ISSUE No
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S P R I N G 2 02 0 Celebrating local shopping, dining, arts, events, and community
City of
Aiken The Love Aiken Issue
Your home. Your healthcare.
Your heart matters It’s the little things in life that lead to the big things. At the Cardiovascular Institute of Carolina at Aiken Regional Medical Centers, we want to be a part of the choices you make about your heart health.
aikenregional.com ROSE HILL
Physicians are on the medical staff of Aiken Regional Medical Centers, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Aiken Regional Medical Centers. The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. For language assistance, disability accommodations and the non-discrimination notice, visit our website. 200077-7295
our love letter to aiken Why do you love this city that you call home? Is it because of the favorite restaurant that you go to with your family or the warm welcome that you receive from the owner of the boutique you love so much? Flip the pages of this issue to discover some of the people and businesses that make us all love calling Aiken home.
Fig Authentic
Social Mission
Making an impact on our community and beyond: Betty Ryberg
Learn more about our Social Mission Partner: Children’s Place, Inc.
PA G E 1 2
PA G E 2 2 IN THIS ISSUE
Spotlight
No. 10 Downing
Meet Meghan Timmerman, the creative eye and mind behind Menagerie.
Discover Aiken’s newest event venue and vacation rental, No. 10 Downing
PA G E 1 0
PA G E 3 2
And of course,
great shopping, dining, arts, entertainment, and services— as always. KEEP READING
The Aiken Horse Show For 104 years, the Aiken Horse Show has come to Hitchcock Woods each spring PA G E 3 1
Events Get out and experience our incredible town this spring—plan your social calendar in Aiken with Fig. PA G E 3 5 Cover: No. 10 Downing Street, page 32 This page: Bespoke Fine Interiors, page 26 ISSUE 4 / SPRING 2020 / AIKEN, SOUTH CAROLINA / THE LOVE AIKEN ISSUE
P R O D U C E D BY BY FA R R D E S I G N byfarr.com PUBLISHER Fig Industries C R EATIV E D IR ECTOR Brynley Farr R EGIONAL D IR ECTOR Erin Truitt DESIGNER Laura Windham
C O M M U N I C AT I O N S Chris Farr Camlin Cothran PHOTOGRAPHERS Forrest Clonts Andrew Swiger S U P P O RT T E A M Sydney Wickstrom Catalina Olvera
WRITER Chesson Merritt
ALL THINGS SOCIAL Look for Fig Aiken on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for daily coverage of local entertainment, events, food, fashion, and community.
A D V E RT I S I N G I N F I G To find out how you can strategically market your business through the Fig communications package, contact Erin Truitt at figaiken@byfarr.com.
Fig Industries is redefining success through social impact and environmental accountability in the communities we serve. Learn more about our B-Corp certification at figindustries.com.
Fig Industries, LLC has made every attempt to ensure that all information contained in this publication has been obtained from reliable sources, but all such information is provided “as is” with no guarantee of completeness or accuracy. The views of contributors do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of Fig Industries, LLC. Fig Industries, LLC cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions contained in, or reliance made upon the contents of, this publication. Copyright: Copyright 2020 © Fig Industries, LLC. All rights reserved. Photography or page layout contained in Fig shall not be reproduced, in whole or in part, without the specific written permission of Fig Industries, LLC. Contact 803.200.1004 or figaiken@byfarr.com.
A NOTE FROM FIG
Love your Aiken Spring has arrived.
The days are longer, warmer, and perfect for spending time outside exploring Hitchcock Woods or Hopelands Garden; the Dogwood trees are beginning to bud with the promise of new leaves, the new spring lines are arriving at the local shops and boutiques, our favorite spring events are just around the corner, and our city is beginning to shine with the brilliance of a new season. The new decade is well underway and we’re excited to bring you our first issue of 2020! Our spring issue focuses on living well, loving where we live, and being mindful—from simple pleasures like enjoying a hot cup of coffee on a chilly morning to being an advocate for the big pictures of sustainability and building with intention. It’s a reminder to love ourselves, love our places, and love our planet as we welcome the clarity and vision that comes with a new season. Spring headfirst into this issue as we introduce you to the people and the businesses that are invested in making Aiken the best version of itself that it can possibly be. Take a moment to enjoy all that Aiken has to offer during the spring season, from our yearly Steeplechase at Bruce’s Field where you can see ‘horses fly,’ to hosting world travelers for the golfing event of the year, The Masters. It’s the time of year we welcome those visiting as hometown friends and invite them to delight in the most colorful attributes Aiken has to offer.
This spring, make it a priority to make and take time for yourself. Why not try your hand at golf at The Reserve or Woodside Plantation? Plan a date night out downtown and enjoy a staycation at The Carriage House Inn, where you can catch a few extra minutes of snoozing. Or book a spa getaway at The Willcox, where you can relax and enjoy a moment to yourself. Stop into the local boutiques and allow them to guide you in choosing the perfect wardrobe for your busy spring calendar. They’ll help you find a fresh look that’s just right for any occasion! We love this town that we call home, but even more than our love of Aiken is our love for what truly makes this town special: you! Go ahead and treat yourself this spring. You deserve it! ERIN TRUITT & THE FIG AIKEN TEAM
ISSUE 4 / SPRING 2020 / THE LOVE AIKEN ISSUE
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Photo taken at No. 10 Downing
Meet Ashley McDonald, an Aiken native with many years of insight into Aiken’s real estate market. Her unique knowledge of the area paired with her ability to help you buy and sell with confidence and success makes working with her a dream. She’ll guide you through the real estate market to the perfect home to love!
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WISDOM TEETH
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Dr. Kyle H. O’Neal, DDS Dr. William A. Trotter IV, DMD Dr. Daniel D. Scott, DMD Dr. Bradford P. Huffman, DMD
BONE GRAFTING
With expertise ranging from dental implant surgery and wisdom tooth removal to corrective jaw surgery, the Doctors at Center for Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery can help improve your smile and your quality of life.
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AIKEN, SC: 1907 PAWNEE STREET 803.716.9586 N. AUGUSTA , SC: 101 NUTGROVE DRIVE 803.278.2050 EVANS, GA: 7011 EVANS TOWN CENTER BOULEVARD 706.724.8735
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Palmetto Wellness and Weight Loss wants you to live your best and healthiest year yet by working with you to improve your health through Functional Medicine. Through advanced lab testing, they’ll work to discover the root cause of your illness and will guide your lifestyle habits and choices to promote your health. Get your hormones balanced Improve digestion and sleep Find better ways to live Address your risk factors Replace all of your nutritional deficiencies — Pictured: Veronica Chavis, PA-C, MPA, CDCES, ABAAHP, FAAMFM Gregory L. Eaves, MD, FACC, ABOM, FAAMFM, ABAARM
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Custom color mixing Color matching Custom spray paints Blinds Interior design Color consultations
Wallpaper
Spring into 2020 with bold color and design throughout your home to bring a new look to the new year. Marketplace Paints not only offers interior and exterior paints for your home, but they also have wall coverings, framing, and interior design services for you to work with. Mix and match colors and patterns in a variety of mediums with their expert advice to create a look that is uniquely your own.
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803.226.0591
M A R K E T P L A C E PA I N T S . C O M
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Shop with Meghan at Menagerie and create your own custom work of art! Monday–Saturday, 10am–5pm Sunday, Closed
“When customers are brand new, it takes a bit of time for the custom aspect of the store to sink in,” Meghan said. “They are looking at a lot of posh items and it takes them a few minutes to visualize their own images or designs on all of the items in the shop. Often what happens next is the customer leaves after their initial visit, and then later in the evening or the next day, I start receiving texts or emails containing images asking how I think it would look on this or that. It is so fun to watch customers tap into their own creativity that results in something so personal and timeless. Most everyone is shocked by the ease of doing something custom and how quickly it gets done.”
Spotlight: MEET MEGHAN CONNER T I M M E R M A N , the small business owner and creative mind behind Menagerie on Laurens Street. The path to opening her own shop began back in 2015 when she wanted to learn how to take her own work as a photographer and put it on things, like a full dinner service collection. “I set out to educate myself,” Meghan said. “I locked myself in my studio and within three months, The Aiken Creative Company was born. I used my seventeen years of experience as an animal health pharmaceutical sales rep to help me plan and promote my business. We started in a little location on Laurens Street and 18 months later, my shop moved to ‘the big top’ and became Menagerie. Defined as an eclectic collection of things, the name could not be more appropriate. My process lends itself to things from 10
gifts, apparel, home décor, and more. The addition of one of Aiken’s most beloved stars, Betsy Wilson Mahoney, just finished the shop’s presence in the most perfect of ways.” Menagerie is a shop full of unique gifts and customizable items, both of which fly off the shelves. “Hands down, no matter what I put South Boundary on, it is a big hit,” Meghan said. “My serving trays are my most popular item, as are custom ornaments and custom tiles. The custom items are just so popular, and the artwork by Betsy ties for first as well.” It’s easy to customize an item at Menagerie. The process begins with selecting an item and finding just the right way to customize it. Both are things that Meghan helps her customers with.
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After a couple of years in business, Meghan and her team are thrilled to be a part of Aiken’s thriving downtown community, and love to see other small businesses doing well alongside Menagerie. “Laurens Street is the heartbeat of Aiken,” Meghan said. “Aiken’s best shopping, eating, and celebrating is all done on Laurens or nearby. Small businesses, in turn, are the pulse of Aiken. I am proud of Aiken and what we are. We have an excellent group of merchants in Aiken that care for each other as well as the growth of our town. Our Aiken Downtown Association is so passionate about making opportunities, and our City Hall is so welcoming and easy to work with. Aiken’s viability depends on its locals as well as our tourists. So we hope that everyone will always shop local and small every chance that they get!” 803.226.0357
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Enrich your lifestyle at the Green Boundary Club, where you can enjoy handcrafted cocktails, divine dinners, and even an evening stay after the Aiken Steeplechase, The Masters, or any other of the many traditional Aiken events. Take a sip of the community found within the walls of their historical Georgian Style residence—with delicious food, exquisite accommodations, sporting games, and more, it’s unlike anything else in town.
To learn more about Membership & Private Events, contact Jacob Cyr, General Manager at the Green Boundary Club.
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G R E E N B O U N D A R YC L U B . C O M
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Authentic: Betty Ryberg F O R A I K E N LO C A L B E T T Y RY B E R G — whose family has called this town home for over four decades— Hitchcock Woods is one of the best parts about living in Aiken. She can’t tell you the number of miles that her feet have pounded out on the sandy trails, but she can tell you about how the beauty and vastness of the urban forest turned her into a long-distance runner. “I would go down to Hitchcock Woods intending to run just five miles, but then I’d get lost,” Betty said. “A five-mile run would turn into a ten-mile run, and next thing I knew, I became a long-distance runner by default. It’s just so pleasant in the woods and it has everything from cliffs to Spanish moss—even quicksand! Those woods have kept me healthy for a long time.” While she has spent hundreds of hours running countless miles through Hitchcock Woods, it’s just one of her favorite places in Aiken. Outside of the woods, Betty finds the downtown area the most charming area of town, and it’s where she likes to show off just what makes Aiken special to her family and friends who come to visit. “I always take my out of town guests downtown when they come to visit,” Betty said. “It’s filled with locally owned, owner-operated stores and restaurants, particularly on Laurens Street and in The Alley.”
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LEARN MORE ABOUT FIG AUTHENTIC AT FIGAIKEN.COM
AUTHENTIC Leading the way through innovation and example.
Waiting at a restaurant or having to stand in line to check out at a boutique is never something Betty minds. In fact, she loves it! To her, it means that business is booming and that things are going well for that local owner. She wholeheartedly believes in supporting the small businesses in town because they are part of what makes Aiken so unique. “More often than not, the owner is the one that greets you when you’re in their shop or helps you check out,” said Betty. “What you see there is somebody that is vested in their shop and in our town. It benefits all of us to have local businesses flourish.” Another place that Betty likes to take visitors is to the Aiken County Animal Shelter, where she has been a regular volunteer for years. She and her husband foster soon-to-be-adopted dogs from the shelter to help prepare and get them ready to go home with their forever family. “We’re like a camp counselor for these foster dogs,” Betty said. “We work with them to get them excited, healthy, and sleeping well so that they can transition easily to a new home. It’s so rewarding. Adopting a dog is beneficial both to the community and to the family that’s adopting them—it’s great for everyone involved.”
There’s something special about each of the seasons in Aiken, but the season that Betty enjoys the most starts on Thanksgiving morning and goes through New Year’s Eve. The season kicks off with One Table, which is a free community Thanksgiving dinner that Betty and her family have volunteered at throughout the years. It’s open to the public and everyone is welcome to attend and to enjoy a Thanksgiving dinner together. “One Table is one of my favorite events of the year,” Betty said. “It’s a wonderful event that is open to everyone in our community. It’s a unifying event—one of the kindest, most hilariously fun, inclusive events. You’re outside serving friends, both old and new, and you’re just together with your community for one day over one meal. My family and I participate in this and the best part? Everyone is full afterwards and you don’t have to cook at your own home!” From there, the holiday season is in full swing and it’s this time of year that Betty believes Aiken truly shines as an incredible town as the community shows off its best self. There are dozens of events to attend, everyone’s social calendar is full, and Aiken is filled with good cheer and twinkling lights. You’ll find lights everywhere from Hopelands Gardens during their annual Christmas in Hopelands event to the luminaries
that line the streets of downtown during Night of 1,000 Lights. “I do love downtown, especially The Alley, at Christmas time,” Betty said. “You have Night of 1,000 Lights, which is beautiful. It’s a time where you see people and businesses at their best. Windows are decorated, there’s the town’s Christmas tree, caroling, lots of parades, and so much more. We know how to do Christmas right in Aiken! It starts the day after Thanksgiving and goes right on through Christmas.” From unifying events like One Table and the holiday season through to volunteer opportunities, Betty says that there’s a place for everyone in town to get involved, find friends, and give back to their community. Volunteering is her number one recommendation to discover just what there is to love here. “When we first moved to Aiken, we didn’t know anyone,” Betty said. “The first time that I raised my hand to volunteer for something was out of loneliness, and it turned out to be the best thing! What a great way to meet people! We have been stunned by how open and receptive people are in town. The best way to keep people included in Aiken is to extend a hand of friendship. That hand of friendship opens the door to show them just how amazing our town is!”
LEARN MORE ABOUT FIG AUTHENTIC AT FIGAIKEN.COM
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Try out a Pedego bike for yourself! Stop by their shop to take a test ride on one of their electric bikes. Choose from 17 different eBike models and find the perfect fit for you and your date.
Pedego Aiken owner, Coker Day, and his wife Caroline love to adventure around town on their tandem bike!
Pedal—or cruise!—your way into a fun date night in downtown Aiken with your significant other this spring. Whether you choose to pedal together on a tandem bike or on your own bike, these comfortable, user-friendly electric bikes will have your arriving to your destination in style. 14
4 019 PAV I LI O N PA S S , A I K E N
803. 226.9007
PEDEGOAIKEN .COM
From the color of the ink to the texture of the paper, your invitations will reflect the overall vision that you have for your event. Give your guest a hint of what to expect with your invitation—a formal wedding, an outdoor engagement shower, or a sweet bridal brunch—your invitation will provide your guests a first look at your event. Make it count!
Weddings Corporate events Marketing Branding Letterpress Producers of Fig Aiken & Fig Columbia
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10am–5:30pm Monday–Wednesday 10am–6pm Thursday 10am–5:30pm Friday 10am–5pm Saturday Closed Sunday Retailer
Springtime in Aiken is filled with endless outdoor events from Aiken Steeplechase to the Aiken Horse Show, polo matches, and more. Grab a Scout bag—they’re perfect to hold blankets for cool spring mornings and water bottles for warm afternoons in the sun. And visit Pitter Patter Children’s Boutique for the best spring clothing and accessories for your child!
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131 L AU R E N S S T R E E T S W
803.643.8000
P I T T E R P AT T E R A I K E N . C O M
Not only does luxury real estate agent Deirdre Stoker Vaillancourt find you just the right home to call your own, but she helps you feel at home in Aiken and our community, both before and long after the deal is closed. She will expertly navigate you through the home buying process as she puts her connections, her knowledge, and her lifelong equestrian lifestyle to use for you. You’ll rest assured knowing that you made the right real estate decision when you choose to work with Deirdre!
14 2 L A U R E N S S T R E E T S W
803.640.4591
Deirdre’s clothes provided by Equine Divine.
AIKENSCPROPERTIES.COM
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Learn more by visiting their website or by contacting John Keller, PGA Director of Golf at 803.648.2442
During golf’s most exciting week of the year, Masters Week, become a member for a day at The Reserve Club, located just 15 miles from Augusta National. You’ll enjoy exclusive access to the Club and an unforgettable experience with one of two packages. T H E V I P PA C K A G E — U N L I M I T E D G O L F & H O S P I TA L I T Y April 7–April 12 | $425 + 8% tax per person, per day T H E C LU B PA C K A G E — 1 8 H O L E S & LU N C H April 4–April 13 | $240 + 8% tax per person, per day
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3000 RESERVE CLUB DRIVE
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T H E R E S E R V E C L U B AT W O O D S I D E . C O M
What is the difference between TLC Medical Centre’s cannabidiol powder and CBD oil, hemp oil, or other hemp-derived products? TLC Medical Centre's Cannabidiol (>98% powder) is a high-purity, synthetic cannabidiol that is not derived from hemp. It is the active ingredient of an FDA-approved drug product (EpidiolexŽ), and is considered a drug by the FDA. Our source for this powder is currently the only FDA-registered, CGMP-compliant API manufacturer in the world that is offering this product. The cannabidiol content is verified by purity testing (assay) and has specifications and controls for impurity levels. CBD oil, hemp oil, and many products marketed as having CBD are hemp derived and may contain CBD along with a number of other chemical compounds, called cannabinoids. These are 19 0 C R E P E M Y R T L E D R I V E
803.648.7800
sometimes referred to as full-spectrum or broad-spectrum hemp products. They do not meet the requirements of section 503A of the FD&C Act for use as a bulk drug substance in compounding. Therefore, CBD oil, hemp oil and similar hemp-based products marketed as containing CBD cannot be lawfully used in compounded medications according to current U.S. law. This high-purity cannabidiol can be compounded for pain and inflammation in common conditions including the following but not limited to joint and muscle aches and pain, anxiety, panic disorder, PTSD, OCD, sleep disorders, and compounds for pets as well. If you are suffering from chronic pain and/or inflammation and need help, come make an appointment with Zoom H. Heaton, an integrative and functional pharmacist who can help guide you to better health.
ZOOMINGR X.COM
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This home is currently for sale. To see the full gallery of the house, visit figaiken.com.
Taking flowers to a client’s home is one of the best! Homes nurture memories and make the good life in Aiken even better! 308 Willow Lake is one of those homes. From raising a family to raising a glass at celebrations, this home has a rich history. New memories are about to begin. Will you be a part of them? Contact REALTOR Nancy Cerra to step in. 20
C O N TA C T N A N C Y AT 8 0 3 . 2 9 5 . 3 4 2 4 O R B Y E M A I L AT N A N C Y@ N A N C YC E R R A . C O M
Fitness Center Golf Tennis Juniors Swimming Dining Kidz Zone
Home to 45 holes of golf, 10 tournament-class tennis courts, a 25-yard swimming pool, and colonial style clubhouse, Woodside Plantation Country Club has all of the fun activities and amenities that you’ve been looking for in Aiken. Enjoy the satisfaction of a shared sense of heritage and family traditions along with laid-back southern charm with a membership at the Club this year. 1 0 0 0 W O O D S I D E P L A N TAT I O N D R I V E 8 03.6 49. 33 8 3 C L U B C O R P. C O M / C L U B S / W O O D S I D E - P L A N TAT I O N - C O U N T R Y- C L U B
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T H A N K YO U , C H I L D R E N ’ S P L A C E , F O R B E I N G OUR FIRST FIG AIKEN SOCIAL MISSION PA RT N E R! Take a look back at each of our highlights on the incredible work that they do in our community by visiting our website at figaiken.com. We’re looking forward to introducing you to our 2020 Social Mission Partner! Learn more about how you can donate to the ‘Stand Up For Children’ capital campaign for Children’s Place by visiting their website, childrensplaceinc.org.
Social Mission: Children’s Place, Inc. “’Stand Up for Children’ is our capital campaign to raise funds for a new building,” said Peggy Ford, Executive Director of Children’s Place, Inc. “We have already purchased the property, nearly 9 acres at the corner of Beaufort Street and Willow Run Road. Without ‘grandfathering’ into state licensing requirements, our re-purposed church home would not be acceptable for our many programs.” Today, Children’s Place must turn away children and families it might otherwise help had it not outgrown the 100-yearold buildings the staff struggles to work in and maintain. According to Ford, a larger, modern space will help make an even greater impact in the 5-county area they serve.
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The new facility will be approximately 16,000 square feet, 3 times the current space, and designed specifically to support children and families. That bigger space will enable the re-launch of infant and after-school programs; serve more children with separate classrooms; provide dedicated therapy and counseling rooms for children and families; create a conference room for more parenting class sessions; serve more meals from a modern kitchen with more storage; and add a large, efficient laundry room and more bathrooms for both children and adults.
families that may never have lived that experience. While the program is a perfect fit with our existing services, it can’t pay for the space for increased staff needed to bring it to reality,” Ford said. “Our program funding enjoys widespread community support,” Ford added, “...including Celebrity Waiter Night, coming up on May 11. It helps pay for our therapeutic child care, but not our new building.” For more information, please visit childrensplaceinc.org, or call 803.641.4144.
“Our programs are expanding, most recently the SafeCare program, funded by The Duke Endowment, to help us teach good parenting techniques in
L E A R N M O R E A B O U T F I G S O C I A L M I S S I O N AT F I G A I K E N . C O M
DYK: Kitfox made the switch! They now hand out bamboo-made tooth brushes rather than plastic to share the love with our planet.
At Kitfox Pediatric Dentistry, you experience the thoughtfulness and care of their team from the moment you walk inside the waiting room. With a complimentary coffee and tea station for the adults to partake in to the game room and movie theatre for the kids to enjoy, everyone feels loved while waiting for their appointment. Dr. Thomas Akins, DMD Board Certified Specialist in Dentistry for Infants, Children, & Teens
13 9 5 S I LV E R B L U F F R O A D
803.393.4550
K I T F O X D E N TA L . C O M
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Aiken Senior Life Services is celebrating fifty years of active, continuous service to older adults in Aiken County. They’re committed to helping Aiken seniors age in place and give them a sense of independence. Each day, their clients gather to enjoy fellowship, education, music, wellness activities and a hot, nutritious meal at their agency. They also provide co-ordinated transportation services in and around Aiken. Connecting older adults to vital programs that can help them stay healthy and active is what Aiken Senior Life Services does best. Get involved with this non-profit organization today and help make a difference for a senior in our community!
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Both volunteers and donors are major contributors to Aiken Senior Life Services! Learn more about opportunities to get involved by visiting aikensenior.org.
1 5 9 M O R G A N S T R E E T, N W
803.6 4 8. 54 47
AIKENSENIOR.ORG
Treat yourself to rejuvenation and tranquility at Carriage House Inn where after a night out on the town, you can wake up slowly to the natural light filtering in through the windows, enjoy a cup of tea or coffee as you catch up on your reading, and leisurely start your day after a wonderful night’s sleep. Their luxurious rooms provide the best place to relax and treat yourself this spring. 37 uniquely decorated accommodations Walking distance of the dining, shopping, & cultural activities of downtown Aiken Complimentary breakfasts & chocolate chip cookies
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S E RV I C E S O F F E R E D : Space planning Architectural Design Kitchen & Bath Design Renovation Design Construction Management
Decoration
Furniture, fabric, art, accessory, and rug procurement
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Meet Catherine Hersacher, owner of Bespoke Fine Interiors, and her new designer, Katharine Hanes. They believe interior design should be as unique as each of their clients. As a team, Catherine Hersacher brings 20+ years of design experience to the foundation which Katharine Hanes is building upon. The brand and trademark of Bespoke is custom and quality; the two designers have this in mind at all times while working on both residential and commercial projects. They put your ideas and your goals first and aim for a complete project that exceeds your expectations.
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Owner and menswear expert Brent Skinner travels the world and will travel to your home or office to make the custom shopping experience as pleasant and efficient as possible. When you sit down with him to hand select every detail of your custom garment under his skilled guidance, you can expect to receive nothing less than the best service and the highest quality clothing that perfectly suits you and your lifestyle. 1 0 0 3 G E R VA I S S T R E E T, S U I T E A , C O L U M B I A
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Personal Planning
Business Planning
Wealth Management Solutions
Eagle Strategies, LLC
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Andrew Doran, a holistic financial planner and investment advisor with over two decades of experience, guides business owners and families through making the necessary strategic decisions to create, manage, and protect their wealth for life. He loves his clients, so he believes in both educating and empowering them to make the right decisions for the future and their legacy. Andrew Doran and Thomas Herlong, CLU速, ChFC速, CLTC Registered Representatives offering securities through NYLIFE Securities LLC., (member FINRA/SIPC, A licensed Insurance Agency). 6100 Fairview Road, Suite 400, Charlotte, NC 28210, 704-371-8500. Financial Advisors offering investment advisory services through Eagle Strategies LLC., A Registered Investment Advisor. Herlong & Doran Financial Group, LLC is not owned or operated by Eagle Strategies, LLC or its affiliates. Nautilus services offered through Andrew Doran Member Agent, The Nautilus Group速 a service of New York Life Insurance Company.
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2 37 PA R K AV E N U E S W, S U ITE 2 2 2
803.262.4459
HERLONGANDDOR AN.COM
From left: Andrew Doran, Marna M. Brooks, Maggie Rosier, Caroline Herlong Turner, Thomas Herlong
At 3 Monkeys Fine Gifts, you can create a bridal registry that is filled with beautiful, unique items that will make your first married house feel like a home. Their team will walk you through the process of building a registry that has just the things you need and love on it, and from which your friends and family can easily shop. Table Top Designs Clothing & Jewelry
Home Accessories Paper Designs
Personal Care & Candles
Baby Collections
Create your free bridal registry in person at the store or online: your friends and family can shop online, in store, or over the phone for your gifts!
141 L A U R E N S S T R E E T S W
803.648.7592
3MONKEYSAIKEN.COM
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Dr. Shawn Velez & Dr. Jennibeth Robles-Velez
Meet Dr. Shawn Velez and Dr. Jennibeth Robles-Velez, the husband and wife team at Advanced Endodontics, Oral and Facial Specialists. When a tooth is damaged your first option should be to try and save the tooth through endodontics. Dr. Velez offers the Gentlewave treatment option. If the tooth can not be saved, Dr.Robles can evaluate you for replacement with a dental implant. Together, they provided multispecialty care to save or replace teeth in one location by using the most advanced medical, dental, and surgical procedures in the industry while making you feel comfortable and relaxed in their care.
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20 TEA OLIVE COURT
803.648.0056
SMILEAIKEN.COM
Photography by Moose Pro Photo
V I S I TA I K E N S C .C O M
M A R K YO U R C A L E N D A R F O R T H E 1 0 4 T H A N N U A L A I K E N H O R S E S H OW The Horse Show Grounds in Hitchcock Woods April 3–5 | 9am–late afternoon | Tickets: Free General admission donation for vehicles is $10 for Trail Maintenance
E A C H S P R I N G , hundreds of horses and riders and thousands of spectators descend upon our beloved Hitchcock Woods in the middle of downtown Aiken for the annual Aiken Horse Show. Now in its 104th year, this show continues the tradition of bringing out some of the best riders around to showcase their talents to help raise funds to maintain Hitchcock Woods. Hitchcock Woods is one of the largest urban forests in the country, and it’s a place that we all enjoy visiting throughout the year. It serves as a beautiful setting for hikers, equestrians, dog walkers, runners, nature lovers, and more to experience on a daily basis from sunrise to sundown. It is preserved 803.642.0528
and managed by the Hitchcock Woods Foundation, a non-profit organization that exists to maintain the urban forest. A social event not to be missed in our community, the Aiken Horse Show is the signature program and fundraising event for the Hitchcock Woods Foundation. It’s a 3-day event that brings riders and their horses to Aiken along with countless spectators that either hike or drive the 1-mile path into Hitchcock Woods to the Aiken Horse Show Grounds. The Show has something for riders of all ages. Beginning on Friday morning promptly at 9am with the Aiken Hounds Welcome Stakes, it continues throughout the weekend with Hunter
HITCHCOCK WOODS.ORG
classes, Children’s classes, Foxhunting classes, Sidesaddle classes, and even family and costume classes. In addition to the riding events, the Aiken Horse Show features a Picnic in the Woods on Friday, a merchandise tent, and a Silent Auction, all of which help raise money to maintain the forest that we all get so much enjoyment from. Learn more about The Aiken Horse Show online at aikenhorseshow.org and learn more about how you can support the Hitchcock Woods Foundation at hitchcockwoods.org.
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Aiken’s Newest Tradition I N T H E M I D - 1 8 0 0 s , the Legare-Morgan House was a quaint, charming yellow cottage “just before the bridge” and was a part of the original Winter Colony of Aiken, South Carolina. Today, the house has been impeccably restored to its original splendor and is a welcoming, fully furnished events venue with overnight accommodations available to rent. Take a step back in history and experience all that No. 10 Downing has to offer you. Tucked away in historic downtown Aiken, steps away from the hustle and bustle of Laurens Street and the beauty of Hitchcock Woods, No. 10 Downing has the perfect central location for guests to enjoy. The possibilities are endless when it comes to events as No. 10 Downing makes for a great location for weddings, receptions, birthday celebrations, bridal brunches, lectures, fundraisers, and more. You can host up to 125 people for a cocktail party and up to 20 for a seated meal. There’s a wonderful flow throughout the house that allows for your guests to easily mingle with one another. Set up your cocktail reception inside the home or throw an elegant Southern garden party outside in the garden at No. 10 Downing. No matter where on the property you choose to celebrate, there’s a charming and historical backdrop ready to host your special occasion.
Meet Number 10’s mascot, Old English Sheepdog Grand Champion ‘Kipling’
Beyond the event venue rental side, you can also rent No. 10 Downing’s Main House, Carriage House, or the entire complex for yourself or for your visiting guests. The incredible amenities offered will make you feel like you’re at an all-inclusive resort as they offer overnight guests a butler, a guest concierge service, a car service with a driver, a horse driven carriage tour from the front door, professional in-house therapeutic massage, and more. It’s Southern hospitality at its finest as all of No. 10 Downing’s guests receive a warm welcome and wonderful amenities to enjoy while in town. Overnight guests can easily take advantage of the close proximity to the heart of downtown Aiken. You can wake up in the morning and walk down the street to grab a cup of coffee and a bite to eat before wandering through and shopping the locally owned boutiques. Those who endeavor a more adventurous morning can head down the street to Hitchcock Woods for a morning of hiking. Guests can explore the best of what Aiken has to offer just by walking out the front door! Whether you choose to host your next event at No. 10 Downing, or rent out the accommodations for you or your out of town guests, the beauty and historical charm of Legare-Morgan House awaits you.
TO LEARN MORE, VISIT 10DOWNINGEVENTS.COM
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R E S E RV E YO U R S P O T NOW FOR THE
Summer 2020 Food & Drink Issue
Contact Erin Truitt at 803.507.1098 or figaiken@byfarr.com to secure your page today!
Spring 2020 events AIKEN COUNTY FA R M E R S M A R K E T Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays Visit our local Aiken County Farmers Market to find fresh local produce, baked goods, and crafts each week. One of the oldest farmers markets in the state of South Carolina, it’s always worth a weekly visit to find delicious ingredients to use in your kitchen. visitaikensc.com
B R O A DWAY ’ S N E X T H!T MUSICAL March 31 Whose Line Is It Anyway? meets The Tony Awards in this musical at UofSC Aiken’s Etherredge Center. Filled with spontaneous scenes and songs, tons of laughter, and plenty of audience participation, this is one fun night at the theatre. usca.edu
7 8 TH A N N U A L A I K E N T R I A L S March 14 The horses are ready to run! Spend a day at the Aiken Training Track with friends, family, and a picnic to share as you try to pick which horses will win, place, and show in each contest. aikentrainingtrack.com
A U G U S TA G R E E N J A C K E T S 2020 SEASON April–August The Augusta Greenjackets take the field for their 2020 Season in mid-April for a spring and summer filled with baseball, new memories, and plenty of fun times with your family. With games and special promotions throughout the week each week, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to enjoy America’s favorite pastime. milb.com/augusta
RAILROAD MUSIC WITH “ V I N Y L DJ ” D O U G C A L L A H A N March 14, April 11, May 9 Stop by the Aiken Visitors Center and Train Museum every 2nd Saturday of the month for Railroad Music with “Vinyl DJ” Doug Callahan. 5 4 TH A I K E N S P R I N G STEEPLECHASE March 21 The tradition continues this spring with the 54th running of the Aiken Spring Steeplechase! Dress up in your finest sundress and hat or seersucker and bowtie, and spend a Saturday afternoon at the races with your friends. aikensteeplechase.com
D E AT H BY G O L F AT A I K E N C O M M U N I T Y P L AY H O U S E April 2–5 & 9–11 What happens when an escaped convict, an anxious bride, a scheming new husband, and a suspicious attorney all convene at Grandpa’s house? Find out in Death By Golf at the Aiken Community Playhouse this spring! aikencommunitytheatre.org
ROADS N’ RAILS ( S O N G S N ’ TA L E S ) April 4, May 2 Stop by the Aiken Visitors Center and Train Museum every 1st Saturday of the month for live music. You’ll catch some railroad songs and a little bit of country music by Roads n’ Rails (Songs n’ Tales). THE MASTERS April 9–12 A tradition unlike any other, The Masters returns to Augusta National this April for the 84th tournament. Whether you’re attending the tournament, playing a round of golf at one of our local golf courses, or partaking in the festivities, it’s always a fun week! masters.com R U N U N I T E D H A L F M A R AT H O N April 25 Set your goal, log your training miles, and tackle this 13.11 mile course that winds through historic Aiken around beautiful live oak trees, horse trails, training tracks, the Aiken Polo field, and more! The race also includes a 5K and a kids fun run. aikenco-op.org/RunUnited A N N I E AT A I K E N C O M M U N I T Y P L AY H O U S E May 14–17 & 21–23 With equal measures of pluck and positivity, little orphan Annie charms everyone’s hearts despite a next-tonothing start in 1930s New York City. Catch this family-friendly play at the Aiken Community Playhouse in May! aikencommunitytheatre.org
ISSUE 4 / SPRING 2020 / THE LOVE AIKEN ISSUE
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Pack your swimsuit and your sunglasses, and escape to the sea, sand, and sun along the coastline at Waikiki Village Retro Motel.
Built in 1963, Waikiki Village was one of the original doo-wop hotels along the Grand Strand of Myrtle Beach.
A RETRO MOTEL
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15 0 0 S O C E A N B O U LE VA R D, M Y R TLE B E AC H
8 4 3.4 4 8 . 8 4 31
WA I K I K I MYRTLE B E ACH .CO M
F R I D AY & S AT U R D AY J U N E 1 9 – 2 0 P R O WA K E B O A R D E X H I B I T I O N | R A F T- U P P R O WA K E B O A R D L E S S O N S ( O N S A L E N OW ! )
Spotlight: South Carolina Rough Riders I N 2 0 0 4 , a group of teenagers started a grassroots effort to bring a top professional wakeboarder to South Carolina. The effort was a success, and the group dubbed “The Rough Riders” hosted two world famous wakeboard athletes for a weekend on Lake Murray. Now, sixteen years later, those teenagers have grown up (somewhat) but they’re still known as the SC Rough Riders. Their
weekend on the lake has become the largest annual gathering of spectators and wakeboarders in the Southeast, now known as Weekend With the Pros. Every summer, this event brings lessons with pro wakeboarders, riding exhibitions, in-water boat demos, and a huge boat raft up to Lake Murray. Year after year, their mission remains the same—provide a great family friendly experience connecting our state with the watersports lifestyle.
Just 45 minutes up the road from Aiken in Leesville, South Carolina, Weekend With the Pros draws riders and wakeboard enthusiasts from around the state for just one weekend each June, but it instills a love of watersports that lasts a lifetime. Plan a day trip this summer to spend the day on Lake Murray and catch the Wakeboard Exhibition or purchase a lesson for yourself (or your child!) to learn how to wakeboard from a pro.
T O R E S E R V E YO U R L E S S O N , V I S I T S C R O U G H R I D E R S . C O M O R C A L L 8 0 3 . 2 0 0 .1 0 0 4
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