The Columbia Ball: A Night to Remember!
Columbia welcomed the holiday season with a splash of elegance and grace as the annual debutante ball, The Columbia Ball, kicked off this year’s festivities on Thanksgiving Eve, November 27. The event took place at the beautiful Pastides Alumni Center at the University of South Carolina, setting the perfect backdrop for a night filled with tradition.
Star-Studded Guest List and Arrivals
The atmosphere was buzzing with excitement as the guests began to arrive at 7:00 p.m. The evening started with a delightful reception where families and friends mingled, celebrating this grand occasion before the main events unfolded. The spotlight shone brightly on Mr. Earle Craig Waites, Jr., president of the Columbia Ball, and his lovely wife, Mrs. Waites, who warmly welcomed everyone with open arms. Among the guests were debutantes, their proud fathers, and esteemed attendees, creating a sense of community and connection.
Introducing the Debutantes
As the clock struck 8:00 p.m., the highly anticipated presentation of the debutantes commenced. With elegance and poise, the young women took center stage, each presented by their fathers, signaling their grand entrance into society. This year’s debutantes included:
- Miss Caroline Everett Little, escorted by Mr. Joseph High Pope, Jr.
- Miss Helen Ellsworth Clarke, accompanied by Mr. Samuel Sumpter Clarke.
- Miss Elizabeth Buchanan Kelchner, introduced by Mr. Julius Walker McKay III.
- Miss Sarah Helen Irene McNair, escorted by Mr. Theron Max Childress.
- Miss Mae Woodward Williams, with Mr. Steven Jacob Morrison.
- Miss Mary Stephens McMillan, presented by Mr. Jackson Elliott Sessoms.
And let’s not forget the granddaughters! They made a stunning entrance as well, including:
- Miss Carroll Barrett Campbell, escorted by Mr. William Brown Bennett.
- Miss Virginia Beverley Dunlap, accompanied by Mr. David Barnwell Shealy.
Extravagant Decorations and Floral Displays
Each debutante was gifted a stunning hand-tied bouquet embellished with roses in shades of white, blush, and pink, along with white hydrangea, antique carnations, and white limonium, all wrapped in soft pink velvet ribbon. The grand presentation of these beautiful bouquets added a touch of charm and warmth, signifying a legacy honored through ribbons tailored for each generation. Blush satin ribbons adorned the daughters’ bouquets, while granddaughters received an additional touch of soft pink and white lace, making it a heartfelt keepsake for all.
A Night of Dinner and Dancing
After the formal presentation, it was time for dinner, followed by a night of dancing led by the lively Ross Holmes Band. The ballroom was filled with laughter and music, as everyone enjoyed the celebration of young women stepping into the spotlight. The tables, adorned with breathtaking arrangements featuring antique and white hydrangeas, pink and white roses, and garden greenery, provided a stunning visual to this enchanting evening.
A Strong Community Spirit
This year’s festivities were not only a celebration of the debutantes but also a wonderful display of unity within the Columbia community. The guests included important figures such as Mr. James Edwin Miller II, Chairman of the Ball, and various committee chairpersons who worked tirelessly to make this event a success.
Looking Forward
The Columbia Ball is a cherished tradition, filled with memorable moments, and it undoubtedly sets the tone for a joyous holiday season ahead. As families gather to celebrate, it’s essential to acknowledge what makes events like these so special: the sense of togetherness, pride, and an eagerness to promote community and tradition for generations to come.
Stay tuned as we continue to celebrate the spirit of Columbia and all the amazing events this wonderful city has to offer!
