Life + Culture

The Power of Stretch

How Stretch Zone Aiken is Helping Residents Move Better and Live Comfortably Every Day Article by Nikita Hanif | Photography by Rebecca Judy & Gayle Bryan When the ribbon was first cut at Stretch Zone Aiken, David Jameson, then President of the Aiken Chamber of Commerce, didn’t expect a life-changing experience. Curious, he volunteered for a free demonstration and, within minutes, something remarkable happened. “I’d been stiff for a long time,” Jameson recalls. “After just a few stretches, I...

Health + Wellness

Advanced Orthopedic Care, Here in Aiken

Local Surgeons Brining Innovation, Compassion and Expertise to Aiken Article by Nikita Hanif | Photography by Rebecca Judy At Aiken Physicians Alliance, orthopedic excellence meets compassionate care through the dedication of three highly-skilled surgeons, Dr. Jesus Castillo, Dr. Gregory Kalv and Dr. Richard Marks. Together they are redefining what it means to receive world-class orthopedic treatment right here in Aiken. Their mission, simple yet profound, is to provide advanced...

Life + Culture

Rooted in Faith and Friendship

Danny and Dean Blend Joy and Purpose to Real Estate Article by Nikita Hanif | Photography by Scott Webster In a town where real estate signs line most corners, it takes a special kind of realtor to stand out. In Aiken, two of those realtors just so happen to be best friends who laugh loudly, pray often and genuinely love helping people. Danny Minolfo and Dean Cavero may work independently, but anyone who meets them quickly realizes they are a matched set in all the best ways. Their approach...

Finance + Legal Services

Home Loans with Heart

Matthew Hunter at Assurance Financial Brings Boutique Service and Big Company Strength to Aiken Article by Nikita Hanif | Photography by Rebecca Judy Matthew Hunter’s path to becoming Aiken’s most trusted mortgage professional was anything but predictable. His journey began far from the world of home loans, rooted instead in chemical equations and engineering plans. A 1991 graduate of the University of Pittsburgh, Hunter earned degrees in chemical engineering and biochemistry before moving...

Health + Wellness

Innovative Paths to Wellness and Healing

Dr. Rupal Patel offers Compassionate, Cutting-edge Mental Health Care to Aiken Article by Nikita Hanif | Photography by Rebecca Judy Dr. Rupal Patel has always carried Aiken in her heart. Raised in this community, she knew that one day she wanted to return home, raise her family and give back to the town that helped shape her. Today, as the owner and founder of Integrative Flow Psychiatry, she’s doing exactly that by offering Aiken residents a new path to healing through compassionate...

Health + Wellness

Strength from Within

Specialized Therapy Offers Comfort, Strength and Renewed Confidence Article by Nikita Hanif | Photography by Rebecca Judy Raines Physical Therapy and Performance has long been known in Aiken as a place where patients feel genuinely cared for, supported and guided toward recovery by a team that treats everyone like family. Their recently completed remodel has not only refreshed their space but also opened the door for an exciting new service that is already making a profound difference in...

Life + Culture

The Glow of Santa’s Southern Lights

Sara’s Farm Adventure is Lighting Up the Holiday Season Article by Jessica Crandall Lawrence | Photography by Provided To help tell the story of this year’s Santa’s Southern Lights, we sat down with Karisa Ruth,  director of retail sales at Sara’s Farm Adventure . With a front-row view of both the farm’s growth and its festive traditions, Karisa shared how the event has become a magical holiday experience for families across the community. Can you tell us a little about Sara’s Farm...

Life + Culture

Shop Local, Win Big

How Aiken’s Red Ticket Campaign Boosts Local Business Article by Jessica Crandall Lawrence | Photography by Rebecca Judy The Aiken Chamber of Commerce is spreading cheer with its annual Red Ticket Campaign, now in its fifth year. From November 1 to December 15, shoppers earn one red ticket for every $25 spent at participating local businesses. Each ticket becomes a chance to win cash prizes totaling $4,500. Drawings will be held live on the Chamber’s Facebook page on November 24 and December...

Arts + Culture

A Timeless Tradition

The Magic of The Nutcracker in Aiken Article by Nikita Hanif | Photography by AP Gouge Photography Every December as the air in Aiken turns crisp and downtown streets twinkle with Christmas lights, families gather in eager anticipation for one of the city’s most cherished holiday traditions, the Aiken Civic Ballet’s annual production of The Nutcracker . For fifteen years, this enchanting performance has captured hearts, kindled nostalgia and brought the magic of the season to life on stage. ...

Life + Culture

Evergreen Christmas Magic

A Family’s Faith and Hard Work turn Still Creek Tree Farm into Aiken’s Holiday Haven Article by Nikita Hanif | Photography by Rebecca Judy When our team at Aiken City Lifestyle reached out to Charles Shoup, owner of Still Creek Tree Farm, about hosting a Christmas photoshoot on his property, his response reflected the very heart of southern hospitality, kindness, graciousness and warmth. It was clear upon arrival that Still Creek was more than just a tree farm; it was a living, breathing...