Blaney Junior Beta Club

Blaney Elementary School recently inducted 29 5th graders into the Na tional Junior Beta Club. A candlelight ceremony was held featuring speak ers including recently elected student officers, principal Nicole Kirkley, and Miss Camden Teen 2023 (and current Beta Club member) Madison Knoerr.

are wonderfully informed and helpful. “

It has been a group effort of friends and family coming together to help these entrepreneurs’ dream project. It appears to be true in their story that it takes a village to bring together a plan.

Ashleigh and Rachel credit a few folks who helped make their dream a reality.

“Emery Branham developed Ella’s social media sites and plans our TikTok fashion skits. One video had almost 300,000 views," say Ashleigh and Rachel. "Also, Rachel Branham was a huge help from the start with steaming clothes out of the kindness of her heart because she wanted us to succeed, and she is one-of-a-kind. Our friend Anna Raulerson is available to help in the store or babysit any time we call. Our first cousin Wes Chestnut, who is more like a brother, and his wife Ashton help any time we need someone.“

Butch Watson was able to contract and design the store for his daughters. Friend Eric Hewitt came and helped with the cabinets. Ashleigh and Rachel were thrilled to have local artist Colt Shirley create a “beautiful dandelion blowing in the wind" mural.

Colt also splashed trendy colors in the dressing rooms and the restroom. Jeremy Ray of Laserform created the signs for their entrance and over their customer service desk. Younger sister Christina handles the online ordering and is married to Jeff Nieuwsma. They have Reagan (4) and Mila (6).

Boo Watson Holloman said, "I am proud of what Rachel and Ashleigh have done with Ella's boutique. It is a fun place to shop for stylish one-ofa-kind pieces. I love their clothes, shoes, and accessories. I especially enjoy the candles and the seasonal items. It's a great place to stock up and pick up a gift for someone.”

Ashleigh is married to Ben Rabon (son of Frank and Susan Rabon), and they have two boys Will (17) and Jake (15). Rachel lived in Columbia prior to moving into the old family home on Hwy. 34 in Lugoff, and is married to Landon Payette. They have two children Banks (7) and Ella (2).