town bride
Christy Henderson Photography.
DESTINATION DOWNTOWN
ANDERSON, SOUTH CAROLINA
Welcome to town bride , Anderson’s premiere bridal magazine featuring all things wedding. This semiannual magazine focuses on everything the bride and groom need to know to help make their wedding day one of a kind. Enjoy gorgeous pictures, informative articles, engagement and wedding announcements, tips and trends, as well as the top local wedding vendors. The magazine is published in the spring/summer and fall/winter. Issues are available in all vendor locations plus key distribution spots in Anderson, Easley, Starr/Iva, Greenville, and surrounding areas.
So here comes the bride ... town bride . Because there’s a bride in every town.
PUBLISHER
Julie Bailes Johnson townbridemag@gmail.com 864-221-9269
SPECIAL THANKS TO: Bride: Savannah Compton
Bride’s Dress: The White Magnolia
Hair & Makeup: Angel
Studios Flowers: Inn Season
Photographer: Christy Henderson Photography
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:
Kim von Keller: Editor
Jerrad Fenske: Music
Kristine March: Fashion Alexandria Stathakis: Travel
SALES
Becky Pruitt beckypru@aol.com 864-367-2102
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Nate Thomason signal43@live.com
Pamela Brownstein pamelauhles@hotmail.com
ARTISTIC &
UNCONVENTIONAL
DISCOVER THE LATEST WEDDING TRENDS
By Kristine Ker March
Wedding aesthetics and trends are getting more captivating every year. I’m really impressed and amazed by the ideas I’ve seen when it comes to the possibilities of making your wedding day unique and memorable. I wanted to share a few trends that stand out and hopefully inspire ideas for your special day.
Wedding cakes
The ones that I’ve researched are exceptional, decadent, and smashing. Although I love the nostalgia, they’ve rewritten the rules when it comes to your average three-tiered white cakes like our precious parents and grandparents had. Wedding cakes are becoming increasingly artistic, featuring intricate piping and sculptural edible art that resembles pieces from an art museum. Fabric-inspired elements, like pleats and vintage ruffles, add a lot of elegance. They’re also doing different formats, like long cakes that go all the way down the table. (Read more about long cakes on page 20).
It’s all about the Italian cakes
this year, for sure. The millefoglie, sometimes known as the pizzone, is really popular. Millefoglie literally means “a thousand layers,” but to us in the States, it’s simply a stylish, oversized raspberry cake made out of puff pastry and Chantilly cream. It’s so suave and uncomplicated, dreamy and delicious, that it’s sure to make a big statement. The tiramisu, a classic dessert that is sure to be a crowdpleaser, is also a trend that’s gaining popularity. Who doesn’t love a good tiramisu?
The Wedding Dress Romance is key, and that sort of
lived-in luxury approach is what I’m seeing. From dramatic waistlines to detachable sleeves, intricate lace, and sculptural, butterfly-type skirts, everything makes me want to renew my vows. I love the modern minimal effect.
Decorations
Candles with melting wax seem to be everywhere. It seems like such a simple thing to do, but it’s really having a moment right now. Twinkling, glowing light give off a beautiful energy and aura, especially for a wedding at dusk. Drapery and dream-like textures billowing in the breeze, giving a heavenly vibe, are also trending. Statement flower installations and hanging arrangements are huge, while small table lamps with cozy layered lighting are big as well.
Unconventional
Everything is starting to become very unconventional. People are actually getting married on a Monday and even taking a “latermoon,” or a delayed honeymoon. The rules are being broken, and it’s more about being relaxed and going with the flow. A smaller
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Long wedding cakes, like this one from Couture Cakes in Greenville
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invite list is becoming popular, and it’s more of a less-is-more viewpoint in the coming seasons. Large traditional weddings will never go out of style, but if that’s not your thing, well, you’re in luck because now is the time when anything goes.
Flowers
The bouquet is always my favorite part, for some reason. I’m a huge flower child. The bouquet trend this year is like everything else, artistic and sculptural. Think unique and editorial.They’re steering clear of the big, round bouquet and going for the long-
stemmed blooms and cascading drama. Monochromatic blooms are also a thing. Picking one single color for your arrangement makes it look old-money and sophisticated. Also on the list are bright and bold blooms. Shifting away from pastels of the past, people
are using citrus shades, cobalt blue, deep plums, and burgundy. If you’re really fearless, try a neon bouquet with dyed flowers and feathers: things are getting wild, y’all! You can’t go wrong with flowers. They make everything more stately and splendid.
All of these trends are lovely and distinctive, but what really matters is your commitment to your spouse, the memories you’re making, and how much fun you’re having on the dance floor.
I sincerely hope some of these ideas spark an interest, and help any bride-to-be get inspired and thrilled for her big day. Cheers to love, laughter, and happily ever after!
Bringing new life to an older wedding gown Repurposed
When the wedding is over, a bride’s thoughts often turn to the gown: What do I do with a dress I’ll never wear again? Most brides preserve their gowns with the idea that future daughters might wear them. In reality, though, styles change from one generation to another. Weddings change too; a gown that was right for a formal church wedding might not be right for a boho-chic ceremony on a farm. Today, instead of wearing their mothers’ gowns during their own weddings, many brides have them remade into entirely new garments. That’s what Taylor Levato Bearden did when she had her mother’s wedding gown remade into the dressing gown she wore on the morning of her wedding to Reid Bearden in Greenville in 2025.
Taylor’s mother, Debbie Levato, got the idea of remaking her gown from one of her friends.
“I had never heard of anyone doing that,” Debbie says. “I told Taylor that we could have my wedding gown remade to become her dressing gown, and she liked the idea.”
Taylor was happy to be able to include her mother’s gown on her wedding day.
“I had heard of girls wearing their mothers’ gowns at their rehearsals or having them shortened for their receptions, but the idea of completely remaking a gown was new to me,” Taylor says. “Mom’s dress was beautiful, but it was more traditional. It had bead embellishment and slightly puffed short sleeves. The dress I chose for my wedding was more modern, with a lace overlay and no sleeves. The one thing our dresses had in common is that they both had a drop
waist. I was so glad to find a way of using her dress in my wedding.”
Taylor found her gown at a boutique in Atlanta. When she took it to Gizelle James Coutourie in Atlanta for alterations, she took her mother’s g too. She was surprised to learn of the plan to remake it.
“Mom’s gown had a V-back, and there were pretty embellishments on the front. I was amazed when the couturier suggested splitting the back of Mom’s gown so the back would become the front. Turning it around made it even better than I could have imagined!”
The morning of her wedding was made more intimate by Taylor’s “new” dressing gown.
“The special moment for Mom and me was when I put it on,” Taylor says. “It was totally unique, and no other bride could ever copy it. We were so emotional that we could barely look at each other.”
Wedding mornings can be so busy, and there is not always time for a sentimental
moment. The dressing gown changed that.
“Taylor was so beautiful,” Debbie says,” and seeing her in my gown, remade, made me want to cry. Brides don’t always keep a lot to hand down from their weddings. I had almost forgotten what my dress looked like, and it was so beautiful when it came out of preservation. It brought back the excitement of a special day, and I was so happy and proud to see what it had become.”
As much as the moment meant to Taylor and Debbie, what means the most to them is that from something old, they’ve created something new that can be worn again and again.
“Now that Mom’s wedding gown has become a dressing gown,” Taylor says, “I’ll preserve it so that it can be handed down for generations to come. By having it remade, we’ve created a family heirloom. I hope it will inspire other brides to do the same thing.”
Taylor Levato Bearden, center, wears a dressing gown made from her mother’s wedding gown.
THE ART OF THE BRIDAL GLOW
Effortless. Refined. Undeniably Radiant.
By Donna Burton
The modern bridal glow isn’t created overnight; it’s curated. Today’s bride is less interested in transformation and more focused on subtle enhancement: soft refinement, balanced features, and skin that reflects light beautifully.
At Botox Boutique, the approach is intentional. Neuromodulators smooth and refresh. Dermal fillers restore harmony and structure with precision. Treatments like Sculptra work beneath the surface, gradually stimulating collagen for results that feel as natural as they look.
Skin remains the foundation. Medical-grade skincare and targeted treatments refine tone, texture, and luminosity, creating that quiet, camera-ready glow.
The goal is simple: when you walk down the aisle, you still look like yourself ... just elevated, rested, and radiant.
Because true beauty isn’t overdone. It’s refined.
I’m often asked when you should start a skincare regimen before the wedding day. Here is a timeline for brides and grooms:
9 Months Before
• Begin skincare regimen (medical-grade)
• Consult for long-term treatments (Sculptra, corrective plans)
• Start collagen-stimulating treatments if indicated
6 Months Before
• Initiate Botox maintenance
• Begin microneedling / skin resurfacing series
• Subtle filler for balance and contour (if desired)
3 Months Before
• Final Botox refinement
• Hydrafacial or glow treatments
• Lip refinement or soft touch-ups
2 Weeks Before
• Hydration-focused facial
• No new treatments, just polish and maintain
Stay beautiful!
Donna Burton is the owner of Botox Boutique.
Why wedding gown preservation is a must
Your wedding gown is more than just a dress. It’s the fabric of one of the most meaningful days of your life, woven with memories of laughter, happy tears, and the moment you walked down the aisle. After the celebration ends, many brides carefully tuck their gown away, unsure of what to do next. That’s where professional wedding gown preservation comes in.
Wedding gowns are delicate works of art. From intricate lace and handbeaded bodices to layers of soft tulle and silk, the fabrics used in bridal gowns are particularly vulnerable to aging, stains, and discoloration.
Even gowns that appear clean may contain hidden stains from champagne, cake icing, makeup, or even invisible perspiration. Over time, these unseen spots can oxidize and turn yellow or brown if the gown is simply stored in a closet or attic. Professional cleaning and preservation ensure these stains are treated properly before they have the chance to permanently damage the fabric.
Wedding gown preservation is far more specialized than standard dry cleaning. Experts carefully inspect the gown, identify stains, and treat each area using methods designed specifically for delicate bridal fabrics.
Once cleaned, the gown is carefully folded with acid-free tissue and placed in an archival-quality preservation chest or box designed to protect it from light, dust, and humidity. Many preservation boxes even include a viewing window so brides can admire their gown without exposing it to damaging elements.
For many brides, gown preservation is about more than protecting a dress, it’s about preserving a legacy. Properly stored gowns can last for generations, allowing daughters, granddaughters, or other loved ones to wear the gown again or incorporate pieces of it into their own wedding attire.
Lace from a mother’s
gown might become part of a veil. Satin could be transformed into a ringbearer pillow. Some families even create christening gowns from preserved wedding dresses, turning one special garment into a cherished tradition. Even if the gown is never worn again, many brides treasure simply having it. Years later, opening the preservation box can bring back a flood of memories: the music, the flowers, the first dance.
In a world where so much moves quickly, a preserved wedding gown is a beautiful reminder that some moments are worth holding onto forever.
Experts recommend having your gown profes-
sionally cleaned and preserved as soon as possible after the wedding, ideally within a few weeks. The sooner stains are treated, the better the chances of removing them completely.
Many local dry cleaners now offer specialized bridal preservation services, making it easy for brides to protect their gown without sending them far away.
Long after the flowers fade and the last slice of cake is gone, your wedding gown remains one of the most meaningful symbols of the day you said “I do.” Preserving it ensures that the beauty, craftsmanship, and memories stitched into every seam remain part of your story for years to come.
Eat your way to a radiant wedding smile
THE NUTRITION-ORAL HEALTH CONNECTION
By Dr. Gabrielle Cannick
Planning your wedding comes with a lot of decisions — venue, flowers, dress, menu … the list goes on. But here’s one thing many people overlook: What you eat every day has a direct impact on your smile.
The Food–Smile Connection
As a dentist and certified nutrition, wellness, and lifestyle coach through Harvard Medical School, I love helping people understand this simple truth: Your food choices don’t just affect your body, they shape your oral health too. And when your big day arrives, that healthy, confident smile is something you’ll carry into every photo.
Think of your mouth as a living ecosystem. It’s full of bacteria that interact with everything you eat and drink. When you eat nutrient-rich, whole foods, you support healthy gums and strong teeth. When you consume sugar frequently, bacteria produce acid that weakens enamel in a process called demineralization.
Here’s a key point that many people miss: It’s not just what you eat, it’s how often you eat. Constant snacking or sipping sugary drinks keeps your mouth under nonstop acid attack. You can help by aiming
for three meals and one to two snacks per day. This gives your saliva time to neutralize acids between meals. Also, drink water between meals instead of sipping sweet drinks.
The
Power of Protective Foods
Let’s talk about foods that actually help your smile.
Anti-inflammatory foods: These foods support your gums and reduce inflammation, and are packed with Vitamin C & E, antioxidants, and healthy fats.
• Leafy greens, colorful vegetables, fruits
• Fish like salmon and sardines (rich in omega-3s)
• Nuts and seeds
• Lean proteins like poultry and seafood
Cavity-fighting foods: Yes, some foods actively protect your teeth by reducing cavity-causing bacteria, supporting enamel remineralization, and boosting saliva. Milk, yogurt, cheese, whole grains and highfiber foods do this.
Foods to Be Mindful Of
You don’t have to be perfect, but awareness is powerful. Aim to limit the following foods.
• Sugar, especially in drinks
• Processed carbs (chips, crackers, white bread)
• High saturated fat and excess red meat
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Your Pre-Wedding Nutrition Strategy
If you want a simple framework, think Mediterranean-style eating:
• Lots of vegetables and fruits
• Whole grains and legumes
• Olive oil as your main fat
• Fish and poultry regularly
• Limited red meat
• Moderate dairy (especially yogurt and cheese)
• Water as your go-to beverage
A Simple Day of Eating (Wedding Glow Edition)
Breakfast: Oatmeal with berries, nuts, and Greek yogurt
Lunch: Colorful salad with leafy greens, veggies, and grilled salmon or chicken
Dinner: Grilled fish or poultry with roasted vegetables and quinoa or brown rice
Snacks (1–2 daily): Fruit, raw veggies with hummus, nuts, or cheese
Drinks: Water throughout the day or unsweetened tea.
It’s Bigger Than Your Smile
Here’s what I love most about this approach: The same way of eating that protects your teeth also helps lower your risk of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Your mouth is often the first place health issues show up, so taking care of it benefits your entire body.
Final Thoughts
Your most radiant wedding smile doesn’t come from a single whitening treatment or last-minute fix. It comes from the daily choices you make leading up to your big day. Every colorful salad, every glass of water, every nourishing meal- that’s you investing in your smile, your health, and your future..
Dr. Gabrielle F. Cannick owns Grand Oaks Dental, located at 3905 Liberty Highway in Anderson. A firm believer that dental fear and anxiety should not prevent any patient from receiving the highest-quality dental care, Dr. Cannick has received extensive training in Sedation Dentistry and is a certified member of the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation. She is also a member of the South Carolina Dental Association, the American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, and the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. For more information about Grand Oaks Dental and the services provided, please call 864-224-0809, visit grandoaksdental.com, or find them on Facebook at facebook.com/GrandOaksDental.
By Jerrad Fenske
There is something special about planning your wedding on a family anniversary or holiday that only adds to the celebration element of your nuptials: commemorating your day on an already significant day.
A wedding is a holiday
with me through the process, and hopefully this will show you the benefits of planning and executing your own personal holiday.
This past Valentine’s Day, I had the pleasure of playing at the wedding of two special individuals, the bride being the grandchild of my godparents.
From the onset of the planning process, I knew that every detail would be an example of great precision. After decades of weddings, I played music I had never performed before, and this created a memorable experience, not just for me personally and professionally, but for all involved. Walk down the aisle
The bride began by sending me a copy of the music she wanted to hear as her parents walked her down the aisle. It was a mash-up of “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran and “Canon in D” by Johann Pachelbel. It was a fresh twist to two wonderful melodies, adding familiarity and nostalgia to an intimate moment between a bride and her parents. The groom requested a favorite, “All That Really Matters” by Teddy Swims for his procession with his parents and with the wedding party. Their selections made them feel connected to this moment and they knew that hearing the songs would be a representation
of their voices as individuals. After the ceremony, their mutual choice of “L-O-V-E” by Nat King Cole as the recessional was their voice as a couple.
For the 30 minutes of music prior to the ceremony, they chose an array of classical piano music that was uplifting and inviting as guests arrived and were greeted with a stem of bubbly. The bride sent me her playlist of favorite music so that I would have a guide in selecting pieces already in my repertoire.
When working with any professional, giving them visible or audible examples of what you have in mind helps ensure that everyone is on the same page. Regardless of who you are working with — be it a florist, caterer, cosmetologist, or musician — having an example is essential for a more positive experience that fits your vision.
A benefit of this event was that it took place at one venue. The ceremony took place in the ballroom adorned with gorgeous shades of red blooms and willowy greens, accentuated with glowing candles. This made for an aromantic and beautiful backdrop.
After the ceremony concluded, a violinist serenaded the guests during a social gathering in the lobby of the ballroom. This violinist played with a pre-recorded accompaniment and he had showmanship and charm galore.
The venue should reflect your own style along with the choice of food, music, entertainment and venue. This can be accomplished at any level and budget.
If you examine any part of the wedding, each act or scene
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needs to stand on its own. The greeting and arrival of guests — who is tending to them and guiding them to where they need to be? How does the ceremony embody the joining of two people into a union? What happens with your guests after the ceremony when you are taking pictures or tending to other matters? It’s important to think of the people who have joined you to be a part of your special day and by meticulous planning for each aspect of your wedding day, you can ensure that the entire day is fun for your guests.
Just as the social hour was ending, the ballroom doors opened to reveal a sumptuous sit-down dinner while a band of a dozen musicians serenaded people as they retrieved their seating assignments. When guests have places prepared for them, it eliminates a level of anxiety of where to go or who to
sit with, especially if they have come from out of town and may not know many other people.
One more detail of elegant civility was the script envelope with the name of the guests that included their table number as well as a hand-written note from the bride and groom that thanked them for coming and sharing their special day. This element was time consuming but was a nice personal touch.
What I have learned over the years in assisting people in the preparation of their special day is that the investment that you put into it ahead of time will be present in the outcome. Plan, prepare and be intent on the desires for your day, if it is important to you, then plan it with that care and love and it will grow and prosper, just like your love for each other and all those who support you.
Jerrad Fenske is a musician and teacher who can be reached at www.jerradfenske.com.
THE LONG & SWEET OF IT
Why the elegant “long wedding cake” is becoming the most stylish centerpiece at modern receptions
For generations, the towering tiered wedding cake reigned supreme, an iconic symbol of celebration that stood tall at the center of the reception. But today’s couples are embracing a fresh and visually striking twist on tradition. Enter the long wedding cake, a modern confection that stretches gracefully across tables and is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about wedding trends.
Rather than rising upward in multiple tiers, long wedding cakes extend horizontally, sometimes running several feet down a table like an edible runner. The effect is dramatic and effortlessly modern. Placed along a reception table or dessert display, the cake becomes both dessert and decor, creating a centerpiece that guests admire throughout the evening.
One of the reasons this trend has captured the attention of brides is the visual impact. With a longer surface to decorate, bakers have an expansive canvas for creativity. Delicate buttercream textures can sweep across the length of the cake, while fresh flowers, berries, figs, or citrus fruits can be arranged like a garden path. Some couples opt for vintage-inspired piping or soft, romantic florals that echo the bridal bouquet, while others embrace minimalist designs with smooth white icing and subtle modern accents.
MEREDITH OLSON PHOTOGRAPHY
Rather than rising upward in tiers, long wedding cakes extend horizontally.
The long cake also complements another growing wedding trend: communal, shared experiences. Instead of unveiling the cake only for the cutting ceremony, couples display it as part of the reception decor, allowing guests to gather around and admire the design. Some even incorporate multiple flavors along the length of the cake, turning the display into a delightful tasting experience.
Beyond its beauty, the design is surprisingly practical. Rectangular cakes are often easier to slice and serve, making them ideal for large guest lists. Bakers can also incor-
THREE TIPS FOR CHOOSING A LONG WEDDING CAKE
1. Think about your table design: Long cakes shine when incorporated into the tablescape. Work with your planner and baker to position the cake along a sweetheart table, dessert table, or banquet table where it becomes part of the decor.
2. Coordinate with your florals: Fresh flowers placed along the cake can mirror the bridal bouquet or centerpieces. This creates a cohesive look and makes the cake feel like a natural extension of the reception design.
3. Mix flavors for a fun twist: One advantage of a long cake is the ability to include multiple flavors. Couples can choose different cake and filling combinations along the length of the cake so guests can sample more than one favorite.
porate different flavor sections within the same cake, offering guests more variety without requiring multiple desserts.
As weddings continue to evolve toward personalization and unique design statements, the long wedding cake proves that tradition can be reimagined in the most beautiful ways. It may not reach towering heights, but its sweeping elegance ensures it leaves a lasting impression, one delicious slice at a time.
wedding trends
THE MEANINGFUL TRADTION OF wedding bowls
Atimeless symbol of unity, the wedding bowl or bride’s bowl, is becoming a meaningful addition to modern ceremonies and receptions.
In the world of weddings, traditions often carry deep symbolism. From exchanging rings to lighting unity candles, couples are always searching for ways to represent the joining of two lives. One beautiful tradition that has quietly grown in popularity is the wedding bowl, a simple yet powerful symbol of a shared life.
While many couples are familiar with unity candles or sand ceremonies, the wedding bowl offers a fresh alternative that is both visually elegant and deeply meaningful.
A wedding bowl is typically a beautifully crafted bowl, often ceramic, glass, or hand-thrown pottery, used during a ceremony or incorporated into the reception as a symbol of the couple’s new life together.
In some ceremonies, the bride and groom each pour water, sand, or even wine into the bowl, representing two individual lives coming together to create something new and inseparable. The bowl then becomes a keepsake that the couple keeps in their home, serving as a lasting reminder of their wedding day and their commitment to one another.
Many couples choose bowls created by local artisans, making the piece not only symbolic but also a
work of art.
While the modern wedding bowl is relatively new in American ceremonies, the concept of a shared vessel has ancient roots. In various cultures throughout history, couples have shared wine, bread, or water from a single bowl or cup to represent unity, nourishment, and partnership. Today’s wedding bowl continues that symbolism in a way that feels personal and customizable.
One of the reasons wedding bowls are becoming so popular is their versatility. Couples are finding meaningful ways to incorporate them into both ceremonies and receptions.
Blessing Bowl: Guests write short notes, prayers, or wishes for the couple and place them in the bowl during the reception.
Unity Bowl Ceremony: The couple pours sand, water, or wine into the bowl together as part of the ceremony.
Family Unity Bowl: In blended families, children may also pour into the bowl, symbolizing the joining of the entire family.
Some couples continue to use their wedding bowl every anniversary, filling it with notes about memories from the year.
Unlike flowers or decorations that disappear after the wedding day, the wedding bowl becomes part of the couple’s home. It may sit on a kitchen table, coffee table, or entryway, serving as both décor and a reminder of the vows spoken on that special day.
Some couples even engrave the date of their wedding or a meaningful phrase on the bottom of the bowl, turning it into a true heirloom piece that can be passed down for generations.
Modern weddings often blend old traditions with new ideas, and the wedding bowl is a perfect example of that balance. It’s simple, elegant, and filled with meaning, everything today’s couples are looking for.
And in the end, that simple bowl holds something far more valuable than sand, water, or notes: It holds the beginning of a life shared.
Spring
Bride
CHRISTY HENDERSON PHOTOGRAPHY
Love is in Bloom
Southern Romance
CHRISTY HENDERSON PHOTOGRAPHY
OUT OF AFRICA
Lessons learned from an extended visit to the continent
By Alexandria Stathakis
Recently I spent a month on the continent of Africa and my trip had three parts. First, I went to Cape Town in South Africa. Then I did a week safari at three different camps in Tanzania. Both of these I did as a solo traveler. Last, I joined my brother and sister-in-law for two weeks in Egypt. For Tanzania and Egypt I joined organized tours and I am so glad I did. There are some places that require local knowledge and connections and that is what organized tours do. For any couples thinking of visiting Africa on their honeymoon, here are some insights I learned during my extended visit there.
Cape Town
Cape Town planning was no different than planning a trip to New York City. There are plenty of articles and helpful websites, and I even use groups on Facebook for tips from other travelers.
For me, deciding where to stay is the most difficult decision. In Cape Town I used a boutique hotel that had excellent reviews for customer service and also had private cars you could hire to take you places. Because I was a solo traveler, the car service was important to me. The hotel was a short walk to the tourist hub, which was a plus. I have to admit I was anxious about Africa travel independently and this gave me a sense of security.
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Seeing lions on a safari in Tansania was a special experience.
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By the third day I felt comfortable using Uber to get around. Additionally, I took an all-day tour that was recommended by Tripadvisor and visited the southernmost point of Africa. I had made a list of all the sights I wanted to see outside the city and this tour stopped at all of them.
I enjoyed exploring the city, and I found getting around not too difficult.
Asilia Safari
The next leg of my journey was the safari. The logistics of getting to the starting point was my responsibility and that took some time to plan. The tour company I used for the safaris was an African company called Asilia, which is top-ranked in most travel publications.
Once I got to the starting point of my itinerary, they were responsible for getting me to each camp. However, using Asilia is not like joining most tour companies popular with clients from the U.S. Asilia has different safari camps in several popular locations. I worked directly with an Asilia consultant in deciding where I wanted to go and how long I wanted to stay at each location. This meant that I was not traveling with the same people for the entire week; each location had a different group of clients.
A lesson for me was that I was treated as a “solo” party, which is not necessarily what I wanted. I wanted to interact and meet people from other places. Once the first camp realized this was an issue for me they made sure the other camps put me with other travelers so it
Visiting Egypt meant seeing hieroglyphics.
all worked out, but I will be more alert to that possibility in similar circumstances.
Overall, Asilia was excellent and I recommend this company.
Safaris are a once-in-a-lifetime travel opportunity. I loved it. At one of the camps I slept under the stars and a zebra was outside my screen the next morning. It gets to the point where you say, “Oh, there’s another zebra, giraffe, or lion.” It’s absolutely jaw dropping and I highly recommend.
Exploring Egypt
For Egypt, my brother chose a Smithsonian tour. He is an expert on Egypt so I depended on him to make the choice. Egypt is a country where traveling with a reputable company is a must. I
along with. I would not have changed a thing on this leg of the trip. We received excellent care of from arrival at the airport to departure. We left Egypt the day before the war with Iran started but a few of our group took an excursion to Jordan and they had to be evacuated. Smithsonian handled getting them out of the country and then reimbursed them for the excursion; very impressive customer service. This month-long trip was a wonderful experience, and here are my biggest takeaways. It is nice to have a reputable company supporting a trip of this magnitude. Do your homework. Look at reviews and ratings and learn from the experience of others. It is a major expense and you want to get your monies worth.
Happy travels!
cannot imagine doing it on my own. The language and the logistics all required a local.
Our guide had 10 years of experience and knew the right times to go to each site to avoid the crowds. He also knew someone at every location who would get us to the front of the line. He was a walking encyclopedia of information everywhere we went, and then took the time to tell us one night about Egypt today.
With Smithsonian tours, they also provide an expert, and ours was a visiting professor from Yale who was very friendly and knowledgeable, which added tremendously to the experience. There were 14 people on our tour and they were all well traveled and easy to get
From South Africa to safaris to Egypt, the author spent a month traveling throughout Africa.
GALLANT - SASSER TO WED IN BEAUFORT
Kimberly A Harding and William Andrew Calhoun Gallant announce the engagement of their daughter, Perry Elisabeth Gallant of Beaufort, to Robert Scott Sasser of Florence.
Perry is the granddaughter of Margaret Mirium Perry of Anderson, the late Robert Miller Gallant, Jr., and Mary Calhoun Gallant of Anderson. She attended Beaufort High School and Clemson University, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and graduated from the Medical University of South Carolina with a Master’s in Speech Language Pathology. She is employed as a Pediatric Speech Language Pathologist in Charleston, South Carolina.
Scott is the son of Robert Hugh
Sasser III and Daryn Johnson Sasser of Florence, South Carolina. He is the grandson of Dr. Robert Hugh Sasser, Jr. of Swainsboro, Georgia, and the late Jane Scott Megahee Sasser, also of Swainsboro, Georgia. He is also the grandson of the late Gene Norris Johnson and the late Martha Elizabeth Monk Johnson, both of Folkston, Georgia. Scott attended Trinity Collegiate School and graduated from The Citadel with a Business Administration Degree. He is a Heavy Equipment Sales Rep for Blanchard CAT in Summerville, South Carolina. The wedding is planned for April 3, 2027, in downtown Beaufort, South Carolina, at First Presbyterian Church with a reception following at The Beaufort Inn.
O’SHIELDS - MADER WED IN CLEMSON
Autumn McKenzie O’Shields became the bride of Austin Charles Mader on Saturday, March 14, at 4:30 p.m. at the Samuel J. Caden Chapel in Clemson. Autumn’s grandfather, Tommy Walls, officiated the wedding. A reception followed at Owen Pavilion at The Madren Center in Clemson. Autumn is the daughter of Don Preston and Amanda Denise O’Shields of Anderson. She is the granddaughter of Thomas Eugene and Debbie Whitworth Walls, also of Anderson, the late Bruce O’Shields, and Martie O’Shields of Easley.
Austin is the son of Steven Charles and Holly Lynne Mader of Spartanburg. He is the grandson of Carl Edward and LaRue Elaine Hellman of Simpsonville and Peter Charles and Linda Rae Mader of Greer. Maid of Honor was the bride’s sister, Allana O’Shields, and Matron of Honor was Katie Garrett. The flower girl was Debbie Walls. Junior Bridesmaid was Zoie
Mitsopoulos. Bridesmaids were Sharon Doyle, Avery Browder, Lucie Cheek, Hannah Matthews, Catherine Green, Brookelle Basche, Lauren Lee, Sydney Carpenter, Natalie Henderson, Erin Rudolph, and Kristen Randolph.
The Best Man was Christopher Garrett. Groomsmen were Wright Garrett, Ryan Mosley, Kalen Larson, Brayden Owens, Luke Moody, Robbie Saltmarsh, and Josh Benson. The Ring Bearer was Banks Mitsopoulos. Autumn attended T.L. Hanna High School and graduated from Clemson University with a BSRN in Nursing. She is employed by Medical City Plano Hospital. Austin attended Hillcrest High School and graduated from Clemson University with a degree in Construction Science Management. He is employed by J.E. Dunn Construction.
After a two-week safari in South Africa, the couple will live in Frisco, Texas.
PEARMAN - WRENN WED
Taylor Brooke Pearman of Clemson became the bride of Connor Lawrence Wrenn on Jan. 31, 2026, at Bleckley Station in Anderson, SC.
Taylor is the daughter of Daniel and Kristy Pearman of Clemson. She is the granddaughter of Jerry and Patricia Sewell of Leeds, Alabama. She attended Christ Church Episcopal High School and is a graduate of Clemson University with a Bachelor of Science in Park Recreation Tourism Management with a focus on Sports Management. She is employed by TEKsystems in Greenville, SC.
Connor is the son of Ken and Kelly Wrenn of Greensboro, NC, and Cliff and Julie Saylors of Greenville. He attended J.L. Mann Academy and graduated from
the University of South Carolina with a major in Business.
He is employed by Fluor Corporation in Greenville.
Matrons of Honor were Jennings Pearman and Ashleigh Martin. Bridesmaids were Abigail Trumbore, Hannah Kinser, Anna Spiers, Madeline Southwell, and Emilee Wrenn.
The best men were Ken Wrenn and Cliff Saylors. Groomsmen were Thomas Blanton, James McClement, Tom Brewbaker, John Clayton, Tanner Pearman, and Trent Pearman.
A reception was held at the Bleckley Station in Anderson. After a honeymoon trip to Tulum, Mexico, the couple will make their home in Greenville.
ROAD
TO ‘I DO’
TO ‘I DO’ THE
WEDDING CHECKLIST THE ROAD
12+ MONTHS OUT 9 - 12 MONTHS OUT
Set a budget
Create a guest list
Choose a wedding date
Book a venue
Hire a wedding planner (if needed)
Select wedding theme & colors
Research & book key vendors
Choose wedding party members
Shop for wedding attire
Book photographer & videographer
Secure caterer & finalize menu
Choose entertainment
Book hair and makeup artist
Send Save the Dates
Research honeymoon options
Finalize guest list
6 - 9 MONTHS OUT 3 - 6 MONTHS OUT
Order wedding invitations
Plan and book honeymoon
Schedule dress fittings
Choose flowers & decorations
Finalize ceremony details
Arrange guest transportation
Register for wedding gifts
Plan bridal party attire
Finalize catering & menu
Send wedding invitations
Book accommodations for guests
Plan rehearsal dinner
Purchase wedding rings
Obtain marriage license
Start writing vows
Confirm wedding day timeline
1 - 3 MONTHS 1 WEEK BEFORE
Confirm all vendor bookings
Attend final dress fitting
Purchase gifts for wedding party
Have bachelor/bachelorette parties
Arrange seating chart
Prepare emergency kit
Schedule final beauty treatments
Break in wedding shoes
Pack for honeymoon
Confirm final guest count with vendors
Do a final venue walkthrough
Practice vows & speeches
Get plenty of rest
Double-check wedding checklist
Enjoy a relaxing pre-wedding day
Get ready to celebrate!
