For the curious, the committed Christ-followers, and everyone in
At Cedar Creek, you’ll find a welcoming community of people who are walking with Jesus—and others who are still discovering who He is.
Join us for contemporary worship, a practical and relevant Bible message, and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere where you can feel at home.
Sundays in March at 9:00 AM & 11:00 AM*
On Sunday, March 22, we will gather for one service at 11:00 a.m. to celebrate a milestone in the life of Cedar Creek Church—honoring the retirement of our Senior Pastor, Phillip Lee, and welcoming our new Senior Pastor, Mike McKee.
Come as you are. You’re welcome here.
Home Again, Home Again, Jiggity-Jig
In March, as the season begins to shift and our calendars fill with plans and travel, we’re reminded just how meaningful it is to return home. Home is where routines settle, stories are shared and the pace of life softens after time away. In this Home issue, we celebrate the spaces that restore us, reflect who we are and welcome us back after every journey. From thoughtful design to lasting craftsmanship, these pages honor the places we are always happiest to return to.
We begin with a story that reminds us how culture and community shape the places we call home. Joye in Aiken has become one of the city’s most cherished traditions, and in this issue we sit down with Executive Director Mary Fran Crook to explore the heart, vision and legacy behind a festival that continues to inspire audiences of all ages.
We then turn to the outdoor spaces that frame our everyday lives. Rock Creek Irrigation & Landscapes shares how durability, performance and long-term planning create landscapes that truly last, along with practical spring tips and the upgrades that deliver the greatest return for homeowners across the CSRA. We also visit Bates & Sons, a family business whose legacy has shaped Aiken homes for generations, and explore how Todd Bates continues that tradition through thoughtfully designed sunrooms that frame light, comfort and everyday living.
Finally, we meet Robbie Breland whose story reminds us that home is built on more than walls and roofs. At REFT Equipment, he is creating a business grounded in faith, family and integrity, proving that trust and handshake values still define true success in the heart of Aiken.
As always, thank you for reading, and we’ll see you next month.
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city scene
1: Gayle Bryan and Tim Tebow at the City Lifestyle Conference for 2026. 2: Celebrating our second award! 3: Catching up with some of the Lake Houston City Lifestyle Team. 4: Two connoisseurs of their crafts! 5: Newkirk Barnes enjoyed the wine dinner at Prime Steakhouse. 6: J.J. the Wine Guy is so knowledgeable on the best wine selections. 7: Danny Minolfo and Dean Cavero celebrated their ribbon cutting! Photography by Gayle Bryan and Nikita Hanif
8: Britt Jackson gave a heartfelt speech for the Real Broker LLC ribbon cutting! 9: Ironclad Award Winners! 10: Gayle Bryan, Dean Cavero, Danny Minolfo, Gary Sullivan and Robbie Breland at the ribbon cutting. Photography by Gayle Bryan and Nikita Hanif
business monthly
Integrity Temple Announces the Launch of the Integrity Temple Scholarship
The Integrity Temple Scholarship was created to support the next generation of skilled trades professionals in Aiken County, South Carolina. Awarded annually, the $3,000 scholarship will assist one student pursuing technical or vocational training in fields such as construction, HVAC, welding, plumbing, electrical or automotive technology. Open to South Carolina residents, the scholarship recognizes determination, hands-on talent and a commitment to strengthening local communities. Applications open January 15 with the recipient announced May 15.
THE POWER OF A SKILLED LOCAL TEAM
Fall is a new opportunity to turn your home from “so-so” to “whoa!” Whether your exterior or interior needs a
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HOW ROBBIE BRELAND IS BUILDING REFT EQUIPMENT IN AIKEN
FAITH, FAMILY AND TRADITIONAL VALUES
ARTICLE BY NIKITA HANIF
PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA JUDY
Robbie Breland
“WHEN YOU SHAKE SOMEONE’S HAND AND SAY YOU’RE GOING TO DO SOMETHING, YOU FOLLOW THROUGH.”
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 Breland, whose mission for REFT is simple but meaningful: built on family, backed by a handshake. REFT Equipment opened in February 2025, but the roots of the business stretch far beyond its opening day. When asked where his values come from, he traces them to his childhood. “From the time I was a small child, my parents always instilled in me that you do whatever you can to help others; try to always do the right thing and be fair,” he says. “When you shake someone’s hand and say you’re going to do something, you follow through.” Those lessons were woven into everyday life and reinforced by generations of family members who believed integrity was nonnegotiable.
Breland was raised in a family where it truly took a village. His parents and grandmother were pivotal, but his aunts and uncles also played key roles in shaping who he would become. Family was everything, and
Pa climbing into the backhoe
“DON’T LET FAILURE STOP YOU FROM MOVING FORWARD; PICK IT UP AND TRY AGAIN.”
accountability came through faith and love. When he needed guidance or correction, his family stepped in to help get him back on track. Those moments helped form the moral compass he relies on today.
The name REFT is a reflection of what matters most to Breland. The letters represent his first name Robbie, he and his daughter share the middle initial E, the F for his daughter, Faith and the T honors Tillman, the dog who was by his side for fourteen years. Breland wanted the business name to be a tribute to family, loyalty and the connections that shape a life.
Breland’s entrepreneurial spirit showed itself early. From a young age, he wanted to own a business, and he chased that dream relentlessly. By sixteen, he was fixing leaky pipes, repairing busted water lines and doing odd jobs wherever he could. At eighteen, he started his first official business and quickly learned that entrepreneurship was hard work but rewarding. There were many setbacks along the way, but instead of discouraging him, it fueled his determination.
Breland learned that early success is only part of the story. Staying successful requires resilience and humility. “It’s easy to
be successful initially,” he explains, “but it’s a hard journey to stay successful.” One of the most important lessons he shares is straightforward. “Don’t let failure stop you from moving forward; pick it up and try again.” That mindset, is shaped in part by a quote from Henry Ford, “Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you’re right,” has stayed with him.
As a single dad, he is most proud of watching his daughter grow into a strong, independent and intelligent woman. Seeing her succeed brings him more pride than any professional achievement. Growing up in a low-income family with limited opportunities, Breland learned nothing is handed to you. Everything was earned through persistence and sacrifice. “I started with a rundown truck and a limited supply of tools, and it didn’t happen overnight. There were a lot of hours, blood, sweat and tears tied into getting here.”
At REFT Equipment, Robbie has created an experience that feels reminiscent of an earlier time where customers are welcomed warmly and treated with respect and with no pressure to buy. The focus is on building relationships and finding real solutions. “My hope for customers who come into REFT is that
Robbie and his Pa
Pa, Robbie and Meme
they feel welcomed and well-served,” Breland says. “I want them to feel respected and valued every time.”
Being a South Carolina native, Breland has embraced the Aiken community and its offerings. He loves the welcoming nature of the town and has immersed himself in local life through golf, the horse community and a newfound interest in polo. He’s a strong supporter of small businesses and believes in seeing them thrive together. Giving back is important to him, and he has invested his time and resources into supporting local charities and activities, including serving as the top-tier sponsor for the first annual Downtown Aiken Clover 5K and Festival on March 14th.
Breland plans to continue growing REFT Equipment with hopes of expanding into multiple communities while honoring small town values. His message rings true. “If you have the desire and drive to do something, don’t let your circumstances stop you. Find a way to work around them and go after your goal.” At REFT Equipment, Breland is building more than a business. He is building trust, one relationship and one handshake at a time.
REFT Equipment is located at 3175 Whiskey Road in Aiken, SC. (803) 644-7368
“WHETHER YOU THINK YOU CAN OR THINK YOU CAN’T, YOU’RE RIGHT,”
A Dad and daughter having fun
Faith and Marcus Dixon
There’s no better way to start the week than with friends. NewSpring Church is a multi-generational church that gathers every Sunday in Aiken and online.
We come from all over and have something for everyone. No matter where you settle in South Carolina, you'll find a friend or neighbor at one of our 13 campus locations.
Find out more about our beliefs and see the exciting things available for children, teens, and adults at www.NewSpring.cc.
NewSpring Church Aiken Campus www NewSpring cc Sundays at 9:15am & 11:15am
@newspringchurch /NewSpring
AIKEN’S STAGE FOR EXCELLENCE
JOYE CELEBRATES TALENT, EDUCATION AND ARTISTIC WONDER
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.
ARTICLE BY NIKITA HANIF PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOYE IN AIKEN
Crook has been with Joye in Aiken since 2020, beginning as the Senior Production Manager before stepping into her current leadership role. She describes the transition as both an honor and an exciting responsibility. Even as Executive Director, she remains closely involved in production management, helping ensure that rehearsals, performances and special events
Collage Dance Collective
run smoothly. Her love for Joye is genuine, and she speaks about the organization with warmth and enthusiasm
Crook moved to Aiken in 2018 with her husband and four children and quickly became involved in education and the arts. She works as an adjunct professor at USC Aiken and expresses how much she enjoys working with students and encouraging their creative growth. That passion carries into her work at Joye where she delights in the magic that happens when students meet professional artists and see what dedication and imagination can achieve.
One of Crook’s favorite parts of Joye in Aiken is watching the audience respond to live performances. She loves seeing children light up as they experience music, dance and theater for the first time, as well as adults who are amazed that such extraordinary talent appears in Aiken. Many attendees leave surprised that artists of this caliber perform in a smaller town, and Crook takes pride in showing that exceptional cultural experiences can thrive anywhere.
Joye in Aiken began as a performing arts festival and has evolved into a vibrant program that now includes a Christmas concert and a summer jazz camp. Over time, it has become a cornerstone of the local arts scene, bringing high quality musicians, dancers, actors and performers to the community. Nearly all participating artists are involved in outreach efforts, educational workshops and mentorship programs designed to inspire the next generation of artists and musicians.
The 2026 Joye in Aiken festival runs from March 6th through March 13th this year and features an impressive lineup of talent, including award-winning jazz
ensembles, acclaimed classical musicians, dynamic dancers and innovative collaborative artists from across the country. Each performer brings not only artistic excellence but a commitment to engaging with students and community members through educational programming.
This season holds special meaning as the festival is dedicated in honor of Dr. Sandra Field. Her passing raised concerns about the future of Joye in Aiken, but Crook emphasizes a strong commitment to honoring Dr. Field’s legacy by continuing to grow, strengthen and expand the program. The goal is to preserve her vision while building new opportunities for education, performance and community connection.
One of the most meaningful aspects of Joye in Aiken is its accessibility. The festival is open to everyone, welcoming both children and adults with kids admitted free. Crook’s hope is to see all of Aiken come together to enjoy these performances. She encourages residents to volunteer and get involved, reminding the community that Joye in Aiken is a gift bringing talent, inspiration and joy.
Sounds of April & Randall
Peter & Kara Dugan
Paul Jacobs
Landscapes LASTING
A Thoughtful Approach to a Designer Yard by Rock Creek Irrigation & Landscapes
ARTICLE BY JESSICA LAWRENCE | PHOTOGRAPHY 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 Creek serves both residential and commercial clients with expert mastery and a long-term vision.
James Seawright, administrative manager of Rock Creek, explains that many landscaping projects are designed for first impressions rather than durability, often overlooking the critical groundwork beneath the surface.
“Our goal is to bring a higher level of accountability, craftsmanship and professionalism to landscaping,” Seawright says. “From grading and drainage to plant health and irrigation, we focus on the systems that support a landscape over time and not just how it photographs when it’s finished.”
A commitment to doing things correctly has fueled the company’s steady growth into a comprehensive landscaping partner for properties across the region. What truly sets Rock Creek apart is its integrated approach. Design, development, irrigation, hardscaping, landscaping and maintenance all live under one roof. This structure allows the team to oversee projects from concept through completion without the miscommunication that often occurs when multiple contractors are involved.
Clients benefit from a single point of accountability and a team that understands how every element of a landscape interacts.
“Landscapes aren’t static,” details Seawright. “They evolve over time. If drainage isn’t correct or irrigation is poorly designed, even the best plant selections will struggle. We design and build with performance in mind and not just aesthetics.”
This expertise translates into fewer failures, healthier plantings and outdoor spaces that continue to function beautifully year after year. Rock Creek’s most requested services reflect the practical needs of modern homeowners and property managers alike. Full landscape installations and renovations remain a cornerstone of the business, allowing clients to reimagine their outdoor spaces or bring new construction to life with intention and balance.
Irrigation system installation and upgrades are another top service, particularly as water efficiency and longterm plant health become increasingly important. Drainage solutions, including French drains, are also in high demand, especially in areas prone to heavy rain and water retention issues. Sod installation, turf renovation, retaining walls, walkways and hardscape features round out the company’s core offerings. Many clients choose to work with Rock Creek on phased improvements, tackling projects over time while maintaining a cohesive vision for the property.
As winter fades and spring approaches, March becomes a pivotal month for landscape preparation. According to the Rock Creek team, early attention now can prevent costly problems later.
“This is the ideal time to clean up winter debris, edge beds, refresh mulch and inspect irrigation systems for freeze damage,” they note. “Addressing drainage issues before spring rains arrive is especially important.”
Light pruning, soil conditioning and early planning for spring plantings help set the stage for a successful growing season that
ROCK CREEK IRRIGATION & LANDSCAPES
9026 Levels Church Road West Aiken, SC (803) 649-1802
“Simple upgrades done well can make a big difference,” says Seawright.
“Our goal is to bring a higher level of accountability, craftsmanship and professionalism to landscaping.”
feels effortless rather than reactive. For homeowners looking to boost curb appeal without a full overhaul, Rock Creek emphasizes the power of strategic updates. Fresh mulch, clean bed lines and seasonal color at entry points can instantly elevate a home’s exterior. Updated landscape lighting is another high-impact improvement, adding both beauty and security. Replacing overgrown or outdated shrubs with clean, structured plantings can modernize a property’s appearance while reducing long-term maintenance.
Today’s landscaping trends reflect a shift toward simplicity, sustainability and intentional design. Rock Creek is seeing strong interest in low-maintenance landscapes, native and drought-tolerant plants and clean, modern layouts with fewer plant varieties. Outdoor living spaces are also taking center stage with homeowners investing in patios, walkways, and subtle lighting that enhances the space without overwhelming it.
From efficient irrigation systems and climate-appropriate plant selections to proper soil preparation and spacing, environmental responsibility is built into every Rock Creek project. These practices reduce water waste, minimize maintenance and support healthier landscapes overall.
When asked which upgrades deliver the greatest return, the team at Rock Creek points to three essentials:
• Proper drainage solutions to protect both plants and property
• Irrigation upgrades that support consistent growth while conserving water
• Hardscape improvements such as walkways, retaining walls and patios that add structure, function and lasting value
Together, these elements form the backbone of a landscape that works as beautifully as it looks. At its core, Rock Creek Irrigation & Landscapes isn’t just about creating attractive outdoor spaces. They are building landscapes with purpose, durability and care. In a market where shortcuts are the standard, that commitment makes all the difference.
FRAMING THE LIGHT
ARTICLE BY NIKITA HANIF | PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA JUDY
The Art of Sunroom Design by Bates & Sons
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 twoseater 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 lay out pricing, Johnnie turned to his father Tom for guidance, unknowingly laying the foundation for a family business that would endure generations.
What began as a childhood hustle, slowly evolved into a home improvement and construction company framed by integrity, accountability and pride in workmanship. Through the 1970s and ’80s, as Aiken developed, so did Bates & Sons. In 1978, Johnnie and Tom formally incorporated their business, anchoring the company in family values that would remain unchanged even as services expanded and demand increased.
“It just kept growing as the town grew,” says Johnnie’s son and current owner Todd Bates. “It’s been a steady evolution for my family along with Aiken.”
Today, Todd leads Bates & Sons after purchasing the company from his family, continuing their legacy with the same personal approach that built its reputation. With a team of six, the company focuses on meticulous craftsmanship and thoughtful design.
This philosophy is evident in the work Bates & Sons is most popular for today: custom sunrooms and screened-in living spaces.
Sunrooms, for Todd, are about light, comfort and livability for the family.
“We listen first,” he explains. “We want to understand how our customers intend to use the space before we design it.”
Some homeowners want a fully climate-controlled extension of their home with heating and air. Others prefer the relaxed feel of a screened porch or an EasyBreeze three-season room that still allows fresh air to move through. Bates & Sons designs each space around lifestyle not trends.
That said, Todd notes a clear return to glass-forward designs. Homeowners are choosing expansive picture windows, sliding glass panels, tinted glass and traditional double-hung windows to create rooms that feel open, refined and connected to the outdoors. Many clients also want these spaces to feel distinct from the rest of the home. They desire a retreat that brings in natural light while maintaining a certain level of comfort year-round.
From initial consultation to completion, the process is collaborative and deliberate. After contacting the office, homeowners meet with the team to discuss vision and function. Depending on the scope, Bates & Sons handles everything from permits and plans to foundations, framing, roofing and final installation. Materials are ordered with care, timelines are clearly communicated and craftsmanship remains consistent from start to finish.
The company offers a one-year labor warranty and works with long-standing, American-made manufacturers, but Todd is quick to say they often go beyond what’s written.
“We are committed to excellent service before and after a sale,” he says. “We have worked with the same manufacturers for many years. Almost everything we install is American made.”
Thoughtful planning is central to every sunroom project. The team considers sun exposure throughout the day, wall space for televisions or décor, and energy efficiency to ensure comfort even on the coldest days.
“Those small details make all the difference,” Todd notes. “This is why we work with many repeat customers. We treat people the way we would want to be treated.”
Beyond sunrooms, Bates & Sons also provides window installations, screen rooms, Easy-Breeze enclosures and gutter services. With the next generation waiting in the wings, their story continues to be guided by time-honored principles and a lasting commitment to Aiken.
Located at 4310 Vaucluse Road in Aiken, SC. (803)648-3581
Breathe Easier this Spring
Family Pharmacy Shares Trusted
Allergy Tips to Help Aiken Thrive during Pollen Season
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 pollen forecasts and limit outdoor activities when levels are high. Family Pharmacy makes it easy to access this information, helping patients better understand which allergens, such as tree, grass or weed pollen, may trigger their symptoms. When pollen counts spike, keeping windows and doors closed, replacing air conditioning and HEPA filters and maintaining a consistent cleaning and vacuuming routine can make a meaningful difference in indoor air quality.
Personal habits also play a key role. Showering after spending time outdoors, washing clothing and linens frequently and wearing sunglasses and a hat outside can help reduce pollen exposure. When outdoor chores like mowing or raking
can’t be avoided, protective masks may offer added relief. Saline nasal rinses are another safe, effective option to clear allergens from nasal passages and can be used regularly without interfering with medications.
For those who need medical support, Family Pharmacy emphasizes the importance of using allergy medications as directed, ideally before symptoms begin. Staying hydrated can help thin mucus and improve congestion relief. Over-thecounter options include oral antihistamines for sneezing and runny noses, eye drops for itchy or watery eyes and corticosteroid nasal sprays for congestion and inflammation. Short-term decongestants and combination products may also help, but proper use is essential.
As spring unfolds, Family Pharmacy remains a trusted local resource, ready to help Aiken residents breathe easier and enjoy the season with confidence.
Family Pharmacy is located at 110 Price Avenue in Aiken, SC. (803) 649-1776
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, Ashley, and their three children into a story still being written.
Pastor Phillip shared that he wanted to be intentional in this handoff, welcoming Pastor Mike the same way Pastor Swift welcomed him years ago. That mindset shaped every step. Phillip and Terry gathered three couples from the church to help plan the transition and set a clear process for searching for the next senior pastor. Pastor Mike interviewed with the team and the elders, and the congregation was invited to vote. For a season, both pastors will overlap so the transition feels steady and God-honoring.
When Pastor Phillip and Terry look back on their time at Cedar Creek, they talk about more than ministry milestones. They talk about moments that only a church family can hold. Their children’s baptisms happened here. Weddings were celebrated here. Even their son’s funeral was marked by a community that stepped up, surrounded them with love and carried them through grief when words were not enough. Those memories are part of why Phillip and Terry have always worked to create an environment that welcomes everyone.
Pastor Phillip and Terry Lee
Pastor Phillip came to Aiken in 1999 and joined Cedar Creek when the church was growing into its identity. He was hired as the first pastoral staff member, brought in to build small groups and develop leaders. Over the next eight years, God led him into the senior pastor role, and Pastor Swift affirmed that it was God’s plan. Through seasons of growth and change, Pastor Phillip and Terry have held a steady heartbeat, being a place where people can belong, where Jesus is accessible, and where a biblical community learns to live through mission.
Pastor Mike and Ashley McKee
That same heartbeat is what drew Pastor Mike to Cedar Creek, a church planted more than thirty-two years ago with a vision for mission and discipleship. Pastor Mike is originally from North Carolina, born in Winston Salem and raised in a home shaped by ministry. He graduated high school in Arden, North Carolina, earned a communications degree from the University of North Carolina and completed a Master of Divinity at Southeastern Seminary in Wake Forest. Pastor Mike preached throughout North Carolina and led Bible studies for coaches at his alma mater. During that time he also served at The Summit Church in the Raleigh-Durham area for five years and helped start the Chapel Hill campus.
Nine years ago, Pastor Mike and his wife, Ashley, were sent out from Summit Church to start a new church in Marietta, Georgia, bringing with them twenty-eight adults and four kids. What started as a new work became a healthy, gospel-centered church reaching the next generation. Now, Pastor Mike and Ashley, along with their children, Adalyn Grace, Braxton and Cole, are following the Lord’s path to Aiken.
One connection was deeply personal. Pastor Mike’s middle son Braxton has special needs, and Cedar Creek’s special needs support struck a chord. Phillip, Terry, Mike and Ashley all point to Jesus’ command to care for the least of these, and Cedar Creek has built a reputation for showing up with compassion and help. The church is also focused on supporting those navigating mental health challenges by meeting people with dignity, hope and real community.
Pastor Mike says he is most excited to build on a faithful legacy, not replace it. He wants Cedar Creek to keep reaching those who are not yet believers, to keep loving the next generation and to keep living on mission. He talks about a hunger for Scripture: knowing and loving Jesus through reading the Bible line by line and verse by verse and being grounded in the gospel that saves and sanctifies. As Pastor Phillip and Terry step toward retirement, they look ahead with hope to what God has in store for them, their church family and all who will one day find belonging at Cedar Creek.
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Baby Oral Health Program
Baby teeth are more important than you may think. They help your child get proper nutrition, shape your child’s developing face, and help with the development of speech.
Starting your child early with Dr. Thom is the best way to develop good habits that will benefit your child for a lifetime. At Kitfox our number one goal is to treat your child so that he or she will look forward to coming to the dentist.
Bookcase Styling your
Tips for an Organized and Aesthetic Display
ARTICLE BY SHANNON ROBERTS
A bookcase is often more than just a storage unit for books; it’s a focal point of a room that can enhance the overall decor and reflect personal style. Styling a bookcase can be a rewarding endeavor, allowing you to showcase your literary collection and curate a space that feels inviting and visually appealing. Here are some tips to help you achieve a beautifully styled bookcase.
Styling a bookcase is a creative process that combines practicality with aesthetics. By using these tips, you can transform an ordinary bookshelf into a stylish, engaging focal point that complements your home’s decor while showcasing your personality and interests.
Step 1
Strategically Place Books on the Bookcase While Incorporating Decorative Elements.
When placing books back on the shelves, think about the arrangement, vertical stacks are more traditional, horizontal stacks more modern, or both for more visual interest. Adding decorative elements such as picture frames, vases, or sculptural objects to break the monotony. Incorporating items with varying heights can create a dynamic arrangement. Use larger items like art pieces or baskets on lower shelves and smaller decorative objects higher up. Aim for a balanced look while avoiding perfect symmetry. This creates an organic flow, drawing the eye naturally across the shelf. Incorporate asymmetrical groupings for added interest, mixing textures, colors, and shapes.
Step 2
Use Color Wisely and Add Natural Elements.
Color plays a role in styling a bookcase. You can opt for a monochromatic palette for a sophisticated look or introduce pops of color for a more energetic vibe. If your books are of various colors, pick a few colorful decorative pieces that complement or contrast them effectively. Integrating plants or natural elements can breathe life into your bookcase. Small potted plants can add color and texture.
Step 3
Create Zones and Add Personal Touches.
If your bookcase has multiple shelves, consider creating zones or themes for different sections. Infuse your personality into the bookcase through memorabilia, travel souvenirs, or personal artwork. These pieces add a storytelling dimension and make the space uniquely yours.
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
MARCH 3RD
Nutrition: Eat Well, Live Well: Smart Nutrition for Healthy Aging
Lessie B. Price Aiken Senior & Youth Center | 11:00 AM
Focus on healthy aging at the 4L’s Series March session, Eat Well, Live Well, presented by the City of Aiken. This engaging program offers practical nutrition guidance for seniors in a relaxed learning environment with lunch provided and chances to win prizes.
MARCH 6TH
Joye in Aiken Festival
Downtown Aiken | 5:30 PM
Celebrate culture and creativity during Joye in Aiken, a multi-day festival honoring jazz, dance and community spirit. Events include a New Orleans-style funeral parade, jazz brunches and dinners, live performances and educational programming which welcomes audiences to experience music and movement across Downtown Aiken.
MARCH 7TH
Movie Night in the Park
Beverly D. Clyburn Generations Park | 5:00 PM
Settle in for Movie Night in the Park at Beverly D. Clyburn Generations Park, presented by the City of Aiken. Enjoy a free outdoor screening of Lilo & Stitch, along with pre-movie activities and food trucks, making it a fun evening for families and friends.
MARCH 10TH
Aiken Newcomer’s Club
Fashion Show
Newberry Hall | 9:30 AM
Enjoy a stylish morning featuring a fashion presentation from Vikki’s…A Unique Boutique, followed by a delicious lunch catered by Newberry Hall. The menu includes grilled salmon with hollandaise and seasonal sides. There is an optional chicken entrée. Plus dessert and a beverage.
MARCH 14TH
Aiken Trials
Aiken Training Track | 10:00 AM
Witness the excitement of the 83rd Running of the Aiken Trials, a celebrated equestrian tradition showcasing top-level racehorses in training. This family-friendly event welcomes spectators for a full day of competition, pageantry and Southern sporting heritage.
MARCH 21ST
Spring Steeplechase
Aiken Steeplechase | 8:00 AM
Step into Aiken’s signature spring tradition at the Spring Steeplechase where thrilling jump races meet lively social gatherings. Guests enjoy elegant tailgates, standout fashion and elite equine competition set against the beauty of the season.
