Columbia Celebrates Tradition with Enchanting Debutante Ball

Columbia Welcomes the Season with a Glamorous Debutante Ball

In the heart of Columbia, the air was filled with excitement and elegance on Thanksgiving Eve, as the first of the season’s debutante balls, The Columbia Ball, graced the University of South Carolina’s Pastides Alumni Center. This year’s event took place on November 27 and marked a time-honored tradition in our community.

An Evening of Glamour and Tradition

The festivities kicked off promptly at 7:00 p.m., welcoming guests with dazzling decorations and a sense of anticipation. Mr. Earle Craig Waites, Jr., the president of The Columbia Ball, along with Mrs. Waites, warmly greeted debutantes, their mothers, and grandmothers, all of whom were dressed to impress. The reception set the tone for an evening filled with joyous celebration and the spirit of togetherness.

Following the reception, the debutantes were formally introduced to the gathering in a charming ceremony led by Mr. Waites. The sense of pride and joy was palpable as each young woman made her entrance, surrounded by family and friends. Music for the night was provided by the lively Ross Holmes Band, ensuring everyone hit the dance floor with smiles.

Meet the Debutantes

The air was filled with laughter and applause as the debutantes made their bows to society. Each young lady was presented by her father, adding a special touch to the occasion. Among the debutantes was Miss Caroline Everett Little, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Pringle Little, escorted by Mr. Joseph High Pope, Jr. Others included:

• Miss Helen Ellsworth Clarke, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Samuel Clarke, escorted by Mr. Samuel Sumpter Clarke.
• Miss Elizabeth Buchanan Kelchner, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Brian Kelchner, escorted by Mr. Julius Walker McKay III.
• Miss Sarah Helen Irene McNair, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Chandler Clarke McNair, escorted by Mr. Theron Max Childress.
• Miss Mae Woodward Williams, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Walker Williams, Jr., escorted by Mr. Steven Jacob Morrison.
• Miss Mary Stephens McMillan, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Justin Stephens McMillan II, escorted by Mr. Jackson Elliott Sessoms.

The special tradition of including granddaughters was also honored, with Miss Carroll Barrett Campbell, who was presented by her stepfather, and Miss Virginia Beverley Dunlap, presented by her grandfather, showcasing the legacy of family in this charming event.

Beautiful Bouquets and Decor

As every debutante was presented, they received a stunning hand-tied bouquet composed of soft shades of white, blush, and pink roses, hydrangeas, and antique carnations elegantly wrapped in luxurious pink velvet ribbons. The added touch of tradition was emphasized with blush satin ribbons for daughters, soft pink for granddaughters, and dainty white lace for great-granddaughters.

The decorations throughout the venue were just as spectacular with towering arrangements of exquisite flowers creating a vibrant atmosphere. From antique and white hydrangeas to fragrant roses and verdant greenery, the stunning centerpieces contributed significantly to the evening’s charm.

A Toast to Tradition

And let’s not forget the young men excited to join the family tradition! Mr. Guy Collier Buffum and Mr. Maybank McLain Pope were welcomed as sons and grandsons attending their first ball, adding a delightful sprinkle of youthful energy to the occasion.

Seated at the President’s table with the Waites were other esteemed guests who played significant roles in organizing this memorable event. Leaders like Mr. James Edwin Miller II, Chairman of the Ball, and Mr. Tyler Banks Hudson, venue arrangements chairman, contributed their efforts to make the evening a success.

Wrapping Up the Night

As the night unfolded with dinner and dancing, the debutantes and their families celebrated this incredible milestone together, reflecting on their heritage and looking forward to their futures. The joy radiated across the ballroom, as guests danced the night away, marking the beginning of a new season filled with dreams, hopes, and society’s oldest traditions.

So here’s to The Columbia Ball—a night of history, family, and bright futures, ensuring that our beloved community tradition remains as alive and vibrant as ever!