Belle December 24 : simplebooklet.com

3Cornbread Dressing, Peanut Buer Pie, Yeast Rolls, and more . . . The same recipes and quality ingredients that you have enjoyed at Wade’s for years, now packaged to store in your freezer unl the holidays!All you have to do is thaw the product, then follow the simple cooking instrucons on each package. We do all the work, you can take all the credit. We won’t tell if you don’t!Frozen food items are available for pick up in our ToGo area; no pre-order needed. Learn more at WADESRESTAURANT.COM/HOLIDAYSSAVE TIME AND REDUCE STRESS. LET WADE’S PROVIDE ALL THE FIXINS FOR YOUR HOLIDAY MEAL! ALL YOUR FAVORITESFROZENWADESRESTAURANT.COM | 864.582.3800 |   @WADESRESTAURANTWade’sUpdated Wade’s Colors WebsiteUpdated Wade’s Logos Website ColorsTomato Red Hamburger Steak Brown Legacy BrownCreamed Corn Yellow Creamy Peanut Butter PieOriginal Wade’s Logos Restaurant Sign OnlyHEX #FACF3EC 2 M 17 Y 87 K 0R 250 G 207 B 62HEX #FAF8ECC 1 M 1 Y 7 K 0R 250 G 248 B 236HEX #D13523C 12 M 93 Y 100 K 3R 209 G 53 B 35HEX #5D4920C 49 M 58 Y 96 K 43R 93 G 73 B 32HEX #2A0C08C 56 M 75 Y 71 K 81R 42 G 12 B 8Brand Guidelines

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5December 2024Amanda G. BassEditor and ContributionsMelissa RhineManaging Editor864.612.0745melissa@bellemagonline.comAlison StormFeatures Editoralison@alisonstorm.comfrom the editor...Jeslyn LanierCreative Director843.509.7559jeslynlanier@gmail.comKimberly EdwardsAdvertising Sales Executive321.460.3671kimberly.bellemagazine@gmail.comAngela ZionPhotographycox.angela.m@gmail.comEditor and ContributionsMerry Christmas and happy holidays from all of us at Belle Magazine!The December issue is here, and it’s bursting with holiday cheer, just like the twinkling lights downtown. We’re thrilled to feature Thompson’s Famous Name Brand Shoes on our cover, highlighting one of our favorite spots for the perfect gifts under the tree. Inside, you’ll find a carefully curated holiday gift guide filled with treasures from local shops (we see you, last-minute shoppers!), a festive Christmas cookie cake recipe, and a White Christmas Mojito you’ll definitely want to try at your next holiday gathering.This month, we’re diving into Southern Christmas traditions that feel like a warm hug from home and sharing a holiday survival guide to help you stay sane through all the merry madness. And, as always, we’re spotlighting tons of local businesses to shop, dine, and celebrate the season with.As we wrap up this year, I want to take a moment to thank you for supporting Belle Magazine and the incredible small businesses that make the Upstate so special. Your love for shopping local, cheering on female-owned businesses, and celebrating our community means the world to us.From our Belle family to yours, we wish you a season filled with joy, laughter, and maybe just a little eggnog (or a mojito!). Here’s to a merry Christmas, a wonderful holiday sea-son, and an exciting new year ahead.www.southwindranchtr.com | @southwindranch_tr | 864-385-4101330 Bates Crossing RoadTravelers Rest, SCSouth Wind Ranch is a unique, full service special event venue inTravelers Rest, South Carolina. Our 33-acre property is completewith a Bridal Suite for pampering, a lake for fishing, an outdoorchapel for the "I Do's," and a Celebration Barn for dancing thenight away. Our breathtaking view of the North CarolinaMountains creates the perfect backdrop for a beautiful SouthCarolina sunset. We cater to a variety of couples, and it is ourgreatest joy to help create their best day ever!South Wind Ranch

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6ON THE COVER Model | Alison KoperShoess & Accessories | Thompson’s Famous Name Brand ShoesPhotographer | Angela Zion PhotographyCONTENT10 belle’s Recipes: Christmas Cookie Cake14 belle’s DIYs: White Christmas Mojito16 Holiday Survival Guide22 A Very Southern Holiday24 belle’s Closet28 Wrap it Up30 Holiday Gift Guide32 belle’s Bookshelf36 Girl Talk: Rachel Farrell40 Holiday Sparkle42 An Evening at Spartanburg’s Annual Farm to Table Dinner46 Shoes of the MonthText ‘ADVERTISE’ to 864.612.0745 or email us at bellemagupstate@gmail.com to join Belle today!Check OutOur Website!@bellemag_ocialBelle Magazinebelle, a magazine for the modern southern woman, is published monthly and distributed throughout the Upstate of South Carolina by Romelous & Son Publishing Co., LLC. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement or content we deem inappropriate for the publication. Contributions are welcome and can be sent via email, please include name, address, and contact number. You will be contacted if we decide to publish your submission. Content must be received by the 1st for the following month’s publication. Letters to the editor are welcome, however, they may require editing due to space limitations. The design, editorial, and photo content in belle is copyright of Romelous & Son Publishing Co., LLC and may not be reproduced without written permission by the publisher.46283014 10December202440

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BELLE’S RECIPESIngredientsCAKE LAYERS2 1/2 cups all-purpose ﬂour 2 1/2 tsp baking powder1/4 tsp baking soda1/2 tsp salt3/4 cup unsalted butter, room temp1/4 cup vegetable oil1 1/2 cups sugar1 tbsp vanilla extract4 large eggs, room temp1 cup Frosted Sugar Cookie coee creamer, room temp1/4 cup buttermilk, room tempSUGAR COOKIE FILLING1 cup unsalted butter, room temp2 cups powdered sugar1 1/4 cups sugar cookie crumbs2 tsp vanilla extract1/4 cup Frosted Sugar Cookie coee creamer1 cup all-purpose ﬂour1/4 tsp salt1/4 cup Christmas sprinklesBUTTERCREAM FROSTING1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, room temp6 cups powdered sugar3–5 tbsp Frosted Sugar Cookie coee creamerPinch of saltChristmas SprinklesCookiesInstructionsFOR THE CAKEPrepare three 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper circles in the bottom and grease the sides. Preheat oven to 350°F.Combine the ﬂour, baking powder, baking soda and salt in a medium sized bowl and set aside.Add the butter, oil, sugar and vanilla extract to a large mixer bowl and beat together until light in color and ﬂuy, about 2-3 minutes.Add the eggs one at a time, mixing until mostly combined after each. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to be sure all ingredients are well incorporated.Add half of the dry ingredients to the batter and mix until mostly combined.Slowly add the coee creamer and milk and mix until well combined. The batter may look a little curdled, but that’s ok.Add the remaining dry ingredients and mix until well combined and smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to be sure all ingredients are well incorporated. Do not over mix the batter.Divide the batter evenly between the cakes pans and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with a few crumbs.Remove the cakes from the oven and allow to cool for about 2-3 minutes, then remove to cooling racks to cool completely.FOR THE FILLINGAdd the butter to a mixer bowl and beat until smooth and creamy.Add the powdered sugar and sugar cookie crumbs and mix until well combined. It will be thick.Add the vanilla extract and coee creamer and mix until well combined.Add the flour and salt and mix until well combined.Add the sprinkles and gently stir together until evenly dispersed. Set aside.FOR THE BUTTERCREAMAdd the butter to a mixer bowl and beat until smooth and creamy.Add half of the powdered sugar and mix until well combined and smooth.Add 3 tablespoons of the coee creamer and salt and mix until well combined and smooth.Add the remaining powdered sugar and mix until well combined and smooth. Add additional coee creamer, as needed to get the right consistency of frosting.ASSEMBLE THE CAKETo put the cake together, use a large serrat-ed knife to remove the domes from the top of the cakes so that they’re completely ﬂat.Place the ﬁrst cake on a serving plate or a cardboard cake round.Spread ½ of the ﬁlling evenly on top of the cake.Add the second layer of cake and the other half of the ﬁlling.Top the cake with the remaining layer and frost the outside of the cake with the buttercream.Press sprinkles into the sides of the cake. Pipe swirls of frosting around the top edge of the cake. Place cookie halves between the swirls and add a few more sprinkles to the top of the cake.Get ready to sleigh the dessert table this holiday season with our festive Christmas Cookie Cake! This dreamy creation is layered with sugar cookie avors, buttery lling, and a smooth, uffy buttercream that will make any cookie lover swoon. With hints of frosted sugar cookie creamer and a pop of colorful sprinkles, it’s as fun to look at as it is to eat! Perfect for holiday gatherings, it’s bound to be the star of your Christmas spread. Try baking it up for family and friends, and don’t forget to snap a pic and tag us @bellemag_ofcial – we’d love to see your sweet masterpiece!

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14WhiteChristmas MojitoGet ready to toast to the holiday season with a refreshing twist on a classic cocktail! This DIY White Christmas Mojito brings together the tropical flavors of coconut and mint with a hint of sparkle—perfect for celebrating with a little extra holiday cheer. With a splash of coconut rum and a sprinkle of pomegranate arils for a festive pop of red, this drink is as joyful to look at as it is to sip. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or cozying up for a quiet night in, this merry mojito will keep spirits bright all season long!BELLE’S DIYWHAT YOU NEED3/4 cup of lime juice1/4 cup of packed mint leaves, plus more for garnish1/2 cup of sugar1/2 cup of white rum1/2 cup of coconut rum1 cup of canned coconut milksparkling waterpomegranate arilsWHAT TO DOIn a larger pitcher, muddle the mint leaves in the sugar and lime juice.Using a strainer, remove the muddled mint leaves (optional).Fill four glasses halfway full with ice and ﬁll 3/4 full with coconut rum mixture.Top o each glass with sparkling water. Garnish with mint leaves and pomegranate arils and enjoy!

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HolidaySurvivalGuideHolidaySurvivalGuidee holiday season can feel like a whirlwind—between gatherings, gift shopping, and planning, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. But this year, let’s try to slow down, savor each moment, and make room for joy. Here are some simple, thoughtful ways to help you stay centered, connected, and stress-free this season.SET BOUNDARIES FOR EVENTSThe calendar ﬁlls up quickly, so give yourself permission to say “no” to events that feel more like obligations than joy. Prioritize gatherings with people who uplift you and make you feel connected.GIFT WITH INTENTIONInstead of last-minute shopping, consider giving experiences or handmade gifts. These are often more memorable, and you can avoid the crowded stores.SIMPLIFY THE MENUHosting? Keep it simple! A few well-loved dishes can create just as warm an atmosphere as an elaborate spread. Potluck-style dinners also lighten the load and get everyone involved.MAKE TIME FOR SELF-CARETake time to recharge by scheduling in moments just for you. Whether it’s a coee break, a yoga class, or a walk around the neighborhood lights, these small acts of self-care help keep holiday stress at bay.PRACTICE MINDFUL GIVINGVolunteering or donating to a cause can bring holiday joy to others and give you a sense of purpose. Find local charities or shelters in need of donations this season.CREATE A BUDGET AND STICK TO ITFinancial stress is common around the holidays, so set a budget ahead of time. Focus on meaningful but aordable gifts, and remember that thoughtful gestures mean more than a price tag.EMBRACE TRADITIONS THAT MATTERLet go of outdated traditions that don’t resonate with your family anymore. Focus on the ones that bring you joy, or create new traditions together.DESIGNATE SCREEN-FREE TIMEPut away phones and screens when spending time with loved ones. Being fully present allows you to savor the holiday magic and truly connect.PREPARE A HOLIDAY PLAYLISTMusic can lift your spirits and bring warmth to any moment. Curate a playlist that brings back memories, soothes your soul, or even adds a little holiday dance to your day.PRACTICE GRATITUDEEach day, take a moment to appreciate something about the season. Whether it’s a cup of hot cocoa, a favorite holiday movie, or simply time with loved ones, a gratitude practice helps to center and uplift you.

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22There’s nothing quite like a Southern holiday celebration, where traditions come with a heaping side of warmth, hospitality, and charm. Here are some classic Southern customs to sprinkle into your own festivities this year, making your holiday season just a little cozier, more delicious, and full of personality.Christmas Eve Oyster RoastIn Southern coastal towns, Christmas Eve isn’t complete without an oyster roast. Picture friends and family huddled around, cracking open fresh, steamy oysters while chatting and laughing under the stars. With just a few essentials—saltines, hot sauce, and lemon wedges—this gathering is less about the meal and more about the memories, making it a low-key yet unforgettable way to kick o the holiday.Lighting Up the ght with LuminariesYou might have seen the delicate glow of luminaries lining pathways in certain neighborhoods on Christmas Eve. Originally inspired by Mexican tradition, these paper lanterns create a warm and magical glow, perfect for leading the way to a holiday party or lighting up your porch with a soft, welcoming touch. Plus, they’re simple to make—and nothing says South-ern holiday like DIY decor!Magnolia Weath MagicForget pine wreaths; in the South, it’s all about magnolia leaves. Their deep green hue and waxy shine make for a stunning wreath, and best of all, it’s a statement that says “Southern sophistication.” Hang one on your door, and watch as guests immediately feel that charming Southern warmth before they even step inside.Pecan Pie and Sweet Potato Casserole Must-HavesNo holiday table here would be complete without these two comfort food classics. But if you want to put a twist on tradition, try a bourbon pecan pie or a sweet potato casserole topped with candied pecans for extra crunch. These ﬂavors are pure Southern bliss, and they’re guaranteed to keep everyone coming back for seconds—and maybe even thirds!Telling Family Stories by the FireDown South, we know how to tell a good story, especially around the holidays. As you gather by the ﬁre or around the table, try sharing a favorite family story, whether it’s a sweet memory or a funny mishap from holidays past. This tradition is a sureﬁre way to connect across generations and share a few laughs (and maybe a few happy tears, too).New Year’ Day Hoppin’ John Want some good luck for the new year? Dig into a big bowl of Hoppin’ John on New Year’s Day. This dish of black-eyed peas, rice, and ham hock is said to bring prosperity and good fortune, especially when paired with greens for wealth and cornbread for “gold.” Southern superstition never tasted so good!Gift Giving, Southern Style: Hemade TeatsIn the South, gift giving comes with a homemade touch. This season, try your hand at Southern sweets like pecan pralines, peppermint bark, or a batch of homemade jam. Neighbors, friends, and family will appreciate these little bites of joy, and they add a personal, heartfelt ﬂair that you can’t ﬁnd in stores.The Great Porch Decorating TaditionAround here, holiday decorations don’t stop at the front door. Porch decorating contests are a serious business in some Southern neighborhoods, and everyone gets in on the fun. Think twinkling lights, wreaths on every window, giant ribbons, maybe even a friendly inﬂatable snowman or two. There’s nothing like decking out your front porch to spread holiday cheer to everyone who passes by.Onament Exchanges That Spark JoySouthern gatherings wouldn’t be complete without a little gift-swapping fun. Ornament exchanges are a lighthearted way to bring friends together—each person brings a wrapped ornament, and everyone leaves with a new one to hang on their tree. Whether it’s something heartfelt or a playful pick, the ornaments add a little extra sparkle to your holiday and become cherished keepsakes of time spent with friends.So this holiday season, why not add a dash of Southern charm to your celebra-tions? From oyster roasts and porch decorating to Hoppin’ John on New Year’s Day, these traditions are all about creating memories, sharing laughter, and bringing everyone together. Whether it’s the glow of luminarias or the taste of a bourbon pecan pie, these Southern holiday customs are sure to ll your season with warmth and joy.

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2828Wrap It UpOUR FAVORITE GIFT WRAPPING PICKS FOR THE SEASON‘Tis the season for giving—and making sure those gifts look as fabulous on the outside as they are thoughtful on the inside. This year, we’ve scouted the cutest wrapping papers to elevate your holiday gifting game. Whether you’re going for classic charm or modern sparkle, our picks are sure to inspire.OUR FAVORITE GIFT WRAPPING PAPERSFrom vintage-inspired prints to trendy gingham, these wrapping papers caught our eye this season:RIBBON LOVEWrapping paper is just the beginning— your ribbon game deserves equal attention! Here are a few of our favorites:VELVET RIBBONS Perfect for adding a cozy, elegant touch. TWINE WITH A TWIST Natural twine paired with sprigs of greenery or dried orange slices gives a rustic, personalized look.METALLIC THREADS Thin strands of gold or silver thread make any package shine.WRAP IT ALL TOGETHERGift wrapping is more than just presentation—it’s part of the joy of giving. Whether you’re crafting a show-stopping package or adding a personal touch, let the wrapping reﬂect the love and care behind your gift. Happy holidays from all of us at Belle Magazine!TIPS FOR PICTURE-PERFECT WRAPPINGMEASURE TWICE, CUT ONCE Avoid waste by ensuring your paper is cut to size. Use a ruler or ﬂat edge for crisp folds. DOUBLE-SIDED TAPE For a seamless look, hide tape underneath folds.LAYER IT UP Mix patterns by pairing a bold wrapping paper with a neutral ribbon or vice versa.TOP IT OFFAdd small accents like ornaments, pinecones, or custom gift tags for a ﬁnishing touch.HOSTESS GIFT IDEASNot sure what to bring to your next holiday party? Wrap up these thoughtful (and Belle-approved) options:A BOTTLE OF WINE in a festive wine bag or wrapped with a bow.GOURMET TREATS, like a beautifully wrapped box of cookies or artisanal chocolates.A COZY CANDLE paired with a handwritten note.A POTTED PLANT like rosemary or a small poinsettia, dressed up with a simple ribbon.With these ideas, you’ll be the guest everyone hopes will stop by!WHIMSICAL WINTER WONDERLAND A charming mix of snow globes and candy canes, available at Society 6. GREEN GLAM A minimalist design of green bows available at Zazzle. MODERN PLAID A chic green and red watercolor plaid, found at Yonderstars Shop on Etsy. FESTIVE FOREST A vibrant design of evergreen branches and ornaments on a dark blue background found at Aspen + Arlo. GREEN PAINTED STRIPE Timeless green and white stripes with a subtle ﬁnish, available at Sugar Paper and perfect for pairing with other holiday favorites.

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301. MONSTER JAMBon Secours Arena - January 4-52. GLOSS BEAUTY BRANDHoliday Glow and Go Kits3. ART LOUNGEBurg Ornaments4. HAIR IT ISAll Nutrient Mousse5. BERBANK EVENTSDesign Inspiration Gold Christmas Tree6. HUB CITY RUNNERSOn Cloud Shoes7. THOMPSON’S FAMOUS NAME BRAND SHOESChristmas Socks8. IMAGINATION STATIONGecko Run9. DAISY CAKES“Cake in a Jar” Minikins10. TWO DOORS DOWN ENewton Bracelets11. TINA TURNER THE MUSICALSpartanburg Memorial Auditorium - January 22 12. SPLASH ON MAINMudpie Oyster Ornament13. ROUND BOTTOM FARMFull Grain Leather Purses and Totes14. SWEET MAGNOLIA’SChristmas Wreath15. HEIRLOOMSpend 100 on gift cards, receive $10 dining credit.Spend $250 on gift cards,receive $50 gift card to use or gift. Gift cards may be purchased at the restaurant during business hours or by emailing gm@heirloomsc.com16. BRICK HOUSE CHEERHoliday Special - $25 O a Birthday Party Booking *25 kids or less. Booked by Dec 31, 2024 & valid thru Oct 2025Holiday Gift guideBELLE’S 2024 SHOP LOCAL91234567812131415161011

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ALL I WANT IS YOUBY FALON BALLARDCozy up with this December’s Belle’s Bookshelf pick, a holiday romance sure to sweep you off your feet! This festive read has it all—snowstorms, rivals-to-romance vibes, and just the right touch of holiday magic. With Falon Ballard’s signature wit and charm, this festive romance is all you need to make your season merry and bright!All Jessica has ever wanted is her own happily ever after. But until that happens, she spends her days as a small-time romance writer, penning satisfying Happily Ever Afters to soothe the heartache left by her ex-boyfriend Nick—also a romance writer and now her biggest rival—who has found success writing love stories without happy endings. It’s what he’s good at, after all...So when their professional obligations bring them to a remote inn a few days before Christmas, they’re a little more than peeved, especially when they get trapped sharing a room in a snowstorm. But what’s more fitting for two romantic writers in a slump? Realizing the friction between them might be the only cure for their writer’s block, they decide to turn their frustration into fiction... and the pages start flying. But will Jess’s heart soar, too? Nick is the last guy on earth she should love... but what if he is really all she wants for Christmas?ABOUT THE AUTHOR //Falon Ballard is the author of several rom coms and the co-host of the Happy to Meet Cute podcast. When she’s not writing a romance book, reading a romance book, or talking about romance books, you can probably find her at Disneyland. Ballard lives in the Los Angeles area.BELLE’S BOOKSHELF

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33Emilee Mosso, RealtorCentury 21 BlackwellLooking for a dedicated Realtor to help with your buying or sellingneeds in Upstate South Carolina and Western North Carolina? CALL EMILEE MOSSO, "YOUR CAROLINA CLOSER" (864)909-4462 | Emilee.Mosso@Century21Blackwell.com Multiple year Quality Service Award WinnerI cannot say enough great things about working with Emilee as our realtor! From start to finish,she was absolutely fantastic. Emilee is not only highly knowledgeable about the market, but shealso took the time to truly understand our needs and preferences. She was incredibly responsive,always available to answer questions, and made the entire process seamless and stress-free. Herattention to detail and commitment to finding us the perfect home was unmatched. We alwaysfelt like we were her top priority, and her positive attitude made the experience enjoyable.Whether it was negotiating on our behalf or offering expert advice, Emilee’s professionalism anddedication really shined through. If you’re looking for a realtor who goes above and beyond, Ihighly recommend Emilee. She turned what could have been a stressful situation into an excitingand rewarding experience. Thank you, Emilee, for helping us find our dream home!- KELLY NOBLE - FOREST CITY NCHere's what clients are saying:Merry Christmas!

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36When Hurricane Helene devastated Western North Carolina, Rachel Farrell felt compelled to help. A native of Fort Myers, Florida, she joined other local moms to form Mom to Mom. They rallied the community to fill 2,351 backpacks filled with supplies—one for every student in Yancey County, North Carolina. For the holidays they’re buying gifts for 391 Hendersonville children and filling 60 duffel bags for homeless North Carolina youth.What inspired you to step up and support families in Western NC after Hurricane Helene?The Blue Ridge Mountains have a special place in my heart. I’ve visited them often since I was young. We even moved here to be closer to them! So, when the hurricane hit, it was only natural to want to help these places we love so much.What’s been the most rewarding part of helping these communities? The day we delivered backpacks to teachers for every single student in Yancey County was such a blessing. That was an incredibly moving day full of many hugs and a few tears.Also, I’ve made some beautiful new friendships through Mom to Mom. My co-founder, Lacey Good, has become one of my close friends! We’re neighbors, but didn’t even know each other two months ago. Now we talk daily and I’m so thankful for that friendship!Did growing up in Florida (and experiencing hurricanes!) help inspire you to help after Helene?Absolutely. I’ve been through my fair share of hurricanes. My family in Florida most recently went through Cat 5 Ian in 2022. It was heartbreaking to be so far away and not able to help. I think that’s why being so close here in the Upstate has made it such an easy decision for me to get involved.What are your hopes for these families—and your own—as we head into the holidays?I hope that there are moments of normalcy for these families this holiday season. And though a lot may look different for them this year, that they experience the simple things Christmas can bring… peace, joy, hope.As for my family, this year I hope we all can slow down a bit more so we can enjoy simple moments with the ones we love. After Helene, I think we all need more of that.Any advice for helping our kids focus on gratitude and service around the holidays?We have a clean-up day where my children pick out toys they no longer play with much. We take them to a donation center together. And we always participate in a project that helps others… sponsoring a child, donating toys… obviously this year, we’ll be doing that through Mom to Mom’s newest project with Henderson County Schools: Blessings in Boxes.What do you hope to unwrap this Christmas?Honestly, I’m not into many gifts. My husband Blake and I are much more interested in memories made. We haven’t been able to go camping since Helene. My hope is that we get to go camping soon. Nothing beats those beautiful views and fresh mountain air.You traveled to Iceland this year! What else is on your bucketlist for 2025?Travel brings me such joy! We haven’t decided where to go in 2025 yet… Banff National Park in Canada, Acadia National Park in Maine, and the Pacific Northwest (Oregon/Washington) are some ideas we’ve been throwing around! Which would you pick?RACHEL FARRELLMOM AND FOUNDER OF MOM TO MOMFOLLOW MOM TO MOM ON INSTAGRAM @MOM2MOMNC

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Holiday SparkleThe holiday season is here, and it’s time to deck yourself out in this year’s most festive and fashionable trends! Whether you’re attending a cozy family gathering, a glitzy office party, or a New Year’s Eve bash, we’ve got the scoop on the looks that will keep you merry and bright all season long.All That Glitters: Sequins & ShineIt wouldn’t be the holidays without a little sparkle! Sequins are a must this year, from classic gold and silver to bold jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, and ruby red. Try a sequin mini dress for your evening soiree or add a sequined blazer to your favorite jeans for a festive yet casual look. Feeling adventurous? Metallic accessories like shoes, bags, or headbands can dial up the glam.Velvet CrushVelvet is making a major come-back this year, and we couldn’t be happier. The luxurious fabric is perfect for winter and adds instant sophistication to any outfit. A velvet jumpsuit or wrap dress in rich hues like burgundy, navy, or forest green is guaranteed to turn heads. For something subtle, opt for velvet loafers or a chic clutch.Winter WhiteBreak the old “no white after Labor Day” rule and embrace winter whites! Creamy, ivory tones are elegant and unexpected during the holidays. Pair a chunky knit sweater with tailored white pants, or go bold with a monochromatic winter white suit. Add gold jewelry for a touch of warmth.Feathered FunFeathers are taking center stage this season for a playful and chic vibe. Think feather-trimmed sleeves, skirts with feather hems, or even feathered earrings to spice up your outfit. It’s the perfect way to add texture and movement to your look while feeling party-ready.Plaid PerfectHoliday plaid never goes out of style, but this year it’s getting a modern twist. Instead of the classic red-and-green tartan, try plaid in unex-pected colors like blush pink, navy, or even black-and-white hound-stooth. A plaid midi skirt or oversized blazer is a great way to channel holiday vibes without feeling too traditional.Statement SleevesDrama is in, and it’s all about the sleeves! Puff, bishop, or bell sleeves are the perfect way to make a statement without going overboard. A dress or top with exaggerated sleeves pairs beauti-fully with sleek bottoms to keep the look balanced. Bonus: It’s Instagram-worthy from every angle.Sparkly AccessoriesIf you prefer a more understated outfit, let your accessories do the talking. Crystal-embel-lished hairpins, statement earrings, and glittery heels can take any look from simple to stunning. Don’t forget to grab a mini bag with rhinestones or sequins—it’s both practical and fabulous!Cozy ChicNot every event calls for high heels and sequins, so for those low-key gatherings, cozy-chic is the way to go. Think luxe cashmere sweaters, knit dresses, and soft faux-fur-lined boots. Add a red lip for a touch of holiday glam that doesn’t sacrifice comfort.The holidays are a time to celebrate, so why not have fun with your fashion? Mix and match trends, experiment with textures, and, most im-portantly, wear what makes you feel confident and festive. Whether you’re sipping eggnog by the fire or counting down to midnight, these trends will ensure you’re the best-dressed guest at any event.Here’s to a season filled with style and spar-kle—cheers to you, Belle readers! And don’t forget to shop some of our favorite local spots featured in this issue to find these festive looks. Supporting small businesses in our community is always in style! This Year’s Trends forWomen’s Holiday Outﬁts

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he Annual Farm to Table Dinner at 1800 Drayton was an unforgettable evening of culinary delight and community spirit. Hosted by Hub City Roots, this November gathering brought together a vibrant crowd of locals dedicated to supporting Spartanburg’s agricultural roots and food equity initiatives. From the moment guests arrived, the energy was palpable as people mingled in the warm, inviting ambiance, accented with gorgeous floral centerpieces that set the tone for a magical night.Over the course of the evening, guests savored six beautifully crafted courses, each thoughtfully sourced from local farms. Each dish, paired with exquisite wines, celebrated the bounty of our local land and showcased the culinary talent of our region. Live music by the talented Jamison Smith filled the room, adding an extra layer of charm as guests chatted, toasted, and enjoyed the cozy, communal vibe.This dinner is more than just a meal—it’s a mission. Hub City Roots, the non-profit behind the event, works tirelessly to bridge the food equity gap in Spartanburg County, ensuring all members of the community have access to fresh, local food. With proceeds from the event supporting these goals, attendees knew that every bite they took was making a meaningful impact.Belle Magazine was delighted to be part of this celebration and witness the community come together for such a worthy cause. If you missed this year’s dinner, make plans to attend next year—it’s a must for anyone who loves good food, good company, and a good cause. In the meantime, there’s still time to get involved! Consider donating or volunteering with Hub City Roots to help strengthen Spartanburg’s local food system. Together, we can continue to nourish both body and soul in our beautiful community.SPARTANBURG’S ANNUAL FARM TO TABLE DINNERAn Evening atON THE SCENEPHOTOS BY JOHN GALLANT@HUBCITYROOTS HUB CITY FARMERS’ MARKET

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GOURMET POPCORN • GOURMET CHOCOLATESHERSHEY'S ICE CREAM • COTTON CANDY • SNOWIE SHAVED ICEMEALS BY TAKE IT HOLMES!5 8 4 4 RE I D V I LL E R D S U I T E G , M O OR E | (8 6 4 ) 24 9 - 0 0 95M O N D A Y- S A T U RD A Y , 11 A M - 7 PMAt Tehila, Hebrew for glory and praise, our mission is to combine the art of aesthetic medicine with our passion for enhancing your authentic beauty from within. Formed by faith and backed by experience, Tehila Aesthetics is dedicated to aligning our expertise to your goals. Whether you’re new to anti-aging or a seasoned pro, our expert team is here to create a personalized skincare journey to keep you looking natural and youthful. At Tehila, our highly-trained professionals provide the best aesthetic medicine has to offer in a safe and collaborative setting. We look forward to meeting you soon!• BOTOX & FILLERS• LASER SKIN RESURFACING: BBL, HALO• HAIR REMOVAL & SKIN REJUVENATION• HAIR RESTORATION• SCULPTRA, BELLAFILL & PRP/PRF• CRYOSURGERY & PLASMA PEN• VI PEEL & DIAMOND GLOW• KYBELLA & PDO THREADS• B12 & LIPO-MICC INJECTIONS• FACIALS & SKINCAREOUR TOP-NOTCH SERVICES:107 Parris Bridge Rd, Boiling Springs, SC 29316SKIN EXPERTS, WITH PURPOSE!864-274-3006tehilaaesthetics.comSchedule a Consultation Today!

Belle December 24

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