Life + Culture

Barbecue, Fireworks and Friends

A Dukes-Catered Fourth of July Made the Holiday Unforgettable in Classic Southern Style Article by Nikita Hanif | Photography by Rebecca Judy There’s something about the Fourth of July that brings out the best in summer: warm evenings, glowing sparklers, laughter echoing off the water and the unmistakable smell of barbecue in the air. This year Rick and Lisa Pelfrey hosted a celebration that captured the very heart of Independence Day, welcoming friends to their home in Aiken for a relaxed...

Local Services

Rooted. Resilient. Revolutionary.

Transforming Pasture Management in Aiken, SC with Horse First Strategies, Scientific Precision and Deeply Personal Experience Article by Nikita Hanif | Photography by Gayle Bryan In Aiken, South Carolina, where horse culture runs deep, a new business is raising the bar for pasture management. Juniper Equiland isn’t just another service provider; it’s a mission-driven, forage-focused enterprise born from personal experience, scientific partnerships and a deep understanding of horse-first land...

Life + Culture

Saddles, Streams and Southern Trails

Explore the Beauty of the Carolinas on Horseback with The Trail Riding Company Article by Nikita Hanif | Photography by Rebecca Judy LaDonna Heise, owner of The Trail Riding Company in Aiken, SC, has always had a deep-rooted passion for horses. From her earliest memories, she was drawn to the quiet strength of nature and the loyal companionship of horses. She grew up helping her grandfather plow fields with his mules, learning early on the value of hard work and the unbreakable bond between...

Local Services

A Legacy of Excellence in Every Build

Cemented in Generations of Real Estate, Graybeal Construction & Design Brings Custom Homebuilding and Transformative Remodels to Life. Article by Jessica Crandall Lawrence | Photography by Rebecca Judy When it comes to custom homes and high-quality renovations in Aiken and the greater CSRA region, Graybeal Construction & Design stands out—not just for premiere craftsmanship — but for the hands-on commitment of its founder, Lee Graybeal. With over 38 years of experience in real estate and...

Entertainment

Short Drives, Long Days, Unforgettable Summer Fun

Just Easy, Breezy Escapes Packed with Adventure, Flavor and Southern Charm - No Passport Required Article by Gayle Bryan | Photography by Terri Bauerlin, Micah Decker, Edmalin Photography, E.R. Smith & Shell Suber July in Aiken brings the kind of summer heat that begs for an adventure—and fortunately, you don’t have to go far to find one. Within a short drive from Aiken, you’ll discover a world of fun that’s perfect for cooling off, making memories and exploring new corners of the Palmetto...

Life + Culture

Fairways, Friends, Tradition

A Memorable Day for Aiken’s Business Leaders at the Historic Aiken Golf Club Article by Nikita Hanif | Photography by Rebecca Judy A golden South Carolina sun cast shadows over the first tee as a group of Aiken’s local business owners gathered for their men’s day out at the beloved Aiken Golf Club. These gentlemen from all walks of life and professions came together at one of their local favorites for golf. Laughter and friendly banter quickly filled the warm southern air. Club owner Jim...

Auto + Marine

From Service to Shine

Aiken’s Chris Williams Transforms his Passion into First Class Detailing Article by Nikita Hanif | Photography by Rebecca Judy Chris Williams has called Aiken home since he was a small child. His father moved their family here to pursue a career in law enforcement and from an early age, Williams felt the same calling. After graduating from high school, he followed in his father’s footsteps and joined the Aiken County Sheriff's Office at just 21 years old. Over the next 15 years, he dedicated...

Life + Culture

From Trick Shots to Tour Dreams

George Bryan IV Shares Golf Passion through Viral Videos Article by Nikita Hanif | Photography by Source For George Bryan IV, golf has always been more than just a game; it’s been a part of who he is since he was a child. Growing up in a golf-centric family with a father who played professionally and ran a golf academy, Bryan’s path seemed destined from the start. Working alongside his father and spending countless hours around the game, he naturally gravitated toward the sport. Golf wasn’t...

Life + Culture

BetterMan: Becoming the Man God Called You to Be

Cedar Creek Church is providing a clear path through a faith-driven movement helping men live life in a Christ-centered way. Article by Ashley Elvis and Sam Radford | Photography by Rebecca Judy In today’s world, masculinity is often misunderstood or misrepresented. With so many competing voices, it can feel overwhelming to discern what it truly means to be a man. This fall, Cedar Creek Church is offering BetterMan, a group designed to help men find clarity and purpose. BetterManis more than...

Life + Culture

Rising Southern Star

Meet Luke Moore, the Voice of a New Musical Generation Article by Jessica Crandall Lawrence | Photography by Rebecca Judy At just 25 years old, Luke Moore is carving out a sound that's as soulful as the South he calls home. Moore is a rising talent in the Aiken music scene, blending gritty southern rock, heartfelt country and smooth Motown influences into a style that's uniquely his own. With a guitar in hand and stories in his songs, he's capturing hearts—and turning heads—with every...