Aiken, SC May 2026

The Ladies Issue

Style, Strength and Substance

To kick off our Ladies Issue, several of Aiken’s female business leaders gathered at the croquet courts at The Green Boundary Club for an evening that felt as effortless as it was meaningful. Golden light settled across the lawn as conversations unfolded, laughter carried and a simple photo shoot turned into something more—connection, encouragement and shared perspective. We’re confident you’ll enjoy the stunning images, which beautifully reflect the spirit of the evening.

At Nouveau Hair & Wigs in North Augusta, Nikki Mulder is redefining what it means to care for women experiencing hair loss. With a deeply personal touch and a heart for service, she has created a space where beauty and compassion meet. Step inside this story of strength, support and renewed confidence.

Kim Brown of Merry Maids is building something just as meaningful, leading with purpose and a people-first mindset that has earned national recognition. Her approach goes beyond cleaning homes, focusing on trust, relationships and creating spaces that truly serve families. Discover how leadership rooted in care is making a lasting impact throughout Aiken and Augusta.

At Aiken Medical Aesthetics, a broader conversation around wellness is taking shape that goes beyond appearance to focus on comfort, confidence and quality of life. With innovative offerings and a patient-first approach, the practice is helping normalize conversations that have long gone unspoken. Discover how thoughtful care and modern advancements are opening the door to a more complete sense of wellbeing.

And in a story that proves excellence always has a place, Palmetto Painting Pros is redefining what homeowners should expect from contractors. With a process-driven approach, strong communication and a commitment to doing things right, this Aiken-based team is delivering results that last well beyond the final coat. Take a look at how preparation, professionalism and pride in the work are setting a new standard locally.

However you turn the pages, we hope this issue leaves you feeling inspired by the women, the work and the quiet moments shaping our community every day.

See you next month!

May 2026

PUBLISHER

Gayle Bryan | gayle.bryan@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Nikita Hanif | nikita.hanif@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Carolyn McAvoy | carolyn.mcavoy@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Ashley Elvis

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Nikita Hanif, Jessica Crandall Lawrence

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Rebecca Judy

BRYAN, PUBLISHER

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto

LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick Learn

3:5-6

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Premier Medical & MedAesthetic Center combines safety, precision, and personalized care to help you look and feel your best at every life stage. Enjoy confidential consultations, tailored plans, and evidencebased outcomes designed to honor your natural beauty and comfort.

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Ph: (803) 617-7555

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inside the issue

Braithwaite McMillian Grimes - Injury Attorneys and Counselors at Law, LLC serves the entire CSRA with more than 40 years of combined experience. Our attorneys are former prosecutors, public defenders, and insurance attorneys that use their experience to help clients find creative solutions to difficult problems and deliver results in Personal Injury, DUI, Criminal, Motor Vehicle Accident, Commercial Trucking, and Nursing Home Neglect or Negligence cases. Attorneys Licensed in SC and GA.

city scene

1: Nora and Jeff taking a break from Stretch Zone to enjoy the races. 2: Rechell and LaChandra celebrate Rosi’s 2nd place showing in the hat contest. 3: Rachel and Davis Mellick (Welcome Health) and family at Aiken Spring Steeplechase. 4: Lacie and Keyanna (Aiken Medical Aesthetics) stopped by the ACL tailgate for some Gumbo. 5: Gayle (Aiken City Lifestyle) and David Bryan (Certapro) railside at Aiken Spring Steeplechase. 6: The Wiland-Foley Advisory Group team enjoyed their first ever Steeplechase! 7: Stephanie Lord (Security Federal), Sarah Schultz (Aiken Chamber) and Tracy Coakley (Mark

city scene CONTINUED

RAISING THE STANDARD FOR PAINTING

PALMETTO PAINTING PROS FOCUSES ON CRAFTSMANSHIP, COMMUNICATION AND CARE

A fresh coat of paint can completely transform a home or business, but lasting results come from more than color alone. The real difference is in the preparation, the process and the people behind the work. In Aiken, Palmetto Painting Pros continues to build its reputation by focusing on all three.

Founded by Justin Pitts and Tyler Stuart, Palmetto Painting Pros was created with a clear goal: deliver high-quality painting services paired with the professionalism, communication and attention to detail that homeowners often struggle to find. From the initial walkthrough to the final touch-up, the team focuses on doing the job the right way and ensuring each customer feels confident throughout the entire process.

ARTICLE BY NIKITA HANIF

PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA JUDY

Pitts and Stuart’s partnership began long before the business. The two have known each other since ninth grade when they played soccer in Aiken together

as teenagers. Decades later, that long-standing friendship has grown into a professional partnership built on trust, shared values and a commitment to doing things the right way.

For Palmetto Painting Pros, a successful project involves far more than applying paint. Every job begins with proper preparation, clear expectations and careful attention to detail. Surfaces must be thoroughly cleaned and prepped, surrounding areas protected and each step completed with the same level of care promised during the consultation.

For many homeowners, painting is also about protecting one of their most valuable investments. The team approaches each project with that responsibility in mind.

“We know we’re not just painting a house or a business,” Pitts says. “We’re working on something people care about. Anyone can put paint on a wall, but what matters is how you prepare, how you communicate and how you take care of the property along the way.”

That process-driven mindset is one of the things that sets the company apart. Pitts brings a precision-focused perspective shaped by his background in engineering, where planning, consistency and attention to detail are essential. Stuart contributes extensive experience in service-based businesses and customer relationships. Together, they have built a company centered on accountability, strong communication and quality craftsmanship.

The team also recognizes that clients are not simply hiring someone to paint a structure. They are trusting a crew to work on their home or business; therefore, respect for the property is a core expectation on every job. Crews arrive on time, maintain clean and organized work areas, communicate clearly with homeowners and treat each space with care.

“A lot of people have frustrating experiences with contractors,” Stuart says. “We work hard to make our process clear, professional and dependable from start

to finish.” That commitment to customer experience is reinforced through strong day-to-day oversight. Carolina Stuart, Tyler’s wife, plays an important role in visiting job sites, reviewing progress, monitoring quality and ensuring projects stay on track. Her involvement provides another level of consistency and reassurance for customers throughout the process.

At its core, Palmetto Painting Pros is built on the belief that quality should never waver. Pitts and Stuart understand that many clients have dealt with rushed work, inconsistent crews or disappointing results. Their approach focuses on transparency, follow-through and delivering exactly what was promised.

As the company continues serving homes and businesses across Aiken, much of its growth has come through referrals and repeat customers who value reliability, professionalism and results they can trust. For the team, success is measured not only by finished projects but also by the relationships built with every client.

When Palmetto Painting Pros arrive at a property, the goal is simple: deliver beautiful, lasting results while providing an experience that leaves customers feeling respected, informed and confident in their investment.

You can schedule a consultation with Palmetto Painting Pros by calling 803-507-5290.

Aiken

Medical Aesthetics Offers Innovative Treatments for Modern Women’s and Men’s Wellness

HOLISTIC HEALTH FORWARD

ARTICLE BY NIKITA HANIF | PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA JUDY

For years, Aiken Medical Aesthetics has been known throughout the community for helping patients feel confident in their appearance. But owner Kristin Cadavos has always believed aesthetics are only one part of the equation when it comes to personal confidence and wellbeing.

“Feeling good about how you look is important,” Cadavos explains, “but true confidence really begins with feeling healthy, comfortable and supported in your own body.”

That philosophy has guided the clinic’s newest expansion into therapies that address an area of health that has historically been overlooked in everyday medical conversations: intimate wellness.

At Aiken Medical Aesthetics, new treatment offerings now focus on women’s health, regenerative medicine and functional improvements that enhance quality of life for both women and men. While these topics were once considered too personal to discuss openly, advances in medical technology are helping normalize conversations around sexual wellness.

These therapies are not cosmetic in the traditional sense. Many of the concerns being addressed stem from real physiological changes in the brain that occur over time.

Throughout a woman’s life, she undergoes significant physical changes influenced by childbirth, hormonal shifts and aging. This condition, often referred to medically as genitourinary syndrome of menopause, can lead to symptoms such as dryness, irritation, declining sexual wellness and even mild stress urinary incontinence.

Despite how common these symptoms are, many women simply accept them as an unavoidable part of aging.

“One of the biggest barriers is that women often feel embarrassed bringing up these concerns,” Cadavos says. “But these changes are incredibly common, and modern medicine now offers solutions that can truly improve comfort and quality of life.”

One of the most exciting treatments now offered at Aiken Medical Aesthetics is the diVa laser vaginal therapy, a non-surgical and hormone-free treatment designed to support tissue health. The diVa system uses hybrid fractional laser technology to create controlled micro-thermal zones within the tissue. These tiny micro-injuries stimulate the body’s natural healing response.

At the same time, the treatment encourages the development of new blood vessels within the tissue, improving oxygen delivery. Over time, this regenerative process helps restore sexual wellness.

The treatment itself is remarkably quick, typically lasting just three to five minutes during an in-office visit. A specialized device gently delivers the laser energy.

Most patients describe the sensation as mild warmth or pressure, and anesthesia is generally not required.

Because the procedure is minimally invasive, recovery is relatively simple. Most patients return to normal daily activities immediately following the treatment.

For women who have experienced changes following childbirth or menopause, these improvements can significantly enhance daily well-being and confidence.

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“Our focus is on helping patients understand their options and find solutions that truly improve their well-being.”

Leading the introduction of these services at Aiken Medical Aesthetics is Georgia, who is now entering her second year as a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner. Before stepping into this advanced role, she spent four years working as a gynecology nurse, gaining extensive experience caring for women at every stage of life.

Her background provides both clinical insight and empathy when discussing concerns that patients may feel hesitant to share.

Assisting Georgia is Tiffany, a registered nurse with more than twenty years of experience in women’s health, including extensive work in obstetrics and labor and delivery. Together the two providers bring decades of combined experience, creating an environment where patients feel informed, respected and comfortable discussing their health.

In addition to laser therapy, Aiken Medical Aesthetics has also introduced regenerative treatments designed to support sexual wellness for both women and men.

Known as the Oh-Shot for women and the Peak-Shot for men, these treatments utilize platelet-rich plasma, commonly referred to as PRP, to stimulate tissue regeneration.

PRP therapy begins with a simple blood draw. The blood is placed in a centrifuge, which separates the platelet-rich plasma from the rest of the blood components. This concentrated plasma contains powerful growth factors responsible for healing and tissue regeneration.

For women, the Oh-Shot is designed to enhance sexual wellness. Patients often report improvements in sexual wellness. Some women also experience improvement in mild urinary incontinence.

The Peak-Shot, sometimes referred to medically as the Priapus Shot, focuses on improving male sexual wellness.

One of the key advantages of PRP therapy is that it uses the patient’s own blood, which significantly reduces the risk of allergic reactions or complications. The procedures are quick, typically taking around thirty minutes, and most patients can resume their normal daily activities shortly afterward.

Cadavos emphasizes that while these treatments have gained national attention, patient education remains the most important part of the process.

Every patient begins with a private consultation where providers review medical history, symptoms and treatment goals to determine whether the therapy is appropriate.

“We’re not here to simply offer trendy treatments,” Cadavos says. “Our focus is on helping patients understand their options and find solutions that truly improve their well-being.”

The addition of these therapies reflects a broader shift in healthcare, where conversations about sexual wellness and intimate health are becoming more open and supported by scientific innovation.

By offering these treatments locally, Cadavos hopes to give patients in the Aiken community access to services that once required traveling to much larger cities.

As Aiken Medical Aesthetics continues to grow, the clinic’s mission remains unchanged: helping patients feel their best both inside and out.

Through advanced technology, experienced providers and compassionate care, the practice continues to expand its role as a trusted resource for wellness, confidence, and health in the Aiken community.

You can visit Aiken Medical Aesthetics at 931 Dougherty Road in Aiken, SC or you may call them to schedule a consult at 803-830-4940.

“But these changes are incredibly common, and modern medicine now offers solutions that can truly improve comfort and quality of life.”

Cleaning Up the Competition

Kim Brown’s Merry Maids Cleans Up, Ranking #1 Among 400+ Locations Nationwide

For Kim Brown, owner of Merry Maids serving Augusta and Aiken, leadership has always been about more than running a successful business. It’s about fostering a culture where both employees and clients feel valued.

Brown’s path to business ownership began with an unexpected opportunity. The previous owner of the local Merry Maids franchise, founded in 1992, had been a longtime client of her husband, a CPA. When he decided to retire in 2015, he approached the Browns about purchasing the business. Knowing the franchise had a strong track record, the couple decided to take the leap.

While her husband continues his accounting practice, Brown stepped fully into the leadership role, overseeing the daily operations and guiding the company’s growth across Georgia and South Carolina. Over the years, she has shaped the business into something more than a cleaning service. Under her leadership, Merry Maids has become a flourishing organization built on trust.

“What drew me to the business was the opportunity to help people,” Brown says. “Every home is different, every client has unique needs, and our goal is to deliver a fivestar experience every single time.”

For Brown, that experience begins with the people who represent the company every day. She is passionate about supporting the frontline team members who work directly with clients in their homes.

ARTICLE BY JESSICA CRANDALL LAWRENCE PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA JUDY

“My leadership style is that of a leader, not a boss,” she explains. “A boss tells people what to do. A leader guides their team where they want them to go.”

Her philosophy has ignited a compassionate culture within the company. Brown believes a business is only as strong as the people behind it, and she works intentionally to create an environment where employees feel respected and empowered. Many of the team members are women, and Brown says their shared understanding of home life allows them to take pride in delivering spaces that feel calm and well-tended.

“Those relationships matter,” Brown says. “When people know they are valued, they bring their best to the work they do every day.”

Inviting someone into your home requires a great deal of trust, something Brown never takes lightly. Merry Maids backs every service with a 24-hour guarantee, ensuring that any concerns are addressed quickly and completely.

“We want clients to know they are heard and cared for,” she says. “We’re not just cleaning a house. We’re helping create a peaceful space where people can relax and spend time with what matters most.”

In 2023, Brown’s franchise received the prestigious Dallen W. Peterson Founder’s Award from Merry Maids, recognizing it as the top franchise in the nation among more than 400 locations. The honor reflects not only an impressive business performance, but also exceptional service and leadership.

Today, the company serves multiple counties across Georgia and South Carolina and continues to expand while maintaining its community foundation. Brown recently expanded operations with a dedicated office in Aiken to better serve South Carolina clients and strengthen the company’s presence in the region.

Brown also prioritizes serving the community. Since 2017, Merry Maids of Augusta has partnered with Cleaning for a Reason to offer two free home cleanings to cancer patients undergoing treatment, with discounted services available afterward. Inspired by her own family’s experience with cancer, Brown says the program is one way her team can help create a clean space where people can focus on healing.

“I want our company to always be known as relationship-driven,” she says. “Our clients are not just names on a schedule, and our employees are not just team members. They’re part of something meaningful. When people trust you with their homes and their time, that’s a responsibility we take seriously.”

You can contact Merry Maids in Aiken by calling 803-593-0077 or Augusta by calling 706-650-2409.

THE POWER OF A SKILLED LOCAL TEAM

Summer is the perfect time to turn your home from “so-so” to “whoa!” Whether your exterior or interior needs a refresh, we’re the Pros to help you do it right. Let CertaPro Painters® of Augusta show you the power of transformation. Schedule your FREE on-site or remote estimate today.

803-295-5160

ASK HOW YOU CAN GET $350 OFF YOUR INTERIOR OR EXTERIOR PA INT JOB!

ARTICLE BY NIKITA HANIF | PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA JUDY

BEAUTY BEYOND HAIR

NIKKI MULDER HELPS WOMEN FACING HAIR LOSS FIND COMFORT, BEAUTY AND RENEWED CONFIDENCE THROUGH PERSONALIZED CARE AT NOUVEAU HAIR & WIGS

In North Augusta, a quiet but powerful transformation is happening inside Nouveau Hair & Wigs, where owner Nikki Mulder has turned more than two decades of hairstyling experience into something deeply meaningful. What began as a traditional career behind the chair evolved into a calling after Mulder witnessed just how profoundly hair loss can impact a woman’s confidence and sense of self.

“I realized very quickly that this was about so much more than hair,” Mulder shares. “It’s about helping women feel like themselves again during some of the hardest moments of their lives.”

Mulder’s journey into the world of wigs started simply, offering ponytail wigs for pageants and special occasions. Over time, her passion grew alongside her offerings. Today, Nouveau features a wide range of toppers, hairpieces, synthetic options and an extensive collection of real hair wigs. What truly sets her boutique apart, however, is her dedication to medical wigs designed for women experiencing hair loss due to chemotherapy, alopecia and other conditions.

That dedication is deeply personal. Mulder’s mother and sister are both cancer survivors and watching them endure treatment left a lasting impression. Determined to help others facing similar battles, she created a space that offers more than just products.

At Nouveau, clients are welcomed into a private, comforting environment where they receive one-on-one consultations tailored to their needs, preferences and budget.

“I wanted to create a place where women could feel safe, supported and understood,” Mulder says, “not rushed, not overwhelmed but truly cared for.”

Since opening in 2023, Mulder has built more than a business. She has created a haven. She works tirelessly to accommodate her clients, even offering flexible payment plans to ensure every woman has access to something that makes her feel beautiful again.

During a recent visit, two clients shared just how impactful that care has been.

Megan Griffin met Mulder last year at the beginning of her treatment for sarcoma. Facing both a frightening diagnosis and the emotional weight of hair loss at a young age, Griffin found comfort within Nouveau’s walls. “I was scared, especially of losing my hair,” Griffin says. “But she made it feel less scary. She created a safe place where I could come, ask questions and find something that helped me feel like myself again.”

For Kristin Austin, currently undergoing treatment for Stage Three breast cancer, the experience was just as transformative. After researching multiple options, she was searching for more than just a wig. She wanted someone who genuinely cared. “I was overwhelmed and didn’t know where to start,” Austin shares.

“She FaceTimed me right away, walked me through everything and made me feel seen. I went from being terrified to crying tears of joy because I knew I was going to be okay.”

Mulder’s compassion extends beyond her own efforts. Her mother often spends time in the shop, speaking with clients and offering encouragement from her own cancer journey. That added layer of understanding brings comfort that cannot be taught.

At Nouveau Hair & Wigs, the mission is clear. Mulder is not just helping women navigate hair loss. She is helping them rediscover confidence, dignity and even joy during life’s most difficult seasons.

“I realized very quickly that this was about so much more than hair,” Mulder shares. “It’s about helping women feel like themselves again during some of the hardest moments of their lives.”

ARTICLE BY KALI KASORZYK

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

BECKY HILLYARD

From Side Hustle to Style Empire

The power of taste, trust, and the courage to “just start.”

She didn’t have a business plan, a media budget, or even a name anyone could pronounce. What Becky Hillyard had was taste, a young family, and the instinct to just start. Today, her lifestyle brand Cella Jane commands an audience the size of Vogue’s, she’s nine collections strong with Splendid, and she’s built it all while raising three kids — refusing to sacrifice one for the other. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Becky shares what it really takes to build a brand, a career, and a life you love. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full conversation.

Q: WHEN DID YOU KNOW CELLA JANE WAS MORE THAN A HOBBY?

A: Two moments. Women started emailing me saying they bought something I recommended and felt amazing — asking me to help them find a dress for a wedding. That felt incredible. Then I looked at my affiliate numbers for one month and realized I could cover our mortgage. I thought, I can actually do this. I never set out to build a business. I started it because I genuinely loved it.

Q: WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST RISK YOU EVER TOOK WITH THE BRAND?

A: Designing my own collection. It’s easy to point at items on a website and say I love these. But to create something from scratch, put your name on it, and wait to see if people connect with it — that’s terrifying. I had an incredible partner in Splendid, and women loved the pieces. It was the biggest risk and the biggest accomplishment.

Q: HOW HAS INFLUENCER MARKETING CHANGED SINCE YOU STARTED?

A: When I started, brands didn’t know whether to take it seriously. Now it’s a legitimate line item in their marketing budgets — sometimes bigger than TV. Because what we’ve built is trust. People trust a real recommendation from someone they follow far more than a commercial. There’s no question about it now.

Q: YOU’RE A MOM OF THREE RUNNING A FULL BRAND. WHAT DOES YOUR DAY ACTUALLY LOOK LIKE?

A: I try to get up at five and not hit snooze — that first hour before the house wakes up is the most productive, most peaceful hour of my day. Then it’s all hands on deck with the kids and school drop-off. After that I work — planning content, connecting with my team, editing. After pickup, the day shifts completely and it’s all about them. I’ve learned to protect both halves fiercely, because both matter.

Q: WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE WHO WANTS TO BUILD SOMETHING OF THEIR OWN BUT KEEPS WAITING?

A: Don’t wait. Don’t wait for the perfect camera, the right strategy, or enough followers. We find every excuse to stay comfortable. Just start, be consistent, and be authentically yourself. The right people will find you — and they’ll stay.

This conversation is just the beginning. Becky goes deeper on the risks that almost stopped her, the design process behind her latest Splendid collection, and what she’d tell her 2012 self today. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle Podcast.

“Trust is the only metric that actually compounds.”

— Becky Hillyard

• New Construction Landscape Installation Irrigation, Sod, Plants, Mulch, Pine straw

• Hardscapes Patios, Sidewalks, Firepits, Retaining Walls, Seat Walls, Pool Deck, Outdoor Fireplace, Outdoor Living Space, Outdoor Kitchens

M A K E T H I S S U N D A Y

T H E B E S T O N E Y E T

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

SIMPLYStunning

An evening of effortless elegance unfolded at the Green Boundary Club as Aiken’s inspiring women gathered for a moment of connection, laughter and leisure. With parasols in hand and croquet mallets at the ready, the scene felt like a timeless Southern tradition where refreshing lemonade, genuine friendships and a touch of playful competition came together under the golden glow of a perfect Aiken sunset.

Set on Green Boundary Club’s Croquet Lawns, a Group of Aiken Businesswomen Blend Style, Confidence and Girl Power

Caren Friedman & Mary Ruth Singer

Owners Orangetheory Fitness

Orangetheory Fitness in Aiken delivers high-energy, coach-led workouts for all fitness levels. Combining strength and cardio with real-time tracking, it’s a motivating space to build endurance, strength and see results. Mary Ruth Singer and Caren Friedman are proud to be the owners of this business in our great city.

Ashley Burkhart

Family Pharmacy

Family Pharmacy is Aiken’s trusted and locally owned pharmacy, known for personalized care and a friendly, hometown feel. From prescriptions and immunizations to wellness support and delivery, they go above and beyond to keep our community healthy. Ashley Burkhart is the Front End and Marketing Manager.

Tasha Raby

Scissor & Sofas

Scissor & Sofas, owned by Tasha Raby, is one of Aiken’s most unique spots, blending a full-service salon with curated furniture and home decor all under one roof. It’s a true “style meets comfort” experience where you can refresh your look and find perfect pieces for your home in one visit.

Gayle Bryan

Publisher of Aiken City Lifestyle magazine

Publisher of Aiken City Lifestyle magazine, Gayle Bryan, is passionate about showcasing the people, businesses and stories that make Aiken special. Through her leadership, the magazine serves as a vibrant community hub, highlighting local success, fostering connections and celebrating the unique charm of Aiken.

Nikita Hanif

Publication Director for Aiken City Lifestyle

Publication Director for Aiken City Lifestyle, Nikita Hanif, brings a passion for storytelling and community connections to every issue. Through her work, she highlights people, businesses and moments that make Aiken special, creating a magazine that feels both inspiring and deeply rooted in the heart of the city.

Hair & Wigs

Nouveau Hair & Wigs, owned and operated by Nikki Mulder, is dedicated to helping women experiencing hair loss feel confident and beautiful again. Specializing in custom wigs, toppers and personalized solutions, she provides expert care in a welcoming and supportive environment.

Taylor Leaptrotte

Mortgage Loan Originator

As a mortgage loan originator, Taylor Leaptrotte displays a genuine passion for helping clients find the right path to homeownership. Her approachable style and focus on clear communication make the lending process feel simple, smooth and stress-free.

Madyson Richardson

Mortgage Loan Originator

A mortgage loan originator with Motto Mortgage, Madyson Richardson is dedicated to helping clients navigate the home financing process with confidence. She works closely with each client to find the right loan solution and make the path to ownership as smooth as possible.

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.

Call today to reserve your child’s appointment with Dr. Thom: 803.393.4550 | www.kitfoxdental.com 1395 Silver Bluff Road, Aiken

MAY 2026

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MAY 1ST

Aiken Foodees Food & Culture Festival

Newberry Street Festival Center | 1:00 PM

Savor global flavors at the South Carolina Food and Culture Festival by Foodees in Historic Downtown Aiken. This free event transforms Newberry Street into a vibrant gathering of food trucks, artisans and makers, offering diverse cuisine, handcrafted goods and a lively cultural experience for all ages.

MAY 9TH

Ag + Art Tour

Aiken | 9:00 AM

Celebrate Aiken County’s agricultural and artistic heritage during the South Carolina Ag + Art Tour. This community event highlights local farms, artisans and agritourism sites, inviting visitors to explore handcrafted goods, meet creators and experience the region’s hospitality.

MAY 15TH

The Aiken Garden Show

Aiken County Historical Museum | 8:30 AM

Explore Aiken’s horticultural beauty with the Aiken Council of Garden Clubs’ two-day garden event. Tour six historic downtown gardens, browse local vendors, attend educational talks, enjoy food trucks and view the National Garden Club Flower Show while experiencing the city's charm.

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MAY 16TH

Hops & Hogs

Newberry St | 5:00 PM

Downtown Aiken’s Annual Hops + Hogs Festival brings Newberry Street to life with barbecue vendors, regional craft beer, live music and a kid zone. This free community event offers a lively atmosphere centered around food, entertainment and local flavor for all ages.

MAY 16TH

Polo n Blues

La Bourgogne Polo | 4:00 PM

Attend the 2nd Annual Polo n Blues fundraiser at La Bourgogne Club de Polo in Wagener. This community event brings together live entertainment and polo action while supporting Public Education Partners Aiken and Overflow Foundation through proceeds from the event.

MAY 24TH

Aiken Bluegrass Series 2026

Stable View | 4:00 PM

Enjoy an evening of live music at the Aiken Bluegrass Series hosted at Stable View. Featuring performances by multiple bluegrass acts, the event offers food and beverages on site along with a relaxed atmosphere for music lovers of all ages.

Cedar Creek Church