sure that 2013-2014 is the year that every minute spent is focused on improvement.

Anna Kate Brown President Hometown: Washington, GA and then later, Athens, GA College/Degree: Presbyterian College B.S. in Early Childhood & Elementary Education; Furman University M.A. in Elementary Education Profession: Wife, mom, volunteer and part-time University Supervisor for Clemson University.

Family: Will, husband; Beau (7), Lucy Mac (5) and Mary Dot (3), children Years in JLG: 13 Favorite JLG placement: Serving on the Provisional Development Committee and ultimately chairing it Favorite holiday tradition:

Chocolate birthday cake on Christmas Eve – my dad’s birthday was Christmas Eve, so for my entire life Christmas Eve was always a birthday celebration. Though he passed away almost 5 years ago, we continue the tradition, along with my mother and brothers, and enjoy birthday cake for dessert every Christmas Eve in his honor.

Kathryn Freedman President-Elect Hometown: Roanoke, Virginia College/Degree: University of Georgia, B.S. in Biology; Medical College of Georgia School of Dentistry, Doctor of Dental Medicine Profession: Dentist Family: Allen, husband; Murray (9) and Julia (7), children Years in JLG: 9 Did you transfer from another League: Yes, Junior League of Charlottesville How long were you in that League: 3 years Favorite JLG placement:

Nominating, Property Management, and Community Project Research & Development (tie between my last three placements) Favorite holiday tradition: Sending and receiving Christmas cards.

Ever since I was a child, I have absolutely loved Christmas cards. I still send a Christmas card to almost everyone who attended our wedding in Virginia over 13 years ago! I mail out almost 200 cards each year.

Jennifer Bloodworth Communications Vice President Hometown: Greenville, SC College/Degree: Univerity of Georgia, B.B.A. in Finance & Management Information Systems Profession: Mother Family: Ian and Bonner (5-year old twins), children Years in JLG: 8 Favorite JLG placement: My favorite placement was logistics coordinator for Home Run for Healthy Kids® (HRHK)in 2010.

It was pure craziness trying to coordinate the partners, the children and the volunteers; but, it was worth every grey hair when you saw the smiles on those children’s faces. I have been an HRHK guide ever since.

Favorite holiday tradition: With pre-schoolers in the house, I am finally establishing some holiday traditions. Honestly, I think the birthday cake we get to celebrate baby Jesus is the sweetest thing; and, it makes me giddy when my children remember the “reason for the season” as they belt out “Happy Birthday, sweet Jesus”!

Barbara Kremenliev Community Vice President Hometown: Walnut Creek, CA College/Degree: MIT, S.B. in Ocean Engineering and Naval Architecture Profession: Optical Engineer Family: Naiden, husband; Hagen (8) and Sierra (6), children Years in JLG: 7 Favorite JLG placement:

Community Project Research & Development Favorite holiday tradition:

Running in the Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot with my husband.

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VISIONS

// Meet the Board

Meet the Board

Leading the JLG to continued success

Sandy Brown Finance Vice President Hometown: Harrisburg, PA College/Degree: Clemson University, B.S. in Accounting Profession: Domestic Engineer/ Financial Consultant Family: Tom, husband; Abby (17) and Alex (13), children Years in JLG: 8 Favorite JLG placement: Business Manager, Oscar NightÂŽ America Favorite holiday tradition: Going to see the Christmas lights at Roper Mountain Science Center and HollyWild Animal Park

Meredith Morgan Fund Development Vice President Hometown: Boone, NC College/Degree: Appalachian State University, B.S. in Communications with minors in English and Political Science and Masters of Public Administration with a concentration in Public Management Profession: Stay at home mom, my last job was Director of Major Gifts at a school in Washington DC. Family: Jim, husband; Brooke (6) and Drew (3), children Years in JLG: 3 Did you transfer from another League: Yes, Junior League of Washington DC How long were you in that League: 7 years Favorite JLG placement: The one I am in now. I love working so closely with a group of intelligent and capable women.

Favorite holiday tradition:

Decorating the Christmas tree with my family while listening to Christmas music and sipping hot apple cider.

8 • Fall 2013

Amy Hunt Membership Vice President Hometown: Homerville, GA College/Degree: Mercer University, B.S. ; Emory University, PA-C, MMSc Profession: Physician Assistant with Bon Secours Saint Francis and Piedmont Orthopaedic Associates Family: Craig, husband; Sam (7) and Caroline (3), children Years in JLG: 9 Favorite JLG placement:

Active Advisory (Placement) Chair because it gave me the opportunity to meet the many fabulous women we have in JLG and to truly see the impact that our organization has on developing these women into strong leaders for the Greenville Community.

Favorite holiday tradition: I have always enjoyed baking holiday treats for friends and family, and now it is even more fun to share this tradition with my children. The treat menu changes, except for the Hunt family recipe for Pecan Crisps.

Heather Cox Corresponding Secretary Hometown: Harleyville, SC College/Degree: Clemson University, Financial Management Profession: Sales Family: Ben, husband Years in JLG: 6 Favorite JLG placement: Big Night Out Chair Favorite holiday tradition: This is a hard question for me, because I love everything about Christmas and I could go on and on about all of my favorite things! No matter how many years go by, I will always love the excitement of pulling out the decorations. Most of my ornaments have a story behind them - some were brought back from trips, some were gifts, and many of them are from growing up. My mom and dad gave me an ornament every year (and still do) at the beginning of the season that represented some special event from that year, like starting piano lessons, getting accepted to Clemson, and purchasing my first home.

It takes me all day to decorate my tree because I spend so much time reminiscing.

Meet the Board

Leading the JLG to continued success

Traci Larkins Recording Secretary Hometown: Greenwood, SC College/Degree: University of South Carolina, B.A. in Political Science Profession: Paralegal at Roe Cassidy Coates & Price, PA Family: Lark, husband Years in JLG: 5

Emily Cox Strategic Planner Hometown: Greenville, SC College/Degree: Converse College, English Profession: Account Executive for Fox Carolina Family: Anthony, husband; Siamese cat named Siri Years in JLG: 5

Did you transfer from another

Favorite JLG placement:

League: Yes, Junior League of Columbia - South Carolina

Youthbase or Community Project Research & Development Favorite holiday tradition: LOL‌ just eggnog!

How long were you in that League: 2 years Favorite JLG placement:

Frances Zacher Parliamentarian Hometown: Rye, NY College/Degree: Washington and Lee, B.A.; Emory University School of Law Profession: Lawyer Family: Jason, husband; Charles (4) and Manning (1), children Years in JLG: 7 Favorite JLG placement: This one!

Favorite holiday tradition: Easter with Matzos

Angi Einstein Sustainer Representative Hometown: Metter, Georgia College/Degree: Georgia Southern University, Marketing Profession: Wife, mother, daughter, friend, volunteer Family: Howard, husband; Davis (19) and Meg (15), children Years in JLG: 20 Favorite JLG placement: Carolina Creatures Steering Committee Favorite holiday tradition: New PJs for everyone on Christmas Eve!

Arrangements Chair Favorite holiday tradition: At the

beginning of the Thanksgiving meal, everyone writes down what they are most thankful for. After we have finished eating, we take turns reading them aloud; and of course, the Midnight Shopping Excursions on Black Friday.

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DREAM Dream a little

A holiday fashion fantasy Photography: Josh Norris Model: Jacqueline Kelly Hair & Makeup: Madena Turner Styling: Melissa Stroud Clothing courtesy of Augusta Twenty and The Junior League of Greenville’s Nearly New Shop Special thanks to Postcard From Paris and Carolina Ballet Theatre

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Full skirting is a prominent trend this season, adding a touch of feminine drama to any top. For a ballet inspired holiday cocktail look, pair this trend with a backless tuxedo halter. To transform this style to a casual day ensemble, add a classic menswear button down tied at the small of the waist and ankle booties.

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Find something you’re passionate about and keep tremendously interested in it.�

-Julia Child, The Junior League of Pasadena

VISIONS

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Mix prints like a pro by staying within the same color family and varying the scale of the graphics.

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Cropped tops have seen a resurgence in fashion. Modernize this style with a high rise pencil skirt and beaded vintage cardigan. Tap shoes optional.

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// section name Leather is arguably the strongest trend of the 2013 runways, but doesn’t have to denote edge. Go for metallic pleated leather skirting to make an otherwise provocative trend feminine and wearable.

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VISIONS

// Feature forward

The History of the JLG’s

Nearly New Shop

by MK ALLEN

T

hrift shopping has become the norm for many people who are looking for chic decor, retro furniture or inexpensive clothing. Bin sales and dusty floors are no longer part of a modern thrift shopper’s experience with so many local stores competing for business. Our own Nearly New Shop has transformed over the years to become a discount boutique destination for the citizens of Greenville, serving an average of 1,828 customers per month.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Nearly New Shop’s current location off Laurens Road. It is also the 65th year since the Opportunity Shop, as it was then called, opened its doors as the League’s

Grand Opening of the new location on Greenacre Road, as seen in November 2003

“Looking for space was a hoot. We toured places all over Greenville, from Laurens and Haywood Roads to Poinsett Highway.”

Jill Schneider Nearly New Shop Relocation Task Force Chair

main community outreach project in 1948.

My own great-grandmother, Kathryn Gillespie Richardson, was part of the Shop’s inception and it makes me proud to support the store as a fourth generation volunteer.

I remember regularly donating clothing and housewares with my mother at the old Luthi Building location in Downtown Greenville. Even through a child’s eyes, I noticed the small storefront and tricky donation

History of the JLG’s Nearly New Shop 1948 - The Junior League of Greenville established the Opportunity Shop as a consignment shop. It was located at 510 South Main Street and made nearly $1500 for the JLG that first year in business.

1960 - The Shop moved to 430 South Main Street.

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1972 - The Shop moved yet again to 13 West Washington Street.

1962 - The Shop moved to 188 West McBee Avenue.

1968 - The Shop moved again to 118 West North Street.

1976 - At the recommendation of the Shop Ad Hoc Committee and with the approval of the membership, the Opportunity Shop was renamed the Nearly New Shop.

1973 - The Opportunity Shop celebrated its 25th Anniversary.

1998 - The Nearly New Shop celebrated its 50th Anniversary.

1983 - The Nearly New Shop moved to the first floor of 17 West North Street, the new Junior League of Greenville Headquarters, and the Shop’s yearly proceeds shot up to $70,000.

Ribbon cutting ceremony for the new location in November 2003 process as our members were forced to park around the block (or further) to deliver their contributions. It is no wonder that in the year 2000 members began to seriously consider relocating to a better, more accessible facility.

The push for a new location was realized when a JLG task force was sent out to visit other Junior League chapters to evaluate their stores’ successes. The Junior League of Charlotte had a very profitable store because of their efficiency and abundant square footage for inventory. After evaluating other shops, the task force reported that a better building that was more easily accessible was needed to ensure long term success.

Jill Schneider and Kitty Allen, both currently Sustaining Members, worked with the League to evaluate the budget and other logistics. A banker by trade, Jill handled the financials while Kitty put her real estate knowledge to use. Jill recalls, “Looking for space was a hoot. We toured places all over Greenville, from Laurens and Haywood Roads to Poinsett Highway.” The group considered over twenty locations and narrowed it down to ten which looked promising. Nothing seemed to be the right fit until they came across the old Rainbow Paint store on Greenacre Road. The building and its adjacent property seemed like an ideal space for a new Shop and League Headquarters.

When the big moving day arrived in November, the task at hand was daunting. Kimberly Cooley served as the Nearly New Shop Chair from 2003-2004 and oversaw the massive moving project. The old building on West North Street served as both League Headquarters and the Nearly New Shop and contained four floors full of

2002 - Plans were put in place to move the Nearly New Shop and expand the paid staff so it was less dependent on volunteers.

2004 - In its first year 2009 - The Shop’s at 118 Greenacre Road, the proceeds topped $200,000 Shop’s return was $120,000. for the first time, more than doubling over the course of six years in its new location.

2003 - The Shop gave back $87,000 to the Junior League of Greenville in its last year at 17 West North Street. With volunteer help, the Shop moved to 118 Greenacre Road over one weekend.

2013 - The Nearly New Shop celebrated its 65th Anniversary and ten years at 118 Greenacre Road.

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“Everyone is so organized and it makes such a difference.

We really know each other’s strengths and weaknesses, making us a better team all together.”

Karen Howard Nearly New Shop Manager

Top: League member Leanne Jaskwhich arranges clothing for the opening of the new location. Bottom: Housewares on display in the new location.

20 • Fall 2013

of NNS merchandise, displays and storage equipment, as well as, JLG archives, furniture and office equipment. Two Men and a Truck came to the rescue and donated their services for the larger items while the bulk of the move was handled by members running carpool loops between both locations. The new space was renovated prior to the move and had been slightly updated with painting, knocking down a wall or two, and modifying problem areas to fit current building codes. The Shop closed at the end of business on Saturday afternoon. The old saying “many hands make light work” accurately sums up this historic weekend in JLG history. The move was completed, and the Shop reopened on Monday morning ready to welcome customers in its new location without having missed a beat.

If someone were to visit the Nearly New Shop today, he or she would not see any resemblance to the old location. Between Marie Carithers’ beautifully decorated displays and Shannon Simpson’s knack for organization, the Shop is a well-oiled machine.

Staff members are always looking to make improvements and it shows when you enter the store. The Shop frequently partners with other non-profit organizations such as Greenville County Animal Care, Greenville Free Medical Clinic, Habitat for Humanity, Pendleton Place for Children and Families, Safe Harbor and The Salvation Army by donating excess merchandise. General Manager Karen Howard has worked at the Shop for over eight years and has experienced many changes. By modifying how the store is structured for donations and improving inventory display plans, she feels confident that the store is in a great place

to efficiently generate revenue. Karen will readily brag about her staff. “Everyone is so organized and it makes such a difference. We really know each other’s strengths and weaknesses, making us a better team all together.” I would like to thank all of our volunteers and especially the NNS employees for their hard work in creating a thrifty boutique that meets the needs of so many people in our community. Thank you to Karen Howard, Shannon Simpson, Marie Carithers, Sylvie Delaby and Mandy Alexander for their devotion to our League’s mission.

If you are a member of the Junior League of Greenville, then you are probably very familiar with the Shop. However, if you have not had a chance to pay a visit, please consider stopping by Monday through Saturday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. The Shop readily receives donations (tax deductible!) during operating hours at the back door located around the right side of the building at 118 Greenacre Road. To learn more, please call (864) 232-1051 or visit the Junior League of Greenville website, http://www.jlgreenville.org. V

Volunteers unpack merchandise at the new location in November 2003.

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VISIONS

// Feature forward

‘Tis the Season

by MANDY BULLOCK

I

t’s the MOST wonderful time of the year. Well almost. Football and fall are in full swing and it is time to begin planning for the holiday season. We have all been to boring, run of the mill Christmas parties. Not everyone likes to get dressed up in a tuxedo and roast chestnuts by an open fire. Drawing names for gift giving tends to be impersonal and

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to Plan a Party

dull. This year maybe you would like to attend or even host a holiday party that will get your guests in the yuletide spirit.

Last December, my friend and fellow ​ Junior League Member Stephanie Morgan threw a “Stephanie’s Favorite Things” Christmas party. Girlfriends were invited to kick off the busy month of December with a party designed around an episode of Oprah Winfrey’s talk show. On her “Favorite Things” episode, Oprah introduces her favorite products over the course of the hour long show and lucky audience members get to take home

one of everything. Stephanie held the event in her beautiful home which she had decorated with gorgeous holiday decor. She served simple hors d’oeuvres and made guests a signature drink (which I believe she found on Pinterest…but don’t tell her I said that). Each guest was asked by invitation to bring six of their favorite items under six dollars. For example, one guest brought six individually wrapped bottles of her favorite hand soap from Trader Joe’s. One guest brought six bottles of Fabuloso spray cleaner with plastic spray bottles attached to each bot-

tle of cleaner. After an evening of chatting with friends, each guest walked around the table and chose six things to take home as parting gifts. I left with six new items to try and now Fabuloso is a staple in my cleaning cabinet. ​Movie themed parties are also a fun way to celebrate the season.

A “Christmas Vacation” themed party is always a crowd pleaser and ensures guests will arrive in humorous costumes. Guests attending this party are encouraged to dress like a character from the 1989 Chevy Chase classic. I have heard stories of one host who borrowed a neighbor’s white Winnebago to park in the front yard as a decoration. Clark Griswold and Cousin Eddie always add humor and excitement to the holidays.

The 1983 movie “A Christmas Story” could also inspire a fun-filled party. Encourage guests to wear pink bunny slip-

pers and thick black framed glasses to channel the spirit of young Ralphie. Complete the look with a leg lamp and Red Ryder BB gun as decorations. “It’s A Wonderful Life” starring Jimmy Stewart is a beloved holiday film that can inspire a holiday party. Instead of going with an entire theme, the hostess could give guests bell ornaments as party favors. As Little Zuzu Bailey said, “Teacher says, every time a bell rings an angel gets his wings.” Holiday movies have a way of

striking sentimental chords within us all; and just think of the great photos that you could post on Facebook and Twitter. ​ Enjoying the most wonderful time of the year is not so easy for some. You may know of a local charity that serves children, the elderly, or others in need. Last year, my dear friends and I decided to not exchange gifts and instead threw a party for the teenage girls who live at Pendleton Place. The event was catered by Moe’s and we brought cosmetic bags for each girl that were filled with nail polish, lip gloss, and trinkets that all teenage girls love. We spent a little over an hour painting their nails, talking to them, and letting them know that others care about them. I left there with a full heart and a true understanding of the meaning of Christmas. What a great way to celebrate the season and the spirit of giving.

No matter how you choose to celebrate this festive season, we wish you a wonderful, safe and blessed holiday! V

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VISIONS

// Shop local this season

Make your list

Check it twice

Shop local this season. Here are a few of our favorite things from around town.

1 2

For the

Fashionista

Glamorous Chanel accesories Labels Designer Consignments www.labelsgreenville.com *JLG Member Owned

For the

Fashionista

Bold yet classic accessories MUSE Shoe Studio www.museshoestudio.com *JLG Member Owned

For the

Fashionista

Dramatic Tom Ford sunglasses Monkee’s of the West End www.monkeesofthewestend.com

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3

For the

Kid at Heart

Lilly Pulitzer beach cruiser bike Pink Bee www.pinkbeeonline.com

5

For the

4

Little One

Sweet monogrammed bloomers The Shops of Provence www.shopsofprovence.com *JLG Member Owned

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// Shop local this season

6

For your

Best Friend Relaxing bath treats The Pickwick www.thepickwick.net *JLG Member Owned

7 For your

Boss

Kate Spade day planner Pink Bee www.pinkbeeonline.com

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8

For your

Mother Luxorious pajamas A Finer Fit www.afinerfit.com

9

For the

Man in Your Life

10

books, stationery, bath treats Gage’s www.gagesonaugusta.com *JLG Member Owned

For the

Man in Your Life Big Green Egg and grilling accessories Foxfire www.foxfireshops.com

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VISIONS

// Giving back

How to Give Back During the

T

he Holidays are such a busy time of year. For all of the excitement that the season brings, it is also filled with a flurry of activity; parties to attend, trees to decorate, gifts to purchase, celebratory meals to prepare. Still, this season is also a great time to slow down, be thankful for all that we have, and to take time to do something for someone less fortunate. The volunteers of the Junior League of Greenville work year round to improve the lives of those in our community and many of the organizations the League partners with

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Holidays

have special projects and needs during this time of year. So, if you are looking for a way to give back during the holidays, below are a few organizations that could use a helping hand.

The Peace House

The Peace House improves access to care and provides hope and support to patients and their families while they face the challenges of illness, injury or disability during treatment at Roger C. Peace Rehabilitation Hospital.

How you can help: Basic household supplies are provided for the guests at no charge, so simply dropping off paper towels, toilet paper, laundry detergent and hand soap would be much appreciated. Deliver baked goods that could be shared among the guests. Small gift cards to area restaurants like Moe’s, Como’s Pete’s or even Publix are always appreciated.

1425 Augusta Street Greenville, SC 29605

Meals on Wheels

Meals on Wheels delivers a nutritious, hot meal Monday through Friday to more than 1,300 homebound residents of Greenville County who have no means to prepare a nutritious meal for themselves and little or no support system to help them on a daily basis.

During the holidays, Meals on Wheels delivers a special, traditional meal of turkey, mashed potatoes, cranberries and vegetables for both Thanksgiving and Christmas. Since the office is closed on those days, holiday meals are delivered frozen either one or two days before the holiday with another regularly scheduled meal.

How you can help: Meals on Wheels is always looking for volunteers to deliver meal routes. You can even bring your kids along so that it becomes a learning opportunity and family activity. Routes generally take just an hour

and consist of around 10 stops. To volunteer, call 864-233-6565.

A Child’s Haven

A Child’s Haven provides therapeutic intervention and prevention services for families and their young children who experience developmental delays as a result of abuse, neglect, or poverty.

How you can help: 1. Donate gifts for the families. During this time of year, “personal care” gifts are needed. Soap, shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, toothbrushes, etc. are always helpful. Also, holiday gift sets such as relaxing bath sets, cooking supplies so that families can enjoy meals, or general home gift sets are always needed. Email rebekahm@achildshaven.org for more information.

2. Another way to help is to volunteer for Christmas Gift Distribution, which takes place on December 13th and December

16th – 19th. Hours are available between 8:30am-4:00pm. Please email aliciap@ achildshaven.org for more information.

Safe Harbor

Safe Harbor is dedicated to helping the victims of domestic violence in the Upstate by offering a continuum of services: providing safe emergency shelter, counseling, legal advocacy, and transitional housing, as well as community outreach and teen dating violence education.

How you can help: 1. “Wrap for a Cause” at Mast General Store – Volunteers are needed to wrap gifts during this event. Email Julie.meredith@ safeharborsc.org for more information.

2. Safe Harbor collects gifts and toys for the children and women staying in the shelter during Christmas. If you would like to help please email info@safeharborsc. org for a list of specific items that are needed. V

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VISIONS

// Season sweets

Cookies for

Santa

From the Junior League of Greenville Recipe reprinted from The Junior League of Greenville cookbook, Uptown Down South

Molasses Sugar Cookies ¾ cup shortening 1 cup sugar ¼ cup molasses 1 egg 2 cups plain flour, sifted 2 teaspoons baking soda ¼ teaspoon ground cloves ¼ teaspoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon ½ teaspoon salt Granulated sugar

Melt shortening in saucepan over low heat; cool. Add sugar, molasses, and egg; beat well. Sift together flour, soda, cloves, ginger, cinnamon and salt; add to first mixture. Mix well and chill. Form into 1-inch balls; roll in granulated sugar and place on greased cookie sheet. Bake at 375 f̊ or 8-10 minutes. Yield: 4 dozen.

VISIONS To advertise in VISIONS call 864.233.2663

or email at editor-visions@jlgreenville.org or visit us online www.jlgreenville.org to download a current media kit

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ONE OF ELLE’S TOP 50 BOUTIQUES IN THE COUNTRY

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