No matter where you are—on the mountaintop or in the valley—Jesus offers forgiveness, power, and hope. When you join us for Easter at Cedar Creek Church, you’ll experience uplifting worship, an inspiring message, and a celebration for all.
Sunday, April 20 at 9 & 11 AM
Embrace a new season of faith and awaken your passion for Jesus!
It is hard to believe that April is already here! Tax info needs to be given to the accountant so we can pack for our Masters Week break, and our cars are covered in pollen. April’s theme is Invest, and here’s a look at what’s inside:
Explore how Nick Bertelli transitioned from professional equestrian to financial advisor, applying his discipline, strategy and long-term planning skills to wealth management.
Learn how Christopher Emanuel invests in Aiken’s youth through mentorship, education and faith at the Second Baptist Church Teen After School Center. This article explores how the center provides a safe space for students to grow, build confidence and break cycles of hardship through tailored programs in cultural awareness, education and workforce development. Discover Emanuel’s inspiring journey, local youth's challenges and how the community can invest in this transformative mission.
Meet Sheri Osburn, the woman behind CertaPro Painters in Aiken, Augusta and Columbia, who brings a fresh perspective to the home improvement industry. In this article, discover how she built her business on trust, transparency and quality craftsmanship.
Discover how lifelong friends John McFall and Jordan Anderson turned their shared passion for landscaping into FullTilt Landscapes, a thriving business dedicated to creating stunning outdoor spaces.
As for me, I have a birthday with a zero at the end next month, so I have spent much of the last year investing in my health through diet and exercise, including running (and by running, I mean jogging very slowly). I plan to start my next decade in better shape than ever. Feel free to hold me accountable if you are out and about in Aiken and see me scarfing down an ice cream cone! See you next month
GAYLE BRYAN, PUBLISHER
PUBLISHER
Gayle Bryan | gayle.bryan@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Nikita Hanif | nikita.hanif@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Carolyn McAvoy | carolyn.mcavoy@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Ashley Elvis
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Nikita Hanif, Jessica Lawrence
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Rebecca Judy
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
Braithwaite McMillian Grimes - Injury Attorneys and Counselors at Law, LLC serves the entire CSRA with more than 40 years of combined experience. Our attorneys are former prosecutors, public defenders, and insurance attorneys that use their experience to help clients find creative solutions to difficult problems and deliver results in Personal Injury, DUI, Criminal, Motor Vehicle Accident, Commercial Trucking, and Nursing Home Neglect or Negligence cases. Attorneys Licensed in SC and GA.
1: Lyddie Hansen was all smiles for the kick off of the Antique Show! 2: Sheri Scarborough leading the Mardi Gras parade. 3: Toni Stilp and friend enjoyed perusing all the fabulous finds at the Antique Show. 4: Eleanor Togneri and Pam Patron were so helpful with the success of Fashion for Compassion! 5: Franny Weaver and her friend, Nancy, were stunning in their attire for Fashion for Compassion. 6: Dressed to the nines to celebrate Mardi Gras in Downtown Aiken. 7: Martha Wise, organizer of Fashion for Compassion, truly loves supporting the Equine Rescue of Aiken. Photography by Nikita
had a wonderful evening at the Aiken Center for the Arts Antique Show. 9: Even William
in Downtown Aiken. 10: Ed and Kay
went all out for
enjoyed a night out together exploring all the exquisite antiques. 11: Deborah
and Kathy Dutton enjoyed catching up and watching the fashion show. 12: Byron Bush is always ready to bring the fun and the music to any event! 13: All decked out for the Mardi Gras Parade. 14: Epitome of class and charisma (and a little bit of sass) in her stylish fascinator.
ARTICLE BY JESSICA LAWRENCE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA JUDY
Lifelong Friends Turn Passion for Landscaping into a Growing Business
Two childhood friends from the heart of horse country are making a name for themselves in the landscaping realm. John McFall and Jordan Anderson grew up admiring the beauty of idyllic Aiken with its designer homes and lush gardens. Together they are continuing to enhance the aesthetic of the community by launching their own full-service landscaping business, FullTilt Landscapes.
“I have always appreciated nature and design,” said McFall. “I realized early on in my life that this was my passion. In 2012, I started a small LLC due to an interest in landscaping. As it grew through subsequent years, my lifelong friend, Jordan, became my business partner.”
Jordan Anderson had extensive experience honing his craft with other landscaping companies, and according to McFall, he also carried an insatiable work ethic. Their partnership developed organically, based on trust, shared goals and a desire to serve the needs of local clients.
FullTilt specializes in comprehensive landscape design, professional installation (including hardscapes and softscapes), irrigation services and ongoing yard maintenance. They are dedicated to ensuring their clients’ properties look their best all year long.
“Our goal is to design stunning landscapes for your family that are also functional and low-maintenance,” said Anderson. “We listen closely to our clients' precise needs during the design process. Then we incorporate that feedback into a space that will compliment their lifestyles. Your outdoor space should be a place you truly enjoy, not another chore you avoid.”
Unlike larger landscaping companies, McFall and Anderson are involved in every element of the landscape process. They share a deep love for creating beautiful outdoor spaces paired with great attention to detail. This unique, hands-on approach ensures that each project is high-quality.
“We have employees, but we don’t subcontract other crews to manage parts of each job,” said Anderson. “This allows us as owners to treat each project as if it was our own. We are both perfectionists. When we put our name on a project, we take pride in the result being high-quality.”
Another hallmark of FullTilt’s services is the ability to be quick and efficient without sacrificing craftmanship. Between the two of them, McFall and Anderson’s experiences allow them to tackle landscape projects with a high level of precision in a condensed amount of time.
“We wanted to fill a void in the industry reported to us by clients,” said McFall. “They would reach out to a company and either hear nothing back or receive a long timeline of several months to complete their projects. We take pride in quickly meeting the needs of our clients.”
For those who think their yard might be too difficult to transform into the outdoor oasis of their dreams, McFall and Anderson can create a vision from nothing.
“I truly enjoy taking on a challenge. It’s actually my favorite aspect of this job,” said McFall. “We look at it as an opportunity to showcase our range of skills and materials to transform a property.
“How many people can say they create something beautiful every day? It’s so rewarding,” said Anderson. “We can take a basic software program and use it to design a space. Then we bring it to life with simple elements like stone, dirt, grass, concrete and plants. It transforms into the precise visual we proposed during the design phase. And, that is just incredible.”
Alicia S Kough, AAMS™ Financial Advisor
Christopher Emanuel is on a mission to shape the future of Aiken’s youth through his leadership at the Second Baptist Church Teen After School Center. This center provides a safe environment where individuality is celebrated and young people take control of their destinies despite the challenges they face. Serving students from third to twelfth grades, the program has made such an impact that former participants now return as volunteers, eager to give back to the community that once supported them.
Emanuel’s greatest motivation stems from his experience as a father. His fight to save his daughter from adoption trafficking opened his eyes to the critical need for strong male figures in the home. He saw young people in his own backyard struggling without guidance and took action. Emanuel became the director of the center seven years ago, ensuring every child feels loved and supported. His philosophy is simple: “I’m not a role model; I am a real model.” Through transparency and emotional honesty, he gives young people the guidance they need to navigate their lives.
The center operates through three key vehicles: cultural awareness, alternative education and artistic expression, each tailored to individual students. Boys’ Council and Girls’ Circle promote positive behavior and emotional intelligence, teaching
Through Mentorship, Education and Faith, The Teen After School Center Helps Students Shape their Futures.
ARTICLE BY NIKITA HANIF PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA JUDY
young people how to think rather than what to think. The gardening program introduces them to healthy eating habits while physical fitness activities build discipline and self-confidence. Entrepreneurship and workforce development programs help students recognize their strengths and plan for the future. Emanuel understands that every generation of youth requires a different approach, so he remains intentional and asks the right questions to help them find their paths.
Aiken’s youth face significant challenges, including violent crime, the absence of role models, teen pregnancy, mental health struggles and assault. Emanuel believes the key to engagement is being more interested and less interesting, truly listening to the students and creating a space where they feel seen and heard. At the center, they can decompress, have a meal and experience moments of peace, allowing them to dream beyond their circumstances. Emanuel emphasizes that once young people recognize their gifts and learn de-escalation skills, they can shift the paradigm in their households, breaking cycles of truancy, gang involvement and theft. Many are even deepening their faith and attending Fuse, the student ministry at NewSpring Church.
Students who were once underperforming and economically challenged are now thriving in elite spaces, excelling academically and embracing their potential. Emanuel encourages them to stay locked in, keep coming back and trust in God, knowing that perseverance leads to transformation. Emanuel believes through consistency, education and faith, these young people are building brighter futures for themselves and their communities.
The center’s impact, however, depends on financial support and a strong network of mentors. Emanuel invites community members to contribute by sharing their expertise through business mentorship or financial support. Those interested in supporting the center can email sbcteencenter@gmail.com.
Special thanks to The Teen After School Center sponsors and private donors:
Aiken Rotary Mentor Committee, Cold Creek Nursery, Leadership Aiken County, Second Baptist Church, Gifting Tree Foundation, GL Williams, NewSpring Church and Mrs. Diana Floyd for her unwavering support.
ARTICLE BY NIKITA HANIF PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA JUDY
LIFELONG AIKEN RESIDENTS TYLER STUART AND BRENT BATTON BRING QUALITY, RELIABILITY AND HOMETOWN PRIDE TO THEIR PRESSURE WASHING BUSINESS
Freedom House Wash has quickly become a trusted name in pressure washing for Aiken. Founded on July 4, 2023 by lifelong Aiken residents Tyler Stuart and Brent Batton, the business has a strong work ethic, dedication to quality and a passion for serving the community. Though the company is still young, Stuart and Batton have spent years honing their skills, guaranteeing that Freedom House Wash delivers top-notch service to their customers throughout the area.
“I can’t imagine being anywhere else. Aiken is my home, and I love that I get to help take care of its residents.”
Stuart’s connection to Aiken runs deep. His parents moved to the area due to his mother’s involvement in competitive horseback riding and, once here, his father started a cattle farm. Growing up on the farm, Stuart learned to work hard early on which instilled in him a strong sense of responsibility. He attended South Aiken High School, played soccer for the City of Aiken and spent his childhood attending local traditions like the Aiken Steeplechase with his family.
Stuart has always appreciated Aiken’s small-town charm and the sense of community that comes with it. He and his wife love supporting local businesses, frequently enjoying meals at their favorite downtown restaurants. For Stuart, owning a business in his hometown is a
full-circle moment. “I can’t imagine being anywhere else. Aiken is my home, and I love that I get to help take care of its residents.”
Batton, also an Aiken native and a graduate of South Aiken Baptist School, grew up in a military family raised with a deep respect for service and sacrifice. Batton learned the value of hard work early on by helping with his family’s property management business where he gained hands-on experience in home repair and maintenance. Today, Batton and his wife run a small horse farm, and they recently welcomed a baby girl in November 2024. Batton is excited about raising his daughter in the same closeknit town that shaped him. “Aiken is such a special place, and I know she will have the best life here.”
Freedom House Wash was born out of a simple but common complaint from Aiken locals, finding a business that was reliable, transparent and provided high-quality work. Stuart and Batton took this feedback seriously and built their business on honesty, punctuality and customer satisfaction.
Stuart and Batton believe in owner-operated quality and never outsource jobs, giving their customers peace of mind knowing that their projects always have an owner on site. Many of their elderly customers appreciate their willingness to help with small but essential household tasks, such as changing out smoke detector batteries once a job is completed.
“Freedom House Wash isn’t just about business; it’s about giving back.”
Freedom House Wash isn’t just about business; it’s about giving back. Both Stuart and Batton have military family backgrounds, and their deep respect for service members and first responders is evident in their work. They proudly offer military and first responder discounts as a way of saying thank you to those who serve our country.
Because both owners grew up around farms, Freedom House Wash has a specialized skill set that many other companies lack. They understand the unique cleaning needs of horse barns and trailers, keeping Aiken’s equestrian community clean and well-maintained.
Beyond barns, they provide services for homes, driveways, commercial properties, fences, decks, solar panels and more. No matter how big or small the job, they approach every project with the same level of dedication and quality.
As Aiken continues to grow, so does Freedom House Wash. With a commitment to excellence and a deep-rooted love for their hometown, Stuart and Batton are proving that a locally-owned business can make a lasting impact.
Whether it’s a small driveway cleaning or a full-scale barn wash, Freedom House Wash is dedicated to keeping Aiken looking its best, one pressure wash at a time. You can schedule your free estimate by calling 803-646-0497
Nick Bertelli’s journey to becoming a financial advisor at Raymond James is anything but conventional. He moved to Aiken in 2012, driven by his passion for horses, a love that has been a part of his life since he received his first pony at the age of six. From that moment, he knew horses would always play a significant role in his life. His dedication led him to ride and train throughout his teenage years before becoming a working student. As his skills developed, he began competing and showing professionally, training in Europe and building a successful equestrian business. Horses remain an essential part of his life, but a few years ago, he made a bold career shift that would allow him to make an impact in a new way.
Bertelli’s transition into financial services evolved from a conversation with Kathleen Sullivan, a friend and financial advisor who recognized his natural ability to care for clients, manage stress and develop long-term plans, all qualities that directly translate to financial advising. Sullivan pointed out that while Bertelli had spent years investing in people and their horses, financial planning required a similar skill set. Only instead of horses, he would be guiding people through investments, wealth management and financial security. That conversation planted a seed, and five years later, Bertelli has successfully built a career helping people navigate their financial futures.
Bertelli has a genuine passion for financial planning and emphasizes the importance of having a well-structured financial plan. He often sees people neglecting to prepare for their futures, particularly the younger generation who feel retirement seems too far away to consider seriously. However, as a financial advisor, he encourages young professionals and midlife investors to engage in conversations about long-term planning. With an
unprecedented transfer of wealth occurring from baby boomers to Gen X, millennials and Gen Z, Bertelli plays a crucial role in educating and guiding younger generations to ensure their wealth is protected and continues to grow. He also helps high-net-worth clients align their legacy planning and investment strategies with their needs and goals.
Open and honest conversations form the foundation of Bertelli’s approach to financial planning. He asks critical questions to help clients build achievable and well-structured financial plans. Young professionals benefit from these discussions by developing the discipline of saving each month, not as a restriction but as a pathway to the life they aspire to lead. He encourages them to maximize contributions to retirement plans and diversify their investment sources. As clients age, their focus naturally shifts from accumulating wealth to preserving it, which is where estate and legacy planning become increasingly important. Bertelli works closely with clients as they approach retirement, helping create a strategy for income replacement, determining which assets to draw from and optimizing tax efficiency. Every client has a unique vision for retirement which is what makes financial advising so rewarding for Bertelli. Each day presents new challenges, and every client’s story is different. Bertelli says, “Successful financial planning starts with a conversation.” Bertelli also addresses the current financial climate and the impact of rising interest rates. He notes that a year ago an investor could get 5% to 5.5% in interest, now 4% to 4.30%, which has led many to hold onto large amounts of cash rather than investing in the market. While cash provides a sense of security, Bertelli reminds clients that cash is not an investment. It serves short-term goals and emergency needs, but it won’t generate long-term wealth or keep up with inflation. He educates clients on the importance of staying in the market over time rather than trying to time the market. By strategically investing cash at regular intervals, clients can take advantage of growth opportunities and long-term, interest-bearing investments.
Bertelli credits his success to working with a great team that prioritizes listening and understanding each client’s needs, goals and concerns. Financial planning is built on three key pillars: creating a strategy, implementing it and monitoring its progress. They also assess insurance needs, risk management, education planning, tax strategies and estate planning to create comprehensive financial roadmaps for clients. A crucial part of his success is his partnership with Lisa Boone, a Certified Financial Planner with over 25 years of experience.
Looking back on his journey, Bertelli is grateful for the opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives by helping them prepare for their financial futures. Whether in the equestrian world or financial planning, his approach remains the same: long-term strategy, careful planning and a commitment to guiding clients toward success.
Nick Bertelli, AAMS, is a Financial Advisor with Raymond James & Associates, INC., member of the New York Stock Exchange/ SIPC. His branch is located at 1325 Green Street in Augusta, GA and their number is 706-821-2642.
“OPEN AND HONEST CONVERSATIONS
FORM THE FOUNDATION OF BERTELLI’S APPROACH TO FINANCIAL PLANNING.”
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The spring is a new opportunity to turn your home from “so-so” to “whoa!” Whether your exterior or interior needs a refresh, we’re the Pros to help you do it right. Let CertaPro Painters® of the CSRA show you the power of transformation. Schedule your FREE on-site or remote estimate today.
Fall is a new opportunity to turn your home from “so-so” to “whoa!” Whether your exterior or interior needs a refresh, we’re the Pros to help you do it right. Let CertaPro Painters® of show you the power of transformation. Schedule your FREE on-site or remote estimate today.
Ask About Certapro’s New Flexible Payment Options
ASK HOW YOU CAN GET $350 OFF YOUR INTERIOR OR EXTERIOR PAINT JOB!
Each CertaPro Painters® business is independently owned and operated.
Sheri Osburn is a powerhouse in the trade industry, owning and operating CertaPro Painters in Aiken, Augusta and Columbia. As a woman in a male-dominated field, she brings a unique perspective and an undeniable edge. She understands exactly how homeowners feel when embarking on a home improvement project because she has been on the other side, experiencing subpar service and the frustrations that come with it. Determined to change that narrative, she built her business on the foundation of giving clients control, ensuring transparency and delivering high-quality work.
Osburn believes that homeowners should always have a say in the products used in their projects, and she prioritizes giving her clients full control over every aspect of the job. Her confidence in her team and the quality of their work is evident in the impressive warranties she offers. Unlike many contractors who require upfront payments, she stands by her work so firmly that once a contract is signed, no payment is required until the project is complete. This approach not only reassures homeowners but reinforces her commitment to customer satisfaction.
Her passion extends far beyond just painting, and she takes a creative approach to home improvement. Osburn knows that redesigning and painting a home is a significant investment, and choosing a reputable service is crucial. A well-executed project doesn’t just enhance aesthetics; it increases the value of a home. With this in mind, she makes it a priority to help clients set realistic budgets while assessing the home inside and out. She identifies potential issues such as rust, improper water runoff and wood rot problems that, if ignored, can impact the long-term value of a property.
Osburn is deeply involved in every step of the process, guaranteeing homeowners receive more than just a fresh coat of paint. She collaborates with clients on all aspects of interior and exterior design, helping them curate spaces that reflect their personalities and lifestyles. Her expertise
“Her passion extends far beyond just painting, and she takes a creative approach to home improvement.”
extends beyond color selection; she assists with everything from cabinets and light fixtures to décor and layout. Her ultimate goal is to guide her clients toward their dream home, creating spaces that feel both functional and beautiful.
Since taking ownership of the business in 2008, she has developed a team of highly trained professionals who follow a strict process to ensure top-tier results. She manages twelve specialized crews, each trained for different types of projects, from residential repaints to large-scale commercial jobs. She takes great care in matching the right crew to each project, ensuring the work is done efficiently and to the highest standard. Her dedication to quality doesn’t stop at the job site. Her production managers oversee every project, maintaining clear communication between her team and homeowners. This eliminates confusion, keeps projects on track and keeps clients in the loop.
Her team is committed to removing the stress that often comes with home improvement projects. They encourage homeowners to ask questions and voice any concerns, creating an environment where clients feel heard. Osburn cares deeply about each job being done correctly, knowing that a well-executed project brings lasting value and satisfaction. She approaches her work with purpose and confirms that homeowners feel confident and excited about their investment.
Through her leadership, Osburn has built more than just a business, she has created a service that homeowners can trust. Her dedication to excellence, transparency and client satisfaction has set CertaPro Painters apart in the industry. By prioritizing quality craftsmanship and strong relationships, she continues to redefine what it means to be a leader in the trade world.
APRIL 3RD
Aiken in The Alley-An Evening of Jazz
The Alley | 6:00 PM
Join Matthew Henderson, Visual & Performing Arts Lecturer, and some special guests for a lively evening of jazz. Part of the "Aiken in the Alley" series, this event features performances and insightful discussions led by USC Aiken faculty, blending music with conversation in a unique setting.
APRIL 8TH
Aiken Art Walk
Downtown Aiken | 5:00 PM
Immerse yourself in Aiken’s artsy side during the Aiken Art Walk, held every year. Stroll along Laurens Street, enjoy live performances and discover one-of-a-kind artisan goods. This free, self-guided tour highlights local talent, public art and downtown charm—an unforgettable celebration of Aiken's creative community.
APRIL 18TH-19TH
Pickin' in The Peaches Bluegrass Festival
Western Carolina State Fairgrounds | 4:00 PM
Experience two incredible days of Bluegrass, Jamgrass and Americana music from award-winning bands! Enjoy creative workshops, jam circles, local artisans and other exciting surprises. A portion of each ticket supports the South Carolina Bluegrass & Traditional Music Association, funding youth music scholarships and providing instruments year-round.
CONTINUED
APRIL 22ND
Cultural SeriesSHARP Dance Company
340 Scholar Loop, Aiken | 7:00 PM
Don’t miss SHARP Dance Company on April 22, 2025 for an impactful evening of modern dance. Their performance of "669," inspired by Sir Nicholas Winton’s efforts to save Jewish children during WWII, combines powerful movement with storytelling that evokes deep emotion.
APRIL 24TH
126 Newberry Street SW | 7:30 PM
Get ready for an unforgettable night with Legacy, featuring triple-threat performers straight from Broadway and The West End. This high-energy show brings the Motown era to life with powerhouse vocals, smooth dance moves and timeless hits like "Ain't Too Proud to Beg," "Brickhouse" and "My Girl." Experience the magic of Motown with innovative musical arrangements and a dynamic ensemble.
APRIL 26TH
Newberry Street Festival Area | 6:30 AM
Get ready for race day! Check-in begins at 7:00 a.m., the Half Marathon and 10K start at 7:30 a.m., followed by the 5K at 7:45 a.m. The One-Mile Kids Fun Run starts at 9:30 a.m., and the event wraps by 10:30 a.m. Register early— the first 800 runners to sign up by March 30th will receive a gender-specific Dri-Fit shirt.
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MARCH 7– 14
MARCH 7, 2025: FUNERAL PARADE
MARCH 8, 2025: THE JOYE OF JAZZ
MARCH 11, 2025: CABARET WITH PETER DUGAN AND JOHN BRANCY
MARCH 12, 2025: SWING DANCE PARTY WITH MARK RAPP
MARCH 13, 2025: JEFF PICKER
MARCH 13, 2025: DECODA STRING TRIO
MARCH 14, 2025: KINGS RETURN
JUNE 19, 2025: JAZZ EXPLOSION CONCERT
JUNE 22, 2025: JAZZ EXPLOSION STUDENT CONCERT
