Columbia Kicks Off Debutante Season with a Glamorous Affair
This Thanksgiving Eve, Columbia rang in the debutante season in style with the first of the year’s grand celebrations, known as The Columbia Ball. Held on November 27 at the beloved University of South Carolina’s Pastides Alumni Center, the evening was a delightful blend of tradition and festivity, warmly welcoming members and guests alike. The event, hosted by Mr. Earle Craig Waites, Jr., president of the Columbia Ball, & his lovely wife, Mrs. Waites, showcased not just the debutantes but the proud lineages and histories of each young lady being presented to society.
Festivities Fill the Air
The evening kicked off at 7:00 p.m. with a splendid reception, the air buzzing with excitement and laughter. Guests mingled as they anticipated the moment when the debutantes would take center stage. The ballroom filled soon after, as Mr. Earle Craig Waites, Jr. introduced the shining stars of the night — the debutantes! Alongside their proud fathers, these young women were ready to make their momentous bows.
An Evening of Elegance
The atmosphere was positively enchanting, with the Ross Holmes Band filling the room with lively music that encouraged guests to sway and twirl. Among the young ladies taking their formal bows 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.
The lineage of these debutantes was evident, showcasing proud family legacies intertwined with the esteemed tradition of The Columbia Ball.
A Tribute to Family History
In addition to the debutantes, the granddaughters stepping into the spotlight included:
- Miss Carroll Barrett Campbell, escorted by Mr. William Brown Bennett.
- Miss Virginia Beverley Dunlap, escorted by Mr. David Barnwell Shealy.
Either escorted by their fathers or grandfathers, these young women highlighted the spirit of familial pride that binds the Columbia community together. After all, who doesn’t love a good family story?
Bouquets & Decorations Galore
Each debutante was presented with a stunning hand-tied bouquet, featuring roses in shades of white, blush, and pink. The soft pink velvet ribbons wrapped around each bouquet lent an extra touch of elegance, making the evening more memorable. The decorations in the dining area dazzled attendees with arrangements of hydrangeas, roses, and other fresh blooms that complemented the atmosphere perfectly.
Not Just a Ball, a Community Affair
Sons and grandsons, too, received warm welcomes during this grand gathering, showing how these cherished traditions continue to unite generations. Mr. Guy Collier Buffum and Mr. Maybank McLain Pope marked their first experience at the Ball — another sign of legacy continuing through family.
A Grateful Evening
At the President’s table sat distinguished guests, including committee chairs and past presidents, who worked tirelessly to make this event a night to remember. The sense of community was palpable as everyone celebrated together, highlighting the importance of these generational connections.
This year’s Columbia Ball successfully launched the season of debutantes, bonding friends and families through tradition, elegance, and fun. As the music played and joyous laughter filled the air, one thing was clear — Columbia knows how to throw a ball!
