Health + Wellness

Oaks at Aiken

Take a Peek Inside Aiken's Newest Senior Living Facility Article by Shelby Mayer | Photography by Meghann Padgett When you hear the words "retirement home,” you might not tend to think of state-of-the-art facilities, customized dining experiences or luxurious amenities. But that’s exactly what you’ll find when you visit Oaks at Aiken, and it’s why the community stands out from the crowd in the world of assisted living. Oaks at Aiken is the newest location for Oaks Senior Living, a family-owned...

Arts + Culture

The Art of Orchestration

A Maestro’s Perspective on Creating a Symphony Article by Nikita Hanif | Photography by Gordon Humphries In the world of classical music, the symphony conductor plays a pivotal role in shaping and bringing to life the rich tapestry of sound that is a symphony performance. Renowned conductor, Scott Weiss, has a career spanning decades and an impressive repertoire of performances leading orchestras worldwide. He graciously shared his insights into the intricate process of creating a symphony...

Food + Beverage

For the Love of Chocolate

Bebbette Smith Brings Authentic Belgium Chocolate to Aiken Article by Ashley Elvis | Photography by Gayle Bryan After years of bringing chocolates back to the States from Belgium, Bebette Smith, owner of La Bonbonniere, decided to learn how to make her own, and Aiken is glad she did! Smith was born and raised in Belgium. She met Larry, her husband and then army brat, at a local pool in her hometown, and by 1972 they were married. Smith followed her military husband to wherever he was...

Home + Design

Behind the Scenes of the Aiken Antique Show

A Fundraiser to Support the Aiken Center for the Arts Article by Nikita Hanif | Photography by Scott Webster & Gayle Bryan Entering its 24th year the Aiken Center for the Arts hosts a yearly celebrated fundraising event, the Aiken Antique Show. This event not only captivates antique enthusiasts, locals and visitors, but it also serves as the sole fundraiser for the local art center. Spearheading this incredible fundraiser is Lisa Castles, owner of York Cottage Antiques, Barbara Smoak, Co-chair...

Arts + Culture

The Heart Show

A Musical Production with a Ton of Heart! Article by Ashley Elvis | Photography by Jennifer Parrott and Aiken Heart Show This year marks 44 years of the Heart Show - a five-night, six-show original musical production benefitting the American Heart Association. This huge undertaking all began with Jim Moore and his love of theater paired with his respect for and friendship with Eleanor Bookstaver, the founder and advisor of the Aiken Women’s Heart Board. Each year, the Heart Show raises about...

Fitness

Ready, Set, Go ...

Exercise Tips from Workout Anytime's Cody Melvin Article by Gayle Bryan | Photography by Rebecca Williams For many, the start of the new year means the beginning of a new commitment to exercise and healthy living. On the following pages, personal trainer and owner of Workout Anytime, Cody Melvin, Sarah Melvin, and Gabby Hunt, demonstrate exercises that form the basis for a well-rounded workout. Melvin advises three keys to keep proper form and avoid injury regardless of the exercise: brace the...

Health + Wellness

Step Into the Frequency Bar

Elizabeth and Anthony Ferraiuolo Bring Energy Enhancement System to Aiken Article by Gayle Bryan | Photography by Rebecca Williams Step into The Frequency Bar Energy Spa, where the ambient glow of the Energy Enhancement System and Solfeggio sound frequencies set the stage for relaxation. Some feel pulsing waves or tingling; others feel a profound peace. In plush chairs, visitors spend two hours, as recommended by Dr. Sandra Rose Michael, inventor of the EESystem™. Whether meditating or quietly...

Fitness

Max Fitness

Max Fitness Offers Options for Every Fitness Level and Every Age Group Article by Ashley Elvis | Photography by Rebecca Williams, Kati Brayton, Beth Castor January is a time of new beginnings, resolutions and positive changes. Some of the most common goals fall under the umbrella of living a healthier lifestyle: lose weight, eat nutritiously, improve heart health, work out consistently and decrease stress. All of these and more can be achieved at Max Fitness Aiken. Mitch Hearne, regional...

Health + Wellness

Aiken Wellness Spa & Boutique

A Beacon for Holistic Healing Article by Nikita Hanif | Photography by Rebecca Williams Just minutes from downtown Aiken, you will find a haven for holistic healing that awaits locals and visitors alike. The moment you walk through the doors of Aiken Wellness Spa & Boutique, you are bathed in natural sunlight, soothing aromas tickle your senses, and the calming presence of owner Haley Maness greets you. Haley’s story is about determination, self-discovery and the transformative power of...

Health + Wellness

From Touchdowns to Total Care

A Journey From the Football Field to the Pharmacy Article by Nikita Hanif | Photography by Rebecca Williams In the beautiful town of Aiken, a unique power couple focused on faith, family, and football has emerged. Meet Steve and Amy Hibbitts, the dynamic duo behind Total Care Medical Center, the former TLC Medical Center. Steve, head football coach for Lakeside High School, and his wife, Amy, an employee of TLC, have transformed the pharmacy into a beacon of comprehensive healthcare in the...