Local Services

Lasting Landscapes

A Thoughtful Approach to a Designer Yard by Rock Creek Irrigation & Landscapes Article by Jessica Lawrence | Photography by Provided In an industry where surface-level solutions are all too common, Rock Creek Irrigation & Landscapes is built on a simple philosophy: do it right the first time and make it last. What sprouted from a small operation established in landscaping, irrigation and land development has grown into one of the CSRA’s most trusted, full-service landscaping companies. Rock...

Life + Culture

Faith, Family and Traditional Values

How Robbie Breland is Building REFT Equipment in Aiken Article by Nikita Hanif | Photography by Rebecca Judy It becomes clear immediately at REFT Equipment that this isn’t just another place to buy or rent equipment; it’s a place built on relationships. The atmosphere feels genuine and unhurried–the kind of space where people are greeted with a smile and conversation, not a sales pitch. That feeling is intentional, and it reflects the heart of the man behind the business, owner Robbie...

Arts + Culture

Aiken’s Stage for Excellence

Joye Celebrates Talent, Education and Artistic Wonder Article by Nikita Hanif | Photography by Joye in Aiken Joye in Aiken has become one of the city’s most cherished cultural traditions, bringing world class music, dance and performance to a community that celebrates creativity. Sitting down with Mary Fran Crook, the Executive Director of Joye in Aiken, reveals the heart and dedication behind this beloved program. Crook has been with Joye in Aiken since 2020, beginning as the Senior...

Local Services

Framing the Light

The Art of Sunroom Design by Bates & Sons Article by Nikita Hanif | Photography by Rebecca Judy In the 1960s, long before Bates & Sons became a trusted name in Aiken home design, two brothers pedaled through Crosland Park with lawnmowers tied behind a two-seater bicycle. Johnnie and Ronny Bates were just boys then. They worked diligently, saying yes to small jobs neighbors requested. Grass cutting soon turned into odd repairs which then grew into more substantial tasks. When it came time to...

Health + Wellness

Breathe Easier this Spring

Family Pharmacy Shares Trusted Allergy Tips to Help Aiken Thrive during Pollen Season Article and Photography by Nikita Hanif Spring in Aiken brings warmer days, blooming landscapes and, for many, the unwelcome return of seasonal allergies. As pollen counts rise, the team at Family Pharmacy in Aiken encourages residents to take proactive steps to reduce symptoms and stay ahead of allergy season with practical, everyday strategies. One of the simplest ways to manage allergies is to track...

Life + Culture

Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future

Cedar Creek Steps into its Next Chapter with Pastor Mike McKee Article by Nikita Hanif | Photography by Albright Photography & Rebecca Judy Cedar Creek Community Church is stepping into a new season that feels both tender and hopeful. After twenty-six years in Aiken, Pastor Phillip Lee is preparing to retire and pass the baton to newcomer Pastor Mike McKee. Phillip and his wife, Terry, have walked with Cedar Creek through decades of ministry and life, and now they are welcoming Mike, his wife...

Life + Culture

Community Through Pickleball

A Welcoming Sport Connecting Couples, Family and Friend with Fun Article by Nikita Hanif | Photography by Rebecca Judy Pickleball has quickly earned a reputation as one of the most welcoming sports around, and in Aiken, it’s doing far more than filling courts. It’s bringing people together across generations, skill levels and life stages, proving that competition and connection can go hand in hand. For couples, families and friends, pickleball has become a shared language built on laughter...

Life + Culture

Where Wanderlust Meets Southern Comfort

An Enchanting Glamping Escape Inspired by Gypsy Vanner Horses, History and the Art of Slowing Down on a Peaceful Farm Article by Nikita Hanif | Photography by Rebecca Judy Down South Gypsy Glamping is the kind of place that feels discovered rather than booked, a hidden retreat where history, horses and Southern hospitality come together to create something truly unforgettable. Tucked away on a peaceful working horse farm, the glamping wagon offers guests an experience that feels both...

Life + Culture

When Love Runs the Business

How Local Couples Balance Love, Work and Entrepreneurship Article by Nikita Hanif | Photography by Rebecca Judy Working side by side, love and business can be a delicate dance, but for some couples, it’s the perfect rhythm. In Aiken and beyond, several local couples are proving that sharing both life and livelihood can be equal parts rewarding, challenging and joyful. Elier and Jessica Alberto are the owners of Rhumba, a vibrant Latin restaurant in downtown Aiken. Their story began in Miami...

Life + Culture

Hearts for Hope

Turning Love into Action for Aiken’s Children Article by Jessica Crandall Lawrence Love is expressed in countless forms, but it shows up most powerfully when a community comes together to shield its children. This Valentine’s season the Child Advocacy Center of Aiken County (CAC) invites neighbors and friends to celebrate at “Hearts for Hope: Love in Action for Aiken’s Children” an intimate dinner party steeped in compassion and a responsibility to protect Aiken’s most vulnerable population...