Columbia Celebrates the Holiday Season with a Spectacular Debutante Ball

Columbia Welcomes the Season’s First Debutante Ball!

Hey there, Columbia! If you were looking for a touch of glamour to kick off the holiday season, look no further than the dazzling The Columbia Ball, which took place on Thanksgiving Eve, November 27! The celebration filled the University of South Carolina’s Pastides Alumni Center with excitement, elegance, and the cherished traditions that this premiere event brings.

A Night to Remember

The evening was hosted by none other than Mr. Earle Craig Waites, Jr., the president of the Columbia Ball, along with Mrs. Waites. Dressed to the nines, debutantes, their proud mothers, and even grandmothers gathered to celebrate. The festivities kicked off at 7:00 p.m. with a lovely reception, setting the stage for a night overflowing with joy.

Following the reception, it was time for the big moment—the presentation of the debutantes! And let me tell you, it was a sight to behold. Accompanied by their fathers, the highlight of the evening was the debutantes making their formal bow to society as they glided across the ballroom. The charming music of the Ross Holmes Band added a delightful soundtrack to the enchanting night.

Meet the Stunning Debutantes

Among the many elegant young ladies presented were:

• Miss Caroline Everett Little, escorted by Mr. Joseph High Pope, Jr.
• Miss Helen Ellsworth Clarke, escorted by Mr. Samuel Sumpter Clarke.
• Miss Elizabeth Buchanan Kelchner, escorted by Mr. Julius Walker McKay III.
• Miss Sarah Helen Irene McNair, escorted by Mr. Theron Max Childress.
• Miss Mae Woodward Williams, escorted by Mr. Steven Jacob Morrison.
• Miss Mary Stephens McMillan, escorted by Mr. Jackson Elliott Sessoms.

Notably, granddaughters joined in the festivities as well, including:

• Miss Carroll Barrett Campbell, presented by her stepfather and escorted by Mr. William Brown Bennett.
• Miss Virginia Beverley Dunlap, escorted by Mr. David Barnwell Shealy.

Guest debutantes graced the event too, such as Miss Elloise Troup Bethea and Miss Sanders Lilla Bethea, all escorted by their dashing partners. What a fabulous lineup!

Flowers, Ribbons, and Decorations Galore

In keeping with the charming tradition, each debutante received a stunning hand-tied bouquet of roses in shades of white, blush, and pink, complete with white hydrangea, antique carnation, and white limonium—all beautifully wrapped in soft pink velvet ribbon. The special touch of blush satin ribbons for the daughters, additional pink for the granddaughters, and delicate lace for the great-granddaughters made the bouquets even more memorable.

Tables were adorned with magnificent arrangements featuring antique and white hydrangea, pink and white roses, and various greenery. Guests were truly enveloped in the magical ambiance of the ball!

Family Matters: Celebrating Generations

Adding to the festivities, sons and grandsons were also welcomed into the celebration, with notable mentions such as Mr. Guy Collier Buffum and Mr. Maybank McLain Pope. Celebrating family ties, the night united generations in a grand manner!

A Tribute to Planning and Organization

Mr. Earle Craig Waites, Jr., seated with a notable list of guests at the President’s table, was surrounded by those who made the event possible. The hard work of various committee heads, like Mrs. Marshall Braddoch Martin and Mr. Marshall Braddoch Martin overseeing decorations and arrangements, ensured everything ran smoothly. Hats off to all!

The Columbia Ball is more than just an event; it’s a cherished tradition that highlights the rich culture and community spirit here in Columbia. As we dive into the holiday season, this enchanting night surely left attendees with plenty of warm memories and smiles to cherish for years to come.

Until next time, keep that holiday spirit shining bright!