Columbia Kicks Off Debutante Season with a Glamorous Affair
Columbia, South Carolina was buzzing with excitement on Thanksgiving Eve as the first debutante ball of the season took place at the beautiful Pastides Alumni Center at the University of South Carolina. The annual Columbia Ball, a cherished tradition since 1963, saw a gathering of elegant debutantes, their proud families, and attendees ready to celebrate this special rite of passage.
A Night of Elegance and Joy
The festivities kicked off promptly at 7:00 p.m. with a delightful reception, welcoming all the guests. Mr. Earle Craig Waites, Jr., the president of the Columbia Ball, along with his wife, Mrs. Waites, greeted the attendees with warm smiles. This year’s event featured an impressive lineup of debutantes, each accompanied by their fathers for this memorable introduction to society.
As the clock struck a new hour, the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived—the presentation of the debutantes! One by one, these young women gracefully made their formal bow to the community, with beautifully arranged music provided by the talented Ross Holmes Band. The atmosphere was filled with joy, pride, and nostalgia as families watched their daughters step into adulthood.
The Debutantes Make Their Entrance
Among the stunning debutantes was Miss Caroline Everett Little, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Pringle Little, who was escorted by Mr. Joseph High Pope, Jr. Following her was Miss Helen Ellsworth Clarke, gracefully welcomed by her escort, Mr. Samuel Sumpter Clarke. The tradition continued with Miss Elizabeth Buchanan Kelchner escorted by Mr. Julius Walker McKay III, and Miss Sarah Helen Irene McNair by Mr. Theron Max Childress, each moment marked by cheers and applause.
Other noteworthy presentations included Miss Mae Woodward Williams, Miss Mary Stephens McMillan, and a host of other remarkable debutantes who left everyone in awe with their poise and charm. Special mention goes to the granddaughters making their bows, including Miss Carroll Barrett Campbell, presented by her stepfather, Mr. James Edward Brogdon III, and Miss Virginia Beverley Dunlap, who was escorted by her grandfather.
Beautiful Bouquets and Decorations
The debutantes were presented with stunning bouquets made from shades of white, blush, and pink roses, white hydrangea, and antique carnations, all elegantly wrapped in soft pink velvet ribbon. This year, blush satin ribbons were added to the bouquets of daughters to honor their legacy at The Columbia Ball. Each flower arrangement was a visual treat and reflected the grandeur of the evening.
The venue was not to be outdone either, with table arrangements displaying a stunning mix of flowers that echoed the color palette of the night. With varying heights complemented by greenery, guests enjoyed a feast for the senses while mingling and celebrating.
Community and Camaraderie
The event wasn’t just about the debutantes. Sons and grandsons who were attending their first Ball, such as Mr. Guy Collier Buffum and Mr. Maybank McLain Pope, were welcomed with open arms into this tradition. Seated at the President’s table were key members of the organizing committee, including Mr. James Edwin Miller II and Mr. Tyler Banks Hudson, who helped make the night a grand success.
Making Memories
The evening continued with dinner, laughter, and dancing—the perfect mix for a night to remember. As guests hit the dance floor, the energy was contagious. With the music from the Ross Holmes Band setting the stage, couples glided across the floor, creating unforgettable memories as the debutantes shined brightly in the spotlight.
As the night wound down, it was clear that the Columbia Ball had kicked off the season in style, bringing families together, celebrating tradition, and marking a beautiful chapter in the lives of many young women in the community. Here’s to the success of this year’s debutantes and many more breathtaking occasions ahead!
