AIKEN --- When Aiken resident Tina McCarthy was hired in August as the general manager of The Willcox, she decided to make it a respite, not just for visitors from other towns but also for the community.

"I think sometimes there's a misconception of The Willcox that it's very formal and stuffy," said the native of Charleston. "Although it's gorgeous and rich in history, it's very comfortable and casual at the same time."

Every Tuesday and Wednesday night since November, the lobby of the 110-year-old hotel has been filled with the soft sounds of a grand piano as people stop by to have a cocktail and unwind from the day.

"We have our fires going, and we've set up a bar and we've got hors d'oeuvres," Ms. McCarthy said. "It's created a lot of life and energy in the hotel."

This is the first time the hotel, formerly known as the Willcox Inn, has had a scheduled cocktail hour. The idea for the twice-a-week informal gathering for area residents was born out of the economic downturn. Leisure travelers were cutting back on what they spend.

"We've got this great space; we've got the tools; let's re-create a local business for the people in the community who live here," Ms. McCarthy said.

The new general manager and her staff set out to remind people that The Willcox is not just for visitors from out of town. It offers amenities, such as spa treatments, for local residents.

"We serve drinks every night, but Tuesday and Wednesday night we've committed to having entertainment," Ms. McCarthy said. "What I foresee happening in the spring, when the weather gets nice, we've got a beautiful landscape pool area, and we'll be moving the whole concept outdoors by the pool."

The hotel also has plans to reopen its restaurant for dinner, and Ms. McCarthy said that she also hopes to expand its spa menu and offer holiday packages.