CSRA, GA February 2026

Premier General Contractors Since 1986

Beyond providing quality workmanship and comprehensive design/build services, we strive to build a relationship of mutual trust and confidence with each of our clients’ large and small. We accomplish this by putting your priorities first and conducting ourselves with integrity in every aspect of our business.

Celebrating Love and Life’s Special Moments

The month of February is synonymous with love, and I can’t think of a better reflection of love than marriage. Daniel and I celebrate 29 years of marriage in March and recently our oldest son Clay married the love of his life, Kelbie, in a stunning ceremony held at The Barns at Gunn-Stewart Farm. We’re thrilled to share a look into their wedding day and the details that made it so special.

Planning events like weddings is so much easier and more pleasant when you have a great team helping each step of the way. Here in the CSRA, we have talented and experienced professionals ready to assist in making event dreams come true.

Suronda Walker of Remember This Day Event Planning ensures that every aspect of an event, from concept design to decorating to implementation, comes together seamlessly. For event rentals that range from large tents to tableware, Beachview Events has a huge selection to create the perfect atmosphere.

Capturing special moments is Brittany Sterling’s passion and she brings enthusiasm and experience to each occasion. Her recent foray into photographing “stranger sessions” has garnered lots of attention and we’re excited to share her perspective and experiences.

This month, we’re also excited to spotlight local artist Lauren Jones, whose work you’ve likely seen popping up around the CSRA, and two opportunities to get out and have some fun. The newly opened Playdates Indoor Café & Event Space is sure to bring a smile to the faces of kids and adults alike while Smiles & Tiles Mahjong provides women in the CSRA with great times of fellowship.

Our area has so much to offer, and we hope you feel our love for all things local as we share the stories of the people and businesses of the CSRA in each issue.

See you around!

JANA MORRIS, PUBLISHER @CSRACITYLIFESTYLE

February 2026

PUBLISHER

Jana Morris | jana.morris@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Michelle Parnell | michelle.parnell@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Allison Spence | allison.spence@citylifestyle.com

ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR

Daniel Morris

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Miranda Sprouse

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Eve Crabtree, Bailey Hall, Michelle Parnell

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Chloé Giancola, Isabel Jones Photography, Madison Kay Photography, Brittany Sterling Photography

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

Proverbs 3:5-6

1807 Smith Crawford Rd., Appling, GA 30802

Enjoy the comfort of spacious porches and an open floor plan perfect for both daily living and entertaining. Every detail is enhanced with premium touches, creating a home that is as functional as it is beautiful.

Brian and Beth Carter settle for nothing but the best in each home that they build. No two homes are ever alike, giving each homeowner a beautiful, unique home all their own - one that Brian and Beth would be proud to live in themselves.

business monthly

A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES

Augusta Half Marathon, 10K & 5K

The Augusta Sports Council invites you to join them for the annual Augusta Half Marathon, 10K & 5K. The run raises funds for the G.A.M.E.S. Scholarship which supports local student-athletes. This communityfocused event celebrates fitness, sportsmanship, and giving back. Since 2011, the program has awarded nearly $100,000 to area athletes. Lace up and run for a cause on February 28! For more information and to register, visit augustahalf.org

Agaves Mexican Grill in Harlem

Harlem welcomes Agaves Mexican Grill, opened by a local family bringing authentic Mexican traditions to the community. After co-owning Hacienda on Columbia Road, the Garcia family dreamed of creating a place fully their own that reflects their roots, recipes, and journey. Now they are sharing genuine Mexican flavors and heartfelt hospitality with Harlem, one plate at a time.

Sweat Together, Win Together

CycleBar Evans and Fit & Well CSRA are teaming up for a community fitness challenge focused on balance, strength, and consistency. Complete five CycleBar rides and five Fit & Well workouts by February 13, and finishers will be entered into a February 14 raffle. Two winners will receive one month of unlimited memberships at both studios. For details on how to qualify and join the fun, visit @cyclebarevans and @fitandwellcsra on Instagram, or either locations!

Augusta Camellia Show

The Augusta Camellia Society will host the annual Augusta Camellia Show on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Reid Memorial Presbyterian Church. Blooms will be judged beginning at 10 a.m., with entries and plant identification welcomed from 7–10 a.m. Visitors can also browse and purchase show-winning camellia plants from Gene’s Camellia World. A must-see event for flower lovers and gardeners alike.

Grovetown Depot Tours Now Available

The Grovetown Depot is ready to be explored! The community can schedule a guided tour to see what this inviting new space has to offer for future events. Appointments can be made with Event Planner Kelsey Reese at kreese@cityofgrovetown. com or 762-328-2782. Keep an eye on social media for updates and announcements, and get inspired for your next gathering at the Depot.

2026 Food & Beverage Vendors: Applications Open

Food & Beverage Vendor applications for the 2026 season are officially open. Planning for the year ahead, organizers are inviting both returning favorites and new culinary faces to apply. Vendors must submit proof of liability insurance and a valid 2026 Columbia County Business License. Applications are available online, and early, complete submissions are encouraged as approvals are underway for the upcoming season. Apply here: bit.lyFoodand Beverage2026 VendorApplication Want to be featured?

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ARTICLE BY MICHELLE PARNELL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHLOÉ GIANCOLA

FOR ALL! FUN

As the mom of two young daughters, Kelly Sweeting yearned for a fun, safe place for her kids to play when outside activities simply were not an option. Although the CSRA has indoor parks, she envisioned something that encourages imaginative play, catered to younger kids, and had space for adults to enjoy their time as well.

Kelly’s research led her to develop Playdates, a space that includes a play area for kids and a full-service café complete with tables, comfy seating, and workspaces for adults. The areas are separated by a half wall, giving adults a clear line of vision while the kids indulge in imaginative play. The play area is perfect for kids up to age seven, with a designated area for babies and crawlers. Children older than seven have access to a special classroom area perfect for crafting or other activities.

“The idea is that moms and kids both want to come here equally. The cafe seating is small and quaint enough that from any point in the space, the parent can see the child in the little play area,” says Kelly. “The play area includes a lot of imaginative play, such as a little grocery store, a nursery area, and a hair salon. There is also a curved slide and climbing structure just the right height for younger kids.”

Playdates also offers bookings for private parties, making birthday party planning easy and providing a great place for parents to visit while the kids enjoy the party. “As a private rental, you’ll get the whole venue for two hours,” Kelly explains. “We will have a party host to help manage the kids and show them around and the café will be open with food options. You can choose to bring your own decorations, or we can do that for you so that you can just show up, have fun, and leave.”

A covered patio, diaper changing room, and private party room round out Playdates, making it a must-experience addition to the CSRA. Kelly says, “I’ve been very intentional to create a space where adults can recharge while their child enjoys themselves as well.”

Stop by Playdates located at 4020 Washington Road, Suite 1. For more information and to book a private party, visit playdatesaugusta.com. Also follow @playdates. augusta on Instagram.

Capturing Memories

Brittany Sterling has always loved capturing memories and emotion through a camera lens. With over 15 years of experience, the photography that was once her hobby became a full-time job in 2023 and continues to be fueled by her passion for the craft.

CONTINUED

As someone who enjoys turning photography sessions into preserved memories, Brittany’s services include family sessions, portraits, concerts and musician photography, events, weddings, and, more recently, Stranger Sessions. “I started doing Stanger Sessions in August 2025 and that’s been a game-changer for my platforms,” Brittany says. “I always wanted to do them. I love the thought of setting someone up and them falling in love based on personality.” For Stranger Sessions, Brittany has clients fill out an online form and puts two strangers together for a blind date: a photography session with Brittany. She posts updates and behind-the-scenes content of the Stranger Sessions on social media.

In addition to her regular sessions, Brittany’s photography has opened up opportunities for collaborations with other businesses. One such opportunity came in 2024. “I went on a show called The Blox—an entrepreneurship reality show with a competition,” Brittany explains. “They bring in a hundred business owners from all walks of life. We competed but also gained tools we would need

to make our own business successful.” That experience helped expand Brittany’s business and taught her skills she uses to continually improve.

As her business expands, Brittany has hopes for the future. “My main goal with photography is to photograph musicians one day,” she says. “I have a big love for music—I play guitar and sing. My whole family has a musical background too. I’d love to go on tour with someone and photograph their whole journey.”

Brittany is grateful for the support she’s received that has allowed her to get to this point. Her gratitude and love for her job creates fun-filled photography sessions where laughter and smiles come easily—producing the best candid shots. “I like being fun and goofy during sessions and photographing raw emotions,” Brittany says. Doing a lot of candid shots during sessions allows Brittany to be creative with her work and photograph real moments.

To see Brittany’s work or contact her about her photography, find her on Instagram @brittanysterlingphotography, Facebook.com/sterlingbrittphoto, TikTok @brittanysterling, and unscriptedphotographers.com/brittanysterlingphotos. For those feeling adventurous, links to apply for a Stranger Session are on Brittany’s social media. Additionally, she’ll be on The Morning Mix in Augusta this month, so be sure to tune in to learn more about Brittany and her photography.

"I always wanted to do Stranger Sessions. I love the thought of setting someone up and them falling in love based on personality," says Brittany.

ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL PHOTOGRAPHY BY ISABEL

JONES PHOTOGRAPHY & MADISON KAY PHOTOGRAPHY

A HOLIDAY Love STORY

Kelbie and Clay Morris celebrate their marriage with a festive barn wedding designed for connection and joy

Kelbie and Clay Morris’ wedding felt less like a single day and more like stepping into a thoughtfully curated experience, one where every detail carried meaning and every guest, no matter their age, felt included. For Kelbie, owner of Gunn’s and Roses Catering & Events and a seasoned wedding planner herself, that intention was exactly the point.

Clay proposed on December 24, 2024, setting the tone for a celebration rooted in the magic of the season. Nearly a year later, on December 13, 2025, the couple exchanged vows at The Barns at Gunn-Stewart Farm beneath clear skies and perfect winter weather. With red, green, and black woven throughout the décor, the day reflected a Christmas-inspired palette that felt elegant, cozy, and timeless.

As guests gathered for the ceremony, anticipation built in a way that felt almost cinematic. Kelbie arrived escorted by a horse and carriage, creating a moment that felt both grand and deeply personal. Live music filled the air, with a pianist accompanying the ceremony and a vocalist singing “Hallelujah” as Kelbie walked down the aisle. The setting was undeniably romantic, but the heart of the ceremony was rooted in family.

Family inclusion was one of the most meaningful elements of the day. The mothers of the bride and groom participated in a candle-lighting ceremony, each lighting a candle to represent their families. Later, Kelbie and Clay used those same candles to light one together, symbolizing the joining of their lives. Children

were not just welcomed but intentionally included, reinforcing the couple’s desire for the day to feel warm, joyful, and communal. That same sense of thoughtfulness extended into how Kelbie honored loved ones who had passed. Instead of a traditional memorial table, the couple created a striking and emotional memorial staircase inside the barn. Each step represented a family member or friend, marked by embroidered names on a fabric runner and surrounded by framed photographs. It was a quiet, powerful way to acknowledge those who couldn’t be present while still making them feel deeply included.

“For me, the most important thing was the detail aspect,” Kelbie shares. “Some details get overlooked, and as a planner who’s done weddings, I wanted the details to show more than the bigger things most people look for when coming.”

That attention to detail became especially apparent during cocktail hour and the reception. Guests were welcomed with a festive coffee bar serving hot and iced peppermint mochas, apple cider, and hot chocolate, a nod to the cozy, vintage Christmas barn atmosphere Kelbie envisioned. The bar also featured a seasonal specialty cocktail, the Grinch Peppermint Espresso Martini, alongside classic offerings.

Interactive elements ensured there was something for everyone. Guests could pose for live watercolor portraits to take home as keepsakes, leave heartfelt messages for the couple on a vintage telephone, or watch children bounce with excitement in not one,

"I wanted the details to show more than the bigger things most people look for when coming."

but two bounce houses. “I wanted each guest to feel like they could grab a warm drink, enjoy sitting by the fire, and for the children to feel like they were part of the wedding too,” Kelbie says. “The guest portraits were something I wanted guests to be able to take home and have forever.”

Tables were styled with floating candles accented by cranberries and pine sprigs, reinforcing the seasonal warmth. Dinner featured chicken fettuccine Alfredo, ziti with meatballs, and rolls, comfort food that felt just right for a winter evening. Seating flowed between the barn and a heated outdoor tent, allowing guests to move freely and comfortably throughout the night.

After cutting a traditional wedding cake, guests were delighted by the groom’s cake, which featured a black lab in honor of Maggie, Clay’s hunting dog. As the night continued, Kelbie changed into a second dress designed for dancing, and the celebration carried on with laughter and music.

When it was time to say goodbye, sparklers lit the night as Kelbie and Clay made their exit in “Ole Blue,” Clay’s father’s 1986 Ford F-150, a truck filled with memories and meaning. It was the perfect ending to a day that balanced nostalgia, celebration, and heartfelt intention.

Looking back, Kelbie says her favorite part was simply seeing it all come to life. “It’s a lot different than doing someone else’s wedding,” she says. “To fully have a vision and wait 12 months for it to happen was a lot of anticipation, especially while planning weddings for other brides.”

Her advice for future brides is heartfelt and honest: enjoy the day, even when things don’t go exactly as planned. “At the end of the day, you’re still going to be married,” she says. “That’s what matters.”

To see more moments from Kelbie and Clay’s Christmas-inspired celebration, and to explore how thoughtful details can bring a wedding vision to life, follow @gunnsandrosescatering on Instagram.

"To fully have a vision and wait 12 months for it to happen was a lot of anticipation, especially while planning weddings for other brides.”

VENDOR LIST

Wedding Planner/Bride: Gunn’s and Roses

Catering and Events

Main Photographer: Isabel

Jones Photography

Second Shooter: Madison Kay Photography

Videographer: John Holloway Films

Day of Coordination: Tracy Yahn Events

Marquee Letters: Paige’s Luxe Events And Rentals

Bounce Houses and Balloon Arch: Little Bee

Event Co

DJ: HD Entertainment DJ

Cake and Sweets: Sweet Sinclair’s Baking Company

Stationary + Live Painting + Guest Portraits:

Paperie Maze

Food for Reception: Kathy Clements

Piano Player: Robin Johnson

Singer: Hope Skinner

Florals: Kim Mohr

Wedding Dress: Tiffinie Bleu Bridal Boutique

Reception Dress: Dressing Dreams

Tux Rentals: Simon’s Formal Wear

Embroidery: PoppyLane Embroidery and Karen Cobb

Linens: Augusta Special Events Tent and Party Rental

Clear Tent: Beachview Events

Extra Tables and Chairs: Cheek Seats

Coffee Bar: The Brew on Main

Tan: Blush and Glow

Bartender: Garden City Wedding & Event Services

Late Night Pizza: Warrenton’s Best Pizza

Hair and Makeup: Sorelle Hyer and Andrea O’Neill

Vendor Favors: Yohe and Co Events

Horse and Carriage: Ronnie and Debbie Mead

Cold Sparks: DJ Our Wedding

Bringing Stories To Life Through Art

CELEBRATING LIFE AND LOVE WITH LOCAL ARTIST LAUREN JONES

Throughout the CSRA, local Lauren Jones’ artistic touch appears in countless places and across a wide range of canvases. Whether on a storefront window, a school’s spirit rock, or tucked inside a private party, Lauren tailors every painting to reflect her client’s personality and vision. In this month’s Q&A, the owner of Wild & Free Paint Company shares a peek into her life as a local artist.

HOW DID YOU GET STARTED PAINTING?

I first realized that I was interested in art in high school when I was taking art classes, but I really didn’t do anything with it until my adult years. When my oldest was about two years old, I went to a Sip and Dip, where you would have appetizers and drinks while painting. Everybody would tell me how good I was at painting and I thought, “Oh my gosh, I could do this.” From there, I started doing things for fun and then posting them on social media. People started asking me to make them things and paying me and it became a little business. It has just evolved from there.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT WHAT YOU DO?

I really love being able to bring people’s visions to life and be part of special moments in their lives. It may be a proposal when I’m painting ‘will you marry me’ on an ornament and that is something they’re going to have for the rest of their lives.

WHAT TYPES OF PAINTING PROJECTS DO YOU DO?

I paint a lot of business windows in the CSRA and spirit rocks at local schools for students’ birthdays. I make banners for events - birthdays, baby showers, wedding showers, bridal showers, and graduations. I also paint door hangers for all seasons.

WHAT OTHER CREATIVE PROJECTS DO YOU DO?

I’m known for doing calligraphy and artistic handwriting for wedding and party invitations as well as chalkboard and acrylic signs for weddings. I also do watercolor paintings. I have two Augusta watercolor prints that are very popular, especially in the spring, and I’ve done commissions to paint people’s homes.

TELL US MORE ABOUT THE LOVE STORY BOARD.

It’s a personalized watercolor maplike painting of a couple’s love story. It starts with where you met then continues to your first date, when you got engaged, your wedding, your honeymoon, and your children. A Love Story Board is one of my favorite things to do. It’s so special to people because it tells their love story and, really, their life story. It’s something that they likely have displayed in their home and it’s so personal.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE TYPE OF PROJECT?

I would say painting storefront windows, because it’s so fun to get out there and make a blank canvas come to life. It is big, bold, and eye-catching and it’s just fun. I enjoy doing seasonal windows for the holidays, the golf tournament, and spring/ summer. It’s also fun to do more permanent storefronts paintings for businesses that just want to spruce up the storefronts and bring their windows to life.

WHAT ARE A FEW CURRENT TRENDS YOU’RE SEEING?

It’s the new thing now for senior girls to wear painted jeans on Fridays, so I’ve done a lot of senior jeans recently. I have also painted jeans for moms of cheerleaders to

I really love being able to bring people's visions to life and be part of special moments in their lives.

A Love Story Board is one of my favorite things to do. It's so special to people because it tells their love story and, really, their life story. It's something that they likely have displayed in their home and it’s so personal.

wear for competition days. Not long ago, I painted a jean jacket as well – so lots of painting denim.

It has also been popular for the past couple of years for me to paint megaphones for the senior cheerleaders at Harlem High School. They are personalized and they use them at home games, so it’s a fun keepsake.

WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR THE FUTURE?

My dream is to have an art studio storefront where I can provide a location for people to gather and share the same interest and love that I have for art. I’d like to be able to have camps for kids and art parties for women… there are all kinds of possibilities.

To see a gallery of Lauren’s work and connect with her, follow Lauren Jones and Wild & Free Paint Co. on Facebook or call/text 762-358-9469.

From tents to tableware, Beachview Events has everything needed for a beautiful, successful event

ELEGANCE FOR EVERY EVENT

ARTICLE BY MICHELLE PARNELL | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

From intimate weddings and private parties to large corporate events and pop-up restaurants, Beachview Events creates exactly what is needed for any event. “We take whatever the event planner or bride has in mind and bring their vision to life,” shares Melanie Campbell, General Manager of Beachview’s Augusta location. “We have a vast inventory that includes anything from tables, chairs, and tents to linens and tableware.”

After years of working together, Beachview bought Ranco Tent Rentals and opened its Augusta showroom. “Beachview had a long, friendly relationship with

Ranco from our close proximity in Brunswick and Savannah. We worked well together for many years,” says Melanie. “When the opportunity came up to purchase Ranco a couple of years ago, it was a smooth transition.”  Local clients still receive the excellent customer service they have come to rely on and now have access to Beachview’s large inventory that spans showrooms and warehouses across the southeast.

Beachview offers a wide range of options allowing clients to cultivate the desired atmosphere for any occasion. This is especially important when working with brides to create an elegant wedding environment. “We offer a variety of tent styles that go far beyond the average white tent. We have a number of tidewater tents that are beautiful and a garden tent that looks more like a luxury greenhouse,” Melanie explains. “Our tents can be tailored to create virtually any look. We can build floors, dance floors, walls, and we offer a lot of different lighting options. We also probably have the largest furniture selection in the rental world anywhere in our area.”

Throughout the year and especially during tournament week each spring, locals and visitors to the CSRA see the work of Beachview Events all over town. “We do the TechNet event that is downtown every August and the Arts in the Heart Festival in September,” says Melanie. “We also have a large presence during tournament week with private parties, corporate events, and hospitality houses. For one hospitality house, we build out completely around the house so that the house is actually enveloped in tents.”

From the initial consultation through the design and set-up of the event, the local Augusta team is available for every step of the process. “We very much pride ourselves on the service that we provide to clients,” Melanie says. “We’re available for meetings, on-site consultations, and to do run-throughs in our showroom. We also have a fantastic set-up crew that is polite and accommodating. All this leads up to on-site support from our staff and working with vendors to make sure things go smoothly.”

For more information on services, to browse available options, and begin planning your next event, visit www.beachview.net or call 706-210-8110. Also stop by the Beachview Events Augusta showroom at 697 Commerce Court in Evans.

"We take whatever the event planner or bride has in mind and bring their vision to life," says Melanie Campbell.

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Let’s Mahjong!

Why this timeless game is bringing people together again

In an increasingly busy world, few things feel as grounding as sitting around a table with friends—sharing conversation, laughter, and a true sense of presence. Mahjong offers exactly that. Rooted in tradition yet perfectly suited for modern life, mahjong is more than a game; it is a ritual of connection, strategy, and joy. Across the country—and right here in the CSRA—women are rediscovering its charm as mahjong groups continue to pop up and thrive.

Unlike screen-based entertainment, mahjong encourages face-to-face interaction and intentional time together. It is social without being overwhelming, competitive without being intimidating, and structured while still allowing room for laughter and friendship.

“I was first introduced to mahjong when I lived in Dublin,” said Lindsay Black, founder and organizer of Smiles & Tiles Mahjong, which meets monthly at West Lake Country Club. “I was in a bridge club, and when we attended benefits, I kept seeing women playing mahjong. The game looked so interesting, and the accessories were so fun. When I moved back to Augusta and saw lessons being offered, I jumped at the opportunity.”

Lindsay took her first lesson just before Hurricane Helene at a boutique shop in Surrey Center. A few months later, she began asking friends if they would be interested in learning as well. “It’s best practice to learn mahjong from an experienced player,” she said. “I was grateful to meet Pam Weinberger through a Healthcare Literacy Task Force we both serve on. She has been playing for more than 30 years.”

Lindsay partnered with Pam to offer lessons to friends and neighbors interested in learning the game. “I like to joke that Pam has taught half of Columbia County how to play mahjong at this point,” Lindsay said with a laugh. “She is an incredibly patient teacher.”

Those who play mahjong quickly become familiar with the game’s unique language and customs, forming a culture all its own. Since launching in June, Smiles & Tiles Mahjong has grown from just 12 players to more than 120. Along the way, the group has also embraced a strong philanthropic mission.

“Each month, we feature a different nonprofit that shares its mission, vision, and ways we can support their work,” Lindsay said. “Mahjong is all about connection at the table, and I believe connecting with our community is just as important. We also partner with local businesses, arts groups, and community leaders who provide prizes and keep us updated on what’s happening around town.”

Featured nonprofits have included the Columbia County School Board Foundation, Golden Harvest Food Bank, Safe Homes, the Columbia County Partnership for Children, and Child Enrichment. The group is currently preparing to support a Mahjong Benefit for Child Enrichment on February 5 at St. Paul’s River Room.

“We hope to raise between $10,000 and $20,000 to help advance their mission of providing resources to abused and neglected children,” Lindsay shared.

One of the biggest misconceptions about mahjong is that it is too difficult to learn. While the game does have rules and structure, the basics are far more approachable than many expect. American mahjong is played with four players using a set of tiles and the official National Mah Jongg League card, which outlines the winning hands for the year. Players take turns drawing and discarding tiles, working strategically toward a specific hand. With guidance and repetition, the game quickly begins to make sense—and that moment when it finally “clicks” is incredibly rewarding.

For more information, direct message @mrslindsayblack on Instagram.

Creating meaningful, elegant moments with Suronda Walker of Remember This Day Event Planning

DesigningExperiencesUnforgettable

ARTICLE BY MICHELLE PARNELL | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

In the last few years, what began as a creative hobby for Suronda Walker has transformed into a full-service event design business that allows her to share her passion with others.

“I love turning vision into reality,” says the founder and owner of Remember This Day Event Planning. “I get to take the ideas, emotions, and milestones of my clients and translate them into a real experience that people will always remember. They’re inviting me into meaningful moments in their lives, and I take that very seriously.”

From weddings, birthday parties, and engagement celebrations to large corporate events, Suronda works behind the scenes to ensure clients enjoy a successful event while minimizing their stress. “It is so valuable to have a professional advocate,” she explains. “As a planner and a designer, I want my clients to know it’s not just about aesthetics for me. I manage logistics, problem solve in real time, and protect my clients’ peace. Although it’s often invisible, it’s an aspect of event planning that is extremely critical.”

If she had to choose a favorite event, Suronda shares that weddings hold a special place for her. “Weddings are emotional,

layered, and deeply personal,” she says. “I enjoy working with couples who want something elegant but intentional. My goal is to create a moment that feels beautiful without feeling forced.”

Whether a client chooses for her to handle every step of planning and implementing an event, or they only want her help with certain aspects such as décor, Suronda approaches each event with both creativity and logistics in mind. “My style is refined, thoughtful, and experience-driven,” she says. “It’s not just about decor. I like to focus on clean design, balanced details, and creating a flow that feels natural. I design events that feel elevated, personal, and timeless.”

For Suronda, each celebration is intentionally created to ensure clients truly Remember This Day. “I create moments versus events,” she says. “It’s all about living in the moment and I want my clients to always remember that special occasion.”

For more information and to connect with Suronda, visit rememberthisday.org or call/text 706-460-6375. Also follow @ RememberThisDay on Facebook and @RememberThisDayEvents on Instagram.

Step into 2025 with something unexpected - a "Stranger Session" by Brittany Sterling Photography, LLC. This romantic, cinematic photo experience pairs two strangers for a Valentine's themes shoot, capturing the spark of connection in real time. Apply for your chance to be featured as the next Stranger Session Coupleand maybe even appear on the Morning Mix this February. Applications open now until January 17th.

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FEBRUARY 1ST

Show Me Reptile Show

Columbia County Exhibition Center, 212 Partnership Drive, Grovetown, GA 30813 | 9:00 AM

Explore the fascinating world of reptiles at the Show Me Reptile Show. From majestic pythons to playful geckos, the two-day event features live animals, expert presentations, and a marketplace for exotic companions. VIP entry begins at 9 AM; general admission at 10 AM. Tickets and details at ShowMeReptileShow.com.

FEBRUARY 6TH

Connect & Paint – Landscape Session

The Kroc Center, 1833 Broad Street, Augusta, GA 30904 | 6:00 PM

An inviting evening of creativity unfolds as participants unwind with Connect & Paint, where Destinee Love guides a calming, creative evening of landscape painting. It’s the perfect blend of relaxation, inspiration, and community. Tickets are $45 and open to ages 13+. Register at augustakroc.org and enjoy a night of color, creativity, and connection.

FEBRUARY 7TH

Muscadine Bloodline's Longleaf Lo-Fi Tour 2026

The Bell Auditorium, 712 Telfair Street, Augusta, GA 30901 | 8:00 PM

Experience Muscadine Bloodline's Longleaf Lo-Fi Tour as it hits the stage in 2026. Fans can expect an electrifying mix of rock, Southern influence, and high-energy performances. Enjoy the band’s signature sound live and immerse yourself in a night of music and unforgettable moments. More information: augustaentertainmentcomplex.com/aec_event/muscadine-bloodline

FEBRUARY 12TH, 19TH, & 26TH

DASH Kids Run

Fleet Feet, 210 Georgia Avenue, North Augusta, SC 29841 | 5:00 PM

Young athletes, plan to join Fleet Feet Augusta & North Augusta for the Dash Kids Run every Thursday in February from 5:00–6:00 PM. This 1–2 mile run/walk combines fitness, games, and fun for the whole family. Kids under 8 must be accompanied by an adult; older kids need an adult on-site. A great way to stay active and healthy!

FEBRUARY 13TH

Mark Chesnutt – Redemption Tour

Miller Theater, 708 Broad Street, Augusta, GA 30901 | 8:00 PM

Six String Southern Productions brings country legend Mark Chesnutt to Augusta on Friday, February 13. Known for hits like Too Cold at Home and Brother Jukebox, Chesnutt returns with the Redemption Tour—celebrating his health, sobriety, and enduring talent. Fans can expect heartfelt performances and his unmistakable voice in an unforgettable night of neo-traditionalist country music. Tickets: etix.com/ ticket/p/84790606/mark-chesnutt-augusta-miller-theater

FEBRUARY 18TH

David Foster & Katharine McPhee: An Intimate Evening

Columbia County Performing Arts Center, 1000 Market Street, Evans, GA 30809 | 7:30 PM

The Columbia County Performing Arts Center presents an intimate night with Multi-Grammy Award-winning musician, composer, and producer David Foster, alongside Broadway and television star Katharine McPhee. Enjoy unforgettable hits from Foster’s legendary catalog and McPhee’s standout performances from American Idol, Smash, and Waitress. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to see the powerhouse duo on one stage. More information: thecenterofcc.com/event/david-foster-katharine-mcphee

FEBRUARY 20TH

A Midsummer Night’s Dream – South Carolina Ballet

Columbia County Performing Arts Center, 1000 Market Street, Evans, GA 30809 | 7:30 PM

Step into enchantment with South Carolina Ballet’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, celebrating 200 years of Mendelssohn’s iconic score. Under William Starrett’s artistic direction, this magical production combines classical ballet, lavish costumes, and imaginative sets to

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bring Shakespeare’s beloved comedy to life. Experience a whimsical forest of love, mischief, and fairy magic in this unforgettable theatrical dance performance. More information: thecenter ofcc.com/event/south-carolina-balletpresents-a-midsummer-nights-dream

FEBRUARY 28TH

Mardi Gras 2026: Fat Tuesday Food & Music Festival

Evans Towne Center Park, 7016

Evans Towne Center Park Blvd, Evans, GA 30809 | 1:00 PM

Presented by Mardi Gras in Augusta and Columbia County Parks & Recreation, this free community celebration brings live music, festive eats, and family-friendly Mardi Gras energy to Evans Towne Center Park from 1pm-8pm. Bring your beads, your crew, and your best parade spirit because the good times are definitely rolling this year.

FEBRUARY 28TH

Junior Dive Club: Pizza & Movie Night

Bubbles or Not Diving, 211 N Louisville Street, Harlem, GA 30814 6:00 PM

Young divers are invited to join Bubbles or Not’s Junior Dive Club for a fun evening of pizza, movies, and conversation. Connect with fellow divers, share goals, and plan future dive adventures in a relaxed social setting. Spaces are limited. Call the shop at 706-901-5045 to reserve your spot and make a splash with friends!