Rome Life - Bridal Issue 2025

Bridal issue

9

gorgeous

Southern Weddings - P lus -

- Honeymoon ideas close to home - Tips for first time homebuyers MAY 2025 PUBLISHED BY THE ROME NEWS-TRIBUNE

yes

IT STARTED WITH A

WE BROUGHT IT

TO LIFE

Photographer: Audrey Grace Photography

CATERING

PLANNING

DESIGN

(706) 234-2244 www.theseasonevents.com

DESIGN

contents

Bridal Issue COV ER PHOTO Our lovely cover photo comes from the wedding of Ellison and Patrick Kearns which can be found on page 22. The couple got married in June at Morris Chapel, Darlington School and we thought the photo captured a wonderful moment perfect for the cover of this issue. It features sunshine, stately trees, a backdrop of historic buildings and of course a beautiful couple.

Inside this issue

10 Weddings 29 Honeymoons Close To Home 34 First Time Homebuying 40 Social Scene

ROME LIFE MAGAZINE • 3 • MAY 2025

our advertisers

MAY2025 Volume 10, Issue 1 NORTHWEST GA MARKET PRESIDENT VICE PRESIDENT OF PRODUCTION Doug Crow

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Jennifer Martin, Hunter Burnett, Billy Steele GRAPHICS/LAYOUT COORDINATOR Beth Poirier

ROME LIFE EDITOR Severo Avila

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Windsor Armour, Erin Barkwell,

EDITORIAL STAFF

Tona Deaton, Jennifer Hall

Elizabeth Green

To advertise, call 706-290-5220 Send letters to the editor, article pitches and any other content queries to Severo Avlia at savila@rn-t.com.

Amber Taylor........................................................................................................... 36 Andrea Kelley Photography.................................................................................... 37 Best of Rome...........................................................................................................28 Blue Willow Boutique.............................................................................................. 33 City of Rome - Tourism............................................................................................ 32 Coosa Country Club.................................................................................................. 4 Dalton Convention Center....................................................................................... 35 Dermaculture Skin & Spa........................................................................................ 37 Farrell’s Frame and Design..................................................................................... 33 Glitz and Glamour Prom and Pageant..................................................................... 33 Greene’s Jewelers....................................................................................................31 Gordon County Historical Society........................................................................... 36 Honeymoon Bakery................................................................................................. 43 Kawasaki of Rome....................................................................................................41 Las Palmas..............................................................................................................30 Local Joe’s at Cave Spring...................................................................................... 33 Mac’s Bakery............................................................................................................. 5 Martha Berry Museum............................................................................................... 7 North Georgia Equipment......................................................................................... 5 Oak Hill...................................................................................................................... 7 Perfect Dress of Rome.............................................................................................40 Provino’s.................................................................................................................. 39 River City Bank........................................................................................................ 42 Rome Barber Studio................................................................................................ 33 Roots & Willow......................................................................................................... 38 Taylor Estate............................................................................................................ 44 Teresa Lumsden, State Farm................................................................................... 33 The Fun Mirror Photo.............................................................................................. 39 The Season Events..............................................................................................2, 39 Watters & Associates................................................................................................. 8

ROME LIFE MAGAZINE • 4 • MAY 2025

Best of

Rome 20

NGE

Best of

Rome 2022

Best of

Rome 2023

Best of

Rome 2024

HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING SINCE 1945

At A Time For 67 Years” 258 W Elm St. Rockmart, GA 30153

(770) 684-3030

letter from the editor

Spring is a wonderful time in Rome and Floyd County It’s filled with so many possibilities depending on your hobbies and passions, your individual interests and your families.

For many local couples, spring is the time when they plan to say “I Do.” Our spring issue of Rome Life is always filled with stunning photos of local weddings and this one doesn’t disappoint.

We’ve made it a point to gather weddings from around the community that cover the spectrum of style and cost. From grand church weddings to simple and sweet outdoor events. From elaborate ceremonies to intimate backyard exchanges of vows. They all prove that weddings can be planned to suit any taste and any budget.

We hope that some of the things you see in these pages might inspire your special day.

But weddings aren’t the only focus of this edition of Rome Life.

We have wonderful features as well. We’ll look at real estate and talk to experts about some of the things you need to consider when searching for your first home or any new home. There are lots of things to think about and we hope our guide can make it a bit simpler for you and perhaps lead to you finding the perfect nest for your family.

We’re also hoping to whisk you away to a lovely destination, but not to some exotic Caribbean isle or far across the globe. Our honeymoon feature is geared toward those who have something much closer in mind.

We’ve selected 10 amazing destinations that are just a few hours away from Rome. Could one of these sweet getaways be just right for your honeymoon or next vacation? Take a look and you might be surprised by some of the amazing places right in our own backyard.

And no Rome Life edition would be complete without our Social Scene pages. Romans love seeing themselves and their friends dressed up for a nice occasion.

This year’s Social Scene pages are filled with photos from one of Rome’s most popular annual events - the Heart of the Community Gala. It’s a black tie affair celebrating individuals who have demonstrated a selfless dedication to community causes. And it’s also a chance for locals to look their best and have a great time at the Forum in downtown Rome.

So whether you’re here for the weddings or for our fun features, we hope you enjoy this issue of Rome Life Magazine.

We hope you have a wonderful spring.

Rome Life Editor

ROME LIFE MAGAZINE • 6 • MAY 2025

elegance meets history W E D D I N G S

A T

B E R R Y

C O L L E G E

Welcome to the first step of planning your perfect wedding!

Nestled at the foot of Lavender Mountain, the Berry campus offers a remarkable variety of beautifully unique spaces, naturally stunning backdrops, and picturesque buildings. More than 100 years of varying architecture graces our 27,000 acres, and provides endless options to create a totally unique wedding experience.

Visit berry.edu/event-services/weddings for a complete list of venues and pricing.

Contact Berry College for more information: 706-238-7737 weddings@berry.edu

134 Silver Ave, Rome, GA 30161 706-234-5482 • www.watterslandscape.com

We are growing.

Come join our team!

Aisle

from the

Some were elaborate while others were simple.

Some were filled with hundreds of guests and others were a little more intimate.

From grand reception halls to charming family homes, the nine weddings featured in this issue of Rome Life magazine are each as unique as the couples they celebrate.

The wonderful images on these pages are just a glimpse into one day filled with love and laughter for nine area couples.

From bouquets and bridesmaids to bourbon bars, bestmen and everything in between, we hope these weddings might inspire your special day.

ROME LIFE MAGAZINE • 9 • MAY 2025

Alexis & Jack

tallEy • • • Mar ch 2, 2024 • • •

Planner: Nicole Williams at The Season Events Venue: Oak Hill Photographer: Andrea Kelley Photography Videography: Brittany Sloan Catering & Bartending: The Season Events Wedding Cake: Doug’s Deli and Honeymoon Bakery Flowers: Roots & Willow Rentals: Unlimited Party & Event Rentals Ceremony Music: Seven Hills Strings Reception Music: Power 2 Party ROME LIFE MAGAZINE • 10 • MAY 2025

Ali & Jordan

Beck • • • June 8, 2024 • • •

Planner: Nicole Williams at The Season Events Ceremony Venue: Morris Chapel at Darlington School Reception Venue: Coosa Country Club Photographer: Cameron Flaisch Catering & Bartending: Coosa Country Club Wedding Cake: Nicole’s Cakery Flowers: Roots & Willow Rentals: EventWorks, BBJ Linens, Parker Systems Ceremony Music: Seven Hills Strings Reception Music: Rhythm Nation ROME LIFE MAGAZINE • 12 • MAY 2025

Lindsay & Reid

Willis • • • April 27, 2024 • • •

Planner: Nicole Williams at The Season Events Ceremony: Morris Chapel at Darlington School Reception Venue: Private Home Photographer: Laura Stone Photography Videography: Imagine Video Productions Catering & Bartending: The Season Events Wedding Cake: Honeymoon Bakery Flowers: Roots & Willow Rentals: Unlimited Party & Event Rentals, EventWorks, Crush, BBJ Linens, Atlanta Tent Company, Ice Sculpture Inc, SiFi Entertainment Fireworks: Parker Systems Ceremony Music: Tim Reynolds and Kim Tunnell Reception Music: Big Bling & the Funk Machine

Madeline & Burt

Tidwell • • • June 22, 2024 • • •

Planner: Nicole Williams at The Season Events Venue: Taylor Estate Photographer: The Snells Weddings Videography: HindLight Media Catering: Three Rivers Catering Bartending: Across the Bar Wedding Cake & Groom’s Cake: Sweet Crumb Company Flowers: Roots & Willow Rentals: BBJ Linens, Alpha Lit Ceremony & Reception Music: DJ D-low

Molly & Cooper

Clotfelter • • • M ay 1 1 , 2 0 2 4 • • •

Planner: Nicole Williams at The Season Events Venue: Oak Hill Photographer: Gingersnap Studios Catering & Bartending: The Season Events Wedding Cake: Honeymoon Bakery Flowers: Roots & Willow Rentals: Unlimited Party & Event Rentals, BBJ Linens, EventWorks Ceremony Music: Seven Hills Strings Reception Music: Tasteful Tea

Emily & Bailey

Gerstner • • • M ay 1 1 , 2 0 2 4 • • •

Planner: Nicole Williams at The Season Events Ceremony: Morris Chapel at Darlington School Reception: Rome Area History Center Photographer: Andrea Kelley Photography Videographer: That Wedding Ninja Catering & Bartending: The Season Events Flowers: Roots & Willow Rentals: BBJ Linens Reception Music: DJ D-low

Ellison & Patrick

Kearns • • • June 15, 2024 • • •

Planner: Holly Lynch at The Season Events Ceremony Venue: Morris Chapel at Darlington School Reception Venue: Private Home Photographer: Sarah Blaze Photography Videography: Grace Kerner Catering & Bartending: The Season Events Wedding Cake: Honeymoon Bakery Flowers: Bussey’s Florist & Gifts Rentals: Unlimited Party & Event Rentals, BBJ Linens Reception Music: Rhythm Nation Getaway Car: Wade Williams Cold Sparks: Parker Systems

Brooke & Kevin

van der horn • • • Ja n ua r y 7 , 2 0 2 4 • • •

Venue: North Rome Church of God Planner: Rachel Van Der Horn Caterer: El Zarape Mexican Restaurant Rentals: North Rome Church of God Cake: Sweet Creations by Rebecca George Music: Thomas Bryan – vocals and acoustic guitar DJ: Calen Pass Floral: Beth Van Der Horn and friends Photographer: Alexis Griffin, Willowed Vine Photography Videographer: Nick Nolan

Hannah & Corbin

Nicholson • • • M ay 1 8 , 2 0 2 4 • • •

Venue: Proctor Farm Photographer: Ashley Shepherd Photography Videographer: That Wedding Ninja Makeup: Kim Rodriguez Hair: Katy FitzGerald Florist: Roots & Willow Floral Design Studio Bakery: Publix

18th Annual

BEST OF ROME

ROME Life

ROME Life

Save the Date!

Join us on October 23, 2025 for the Best of Rome Reception!

NOMINATE your favorites NOW through May 16, 2025 VOTE for your favorites June 21st through July 18, 2025

For more information visit BESTOFROMEGA.COM or email ROMEADVERTISING@NPCO.COM

Honeymooning close to home

Some of the best options are just a short drive away

By Elizabeth Green

You’ve made it down the aisle,

exchanged vows and visited with adoring relatives.

honeymoon.

Now, it’s on to the

Best of

Rome 2024

If you’ve done your homework, this next few days should be a cocoon in which you and your new spouse can enjoy uninterrupted bonding time. You may not want to rush to board a plane or cruise ship, preferring instead to stay within a few hours — or minutes — of home. Here are our recommendations for honeymoon spots close by.

PARADISE HILLS WINERY, RESORT & SPA If you’re in the mood for mountains, head straight for Blue Ridge and this beautiful winery, resort and spa — all in one place. Enjoy a European -style spa complete with massage services and a sauna.

A one- or two-bedroom cabin with a hot tub makes for the perfect cozy accommodation, and don’t forget to visit the vineyard for a taste of wine produced from cabernet sauvignon, traminette and riesling grapes.

Location: Blue Ridge, Georgia Website: www.paradisehillsga.com ROME LIFE MAGAZINE • 30 • MAY 2025

FORREST HILLS MOUNTAIN RESORT & CONFERENCE CENTER Head to Georgia’s gold country for an unforgettable honeymoon.

When you finish checking out local attractions like the Dahlonega Gold Museum and the Consolidated Gold Mine, settle in at the Forrest Hills Mountain Resort & Conference Center. You’ll find horseback riding, carriage rides, a general store with beer and wine and a seasonal outdoor pool waiting for you.

Location: Dahlonega, Georgia Website: forresthillsresort.com/honeymoons

TAPOCO LODGE Constructed in 1930, this historic lodge offers a traditional feel with access to modern pleasures like 24-hour guest services, tennis courts, bonfires nightly, hammocks and hiking trails. Since the lodge is located in Robbinsville, you’re near unforgettable outdoor experiences like rafting on the Nantahala River and walking through Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest.

Location: Robbinsville, North Carolina Website: www.tapoco.com THE OMNI GROVE PARK INN

THE MAYOR’S MANSION INN If a city feel suits you, don’t discount Chattanooga. It’s just over an hour away, and it’s a great place to play and relax after a wedding.

The Mayor’s Mansion Inn, an 11-room bed and breakfast in the city’s Fort Wood Historic District, offers a tea-style, four-course breakfast. Or take your meal en suite in one of the inn’s regionally themed rooms, which sport names like The Chickamauga Suite and The Tennessee River Room.

Location: Chattanooga, Tennessee Website: mayorsmansioninn.com

Don’t forget about Asheville! Whether it’s been years or you’ve never been, this scenic city is worth the drive. The Omni Grove Park Inn is stunningly picturesque with elegantly appointed guest rooms, outdoor tennis courts and a full-service spa. Make sure to plan a day for shopping in town and a tour of the Biltmore House!

Location: Asheville, North Carolina Website: www.omnihotels.com/hotels/asheville-grove-park

BARNSLEY RESORT

An aerial shot of Barnsley Resort in Adairsville where honeymooners can enjoy horseback riding, canoeing, a shooting range and more.

Photos contributed by Barnsley Resort

This list wouldn’t be complete Barnsley Resort in Adairsville offers a closewithout one of the jewels of to-home deluxe experience for honeymoonNorthwest Georgia — Barnsley ers. The newly renovated cottages feature Resort. Choose from the 55-room designs by Charlotte Lucas. inn with its English country homeinspired feel or the newly renovated cottages with their private porches and fireplaces. During the day, enjoy the shooting grounds or horseback riding, catch-and-release fishing, or kayaking and canoeing before dining at the Woodlands restaurant on site.

Location: Adairsville, Georgia Website: www.barnsleyresort.com MENTONE COZY CABINS These cabins offer an experience of the beauty atop Lookout Mountain. Enjoy nearby hiking, fishing, biking, shopping and more.

Hot tubs, firepits and beautiful views: The three available cabins offer all the comfort you can imagine at the end of your day!

Location: Mentone, Alabama Website: www.mentonecozycabins.com

ROME LIFE MAGAZINE • 31 • MAY 2025

GLAMPING AT RETREET RESORT

THE FLYING FIFTY The two-hour drive to Cullman, Alabama, yields a chance to stay in boutique luxury. Designed around the 1950s. Each suite sports a local theme. Venture forth to great local eateries like Grumpy’s Italian Grill and the Duchess Bakery. Shopping, ziplining, golf and local landmarks will keep you busy throughout your stay.

Location: Cullman, Alabama Website: www.theflyingfifty.com BEARSKIN LODGE ON THE RIVER

The glamping tents at ReTreet Resort in Scottsboro, Alabama, feature premium linens for guests.

Photos contributed by ReTreet Resort

Go full-on outdoors — sort of.

Honeymoon destinations of varying types If you’ve never tried glamping, abound within a few hours of Rome. The doing so with your new spouse ReTreet Resort in Scottsboro, Alabama, offers glamping options complete with might be just right. Among the accommodation offerings here are private hot tubs. glamping tents, which offer easy access to the outdoors with highend comforts. Cook outside and enjoy private hot tubs for each tent!

Location: Scottsboro, Alabama Website: www.retreet.fun

Come on. Did you think your trusted local journalist was actually going to end a honeymoon destination list without including Gatlinburg? It doesn’t matter how many times you’ve been or how corny you think the connotation is. This classic destination situated just over three hours away has it all: great shopping and scenery, excellent restaurants and outdoor activities. Our pick for accommodations is the Bearskin Lodge on the River. Enjoy a pool and lazy river, firepit, continental breakfast and cozy rooms!

Location: Gatlinburg, Tennessee Website: www.thebearskinlodge.com

Arrive in Style in Georgia’s Rome Roman Rose Trolley

Roman Royal Carriage

Vintage elegance meets modern convenience in this beautiful trolley.

Seats: 30 guests

Step into a world of elegance with our electric Victorian-style carriage.

Seats: 4 guests

Book Now:

RomeGeorgia.org/ArriveInStyle ROME LIFE MAGAZINE • 32 • MAY 2025

do I

Today... Tomorrow for a “Lifetime”

• Delivery • Full-Service • Corporate “Full-Service Packages starting at $15.50 per person Call today for a FREE QUOTE 6 Broad Street • Cave GA30124 30124 • 706-381-2223 6 Broad Street • CaveSpring, Spring, GA • 706-381-2223 platinumplatecaters@gmail.com platinumplatecaters@gmail.com

Teresa Lumsden, Agent 2939 Martha Berry Highway NW Rome, GA 30165

Showcase Your Love Story With Our Framing Options

Bus: 706-235-0326 Teresa@teresalumsden.com

(706)584-7816 519 Broad St Suite 101/103, Rome, GA 30161

Need to look your best for your big day?

Book with Josh Weeks today!

@JOSH_.WEEKS

ROME’S PREMIER STORE FOR ALL PROM & PAGEANT WEAR (706) 509-0120 | 1850 REDMOND CIR SUITE 2000, ROME, GA | GLITZANDGLAMOURROME.COM/COLLECTIONS

Moving in:

home buying A helpful roadmap for first-time

By Elizabeth Green

ROME LIFE MAGAZINE • 34 • MAY 2025

Afirst

home

AmberTaylor – Amber Taylor is with Rome-based Taylor & Co. Realty Group powered by Keller Williams Northwest.

is one of the most significant purchases for anyone, and there are considerations that, when heeded, can set a couple on a path toward financial success and peace of mind.

Here are some

key recommendations

Amber Taylor with Rome-based Taylor & Co. Realty Group powered by Keller Williams Northwest understands the intricacies of buying a first home.

“No matter how many houses you buy in your lifetime, it’s one of the largest purchases you’ll ever make,” she said.

PICK THE RIGHT AGENT Choosing the right real estate agent, she said, is crucial. She recommends buyers sit down for a consultation with prospective agents. An agent who’s reluctant to spend time detailing the process and doling out some education before shopping could be a red flag, she said. Word of mouth is a great way to find an agent, she said, because it’s a gauge of previous clients’ personal experiences.

Taylor advised against jumping into financing applications before speaking with an agent.

“Sitting down and going through what that process looks like start to finish and what fees are going to be involved” is crucial, she said. “Know all the numbers of what you really need to have in your pocket.”

Even those who qualify for loans requiring 0% down payments, she said, will still need money in the form of reserves and out-ofpocket expenses like appraisal fees and inspections. Talking with an agent to determine a comfortable monthly payment can also set buyers up for success, she asserted, before they talk with lenders.

CHOOSE AN INSPECTOR Speaking of inspections, Taylor said, that step isn’t something any buyer should skip.

“You can find stuff even on a new construction home that needs to be addressed before living in it,” she said.

Inspectors, she pointed out, don’t have to be licensed, so it’s important to choose one with a good track record. She advises buyers to consult with their agents or with trusted friends and family to find a locally based individual.

“I’ve come across inspections where buyers just found somebody online, and they miss so much. They just send a drone to look above the house, and a GoPro under the house on a stick,” she said. “You can’t tell me that they are seeing everything that they need to see … The ones that we personally work with regularly are here local, and they have their reputation at stake.”

Say “YES” to The Dalton Convention Center Your Dream Wedding Venue

In-House Food & Beverage Service

ROME LIFE MAGAZINE • 35 • MAY 2025

Mountain View Ballroom & Patio

Shuttle Rental*

Call Kelly Ragan at (706) 272-7676 or Visit DaltonConventionCenter.com *Shuttle Rental Provided by Dalton Convention & Visitors Bureau

FIND THE HOME When choosing the home itself, there are important questions buyers need to be able to answer. The average homeowner, Taylor said, moves every three to seven years, so a first home is likely not going to be a forever home.

Nevertheless, if buyers are planning to have children there, they need to research factors like school districts and crime statistics, and Taylor tells clients to drive through an area at different times of day to get a feel for the neighborhood.

She also advises those planning to eventually sell to look for areas where they can make upgrades.

“My advice for home buyers is not to find the perfect home for your first home. Find something that you can add value to and add equity to,” she said.

Upgrades to floors, countertops, lighting and appliances can positively affect value, she said, but she steers new buyers away from major renovations.

“I’m not saying go buy a house that needs to be re-plumbed, rewired, new roof, new heating and air. You don’t want that for a first-time home buyer,” she said.

Finding issues before an inspection can save buyers trouble, too, especially if they’re falling in love with a house.

Before I let a home buyer go pay for a home inspection, if we’re walking through a home and I see that they’re just loving it but I see red flags in it, I’m going to point those out,” she said.

She recommends looking for things like rotting wood trim and inspecting under sinks and cabinets and on ceilings for stains that could indicate leaks.

Finally, buyers should be prepared to make realistic pricing offers and weather market shifts.

This is a recent listing for Taylor & Co. Realty Group in Shannon Village. Local real estate agent Amber Taylor advises first-time homebuyers to spend time finding the right fit in real estate agents and home inspectors. Considerations for buying may include school districts and crime rates and minor upgrades that can enhance the value of a home.

Gordon County Historical Society Located in Historic Oakleigh

Newly Renovated Wedding Space available for an intimate ceremony and reception Historic Home decorated with period furniture W E Brown Conference Room and Deck newly renovated Rentals available for meetings, parties and wedding receptions

706-629-7515 706-629 2093 335 South Wall Street • Calhoun, Ga. gchs1974@bellsouth.net ROME LIFE MAGAZINE • 36 • MAY 2025

Starter homes come in differing shapes and sizes. This is a recent listing in Saddlebrook Downs.

Relax

Let Dermaculture Skin & Spa help you get ready for your special day.

• Hydrafacial • Botox • Laser Hair Removal • Chemical Peels • Microneedling • IPL/Factional • Spray Tanning 203 Glenn Milner Blvd. • Rome, GA 30161

706-290-3979

www.andreakelleyphoto.com ROME LIFE MAGAZINE • 37 • MAY 2025

This home sold recently in the College Heights neighborhood.

“I’ve been licensed here in Rome for 10 years, and this is the third real market shift that I’ve seen,” Taylor said. “But the one thing that will always hold steady is the cautionary tale.”

Family and friends are often eager to offer advice, she said, but having a real estate agent who understands today’s market and can steer a buyer in a direction that reflects that knowledge is crucial.

“You know what you need to be prepared for to begin with,” she said. “Find somebody that knows exactly what the market is and going to help you, not somebody that bought a house 20 years ago.”

Best of

Rome

304 Glenn Milner Blvd Rome, GA 706-236-7711 www.rootsandwillow.com @rootswillowrome

2024

ROME LIFE MAGAZINE • 38 • MAY 2025

THE FUN MIRROR PHOTO BOOTH

Capture the fun of your special day with family and friends!

Wedding Receptions Birthday Parties Quinceaneras Baby Showers Graduations & More!

Bridal Luncheons Rehearsal Dinners Receptions From an intimate lunch with 10 of your best friends to a rehearsal dinner for 75 people, let Provino’s help plan one of your most memorable meals.

Come see what we have to offer.

Don’t blame us if you Fall in Love Call us today and let the memories begin!

706-506-1403

288 Shorter Ave. Rome, GA 30165 706-378-9009

Heart of the Community Banquet Photos by JONATHAN LANDERS

This issue’s Social Scene photos come to us from one of Rome’s most popular social events, the Heart of the Community Banquet.

Each year, Rome and Floyd County residents gather to celebrate individuals and a local business who have demonstrated selfless activism and incredible generosity to the betterment of the community.

This year The 39th Annual Heart of the Community Foundation Awards of Honor took place at the Forum. The black-tie gala, presented by AdventHealth Redmond, recognizes individuals for their commitment to outstanding community service in Rome and Floyd County. Recipients were Wanda Whitten, Ciara McKnight, Toles, Temple & Wright, Inc, Stephanie Dean, Lynn Green, Virginia Barrow Harman, Dave Roberson, Mimi Weed and Marquita WrightDavis. The night included a catered meal, the awards ceremony and an afterparty sponsored by the Rome-Floyd Chamber.

become reality”

Here are just a few photos from a glamorous night in downtown Rome.

2013 Shorter Ave - Rome, GA - 706-234-5532 www.perfectdressofromega.com ROME LIFE MAGAZINE • 40 • MAY 2025

2853 Alabama Hwy SW Rome, GA 706.235.3454 Kawasakisuzuki.com

2 02 5

Versatile and powerful mid-size ATV. • 443cc, LIQUID-COOLED, 4-STROKE ENGINE • ON-DEMAND 2WD/4WD WITH DUAL-MODE FRONT DIFFERENTIAL

• INDEPENDENT LONG-TRAVEL 4-WHEEL SUSPENSION • LED HEADLIGHTS & HANDLEBAR-MOUNTED LED LIGHT

Scan with camera to view videos, key features and more.

KAWASAKI CARES: Read Owner’s Manual and all on-product warnings. Warning: ATVs can be hazardous to operate. For your safety: Always wear a helmet, eye protection, and protective clothing. Never carry a passenger. Never ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Never ride on public roads or pavement. Avoid excessive speeds and stunt driving. Be extra careful on dicult terrain. Kawasaki ATVs with engines over 90cc are recommended for use only by persons 16 years of age or older. Kawasaki also recommends that all ATV riders take a training course. For more information, see your dealer, call the ATV Safety Institute at 1-800-8872887, or go to www.atvsafety.org. © 2024 Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.

ROME LIFE MAGAZINE • 41 • MAY 2025

Your L CAL Mortgage Team Let us help you say “I Do” to your first home purchase.

KATHI WATSON NMLS# 1502758

TERRI AINSWORTH NMLS# 684344

228 North 2nd Ave SW | www.rivercity.bank NMLS# 446231

ROME LIFE MAGAZINE • 42 • MAY 2025

Seamless celebrations, from the ring to the reception

blossomhillbbq.com | honeymoonbakery.com | aventinerome.com | graceeventsrome.com

...where the options are endless...

Nestled in a valley surrounded by nature and a beautiful view overlooking Farmers Lake.

Our unique and encompassing venue offers a lavish space with a rustic charm. We are a family owned business that takes pride in going above and beyond to ensure our clients needs are fulfilled.

549 Minshew Rd. • Rome, GA 30161