This month’s focus on style began with a tour of Aiken boutiques in search of looks that would shine at the rodeo or polo field. If you live in Aiken, you know that equestrian style is equally as important as equestrian competitions.
Supporting the "shop local" movement is easy to achieve in Aiken. While there are many fine boutiques in our area, the three featured in our shoot were Ginger Bee Boutique, Beyond Bijoux, and Equine Divine, all located on Laurens Street. Each shop had endless options and Olivia Meunier, our model and collaborator, and I received wonderful welcomes from the owners. A beautiful well-structured white jumpsuit from Ginger Bee (a great white party option) immediately stood out to both of us as the perfect look for the cover.
We arrived at La Bourgogne Polo Farm the next evening with outfits and accessories for eight total looks in hand. At Olivia’s request, Groom Maximilian "Chiqui" Reynose had several polo ponies ready for us to color coordinate with each outfit. Is this extra? Perhaps, but the devil is in the details. Farm owner, David Meunier, stopped by with a warm welcome during the shoot. In addition to the farm, he also owns La Parisienne French Bakery and Restaurant.
Open rolling fields with large well established oaks sprinkled throughout made La Bourgogne the perfect location for the shoot. Chukkers of Hope will host their Annual White Party and Polo match there for the first time in October.
We hope this lends style inspiration and appreciation for our local flare. Sometimes what you're looking for is just around the corner!