Columbia Shines Bright at the Spectacular Return of the Debutante Ball

Columbia Celebrates the Season with a Dazzling Debutante Ball

The festive spirit was alive and well in Columbia this Thanksgiving Eve, November 27, as the glamorous Columbia Ball made its much-anticipated return at the stunning Pastides Alumni Center at the University of South Carolina. The evening kicked off at 7:00 p.m. with a warm reception, where families and friends gathered to celebrate their daughters’ debut into society amidst an atmosphere brimming with excitement.

Stars of the Evening: The Debutantes

Hosted by the charming Mr. Earle Craig Waites, Jr., the night was a magnificent showcase of young women stepping into the spotlight. Daughters, granddaughters, and guest debutantes all took their turns making formal bows, escorted by handsome young men, amidst an ambiance of elegance and joy. The event featured the captivating sounds of the Ross Holmes Band, setting a delightful tone for the celebration.

Among the debutantes were:

• Miss Caroline Everett Little, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Pringle Little, escorted by Mr. Joseph High Pope, Jr.
• 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, 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.

Granddaughters making their entrance included Miss Carroll Barrett Campbell and Miss Virginia Beverley Dunlap, each introduced by family members and paired with charming escorts. Meanwhile, guest debutantes such as Miss Elloise Troup Bethea and Miss Harriott Ravenel Finlay also graced the event, adding to the splendid lineup.

Beautiful Bouquets and Enchanting Décor

Each debutante was presented with a stunning hand-tied bouquet featuring an array of roses in shades of white, blush, and pink, along with delightful white hydrangeas and antique carnations. These lovely bouquets, wrapped in soft pink velvet ribbons, were not just a nod to style but also represented the legacy of the Columbia Ball. Daughters wore blush satin ribbons, granddaughters received soft pink additions, and great-granddaughters added delicate white lace to their arrangements.

The tables were dressed to the nines, showcasing arrangements of antique and white hydrangeas alongside pink and white roses, all wonderfully complemented by a touch of garden greenery. Such thoughtful details added to the splendid atmosphere of the evening.

Notable Guests and Committee Honors

At the president’s table, Mr. and Mrs. Waites were joined by key figures from the ball’s organizing committee, which included Mr. James Edwin Miller II, the chairman, and other family members who worked tirelessly behind the scenes. Additional committee chairs were recognized for their efforts in making the event a resounding success, certainly making the evening feel well-organized and far more enjoyable for all in attendance.

Sparking Joy for the Next Generation

Adding to the heartwarming nature of the evening were the sons and grandsons attending their very first ball, like Mr. Guy Collier Buffum and Mr. Maybank McLain Pope. This acknowledgment of young gentlemen joining the celebration speaks volumes about the significance and tradition of the Columbia Ball in fostering important social connections across generations.

As the evening drew to a close, the laughter, joy, and shared memories left an indelible mark on everyone present, setting the perfect tone for the holiday season ahead. The Columbia Ball not only highlighted the elegance and beauty of its debutantes but also wove together the community in cherished celebration.