Serving Barnwell County and its neighbors since 1852
Abby Gilstrap and Craig Pender were united in marriage on March 28, 2026 at Hollow Oak Barn in Cross Hill, S.C. The Rev. Brandon Sandifer, pastor of Hagood Avenue Baptist Church in Barnwell, officiated.
The couple participated in a double ring ceremony to symbolize their mutual commitment, equality, and shared responsibility in marriage.
The bride is the daughter of Craig and Beth Gilstrap and Amy and David Lucas, all of North Augusta, S.C. She is a graduate of North Augusta High School and Lander University. She is employed as a kindergarten teacher at Woodfields Elementary School in Greenwood, S.C.
The groom is the son of Britt and Ashley Pender and Mandy and Lawrence Smith, all of Barnwell, S.C. He is a graduate of Barnwell High School and Erskine College. He is employed as an offensive coordinator at Aiken High School.
Matron of Honor was Carly Dowling.
Bridesmaids were Sophie Carlton, Elena Rhodes, Kelsey Mills, Kaley Mills, Morgan Sally, Shea Smith, and Grace Carmen.
Ringbearer was Carson Smith.
Best man was Britt Pender.
Groomsmen were Clay Pender, Bryce Jeffcoat, Tyler Berry, Logan Mayer, Griffin Corley, Mitchell Webster, and DeVante Roberson.
Ushers were Harrison Walsh and Austin Dowling.
A reception followed the ceremony at Hollow Oak Barn.
Following a honeymoon trip to Walt Disney World in Orlando, Fla., the couple resides in Greenwood, S.C.
