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Nina Bonner, owner of Simply Beautiful Events and More in Georgiana, has been named the Greenville Advocate’s Hero of the Week for her dedication to the community and local businesses. Bonner, a lifelong resident of Georgiana, opened her event planning, decor and rental venue in 2018, providing a space for community events and private celebrations.

“I was raised in Georgiana and I’ve been here my whole life,” Bonner said. “My mom was from here and she’s been here her whole life.”

Bonner’s venue hosts a variety of events including baby showers, family reunions and birthday parties. In addition to her business, Bonner serves as the chairperson of the downtown Georgiana group, where she works to bring new activities and involvement into the area.

 “We really just want to get the community more involved in their home,” Bonner said. “We want anything to bring opportunity and recognition to this community that has been somewhat overlooked. There’s so much potential and so much talent here.”

Recently, Bonner has supported Georgiana Opry House owner Tracy Eason by offering her venue for local events, such as the Hank Williams Talent Showcase and the “After School Tune-up” program, which provides music lessons for community youth. 

“Tracy and I are really alike in our goals for the community,” Bonner said. “It’s about businesses standing together. She may have something I need and I may have something she needs, so we help each other out.”

Eason praised Bonner’s commitment to Georgiana. 

“She is very responsive to Georgiana’s needs,” Eason said. “She sees the things that we need and tries to implement those things. She really believes in this community… in its people, its children and its schools. She just unites people.”

Bonner, who has been married to her husband, Melvin, for 25 years, is also active with her church, the Church of Christ on Ebenezer Road. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, including their daughter and two grandchildren, at family meals, theme parks and other outings.

As part of her efforts to enhance the community, Bonner and the downtown Georgiana group have taken charge of decorating the town for fall and Christmas. 

“She’s just that kind of person,” Eason added. “You can count on her, even if it’s last minute.”