Businesses like Pumpkin Patch Patios in Charlotte specialize in transforming porches into seasonal paradises — should Columbia follow suit? | Photo courtesy of @pumpkinpatchpatios
Here in Columbia, we’re beyond ready to slip into sweater weather — even if it’s still 80º outside. But does your home reflect that same level of seasonal enthusiasm?
Enter: professional porch decorators, the new way to step up your seasonal curb appeal without the hassle of crafting your own display from scratch.
Consider these “pumpkin concierges” your porch’s Fairy Godmother, taking your fall-inspired decor vision from Pinterest board to reality.
While much of the displays from these businesses centers around pumpkins, you can truly make them your own — hay bales and corn stalks can make an appearance, too, depending on your vision, available space, and budget.
The trend has yet to make its way to Columbia as far as we can tell, but it’s been steadily gaining popularity across numerous other states, including neighboring North Carolina.
Now, we’re turning the floor over to you.
Asked
Asked
Would you ever consider hiring a professional porch decorator?
A. Without a doubt — I’m all about the seasonal decor. B. Possibly — but only if I were really short on time. C. I don’t think so — I prefer to do my own decorating. D. Something else
Discover your ideal lifestyle at The One at Columbia
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Life feels a little easier when everything you need is just outside your door. | Photo provided by The One at Columbia
At The One at Columbia, a new apartment community just 20 minutes from downtown, every detail is designed with your lifestyle in mind.
From inviting gathering spaces to nearby outdoor escapes like Sesquicentennial State Park and the Village at Sandhill, this community makes it easy to relax, connect, and unwind.
Order up. Charleston’s Early Bird Diner is the most iconic diner in South Carolina, according to Reader’s Digest. You’ll have to drive ~116 miles to get its famous chicken and waffles, but we have plenty of exciting new restaurants to try right here in Columbia.
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The first rule of Robot Fight Club is to read about it in the New York Times. As the artificial intelligence boom continues, humans are gathering to watch humanoid robots fight each other. No, we’re not joking. Make sure you stay ahead of the robots by training at a local gym.
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American Girl has announced Raquel Reyes as its 2026 Girl of the Year — and she is none other than the great-great-granddaughter of original character Samantha Parkington. The special connection comes at a prime time, as American Girl celebrates 40 years next year. (People)
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Delivered by snail? Snail mail seems to be on the rise on TikTok, where folks are creating clubs to send artwork, journal prompts, stickers, and more to pen pals across the globe. If you’re wanting some flair in your inbox — check out these monthly subscriptions.
Sports
What positives can be taken away from the Canes recent loss to the Florida Panthers? Go beyond the scoreboard and behind the scenes of the Carolina Hurricaneswith Locked On’s daily, team-focused podcasts.
Head to the shelter before 4 p.m. today to meet the furry friends available for adoption. And if you come home with one of your own, we’ve got a whole list of perfect places to celebrate.
A dry shampoo powder that delivers fresh hair in seconds. The powder’s paraben-free formula instantly adds volume and texture + is easy to apply with a mess-free brush applicator.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
Speaking of American Girl — have you seen its new “Wicked"-themed dolls? While priced at more than double the cost of a traditional American Girl doll, I have to admit... these exclusive releases are a pretty tempting purchase for a musical theatre lover like myself.
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