Love Is In the Air!
February is a time to celebrate love in all of its forms— not just romantic love but the affection we feel for the people, places and traditions that make our community special. Here in Aiken, we’re fortunate to be surrounded by passionate individuals who pour their hearts into their work, their families and the small businesses that define our city.
This month, let’s focus on loving local. Whether it’s enjoying a meal at your favorite neighborhood spot, shopping at an independently-owned boutique or attending one of Aiken’s many cultural events, every choice to support local businesses strengthens the bonds that make our town a vibrant and thriving place to live.
In this issue, we’re thrilled to highlight a couple who embody this spirit of love and dedication. Nikita Hanif takes us inside the love story of Jessica and Elier Alberto, the powerhouse duo behind Fashion House and Rhumba Restaurant and Bar. From their curated fashion collections to the intoxicating energy of their Latin-inspired restaurant, Jessica and Elier have created more than businesses—they’ve built experiences that invite us to celebrate culture, connection and joy. Their journey is a reminder that when we work with passion and purpose, anything is possible.
In “Golden Love: 50 Years Together,” Denny and Terri Armstrong celebrate 50 years of love and faith. From a chance meeting at a Bible study to cherished memories and heartfelt traditions, their story highlights grace and forgiveness and reminds us to enjoy the simple moments.
Join us on a tour of The Center for African American History, Art and Culture in Aiken, SC which celebrates the richness of African American heritage through exhibits, tours and community programs. Housed in a meticulously restored 1881 building, it preserves overlooked stories and legacies that invite visitors to reflect, learn and connect. Led by dedicated educators and historians, the Center brings history to life, honoring the past while inspiring the future.
So, this February, as you sip on a signature cocktail at Rhumba, browse the racks at Fashion House or walk through The Center for African American History, Art and Culture, take a moment to appreciate the love that goes into every detail. Here’s to a month filled with meaningful connections, discoveries and a deepened appreciation for the community we call home.
February 2025
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, Ashley Elvis
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Rebecca Judy, Gayle Bryan
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas
GAYLE BRYAN, PUBLISHER
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.
city scene
1: EmmaLee Sam’s, Executive Director for Aiken Downtown Development, loved seeing everyone shopping local. 2: Santa Claus said the ladies of downtown Aiken all made the nice list! 3: Jeannette Moseley, owner of Spa 106, was all smiles on Night of 1000 Lights.
4: Stephanie Carraway greeting guests at Aiken Homes Team’s Client Appreciation Party 5: Sarah Schultz with the Aiken Chamber out and about at Night of 1,000 Lights. 6: Santa Claus entertained guests at the Aiken Homes Team’s Client Appreciation Event. 7: Caroline Gwinn (Aiken Center for the Arts) chatting with guests at Night of 1,000 Lights. Photography by Gayle Bryan and Nikita Hanif
of Downtown Hydration and Wellness, lit up the room. 9: Bobby and Kevin Ard serve their famous cider on Night of 1000 Lights.
poses with Brandi Cook at the Aiken Homes Team’s Customer Appreciation Night. 11: Byron Bush was hyping up the crowd at the ROC for a Cause concert. 12: Cindy Linkenhoker running logistics at Aiken Home Team’s Customer Appreciation Party! 13: The dancers from the Aiken Civic Ballet out promoting their upcoming Nutcracker performance. 14: Vikki Crossland spreading Christmas cheer at Aiken Home Team’s Customer Appreciation Event. Photography by Gayle Bryan and
8: Tasha Davis, owner
10: Hetal Acharekar
Nikita Hanif
THE POWER OF A SKILLED LOCAL TEAM
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Celebrating Mardi Gras in Aiken
Joye in Aiken, founded in 2008, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing the very best musicians and artists to the Aiken community, especially its students. On March 7th at 5:30, Joye in Aiken will kick off the week with its annual New Orleans-style Jazz Funeral parade through downtown. Sponsors and supporters will join in along with Artistic Director, Riley Mulherkar. The parade begins and ends at the fountain on Newberry Street, and patrons will be treated to fantastic jazz sounds and beautiful Mardi Gras colors, complete with beads, costumes and even a horse-drawn caisson! Following the parade is a week of incredible events, several even free to the public. Julie Whitesell, board member for Joye in Aiken, believes there is “nothing quite like it; it’s truly New York come to Aiken.”
To learn more about the parade and the Performing Arts Festival schedule, visit joyeinaiken.com. You can also plan to attend the Aiken Downtown Development Mardi Gras Festival at the end of February.
Joye in Aiken Kicks Off the Week with a Jazz Funeral Parade
ARTICLE BY ASHLEY
ELVIS |
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY
GAYLE BRYAN
PRESERVING THE PAST
The Center for African American History, Art and Culture
ARTICLE BY NIKITA HANIF | PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA JUDY
Walking through the doors of The Center for African American History, Art and Culture in Aiken, SC, you’re greeted by a mesmerizing, hand-sewn quilt. This intricate masterpiece bears the West African proverb, “Se wo were fin a wosan kofa a yenki,” meaning, “It is not taboo to go back and fetch what you forgot.” This proverb perfectly encapsulates the Center’s mission: to reclaim, preserve and share the history, art and culture that has been overlooked, forgotten or lost in time.
Led by Supervisor Ambria Abney, a former teacher with a Master’s in English and African American Literature, and seasoned historian Wayne O’Bryant, the Center has embraced this philosophy wholeheartedly. Through changing exhibits, tours and community outreach, the Center shines a light on African American stories, facts, art and legacies that deserve to be celebrated and given new life.
“IT’S A PLACE WHERE HISTORY COMES ALIVE, INVITING EVERYONE TO EMBRACE THE BEAUTY,RESILIENCE AND RICHNESS OF AFRICAN AMERICAN CULTURE.”
The building that houses the Center itself has a vibrant history. Originally founded in 1881 as the Emanuel Institute, a school for African American children, it has passed through various hands over the years. In 2004, the Center moved in and after 15 years of meticulous renovations, the doors opened in 2022. The restoration was a labor of love and a testament to the community’s commitment to preserving its history.
Today, the Center is more than a historical site. It’s a vibrant space that welcomes visitors of all ages and backgrounds to learn, reflect and connect. With rotating exhibits and programs, it collaborates with local schools and organizations to provide educational experiences that celebrate the richness of African American culture.
Whether you’re marveling at the artwork, learning about influential African American figures, exploring the history or engaging in one of their interactive tours, the Center offers a powerful reminder of the importance of understanding and honoring the past. It’s a place where history comes alive, inviting everyone to embrace the beauty, resilience and richness of African American culture.
Love, Repeat WORK, DANCE,
How Love, Teamwork and Culture Fuel Their Success
ARTICLE BY NIKITA HANIF PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA JUDY
When I step into Rhumba Restaurant and Bar, I’m greeted by the rhythmic hum of Latin music, the rich aroma of flavorful dishes and the sight of Elier Alberto behind the bar. He’s focused and intent on mixing up a signature cocktail, the Embrujada—which fittingly means “bewitched.” Watching him work, it’s clear that the name reflects his feelings for his wife, Jessica, who is sitting on the opposite side of the
bar watching him. Elier’s adoration is evident in the way his eyes light up as he is talking to her, the love of his life and his partner in everything.
As I grab a seat at the bar and talk with them and ask them what it’s like to work with your spouse, Elier tells me that when he first met Jessica, he was working behind a bar, but he always knew he wanted to be on the other side—running a business with her by his side. Fast forward 12 years into their marriage, and that dream has come to life in not one but two thriving ventures: Fashion House, a chic men and women’s boutique, and Rhumba Restaurant and Bar, a vibrant gathering place infused with their culture and passion for cuisine, cocktails and cigars.
The camaraderie between these two is palpable. When I ask Jessica how it feels to work with her spouse, her answer is immediate and heartfelt. “To us, working together, doing what we love with who we love is amazing. We are a team, and we feed off each other’s strengths, pushing each other to be the best versions of ourselves every single day.”
Jessica and Elier moved to Aiken with a vision to share their culture through their love for delicious food, vibrant drinks, and even cigars with the community. Their businesses are an extension of their personalities—warm, welcoming and full of life. They attribute their success to communication and allowing each other to shine in their respective areas of expertise.
“Our marriage and businesses are partnerships,” Elier explains. “In both, there are ups and downs, but when you work together as a team, you know you’ll get through it. From the start, we made a pact–you don’t quit, whether it’s in your marriage or your business.”
The bond they share is undeniable. Even amid the bustling restaurant comings and goings, I watch them make time for each other, often pausing to dance to one of their favorite songs. Elier has a playlist ready for these moments, and the two glide across the restaurant floor with effortless grace. Their love is woven by invisible strands guiding their every step, and their joy is positively contagious.
Jessica’s background in fashion and Elier’s expertise in hospitality complement each other perfectly. At Fashion House, Jessica curates stylish pieces that reflect her keen eye for design and her commitment to making clients feel confident. Meanwhile, Elier brings his passion for mixology and authentic cuisine to Rhumba, creating a dining experience that feels like a celebration of life.
Together, they’ve built a life and legacy grounded in love, resilience and shared purpose. Their story paints a picture showcasing the power of partnership—both in marriage and
in business. As I watch them laughing and dancing under the soft glow of the restaurant’s lights, it’s clear that they’ve found the perfect rhythm, one that blends their dreams, culture and devotion into something truly magical.
Jessica and Elier’s journey serves as an inspiration to anyone balancing love and work. Their secret? Never stop supporting each other, communicate openly and remember to pause and enjoy the dance—both literally and figuratively. Their story is proof that when love and passion combine, the results can be extraordinary.
AAMS™ Financial Advisor
ARTICLE BY NIKITA HANIF
PHOTOGRAPHY
SOURCED
FROM BOTTOM LINE BAKERY
A Local Business Change Leads to Sweet Beginnings as Bottom Line Bakery Expands to Aiken
Something Sweet
is Coming
Kelsey Lucius, owner and head baker of Bottom Line Bakery, has made a wellknown name for herself in Augusta, GA with her stunning, detail-oriented cakes and baked goods. Now, she’s growing and bringing her many talents to Aiken, SC by transitioning her former restaurant, Salty Tomatoes Restaurant and Bar, into a second location for her bakery. For Lucius, this re-branding is about more than expansion—it’s about fulfilling a need she saw in Aiken to offer a truly unique experience for wedding cakes, groom cakes and other custom baked goods.
chance to sample a variety of delicious options. What started as a wedding planning essential has become a hit for special occasions like Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day and anniversaries. “The tasting boxes are always available, and people just love them,” Kelsey says. “They’ve become a way to celebrate any occasion.”
These tasting boxes can be ordered by phone or online, making it easy for customers to enjoy a curated selection of flavors that showcase Lucius’s creativity and skill.
Weddings are at the heart of Bottom Line Bakery’s mission, and Kelsey loves seeing how couples are making their celebrations more fun
“I’m so excited for this transition,” Lucius shares. “Aiken has such a vibrant community, and I wanted to bring something really special and unique here. Wedding trends are constantly evolving, and I want to help couples celebrate in a way that feels truly personal and distinctive to them.”
Kelsey is renowned for her gorgeous cakes which feature intricate designs and unparalleled attention to detail. Specializing in buttercream, she creates both bridal and groom cakes that reflect her clients’ personalities, hobbies and visions. From elegant and traditional to whimsical and adventurous, her creations push the boundaries of what a custom cake can be. For Lucius, no idea is too big.
One of her most popular offerings is a tasting box initially designed for brides but now beloved by everyone. The tasting box contains 13 slices of Bottom Line Bakery’s most popular cake flavors, giving clients a
and personalized. “Dessert tables have become a big trend,” she notes. “Brides are pairing their cakes with cookies, cupcakes and other treats to create a dessert experience for their guests.” She described how she recently had a bride that wanted a large table showcasing a variety of traditional Italian desserts.
Groom cakes, in particular, have taken on a life of their own with bold and imaginative designs that often reflect hobbies, interests or inside jokes. “Groom cakes are becoming so popular and fun to design,” Lucius shares. “It’s a great way for the couple to add a personal touch to their big day and have some creative license to highlight their fun side.”
Lucius encourages couples to book their wedding orders three to five months in advance to ensure plenty of time for planning and execution. “Every cake I make is a labor of love,” she says. “I put so much time into planning, designing and making sure everything is perfect from the first sketch to the final setup.” Cakes are delivered at optimal times to ensure they look and taste perfect for the big moment. Lucius takes placement, weather conditions and execution of her cakes very seriously.
One of the joys of owning a custom bakery is the freedom to innovate. For Lucius, the sky truly is the limit when it comes to her creations. She recounts a recent wedding where the bride opted for cupcake favors that were individually packaged and sent home with guests. “I love when clients think outside the box,” she says. “It’s so rewarding to help bring their visions to life.”
This creativity extends beyond weddings. Kelsey’s skills are sought-after for all kinds of celebrations, from birthdays to corporate events. Her attention to detail and commitment to quality set Bottom Line Bakery apart as a destination for anyone looking to make their special moments unforgettable.
As Kelsey prepares to open her Aiken location, she’s excited about the opportunity to connect with a new community. “I want Bottom Line Bakery to be a place where people can come for something truly special,” she says. “Whether it’s a wedding cake, a tasting box or a batch of cookies, I want every customer to feel like they’re getting something unique and made just for them.”
With her passion for baking and dedication to her craft, Lucius is poised to make Bottom Line Bakery a beloved institution in Aiken, just as it is in Augusta. From her intricate buttercream designs to her creative dessert tables, Kelsey continues to redefine what a custom bakery can offer, one delicious creation at a time.
ARTICLE BY NIKITA HANIF | PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA JUDY
Golden Love: 50 Years Together
A COUPLE REFLECTS ON THEIR RELATIONSHIP, CHERISHED MEMORIES AND TIPS FOR A HAPPY MARRIAGE
Denny and Terri Armstrong are celebrating 50 years of love, laughter and unwavering commitment. Their journey began with a chance meeting in college that blossomed into a lifelong partnership. As they reflect on their anniversary, they attribute their lasting bond to communication, shared faith and finding joy in everyday moments together. We had the opportunity to sit down with them and ask some questions about 50 years of love.
“Prayer has been the key for us and thinking more of the other person’s wants and desires over your own. Also, doing an excellent job loving each other and following each other in joy.”
Q: Looking back over 50 years together, what has been the key to a lasting marriage?
A: It truly has been God being a part of our relationship. He has guided us throughout every step of our marriage. We have always prayed through each moment and listened to God’s guidance.
Q: What is one of your favorite memories from your early years together, and why does it still stand out to you?
A: We have lots of fun memories but our favorite memory was how God truly showed me that Denny was who I was supposed to marry. One evening after being out praying, two girls I had never met happened to invite me to a bible study at the Mustard Seed, and that’s where I met Denny. We dated, broke up, and I was so confused, but I felt God clearly tell me that not only was Denny the one, but he would ask me to marry him and God would give Denny the exact day we would get married. Sure enough, Denny asked me to marry him and declared we would be married on June 21st.
Q: What advice would you give couples just starting their journey together?
A: Go into your relationship knowing the relationship is not about you; it's about the two of you. You must communicate and show each other grace. Really commit to forming your family. You make your family the priority and focus. Committing to someone is an adjustment, remember that forgiveness is key. Keep your expectations in check and don’t fall into the trap of comparison.
Q: How have you supported each other during tough times and how have you both stayed grounded?
A: Prayer has been the key for us and thinking more of the other person's wants and desires over your own. Also, doing an excellent job loving each other and following each other in joy.
Q: How do you celebrate Valentine’s Day now compared to when you first met?
A: The first Valentine’s we had, Denny wrote me a poem and gave me a plant. That plant grew so big that when we moved it was too big to go with us. We have often written letters to each other over the years. We just have a lot of fun together.
FEBRUARY 1ST
Aiken Antique Show
Aiken Center for the Arts | 11:00 AM
Celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Aiken Antique Show with 21 hand-selected dealers offering antiques, furniture, art, silver and more. Enjoy shopping, meals at the Collector’s Cafe and a Bloody Mary brunch on Sunday. Tickets are $20 for the entire event!
FEBRUARY 8TH
Fashion for Compassion Gala
Reserve Club | 5:30 PM
Step into a world of glamour and generosity at the Fashion for Compassion Gala! Enjoy a dazzling showcase of couture, live auction excitement and a night of fine dining. Proceeds support Aiken Equine Rescue.
FEBRUARY 8TH
Backstretch Experience
Rye Patch Parking Lot 100 Berrie Rd SW | 8:00 AM
Experience the thrill of Thoroughbred racing up close with a behind-thescenes tour of the Aiken Training Track on February 8th! From 8–10:30 AM. Explore the track and meet the horses in action. Tickets are $20—bring your camera and wear comfy shoes!
Unlock Hope and Healing
Join us for an enlightening session led by Jan Gifford, a licensed professional counselor with over 20 years of experience. Jan will share invaluable wisdom on how the Bible addresses depression and offers a pathway to health and renewal.
• Understand the root causes of depression from a Biblical perspective.
• Learn practical, faith-based strategies to overcome despair.
• Receive personalized guidance from a trusted counselor who integrates these principles in her practice.
This is a chance to reconnect with hope and faith, and embark on a journey to emotional and spiritual well-being.
Unlock Hope and Healing
A Seminar on Depression
Saturday, February 22nd
Cedar Creek Church
9:30AM – 12:30PM Registration is $25
