Issuu

The Style Issue S E P TE M B E R 2 02 6

Cedar Creek Church Sundays at 9:00 AM & 11:00 AM We’re a gospel-centered church where people gather each week to worship, grow in faith, and learn to walk with Jesus in the everyday rhythms of life. Whether you’re new to the area, searching for community, or ready to grow deeper in your faith — we’d love to walk with you.

www.cedarcreekchurch.net 3001 Banks Mill Road · Aiken, SC Lead Pastor: Mike McKee

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Celebrating Community Through Elegant, Personal Dining

Indulge in delicious meal options in a variety of settings appropriate for anything from grabbing a bite after an equestrian trail ride, client business lunch or an elegant dinner with friends.

greenboundaryclub.com | (803) 649-2549 | 780 Whiskey Rd. Aiken, SC

Family Owned and Operated for Three Generations

S U M M E R SA L E

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Defining Style I'll be the first to admit that style isn't my thing. Give me hiking shoes, a camera and cargo shorts, and I'm perfectly happy. Fortunately, Publications Director Nikita Hanif has impeccable style, so while I was chasing birds and travel stories, she made sure this issue looked every bit as fashionable as it should. Of course, style starts with what we wear. Our annual Style Shoot brings together downtown boutique owners to model their favorite fall fashions. From timeless classics to the season's latest trends, discover the looks and local shops that make Aiken's fashion scene one of a kind. Confidence may be the best accessory of all. A USC Aiken graduate and social media sensation has built a loyal following by recommending affordable beauty products while inspiring women to embrace confidence and authenticity. Learn why meeting this hometown success story proved Shelby Ann Bell is every bit as genuine in person as she is on screen. Style extends beyond our wardrobes to the places we call home. Meet Nadine Dorrington whose passion for exceptional design and appreciation for Aiken inspired the creation of Integrity Temple and its breathtaking luxury equestrian estate, The Sanctuary. Learn how her commitment to craftsmanship, community and the skilled trades is helping shape Aiken's future one project at a time. Looking your best starts with feeling your best. Mary Ruth and Scott Singer never expected one workout class to change the course of their lives. Discover how the owners of Orangetheory Fitness Aiken are building a community where every member is encouraged to pursue greater strength and lasting wellness. Finally, travel with David and me to the crystal-clear waters of Belize where our very different vacation styles proved that the best adventures don't have to look the same for everyone. From world-class diving to quiet afternoons with a good book on the beach, discover how one unforgettable trip gave us both exactly what we were hoping to find. Whether your style is reflected in the clothes you wear, the confidence you carry, the home you create, the way you care for yourself or the adventures you pursue, I hope you'll find something in these pages that inspires you. On behalf of Nikita and our entire team, thank you for inviting us into your home each month. See you next month! G AY L E B R YA N , P U B L I S H E R @AIKENCITYLIFESTYLE

September 2026 PUBLISHER

Gayle Bryan | gayle.bryan@citylifestyle.com P U B L I CAT I O N D I R E C TO R

Nikita Hanif | nikita.hanif@citylifestyle.com P U B L I S H E R AS S I STAN T

Carolyn McAvoy | carolyn.mcavoy@citylifestyle.com C O PY E D I TO R

Ashley Elvis CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Nikita Hanif, Gayle Bryan, Jessica Crandall Lawrence C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Whitney Ray, Gayle Bryan

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Aiken City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Aiken area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions.

Visit our Instagram CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/AIKEN

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Aiken City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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inside the issue SE PTE M B E R 2 02 6 | STYL E

32 Featured

26 32

Print Prestige Meets Digital Power.

WHY CHOOSE BETWEEN PRESTIGE AND PLACEMENT?

Departments

Strength in Every Season

How the Singers are inspiring Aiken to pursue greater strength and lasting wellness

Authentically Autumn in Aiken Downtown Aiken’s Boutiques Showcase the Season’s Most Stylish Fall Fashion

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Local Limelight HOME + DESIGN

Healthy Lifestyle FITNESS

Fashion Forward STYLE + BEAUTY

Trend Setter STYLE + BEAUTY

Travel Journal TRAVEL

Must See STYLE + BEAUTY

Events

In Sync Style

Roy and Angel Keitt Inspire through Fashion, Faith and Partnership

On the Cover This month, Aiken’s local downtown boutique owners came together at Solo Vino and The Backyard to showcase the season’s best fall fashion. Photography: Whitney Ray

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SEPTEMBER 2026

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

7 6

1: The Urban Hyena pack with owner Michele Warren. 2: Karen and Kic Young representing Clean Up Aiken at Business After Hours. 3: Teeing it up at the Back Nine during Business After Hours. 4: Kayla and Paul enjoying Business After Hours at Back Nine in Aiken. 5: Rebecca and William Stratford of Big Air at their first Aiken Business After Hours. 6: Business After Hours is always a great time for networking. 7: New business downtown brings smiles to everyone. Photography by Carolyn Dawn (CD) McAvoy, Nikita Hanif and Gayle Bryan

Want to be seen in the magazine? TA G Y O U R I N S TA G R A M P H O T O S W I T H @ A I K E N C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

C I T Y SC E N E

MAKE THIS SUNDAY THE BEST ONE YET 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

Bringing Families to the Table At Dukes, great food has always been about more than what’s on the plate. For generations families have gathered to enjoy our barbecue, classic southern sides and the kind of welcoming atmosphere that makes everyone feel at home. Because some of the best memories are made when good food brings everyone together. https://dukesbbqaiken.com | 803-649-7675 4248 Whiskey Road, Aiken, SC 29803

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SEPTEMBER 2026

business monthly A ROUNDUP OF NEWS F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

Stretch Zone Aiken Welcomes New Owner

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Stretch Zone Aiken has entered an exciting new chapter under the ownership of Alicia Brigode, bringing fresh energy and a continued commitment to helping clients move better, feel better and improve their quality of life. The studio provides practitioner-assisted stretching in a welcoming environment for both longtime members and those experiencing Stretch Zone for the first time. Under Brigode’s leadership, the team looks forward to building on the studio’s reputation for exceptional customer care while continuing to serve the Aiken community.

Adam’s Garden Center & Gift Shop Honored as Best of Adam’s Garden Center & Gift Shop continues to earn recognition for its commitment to serving the community. The business was recently named Business of the Month by the Southern Carolina Regional Chamber of Commerce and was also voted Best Garden Center, Best Gift Shop and Best Place to Buy a Storage Building in The People Sentinel’s annual Readers’ Choice Awards. The honors reflect the continued support of the community and the dedication of the Adam’s Garden Center team.

Scan to read more

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Navigating My Medicare

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ARTICLE BY NIKITA HANIF | PHOTOGRAPHY BY WHITNEY RAY

ROOTED IN AIKEN

Nadine Dorrington, Founder and Creative Director

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | HO ME + D E SIGN

H O W A F A M I LY ’ S I N V E S T M E N T I N A I K E N I S R E D E F I N I N G L U X U R Y EQUESTRIAN LIVING IN THE CAROLINAS

Nicolette Fazio, Nadine Dorrington and Nicolle Malpartida

For Nadine Dorrington, Aiken was never meant to be a passing stop. After years of traveling and building a life in Michigan, she and her husband made a deliberate choice to start over somewhere that felt different, somewhere that felt right. What they found in Aiken was more than a destination. It was a place worth investing in fully. “We did it big here for Aiken,” Dorrington said. “It was a devotion and a full investment.” That devotion is taking shape in the form of The Sanctuary, Integrity Temple’s current luxury residential project, a remarkable equestrian estate tucked into Aiken’s landscape. Yet for Dorrington, Founder and Creative Director of Integrity Temple, the project is about far more than square footage or craftsmanship. It is a love letter to the place she now calls home. Founded in 2023, Integrity Temple specializes exclusively in custom, luxury equestrian residences. The company reflects Dorrington’s lifelong fascination with how people live within spaces and how thoughtful design can improve everyday life. A graduate of Michigan State University with a background in merchandising management, Dorrington spent years renovating

Nadine Dorrington

homes while raising her children. Each project sharpened her eye for functionality, details and quality. Later, she earned a master’s certificate from Clemson University in integrated project delivery, bringing a sophisticated understanding of large-scale construction to every endeavor. “My superpower is identifying things that are wrong,” Dorrington said with a laugh. That attention to detail is evident throughout The Sanctuary, a 12.7-acre property featuring a 5,633-square-foot main residence and a guest cottage. Every element has been thoughtfully considered, from specialty roofing systems to premium materials sourced to withstand time and climate. Still, she is quick to point out that Integrity Temple is not a onewoman operation. Her closest collaborators are Project Manager and Creative Executive Nicolle Malpartida and Director of Finance and Administration Nicolette Fazio. Together, the trio has created a company culture rooted in excellence, accountability and mutual respect. CONTINUED > S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E. C O M / A I KE N

Nadine Dorrington

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | HO ME + D E SIGN

Nadine Dorrington

“WE DID IT BIG HERE FOR AIKEN,” DORRINGTON SAID. “IT WAS A DEVOTION AND A FULL INVESTMENT.”

“She is as integrated into Integrity Temple as we are,” Dorrington said of Fazio, who oversees licensing, payroll, insurance, taxes and administration. Malpartida has been equally instrumental, helping to source materials, coordinate manufacturers and bring Dorrington’s ambitious vision to life. Their partnership began years ago when Malpartida served as Dorrington’s personal assistant. Today, she is an essential force behind every Integrity Temple project. The team is supported by Davis Custom Homes founder Seth Davis, who partnered with Integrity Temple under a unique hybrid

arrangement and provided the licensing and technical expertise necessary to execute the project. While Integrity Temple is producing some of the region’s most distinctive luxury homes, Dorrington believes the true measure of success lies elsewhere. Throughout construction, she has remained deeply committed to the people building alongside her. “Some of the hardest working people have very little recognition for what they do,” Dorrington said. “They deserve respect.” That philosophy influences everything from contractor relationships to job site culture. Workers are greeted by name. Lunch is provided. Water is stocked during South Carolina’s hottest days. Leftover materials are often shared with laborers building homes of their own. Dorrington speaks passionately about the trades, particularly finish carpenters, whose craftsmanship she reveres. She believes tradespeople deserve the same dignity and opportunities afforded to any other profession. That belief inspired Integrity Temple’s partnership with Aiken Technical College to establish a multi-year scholarship for students entering trade programs. The company awarded its first scholarship this year. “The professions are aging out,” Dorrington said. “You can build a wonderful life in the trades and support a family without carrying the debt of a four-year degree.” CONTINUED >

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Nadine Dorrington

Integrity Temple’s impact extends beyond scholarship funding. Through The Sanctuary alone, the company has partnered with countless businesses across Aiken, Augusta, Columbia and Charlotte. Local electricians, septic installers, lumber suppliers, artists and craftsmen have all contributed to the project, creating a ripple effect throughout the Carolinas. For Integrity Temple, that community investment matters. “There’s something special here,” she said. “I believe cities are energy centers, and I think the energy here is higher.” Ask Dorrington why she chose Aiken, and the answer comes quickly: the horses. A lifelong equestrian, she boards at New Bridge Polo & Country Club and competes with her jumpers throughout the region. But somewhere between Hitchcock Woods, Stable View and afternoons downtown, Aiken became more than a destination. “It isn’t where I fit in,” Dorrington said. “It’s where I belong.” That sense of belonging continues to shape Integrity Temple’s future. In five years, Dorrington hopes the company will be

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | HO ME + D E SIGN

completing its fourth luxury equestrian project while continuing to push the boundaries of what is possible in Aiken. She also hopes to see more horses in town. “The closer to town horses can be, the better,” she said. For now, though, The Sanctuary stands as a testament to one family’s belief in Aiken and a reminder that sometimes the most meaningful investments are not measured in dollars at all, but in the places and people we choose to call home. For Dorrington, every completed project represents more than a successful build. It is an opportunity to leave a lasting mark on a community she believes is on the cusp of national recognition. As more people discover Aiken’s unique blend of equestrian culture, Southern hospitality and small-town charm, she hopes Integrity Temple will continue to contribute thoughtfully to its story. After all, she and her husband could have chosen anywhere. Instead, they chose Aiken, and in return, Aiken has become part of who they are. That relationship, she believes, is the foundation upon which every meaningful legacy is ultimately built.

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Nicolette Fazio, Nadine Dorrington and Nicolle Malpartida

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1908 Richland Avenue West, Aiken, SC 29801 www.integritytemple.com S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E. C O M / A I KE N

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S t re n g t h i n Eve r y S e a s o n THE SINGERS ARE INSPIRING AIKEN TO PURSUE STRENGTH AND WELLNESS

ARTICLE BY JESSICA CRANDALL LAWRENCE PHOTOGRAPHY BY WHITNEY RAY

Mary Ruth Singer

Making every step count!

H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | FIT N E SS

When Mary Ruth Singer agreed to accompany a friend to an Orangetheory Fitness class, she expected little more than a mundane workout. Instead, she discovered an entirely new rhythm for her life. “I went that day, and then I signed up that day,” Mary Ruth recalls. “I just fell in love with it.” Her quick decision surprised her husband, Scott. Mary Ruth, he jokes, is rarely one to rush. The couple courted for 10 years before marrying and waited another decade to have children. Committing to Orangetheory after a single class was decidedly out of character. Still skeptical, Scott soon joined her for a workout. Before long, the studio became an inextricable part of their lives. When the Aiken studio faced closure, the Singers could not imagine losing what Scott describes as an invaluable community asset. They joined their two sons, Brad and Andrew, and another business partner, Caren Friendman, to purchase the franchise, officially assuming ownership September 1, 2025. As they mark their first anniversary, membership has grown from approximately 170 to 280. “We have seen it transform so many people in a positive way,” Scott says. “It became a place where people could make great friends and do something really positive for themselves.” Fellow owner Caren Friedman has experienced that sense of community personally. “It makes me feel at home,” Caren says. “And it makes me feel a part of the community.” For Mary Ruth, the transition from member to owner represented an unexpected reinvention. A nurse by training, she began her career in cardiovascular nursing before spending much of her professional life in pharmaceutical sales. She had imagined easing toward retirement, not taking responsibility for a fitness studio.

Yet her background proved uniquely suited to the role. She understands both the science behind caring for the body and the importance of making people feel supported. That sense of belonging undergirds the Singers’ vision for Orangetheory Aiken. Members ranging from their 20s to their 70s work alongside one another. Some are accomplished athletes while others are entering a fitness studio for the first time. Each follows the same workout instructions while adjusting the intensity to individual abilities. “No one judges you here,” Scott says. “Everybody is extremely supportive whether it is your first workout or you have completed more than a thousand.” Longtime member and Aiken native Cheryl Anaclerio says the studio feels like home. A lifelong exerciser who also attends another gym, she appreciates Orangetheory’s distinct combination of structured coaching and technology. “I knew I was going to love it the first time I went,” she says. “I love having a coach tell me what we are doing.” The instructor-led, 60-minute classes combine cardiovascular conditioning, strength training and endurance exercises. Heart-rate monitors allow members to view their effort in real time, while the Orangetheory app records results and helps them recognize progress. For Cheryl, the technology provides an added sense of motivation. She enjoys tracking her heart rate, calories burned and “splat points” which are Orangetheory’s measure of time spent in the targeted heart-rate zones. She also values the flexibility of a membership she can use while traveling. Orangetheory can serve as a primary fitness routine or complement other active pursuits. “We can be your multivitamin,” Mary Ruth explains. The Singers focus on functional fitness for daily living. They want members to build the strength and endurance necessary to lift a child, reach a high shelf, travel confidently or remain active as they age.

“It is truly like family there. The instructors are amazing. They are so personal and so motivating, and they really care about your health and your fitness journey.” - Cheryl Anaclerio CONTINUED >

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“No one judges you there. Everybody is extremely supportive, whether it is your first workout or you have completed more than a thousand.” - Scott Singer

Orangetheory Family

H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | FIT N E SS

ha ut

Scott Singer

Ma ry

That philosophy branches out into their own story. The couple enjoys skiing and golf, and they recently joined their two sons for the final portion of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage in Spain. Their sons walked approximately 500 miles over 33 days, while Mary Ruth and Scott accompanied them for the final 60 miles. “We want to be active and healthy in the last third of our lives,” Scott says. Cheryl shares that focus on longevity. “It is about continuing to move,” she says. The studio’s influence, however, extends outside of physical results. Coaches take a personal interest in members, regularly checking in and offering support throughout their fitness journeys. “It truly feels like a family,” Cheryl says. “The coaches are motivating, and they genuinely care about your health and progress.” She is particularly grateful to Mary Ruth, Scott and their partners for working to keep the studio open. Preserving Orangetheory Aiken meant saving relationships that had become integral to members’ lives. For anyone hesitant to begin, Mary Ruth offers reassuring advice: Walk through the door, allow yourself to be a beginner and focus on consistency rather than perfection. “Don’t be afraid,” she says. “It’s a marathon, not a sprint.” Scott echoes that encouragement. Although the workout can be challenging, every movement can be adapted. At Orangetheory Aiken, each person arrives with different abilities and goals. What unites them is showing up for classes one day at a time. Together, members build strength and lasting friendships within a growing community.

YO U R F I R S T C L A S S I S F R E E

Experience a coach-led workout designed for every fitness level. Orangetheory Aiken combines strength, cardio and community in one energizing hour. New participants can try their first class free. Visit Orangetheory.com or call 803-2200100 to reserve your place today.

Kay Scamen always has a smile on her face!

The Singer Family S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E. C O M / A I KE N

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Authentically Autumn in Aiken

DOWNTOWN AIKEN’S BOUTIQUES SHOWCASE THE SEASON’S MOST STYLISH FALL FASHION ARTICLE BY NIKITA HANIF | PHOTOGRAPHY BY WHITNEY RAY

FASH ION F OR WA R D | STYLE + BE AU T Y

Style in Aiken is as unique as the people who call it home. For our Style Issue, Aiken City Lifestyle gathered several downtown boutique owners to showcase some of their favorite fall looks, celebrating the season with fashion, friendship and a love for local business. Set against the charming backdrop of Solo Vino and The Backyard on Horry Street SE, the photoshoot highlighted the incredible variety found throughout downtown Aiken. From timeless classics and elevated essentials to bold statement

pieces and the latest trends, there is truly something for every age, personality and occasion. One of the things that makes Aiken’s fashion scene so special is its accessibility. Whether you’re searching for the perfect vest, a cozy sweater, a chic pair of boots or an outfit for your next night out, our local retailers have curated collections that make it easy to look and feel your best. This fall, skip the big box stores and fill your closet with stylish finds from the small businesses that help make Aiken shine.

Opposite page, starting from the top left and going left to right: The guys enjoyed hangin’ out at The Backyard. | Jessica and Joel Reeves from Tumbleweed | Ashley Leibelt from The American Honey Boutique. | Fall fashion at it’s finest!

“Every purchase made keeps our downtown vibrant and ensures our local boutiques can continue to thrive and bring the best fashion to town.” CONTINUED >

S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E. C O M / A I KE N

Logan Walker and Caleb Connor from Big House Outpost

Michele Warren from The Urban Hyena and Salty Hyena

Teresa Boynton from Local Threads

Terri Rourk from Curated Clothiers

Terri Roark from Curated Clothiers Joel Reeves from Tumbleweed

FASH ION F OR WA R D | STYLE + BE AU T Y

Caleb Connor from Big House Outpost Chaz Harpman from Harpman Interiors and Scotch + Hutch Fine Home Goods

Ashley Leibelt from The American Honey Boutique

Some of the ladies that bring downtown Aiken’s finest fashions.

Logan Walker from Big House Outpost

Brooke Bradly from Ginger Bee Boutique Jessica Reeves from Tumbleweed

CONTINUED > S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E. C O M / A I KE N

Teresa Boynton from Local Threads

Brooke Bradley from Ginger Bee Boutique

Michele Warren from The Urban Hyena and Salty Hyena

Chaz Harpman from Harpman Interiors and Scoth + Hutch Fine Home Goods

Terri Roark from Curated Clothiers

FASH ION F OR WA R D | STYLE + BE AU T Y

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A n g el

and Roy K eitt

I n Sy nc St yle Roy and Angel Keitt Inspire through Fashion, Faith and Partnership

T R E N D SE T T E R | STYL E + BE AU T Y

ARTICLE BY NIKITA HANIF

family members expect a color palette before vacations, while friends traveling alongside them eagerly wait for the “fashion memo.” Although Aiken recognizes them for impeccable style, the Keitts believe confidence, kindness and the energy a couple shares matter just as much as clothing. They enjoy dressing for Thursday date nights downtown, as well as elegant galas like The Royal Aikenites, but the real joy comes from spending intentional time together. Angel believes their coordinated style has strengthened their connection while inspiring others to celebrate their own relationships. Roy proudly calls Angel the “fashion coordinator,” joking that he happily serves as the assistant. Their greatest advice for younger couples has little to do with wardrobes. They encourage seeking wise counsel before marriage, allowing each other room to grow, communicating openly and placing God at the center of every relationship. For the Keitts, the best accessory has always been each other.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY WHITNEY RAY PHOTOGRAPHY

In Aiken, Roy and Angel Keitt have become known as the city’s unofficial king and queen of fashion. Their coordinated outfits regularly turn heads at community events, but their signature style represents something much deeper than perfectly matched colors. It reflects a marriage built on intention, faith and genuine partnership. For this year’s style issue, we had the pleasure of capturing the Keitts during a fashion shoot at the beautiful Legaré Gardens, where their effortless elegance and unmistakable connection perfectly complemented the stunning setting. The couple has been married for 25 years, though their story began with a chance meeting at a local Walmart. Fashion caught each other’s attention immediately. Both had developed a love for style long before they met, and Roy even surprised Angel on their very first date by returning home to change clothes so his outfit complemented hers. Nearly three decades later, matching remains part of who they are. Their coordinated looks eventually became a family tradition. Even their

“

“ Pl a ce G o d a t t h e ce n t e r o f yo u r r e l a t i o n s h i p .”

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B E ES

OF BOTH

BELIZE’S BLACKBIRD CAYE RESORT DELIVERED ADVENTURE FOR ME AND RELAXATION FOR MY HUSBAND ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY GAYLE BRYAN Dive Boats at Blackbird Caye Resort

T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TRAV E L

Our nest is officially empty unless you count the granddogs. It took some getting used to, but one unexpected perk has been a little extra disposable income and the freedom to spend it on experiences we enjoy. In recent years, we've chosen to invest much of that in travel. Since we're both still working, we look for destinations that are easy to reach and can be fully enjoyed in a week's time. If you've read many of my travel stories, you already know I'm happiest when a trip includes wildlife encounters and outdoor adventure. My husband, on the other hand, defines vacation as a comfortable chair, a good book and nowhere to be. Red-footed Booby

David sampling the BBQ on Half-Moon Caye

French Angelfish

Most years we vacation in Grand Cayman with some of our adult children and family friends. The island gives us the best of both worlds. I spend a few days scuba diving and snorkeling with sea turtles while David enjoys exactly what he considers the perfect vacation. After last year's trip, I told David I wanted to plan a dedicated dive vacation. I offered to join a women's dive group since he doesn't dive, but he surprised me. "I'll go," he said, "as long as there's a beach where I can sit with a good book." That conversation led us to Blackbird Caye Resort in Belize. Located on Turneffe Atoll, about 20 miles off the coast of Belize, Blackbird sits on the largest of the country's three coral atolls. Before this trip, I wasn't exactly sure what an atoll was. It turns out it's a ring of coral islands surrounding a shallow lagoon, formed over thousands of years as ancient

The Great Blue Hole

Lobster

volcanic islands slowly sank beneath the sea. Today, Turneffe is a spectacular maze of more than 150 mangrove-covered cayes and vibrant coral reefs that support an astonishing array of marine life. The trip itself was a first for us in several ways. It was our first all-inclusive resort and easily the most remote place we've vacationed. Blackbird staff met us at the airport in Belize City, handled our luggage and escorted us to Old Belize, where we boarded a boat for the hourand-45-minute ride to the resort. Thanks to recent winds, it was a lively crossing, and I was especially grateful I'd convinced David to wear a seasickness patch before we left the dock. CONTINUED >

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Black Spiny-tailed Iguana on Half-moon Caye

David and Gayle hiking on Half-moon Caye

With just 20 guests, including us, the resort felt wonderfully intimate. Everyone except my husband and one other guest were divers. While I headed out for three dives each day, David settled into his ideal vacation, alternating between a beach chair in front of our beachfront villa, a hammock on our screened porch and, yes, that good book. He also joined a couple of the resort's guided snorkeling excursions. Between dives, we returned to the resort for our surface intervals which included delicious homemade pastries waiting for us each morning. The accommodations and service were exceptional. Our villa was refreshed every day, and each evening we returned from dinner to turned-down beds with chocolates waiting on our pillows. It's a level of hospitality that's becoming increasingly rare. The highlight of the week was a full-day excursion to the Great Blue Hole and Half

Dive masters cheesing during a safety stop

David in his happy place

T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TRAV E L

Moon Caye. The Blue Hole, made famous by Jacques Cousteau, is one of the world's most iconic dive sites. This massive marine sinkhole is known for its limestone formations, including enormous stalactites and stalagmites found deep below the surface. My dive reached 137 feet. While I explored the underwater caverns, David circled above with the snorkelers and, truth be told, probably saw more sea life than I did. After two additional dives on Lighthouse Reef, we enjoyed a chef-prepared barbecue lunch on Half Moon Caye, home to one of the Caribbean's most important nesting colonies of red-footed boobies. I had packed my camera specifically for this stop and happily wandered the island photographing the boobies alongside magnificent frigatebirds soaring overhead, and the massive iguanas popping out of the foliage. Blackbird Caye delivered exactly what each of us wanted from a vacation, even though our priorities couldn't have been more different. I came home with unforgettable dives, hundreds of wildlife photographs and memories of exploring one of the Caribbean's most remarkable marine environments. David came home rested, relaxed and already talking about where we should go next. I'd call that a successful vacation for both of us.

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The Wiland-Foley Advisory Group of Janney Montgomery Scott LLC 401 Park Ave SW, Aiken, South Carolina 29801 803.649.1148 | wiland-foleyadvisory@janney.com www.wiland-foleyadvisory.com For more information about any awards referenced, including relevant criteria, please visit Janney.com/awards-disclosures or contact your Financial Advisor. © JANNEY MONTGOMERY SCOTT LLC • MEMBER: NYSE, FINRA, SIPC • REF. 2396181 - 0126

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MORE ARTICLE BY NIKITA HANIF PHOTOGRAPHY BY CATHERINE PULLAN

Than

MAKEUP How Shelby Ann is Redefining Confidence in Women Everywhere

They say never meet your heroes, but sometimes you do, and they turn out to be exactly who you hoped they would be. For thousands of women scrolling TikTok searching for a little confidence, Shelby Ann Bell has become an unlikely friend on the other side of the screen. Makeup brush in one hand and an affordable concealer in the other, she has transformed the beauty industry by proving that confidence does not have to come with a luxury price tag. Bell began creating beauty content a decade ago, long before viral videos and millions of views. Like many, she learned by watching YouTube tutorials. “I’ve always loved beauty,” Bell said. “I spent countless hours watching YouTube tutorials. Makeup became this creative outlet for me long before I imagined it would become my career.” Bell originally studied education and spent a year teaching. While she enjoyed working with students, she realized her future was leading her elsewhere. She earned her aesthetics license and became a professional makeup artist. Growing up in Wagener, South Carolina, Bell’s introduction to makeup looked very different than it does today. Luxury beauty counters and high-end skincare were not part of her everyday life. Instead, she found herself in the aisles of drugstores, discovering products that fit both her budget and lifestyle. Ironically,

M UST SE E | STYL E + BEAU T Y

it was those humble beginnings that would eventually define her career. About a year ago, Bell posted a TikTok featuring an entirely affordable makeup routine. What happened next changed everything. “That really changed my career,” she said. “It changed the kind of content that I post. It shaped who I am as a content creator and as a makeup artist.” Women across the country flocked to Walgreens, CVS and Target to recreate the routine. Shelves emptied. Products sold out. Bell watched in disbelief as everyday women found themselves reflected in her content. For many, Bell’s videos are about far more than makeup. They are about rediscovering confidence. Earlier this year, Bell visited Aiken for a ladies’ night event at Rhumba where dozens of women lined up to meet her. Standing quietly in the back of the restaurant, I found myself watching in awe of her authenticity. One by one, women approached her to share stories of how she had helped them rediscover their confidence. Bell never rushed a conversation. She listened intently and made each person feel valued. Some spoke about feeling beautiful again after difficult seasons of life. Others shared how they were able to afford a makeup

“When people are spending their hardearned money on a makeup product, if I’m Shelby Ann Bell

recommending something, it

routine that made them feel put together without sacrificing their budget. It became clear that Bell is helping women feel like the best versions of themselves. “I don’t take it lightly,” Bell said. “When people are spending their hard-earned money on a makeup product, and I’m recommending something, it needs to be good because I want them to have a good experience regardless of if it’s six dollars or sixty dollars.” Bell believes makeup is often misunderstood. While some view it as something that hides imperfections, she sees it as an extension of self-expression. “I think makeup is one of the best forms of self-love and confidence,” she said. “I think it’s the complete opposite of covering up. I think it’s enhancing the version of yourself that you want other people to see.” Like many women, Bell admits she still wrestles with imposter syndrome. There are days she questions whether she belongs in the rooms she has been invited into. Yet she continues showing up, reminding herself that confidence is often built one step at a time. That confidence has opened doors Bell never imagined. She has partnered with major brands, launched a fragrance collaboration and built an audience that spans the globe. Yet, when asked what has surprised her the most, she does not mention fame or accolades. Instead, she talks about giving back. “It has been so incredible to be able to do good and give back,” Bell said. “That has been my favorite part.” Through partnerships with local schools, women’s shelters and charitable organizations, Bell has used every opportunity to serve others. From donating backpacks

needs to be good because I want them to have a good experience regardless of if it’s six dollars or sixty dollars.”

CONTINUED >

S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E. C O M / A I KE N

Shelby Ann Bell

M UST SE E | STYL E + BEAU T Y

to students in Wagner to providing beauty products to women in need, philanthropy is central to her mission. Her message continues to resonate because it is rooted in something timeless: kindness. In an online world dominated by criticism and comparison, Bell has chosen empathy. Even when faced with negativity, she intentionally responds with grace, recognizing there is often a person hurting behind the screen. For Bell, success has never been measured by follower counts or viral moments. It is measured by the woman who walks into work feeling confident for the first time in years after watching a 60-second video. Looking ahead, Bell says she has already accomplished more than she ever dreamed possible. “Anything else at this point is just the cherry on top,” she said. “I’m just so happy and so blessed to be able to keep doing this and sharing my love for beauty.” Perhaps that is what makes Shelby Ann Bell so impactful. She reminds women that confidence can be found in the smallest moments: a swipe of lip gloss, a kind word from a stranger or the realization that they were beautiful all along.

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SEPTEMBER 2026

events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S

SE PT E M BE R 4 T H

First Friday in Downtown Aiken Downtown Aiken | 5:00 PM Kick off the month with Downtown Aiken’s First Friday, featuring live music, extended shopping hours and a lively atmosphere along Laurens Street. Support local businesses while enjoying an evening of entertainment, dining and community in the heart of downtown. SE PT E M BE R 1 1 T H

50th Anniversary Aiken's Makin' Downtown Aiken | 9:00 AM Discover the creativity of Aiken’s Makin’, a beloved arts and crafts festival celebrating its 50th year. Browse handmade goods from talented artisans, enjoy local food favorites and experience one of Aiken’s longest-running community traditions in the heart of downtown. SE PT E M BE R 1 1 T H

New Holland Acres Pro Rodeo New Holland Acres | 6:00 PM Witness the excitement of professional rodeo at New Holland Acres as talented cowboys and cowgirls compete in thrilling events on their road to the finals. Guests can also enjoy local food vendors, shopping and a family-friendly atmosphere throughout the evening. SE PT E M BE R 1 2 T H

Touch-A-Truck Odell Weeks Activity Center | 9:00 AM Get up close and personal with some of the biggest vehicles in town at Touch-A-Truck, hosted by the City of Aiken Parks, Recreation & Tourism Department. Children can climb, explore and learn about a variety of vehicles while enjoying hands-on activities, including the Power Wheels Derby. SE PT E M BE R 1 9 T H

Aiken Oktoberfest Newberry Street Festival Center | 4:00 PM Raise a stein for Oktoberfest in Downtown Aiken, a festive evening featuring craft beers, delicious bites, live entertainment and plenty of seasonal fun. Grab your lederhosen and join the community at Newberry Street Festival Center for an Aiken-style celebration. SE PT E M BE R 2 5T H

Bluegrass, Burgers & Brews The Village Cafe | 6:00 PM Tap your toes at Bluegrass, Burgers & Brews, a free family-friendly evening at The Village at Woodside featuring live music from local artists Johnny & Darlene. Guests can enjoy burgers, beverages and a relaxed outdoor atmosphere with friends and family.

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