Delta Magazine March/April 2025

Delta

MARCH/APRIL 2025

m

a

g

a

z

i

n

e

The Wedding Issue

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 1

Financial solutions focused on your business needs.

Given today’s market challenges, working with a local dedicated team driven by a shared vision can make all the difference.

Regions Commercial Relationship Managers know that developing a strong understanding of your business and its unique operations helps us provide highly responsive, personalized solutions. Let us leverage our capabilities and create a comprehensive financial strategy to help guide and strengthen your business.

Commercial Banking | Treasury Management Capital Markets | Specialized Industries Ryan Strawbridge Commercial Relationship Manager 211 Front St. | Greenwood, MS 38930

regions.com/commercial-banking

© 2024 Regions Bank. Banking products provided by Regions Bank. Only banking deposit products are FDIC insured. All loans and lines subject to credit approval. | Regions and the Regions logo are registered trademarks of Regions Bank. The LifeGreen color is a trademark of Regions Bank.

2 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

4 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Delta m

a

g

a

z

i

n

e

Publisher: J. Scott Coopwood Editor in Chief: Cindy Coopwood Managing Editor: Taylor Armstrong Director of Production: Pam Parker Director of Special Projects: Kelli Williams Contributing Editors: Maude Schuyler Clay, Lea Margaret Hamilton, Jim “Fish” Michie, Brantley Snipes, Roger Stolle Website: Gregory Braggs Consultant: Samir Husni, Ph.D. Graphic Designers: Sandra Goff, Denton Reed Copy Editor: Suzanne Durfey Contributing Writers: Jim Beaugez, Terri Glazer, Courtney Ingle, Joey Lee, Lyndsi Naron, Laurie Parker, Lizzie Powers Photography: Rory Doyle, Johnny Jennings Account Executives: Joy Bateman, Melanie Dupree, Cristen Hemmins, Kristy Kitchings, Wendy Mize, Ann Nestler, Cadey True Circulation: Lyndsi Naron Accounting Manager: Holly Tharp POSTMASTER: Send all address changes to

Delta Magazine, PO Box 117, Cleveland, MS 38732

ADVERTISING: For advertising information, please call (662) 843-2700 Delta Magazine accepts no responsibility for unsolicited materials or photos and in general does not return them to sender. Photography obtained for editorial usage is owned by Delta Magazine and may not be released for commercial use such as in advertisements and may not be purchased from the magazine for any reason. All editorial and advertising information is taken from sources considered to be authoritative, but the publication cannot guarantee their accuracy. Neither that information nor any opinion expressed on the pages of Delta Magazine in any way constitutes a solicitation for the sale or purchase of securities mentioned. No material in Delta Magazine may be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the publication. Delta Magazine is published bimonthly by Coopwood Magazines, Inc., 125 South Court St., Cleveland, MS 38732-2626. Periodicals postage paid at Cleveland, MS and additional mailing office. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Delta Magazine, PO Box 117, Cleveland, MS 38732-0117. Delta Magazine (USPS#022-954)

Delta Magazine is published six times a year by Coopwood Magazines, Inc. EDITORIAL & BUSINESS OFFICE ADDRESSES: Mailing Address: PO Box 117, Cleveland, MS 38732 Shipping Address: 125 South Court Street, Cleveland, MS 38732 E-mail: publisher@deltamagazine.com editor@deltamagazine.com

deltamagazine.com Subscriptions: $28 per year ©2025 Coopwood Magazines, Inc..

6 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 7

from the editor

Spring Has Sprung pring has arrived. Days are getting warmer, daffodils are emerging, trees are blossoming, and—if you’re like me—your calendar is filling up with celebrations from Mardi Gras to Easter to wedding events of all sorts. My mailbox is also filling up with invitations promising weekends of joyous ceremonies, lively receptions, and heartfelt toasts. As this season of renewal begins, so do the wedding vows, with couples saying “I do” against the backdrops of everything from historic homes to rustic barns to stunning churches and other venues.

We’re excited to share this year’s Wedding Showcase, which includes wedding celebrations in intimate backyard settings, at a stunning Rosemary Beach venue, and destinations from New Greenwood baseball legend Hugh Critz.

York to Sydney, Australia. Each year, we sift through thousands of photos and love to see the current trends and styles emerge, from florals to cakes to gowns.

And we hope you’ll keep this issue for inspiration if you are planning a wedding yourself!

With the warmer temps, now is the perfect time to host a simple outdoor luncheon—for Easter, a small bridal party, a birthday with friends, or your monthly book club meeting. We are bringing back home luncheons and have assembled two simple menus featuring shrimp dishes with classic salads and incredible desserts—that’s it. These are not complicated menus. The only thing I suggest is to set a pretty table on your patio and enjoy it al fresco! I’m especially excited to share the Lemon Pudding Cake recipe, which I recently rediscovered and now wonder why I haven’t made it in so long—it was a staple of my childhood!

It’s tangy and light and just the right ending for a springtime meal.

Spring also brings the excitement of Easter, a time for family traditions, and another pastime— baseball. If you’re a fan of the sport, you’ll love reading about Greenwood’s own baseball legend, Hugh Critz, who played second base for the Cincinnati Reds, and the exhibition game between the New York Giants and the Cleveland Scott and I—along with friends Mary Indians played at Greenwood’s own Legion Field Helen Varner, Mimi Dossett, and Bill in April 1935.

Dossett—attended the home wedding of Since spring is a time of renewal, it is fitting that Charlotte Ming and Jason Camp in Shelby. we share the story of the rebirth of Lagniappe in Leland. The popular fine gift store began in Leland, then operated in Greenville for 30 years, and has now returned to Leland in a grand way. Along with its return, Lagniappe has joined many other shops, restaurants, and bed and breakfasts, furthering a town revitalization that makes Leland worthy of a day or weekend trip.

In closing, I hope you enjoy all the joys of weddings, warmer days, and all the season has to offer!

Happy Spring! DM

S

My daughter, Travis, and I had a fantastic time at the Antiques & Garden Show in Nashville in January!

Lemon Pudding Cake is an old familyfavorite recipe I’ve recently rediscovered!

Sarah and Sherry Smythe, owners of the newly refurbished Lagniappe in downtown Leland.

8 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Cindy Coopwood Editor in Chief @cindycoopwood | editor@deltamagazine.com

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 9

contents MARCH/APRIL Volume 22, No. 5

88

Lamensdorf-LaPoff Wedding

DARREN ORNITZ STUDIO

34

departments

34 BOOKS Reviews of new releases and what Deltans are reading now

38 BETH ART HUNT CALLIGRAPHY

226

RORY DOYLE

& DESIGN Oxford artist brings elegance to the ordinary

44 MUSIC

CHARLIE ROBBINS Young Greenwood native’s musical blues journey

74 HOMES

features

226 Simple FOOD and elegant spring

66

RORY DOYLE

74

RORY DOYLE

A Happy Place—A Cleveland couple downsizing by design

luncheon recipes

236 FORGOTTEN HISTORY HEROES The Wereth Eleven

118 50 Baseball Legend Hugh Critz The day Greenwood went baseball crazy in every issue 58 Rediscovering Elegance 14 Letters The rebirth of Lagniappe in Leland 22 On the Road 66 Hopson Hospitality Young family brings fresh vision to the historic venue 88 DM’S WEDDING SHOWCASE Gift Guide: Luxe Wedding Gifts in Gold, page 118 26 Off the Beaten Path Where we’ve been, where we’re going next

A Labor of Love, page 90 Rain or Shine, page 98 Love and Legacy on the Family Farm, page 102 Special Moments, page 106 A Magical Florida Wedding Weekend, page 112

Roaming the real and rustic Delta

Curated Wedding Photo Showcase, page 122 Formal Announcements, page 168 Engagement Announcements, page 219 Wedding Registry, page 223

ON THE COVER: Clarksdale native Ann Granville Heaton and Mason Reece Maxey were married in beautiful Rosemary Beach, Florida. It was a weekend to remember for family and friends who traveled to celebrate the couple. Photo by Wesleyann McCullen.

10 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

30 Hot Topics 242 Events 250 Delta Seen 256 The Final Word

by Laurie Parker

Conditions We Treat:

Our Patients Say:

Varicose Veins Enlarged, twisted veins often causing discomfort or swelling. Covered by insurance.

Spider Veins Small, thin veins visible near the skin’s surface. Not covered by insurance, cash price.

Venous Ulcerations Non-healing wound above the ankles.

Covered by insurance.

Why Choose Us?

“I had extremely bad varicose veins. I am so thankful I found MVI. They gave me back the ability to wear shorts and swimsuits without the embarrassment of horrible veins.

The pain from my varicose veins is gone as well. They have a tremendous staff, fantastic bedside manner, and will treat you with the utmost respect and care.”

Scan This QR Code to Read More Testimonials and Learn More About us.

(601) 707-7026 | msvein.com

Certified Specialists Dr. Manning and Dr. Adams are certified by The American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine and The American Board of Anesthesiology

Proven Experience Performing over 30,000 procedures since 2008

State-of-the-Art Facility All procedures are performed in our Madison, MS location.

Before

After

111 Fountains Boulevard Madison, MS 39110

Insurance Coverage Procedures for varicose veins and venous ulcerations are covered by insurance.

(601) 707-7026

msvein.com

Spring Market March 7 - 9

March 21-23

MEMPHIS, TN

JACKSON, MS

AGRICENTER INTERNATIONAL 7777 WALNUT GROVE RD. - MEMPHIS, TN

MISSISSIPPI TRADE MART 1200 MISSISSIPPI STREET - JACKSON, MS

Grab the Girls!

Head to Spring Market 2025 FOOD*GIFTS*ART*HOME DECOR’ FASHION*JEWELRY*CHILDREN ENJOY SHOPPING MORE THAN 170 SHOPS FROM ACROSS THE SOUTH FOR THESE ONE OF-A-KIND SHOPPING EVENTS!

SHOP SMALL WWW.THEMARKETSHOWS.COM

Friday 9-8

Saturday 9-5

Sunday 11-4

Chemistry 202

Pursue lab-based research in Starkville.

Our bartenders and baristas will shake up the perfect concoctions for a breakthrough weekend. starkville.org

LETTERS VOLUME 22, NUMBER 4

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2025

Delta m

a

g

a

z

i

Mississippi-Cajun Recipes From

5 TAYLOR

n

e

Quail Hunting in Tallahatchie County

BOWEN RICKETTS

Journalist & Author

CURTIS WILKIE

DELTA MAGAZINE

DELTA DETOURS Tourism Section

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2025

$5.95US

7

25274 24724

01

DO THE DELTA Like a Local

0

As a long-time subscriber, I’m used to great issues of your magazine, but I have to say the January/February issue is the best ever. From start to finish, it was a delightful read. I have to give a special shout-out to the great article about Charlie Mac and the mention of a DKE fraternity brother, Richie Burnette, who is still playing music with the Doo Vays! Thanks again for the hours of pleasurable reading!

Bill Bobbs Madison, Mississippi Enjoying the current edition, I see you lauded the Thompson House in Leland.

After seeing their ad in an earlier edition of

your magazine, my partner, Sara, and I drove down to Leland and spent the night and dined at the Thompson House. A delightful experience. We heard about a book about a murder in the family related to the Thompson House, Deer Creek Drive: A Reckoning of Memory and Murder in the Mississippi Delta by Beverly Lowry. Great read. If you haven’t already featured it, I think you should consider including it in one of the editions. Also, there is a modest museum, Highway 61 Blues Museum, in Leland that is well worth a visit.

My current read is The Barn by Wright Thompson. It should be required reading for anyone wanting to get a feel for the Delta.

We always enjoy your magazine.

Harry Freeman Memphis, Tenneessee

Many thanks to Delta Magazine, editor and publisher, Cindy and Scott Coopwood, and your team for the article about my life and music in your January/February issue. Fish Michie did a fantastic job and took me on a wonderful trip down memory lane in the process! I have heard from so many friends who reached out after reading the article, and am truly honored and touched by your thoughtfulness, attention to detail, and the care taken with the story. I am forever grateful!

Charlie MacAlexander Nashville, Tenneessee

Thank you so much for including a review of my book Queen of Memphis in your latest edition. I also appreciate your continuing efforts through Delta Magazine to enhance and promote the Delta culture and heritage.

With appreciation and best wishes.

Martin Hegwood Yazoo City, Mississippi

I’ve hunted dove and turkey but had never been on a quail hunt. Thanks to Delta Magazine, I can now say, “Let me tell you about my quail hunt!”

When I saw the article about Cal Trout and Trout Valley Quail in the January/February issue, I knew we had to book a hunt! It was an amazing experience from start to finish. When we arrived, Cal met us with Pearl and the other pointers, and we filled out a bit of paperwork and went over hunter safety.

Cal rounded us all up on his new sideby-side, and the hunt was on! We pulled up to a field so beautiful it could have been in a painting. But before we lined up, I hopped out to get my gun ready and fired off the first practice shot. Well, that caused a quail to go airborne. Cal said, “Shoot!” I then heard him say, “Pearl, dead bird”! So—first hunt, first bird. And with that, the hunt commenced, with many more shouts of “Dead bird, Pearl!” If you want a professional and incredible quail hunt, call Trout Valley Quail.

And give Pearl a pat for me!!

Thanks again to Tony Kinton and the team at Delta Magazine for sharing such a great story!

Heather Sellers Ridgeland, Mississippi

SEND COMMENTS AND LETTERS TO: editor@deltamagazine.com or Delta Magazine, PO Box 117, Cleveland, MS 38732 14 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Y’all Said SOCIAL MEDIA COMMENTS @deltamagazine

We Asked...

Vacation planning for the new year has begun … Have you planned any trips? If so, where are you traveling?

Audrey and I have a glorious two-week trip planned to the beautiful tropical island of Guam in the Western Pacific for our 40th wedding anniversary in May. We will stop in Seoul, South Korea, on our way home to extend our trip. – Billy Morehead Denver, Las Vegas, Baltimore, and Lake Frederick, Virginia. – Marilyn Cox Mexico to celebrate our ten-year wedding anniversary with some of our best friends! – Taylor Armstrong Germany in the spring. Scotland and Ireland in the summer. – Don Conger Second annual mother-and-daughter beach trip! Four lifelong friends and their mothers started this tradition last year and plan to work this yearly trip into everyone’s schedule every summer. – Pam Parker

READER RESPONSE deltamagazine.com HOME

From Forgotten to

FOREVER

The Stunning Transformation of a Once-Abandoned Home

BY TERRI GLAZER PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROSS GROUP CREATIVE

DELTA MAGAZINE 2024 | 105

104 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2025

January-February Issue 2025 FROM FORGOTTEN TO FOREVER HOME: The Stunning Transformation of a Once-Abandoned Home by Terri Glazer ~ Beautiful home. Great article. Enjoyed reading it. Your words brought the story to life.

– Margaret Sims Gilmer Katy Perry, Bradford Cobb, Octavia Spencer and friends, October 4, 2014 at Ole Miss after win over Alabama.

from

Mississippi Roots to MUSIC MOGUL

Tunica native Bradford Cobb became one of LA’s top music-biz magnates, but Mississippi is still home

BY JIM BEAUGEZ • PHOTOS COURTESY BRADFORD COBB

or football fans of Mississippi’s two largest universities, 2014 was already a season to celebrate—both the Mississippi State Bulldogs and Ole Miss Rebels were amid historic, whirlwind seasons.

F

Cobb with Katy Perry at 2009 Grammy party.

68 | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2025

169th Commencement address in The Grove at University of Mississippi, May 7, 2022.

A ten-win State team, led by future NFL star Dak Prescott, spent three weeks at number one in the first-ever College Football Playoff rankings. Ole Miss, also a top-five team during the season, eventually got the last word by winning a hotly contested Egg Bowl.

But on October 4, Oxford was the center of the college football universe, thanks in large part to a highly successful but behind-the-scenes alum named Bradford Cobb.

That morning, as news spread that pop superstar Katy Perry had arrived on campus to serve as ESPN College GameDay’s celebrity guest picker, the Grove swelled with curious onlookers.

Perry charmed co-hosts Lee Corso and Kirk Herbstreit during the telecast, going 7–2 in her game picks, and she won over the crowd by hoisting a corn dog in the air to deride Ole Miss rivals LSU. Those television theatrics—and indeed, much of Perry’s career—were organized in large part by Cobb, a Tunica farmer turned music mogul who bet on himself and won big. Since moving to Los Angeles in 1998, Cobb has worked with artists like the Go-Go’s, the best-selling all-female rock group of all time, the B52’s and Tracy Chapman. And for the past two decades, Perry has been his number one client.

Growing up in the north Delta countryside, Cobb worked on the family farm, where his parents, Brad and Brenda Cobb, grew cotton and soybeans. When they weren’t in the fields, his father would

spin records by bands like The Rolling Stones and Led Zeppelin, who found inspiration in the music that sprang from the flat alluvial land where the Cobbs lived.

As a college student, Cobb studied English but didn’t feel a pull to any specific vocation. Without realizing it, though, he was already assembling the foundation of his future life’s work in music.

Cobb’s initiative in sending a demo from his friends’ band, This Living Hand, to E Pluribus Unum Records—an upstart label fronted by Counting Crows singer Adam Duritz—landed the group a recording contract. Then, an internship with William Morris Agency in care of Amory native and Hollywood super-agent Sam Haskell put him in the LA headquarters of one of the world’s largest DELTA MAGAZINE 2024 | 69

From Mississippi Roots to Music Mogul by Jim Beaguez ~ Bradford is a grand man!I have loved him since our days together in Los Angeles watching our Rebels play on TV at a sport’s bar!

– Elizabeth Bowman Woolverton DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 15

16 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

THE GUITAR AND A CHANGING NATION Explore the guitar’s influence on American history, culture and politics.

The guitar is one of the most enduring icons in American history. And the story of “The Crossroads” is one of America’s most enduring myths. The musician who sells their soul on a lonely country road for fame and wealth is a

legend that is uniquely American. Crossroads also define times of immense and wrenching change.

Come experience how that change evolved at the Museum of the Mississippi Delta where myth, music and history converge.

EXHIBITION RUNS MAY 12 THRU SEPTEMBER AND IS PRESENTED BY:

! ! !""! # $%&

Serenading the Sunset

PHOTO BY KAYLA WOLFE PHOTOGRAPHY

A signature Delta sunset is the perfect backdrop for the fall wedding of Correan Looney and John Thomas Foster, at the edge of a plowed field in the South Delta near the bride’s home at Tribbett. Cody Ruth of Delta String Band awaits the arrival of joyous guests eager to fill the rows of chairs and witness the November nuptials. DM

20 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

ON THE ROAD

where we’ve been, where to go next

LEE COUNTY

SPOTTED IN TUPELO: Reminiscent of the days when books came to you! – LEE HARPER

WASHINGTON COUNTY

WARREN COUNTY

No trip to Vicksburg is complete without stopping to grab lunch at The Tomato Place! – VISIT VICKSBURG

PHOTO OPS QUITMAN COUNTY

BEAUTIFUL TO BEHOLD: A flight of Great White Pelicans at Lake Washington. – MATTHEW BURDINE Mule trains made their mark on Marks. – JENNIFER DRINKWATER Instagram users, follow @deltamagazine

22 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

COAHOMA COUNTY

Delta bricks spotted abroad and making their home in Madison County.

– DELTA MAGAZINE

VICKSBURG

BLUES KITTY: A lone feline rests her laurels outside Bad Apple Blues Club in Clarksdale. – ANNA SATTERFIELD

& FUNKY STOPS

Visible from many points, the Illinois Memorial is the largest and most recognized monument in the Vicksburg National Military Park. – VISIT VICKSBURG

COAHOMA COUNTY

Another stunning Delta sunset captured at Friar’s Point. – ROBERT SKERMETTA

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 23

Welcome to Mockingtrail Square—Cleveland’s first planned unit development. With fifty lots, the subdivision has a neighborhood feel and is conveniently adjacent to both the Cleveland Country Club Golf Course and Delta State’s Athletic Fields.

There are multiple floor plans to choose from, which are architecturally designed to model the upscale environment of Florida’s scenic 30A area, or have a custom design plan for your lot. Call us if you’re ready to take the next step!

S O LD S O LD

S O LD

SOLD SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD SOLD

SOLD

SOLD SOLD SOLD

SOLD

SOLD SOLD SOLD

SOLD SOLD

SOLD

SOLD SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD SOLD D SOLD SOL

SOLD

SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD

CONTACT US Chris Collins, Managing Member Office: 662.843.5060 ccollins@roycollins.com roycollins.com

Partnership Properties, Realtor Office: 662.843.8850 partnershipprop@gmail.com partnershipprop.com

mockingtrailsquare.com 24 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

www.southernhotel.com DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 25

OFF THE BEATEN PATH roaming the real and rustic Delta

SACRED GROUND BARBECUE A Destination Experience in Pocahontas

S

ACRED GROUND BARBECUE IN POCAHONTAS IS THE LATEST OFFERING FROM RENOWNED CHEF AND RESTAURANTEUR DEREK EMERSON. Opened in November, this isn’t just another stop for barbecue— it’s a passion project that combines Emerson’s fine-dining expertise with the flavors of Texas barbecue.

For Emerson, it’s more than a restaurant. It’s a return to cooking. As the owner of Jackson area restaurants including Walker’s, Caet, and Local 463, he had been taken out of the kitchen, spending most of his time with management duties. But with Sacred Ground, he’s behind the pit, reconnecting with his love for cooking.

Inspired by frequent trips to Texas, Emerson thought Mississippi needed barbecue that could rival the Lone Star State. “Mississippi barbeque is heavily focused on pork, but Texas brings something different with its emphasis on beef,” he explained.

Sacred Ground’s menu reflects this approach with brisket, beef ribs, and tri-tip.

The location itself is part of the overall experience.

Emerson joked, “We’re fifteen minutes from everywhere in the middle of nowhere.”

Sacred Ground prides itself on offering premium barbeque, using only prime cuts of meat and avoiding shortcuts like sugar-heavy rubs. “When you use good meat, you don’t need to hide it,” Emerson said.

Fan favorites include the brisket, beef ribs, turkey, and pork belly burnt ends. The meat is smoked using a mix of red oak, pecan, and hickory. “It’s a twelve to fourteen-hour process, followed by an eight-hour rest to make it perfect,” Emerson explained.

Their sides are non-traditional, offering a cold smoked corn salad, crispy sweet chili brussels sprouts, and hot green chili mac and cheese.

Also, save room for dessert. Fried pies and tres leches cake are among the offerings. But the star of the show is the Nutter Butter Banana Pudding!

The atmosphere is as inviting as the food. With a spacious outdoor area, ping pong tables, shuffleboard, and a kid-friendly vibe, Sacred Ground encourages guests to linger and enjoy.

“I started this journey through experimentation, and I want Sacred Ground to be more than just a place to eat—it’s a barbecue experience,” he said.

Open Thursday through Sunday, 11:00 a.m. until they sell out, usually around 7:00 or 8:00 p.m.

Next time you’re craving memorable barbecue, make a trip to Sacred Ground. As Emerson says, “If it’s a pretty day, come by, hang out, and enjoy yourself.”

1052 Pocahontas Road, Flora; 601.900.9769 26 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Sacred Ground’s menu is inspired by Emerson’s frequent trips to Texas with an emphasis on brisket, beef ribs, and tri-tip steak.

SAM OLDEN YAZOO HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM Displaying native American history, military artifacts, and local history

Y

AZOO CITY’S TRIANGLE CENTER IS THE HOME OF THE SAM OLDEN YAZOO HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM. Owing its name to Sam Olden, a key figure

The museum also celebrates the local celebrities who have left their mark on American culture, including author Willie Morris, comedy legend Jerry Clower, and actress Stella Stevens.

who served as president of the historical society and drove the museum’s development, its collection brings the cultural heritage and history of Yazoo County to life.

The collection ranges from ancient artifacts dating back forty-five thousand years to contemporary times.

Of special note is the display of Native American history, particularly that of the mysterious Yazoo tribe.

First encountered by French explorer Cavalier de La Salle in 1682, the Yazoo people lived alongside the much larger Choctaw Nation. Though the tribe’s legacy endures in the names of the river, county, and city, Yazoo’s language and true meaning were lost to time as the tribe disappeared.

Walking through the museum’s exhibits, you can explore artifacts from pivotal moments in local history, including the Civil War, the devastating Yazoo City fire of 1904, and the flood of 1927. The collection also features everyday items and clothing used by early settlers, offering an intimate look at daily life in historic Yazoo County.

What truly sets the museum apart is its celebration of local celebrities who have left their mark on American culture. They include celebrated author Willie Morris, comedy legend Jerry Clower, and actress Stella Stevens.

Sports lovers will appreciate the tribute to NFL Hall of Famer Willie Brown. Political junkies can explore exhibits on former governor Haley Barbour and congressman Mike Espy. Other notable figures featured include motivational speaker and author Zig Ziglar and World War I soldier Col. John George Quekemeyer.

There are also items from President Jimmy Carter’s visit in 1977, including the bed he slept in.

The building itself should also be considered part of the collection. Built in 1904, it served as the Main Street School for decades. Today, it’s considered by many to be one of the finest examples of a turn of the twentieth-century schools in the state.

The Sam Olden Museum offers an invaluable introduction to Yazoo County’s heritage. This collection is a great starting point for those planning to explore the area’s historical sites.

332 North Main Street, Yazoo City 662.746.2273 or 601.966.6623 visityazoo.org

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 27

HOT TOPICS STAPLE FOOD + DRINK Elevated menu and craft cocktails at new Cotton House Staple Food & Drink in Cleveland is quickly becoming a must-visit destination.

Located in the Cotton House Hotel, this modern American eatery blends sophistication with the welcoming atmosphere the Delta is known for.

The restaurant was born from a collaboration between the Cotton House hotel owners, LRC2 Management, and the Culinary Guide Shop. Together, they’ve created an elevated dining experience catering to hotel guests and the local community.

Drawing inspiration from the cotton that is the lifeblood of the Delta, Staple Food & Drink is aptly named—a true staple in the heart of Cotton Row. When visiting, diners are greeted by a plush, inviting space designed for any occasion. Whether a celebratory gathering of friends or a cozy dinner for two, the restaurant’s casual yet charismatic atmosphere makes it a destination where you’ll want to linger.

The menu reflects this same thoughtful balance, celebrating local flavors through a modern lens.

The menu offerings are a salute to the Delta’s heritage combined with some modern, innovative twists. Highlights

1

include the Duck Rago, a combination of duck and Italian sausage, and Shrimp and Grit Fritters served with homemade remoulade.

For a taste of indulgence, the double smash burger has bacon jam, caramelized onions, and a special sauce served on a potato bun. The Cuban features pulled pork and braised pork belly with spicy mustard and pickles pressed into a crunchy sandwich. Charbroiled oysters seasoned with garlic butter and Parmigiano-Reggiano bring a nice flair of New Orleans to the Delta.

Craft cocktails complement the menu, with standouts like the Smoking Barrel infused with pecan wood and the French Breeze, a creative take on the classic Negroni.

Staple’s dedication to sourcing local ingredients, such as Delta Dairy ice cream, underscores its commitment to quality and community.

Seasonal menu updates keep diners returning, with fresh ingredients and creative dishes ensuring every visit is an adventure. Daily breakfast service, paired with a soon-to-debut brunch, positions Staples as a true staple for the Delta.

With hours spanning breakfast through dinner, Staple Food & Drink invites guests to savor the vibrant culture of the Mississippi Delta with every bite and sip.

215 Cotton Row, Cleveland; 662.441.6130; staplecleveland.com Facebook: Staple Cleveland; Instagram: @staple_cleveland

THE DEN AGAIN Eclectic decor, great food, revive this Clarksdale landmark The Den Again in Clarksdale is more than a restaurant—it’s the revival of a local favorite. Owners Pam and Eric Woods, Kansas natives, stumbled into their role as restauranteurs during a trip to the Delta Blues Museum. What began as a three-hour visit for Eric’s birthday turned into a three-day adventure and, ultimately, a lifechanging move.

“We fell in love with Clarksdale’s charm,” said Pam. “When the building that housed the original Den became available, we couldn’t resist bringing it back to life.”

The original Den opened in 1967, relocating in 1982 and closing in 2010. The Woods reopened it in April 2024, blending nostalgia with fresh energy. The name, The Den Again, reflects the diner’s rich history and the community’s affection for its return.

Signature dishes include a twelve-hour smoked brisket that sells out weekly and a mouthwatering Smashburger cooked with onions and a special seasoning blend. The street tacos and homemade potato salad are also crowd favorites.

The vibe is as eclectic as its decor. Folk art covers the walls, much from Pam’s Kansas City home, which explains all the Kansas City Chiefs’ memorabilia. Guests are invited to participate in scavenger hunts or play card and board games like Simon, Uno, and Exploding Kittens at their tables. “We want to create more than a meal—it’s about fun and connection,” Pam explained.

2

30 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

They offer live music on Thursday and Friday nights, featuring local acts like Little Joe McLerran. “Thursdays are special because kids eat free,” Pam added. They also plan to host comedy shows, game nights, and other events to keep the energy going.

Community support has been vital to their success. Locals have donated decorations and sent customers their way. “People even add trinkets to our collection,” Pam said. “It’s like The Den Again has its own personality.”

For Pam, Eric, and their customers, The Den Again is more than a diner—it’s a gathering place where history, food, and community come together.

220 Yazoo Avenue, Clarksdale; 662.669.2201 Facebook: The Den Again Diner; Instagram: @thedenagain

ONE & ONLY BRIDAL OUTLET Offering a new take on saying yes to the dress Downtown Cleveland can now add a bridal boutique to its impressive stable of clothing stores. Located in a beautifully restored historic building, One & Only Bridal Outlet opened recently and is serving customers on the hunt for wedding gowns and more.

Bethany McRee of Grenada knew there was a need for more bridal retail stores in the region and was scouting possible locations. The busy entrepreneur owns multiple businesses; Engagements Boutique, which sells formal-wear of all kinds, an Air B&B, and two restaurants, all in Grenada. The search was over when she eventually found the character-filled space in Cleveland.

According to McRee, many women no longer want the long wait for bridal gowns and other dresses. They want to try it on off the rack, see how it fits, know what it looks like, and take it home. Because she had been noticed this shift in her existing customers’ needs, McRee chose to offer something different and opened an outlet.

“This allows me to find really good designer gowns that may have been discontinued or might be one-of-a-kind gowns,” says McRee. “Everything we offer is top-quality, designer, well-made, and beautiful.

We’re able to visit the designers and hand-pick from showrooms around the country. We purchase them at a price where we can offer sometimes eighty percent off what retail would be.”

One & Only Bridal Outlet stocks wedding dresses, mother-of-thebride, and mother-of-the-groom dresses of all sizes.They also offer flower girl dresses, jewelry, veils, and suits in all colors, styles, and sizes.

Manager, Kaitlyn Thompson, says their goal was to create an elegant but approachable atmosphere at the outlet. She describes their

3

approach as “person first,” meaning they are focused on their customer.

“We try to keep open lines of communication,” says Thompson. “We have a system where we can text the brides to let them know when we get new things in. And if there’s a large demand for a certain style or its, we’ll try to accommodate that.”

Alterations are not offered in-house, but there is a seamstress on call for appointments to be set up as needed, and McRee adds that although appointments are not required, they are encouraged, to allow the staff time to prepare dresses in advance.

124 ½ South Court Street, Cleveland; 662.482.2311 oobo.co; Facebook: One & Only Bridal Outlet; Instagram: @oneandonlybridaloutlet

THE GARDEN CLUB OF JACKSON HOME AND GARDEN TOUR Highlighting distinctive gardens surrounding heritage homes Spring is in the air, and the Garden Club of Jackson’s 2025 Garden Tour is the perfect way to celebrate the season in the capital city. This year’s tour offers distinctive gardens that have been many years in the making. Each of the gardens on tour surrounds heritage homes in the heart of North Jackson and will delight the garden enthusiast, home designer, or anyone interested in walking through a bit of Jackson’s past.

The tour showcases four gardens and two classic homes that will charm guests with springtime blooms and stylish interiors. None of these homes were built in this century, giving them the patina and grounds of long-established properties, but all reflecting the enhancements and cultivation of their current caring homeowners.

The tour includes various architectural styles, from a charming

4

1940s Monterey, California-style residence to a stately French manor house that invites guests to enjoy the elegant interior before wandering the grounds to explore the gardens and outdoor entertaining spaces. The final tour stop is a gardener’s garden, extensive, art-filled grounds that will enchant visitors with its abundant horticultural variety, including many native plants. The Garden Club of Jackson will also provide educational information on the importance of native plants at this tour stop.

The biennial tour of the Garden Club of Jackson will take place Wednesday and Thursday, April 9–10, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. All tickets go on sale March 1. A portion of the proceeds from this year’s tour will support the LeFleur East Foundation’s work to redesign and enhance Parham Bridges Park, a beloved recreation space for Jackson families.

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit the club website, gardenclubofjackson.com.

Instagram: @thegardenclubofjackson DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 31

32 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 33

BOOKS The Things He Lost There by Allie Stuart Povall (Austin MaCauley Publishers) Vietnam. The word still resonates with powerful emotions: death, lost souls, devastation—both human and material—shattered men, and a country equally broken and horribly divided. Into this turbulent backdrop steps Jack Houston, a graduate student at the University of North Carolina. Thrust into the heart of the conflict, Jack’s journey encapsulates the grim realities of the Vietnam War and the crucial role of the surface Navy. After fierce combat in places like Phu Quoc, Rach Gia, and Hue during the Tet Offensive, Jack’s ship, the highly decorated Black River, faces a new challenge. A new commanding officer, Cork, takes over, driving—what the crew calls ‘corkscrewing’—the ship into both operational and morale disasters. Parallel to the war story is Jack’s poignant love affair with Melanie Lawton, a spirited graduate student back in Carolina.

Through her perspective, we witness the defining events of 1968 and 1969: Allie “Al” Stuart Povall antiwar demonstrations, the chaotic 1968 Democratic Party Convention in Chicago, Woodstock, drug culture, and political assassinations. One devastating decision made in the midst of war shatters Jack and Melanie’s relationship, leaving Jack to question if he can ever reclaim what he lost in Vietnam—his love, his peace, his future. (DM Staff ) James by Percival Everett (Doubleday) If you haven’t read James by the ultra-talented Percival Everett, it’s time.

This is such a great novel, and it will be an American classic based on an American classic. Retellings of classic literature are tricky, but Everett executed telling Jim’s story with agency and sharpness, while also managing to honor the tone of Mark Twain’s The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.

Telling the story from Jim’s point of view, we are immersed again into the world of Jim and Huck, except this time through a different lens, watching as Jim runs away before being sold into slavery and joining him on his iconic raft ride with Huck down the Mississippi River. With humor, heart, and magnificent skill, Everett has created what many are calling a masterpiece from a Percival Everett masterpiece, one excellent sentence at a time. (Liza Jones) All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker (Crown) It can be perceived through the title, All the Colors of the Dark, that Chris Whitaker will take on dark subject matter in his newest novel, and while that is true, because it is a slow-burning murder mystery spanning decades, it is also filled with such colorful characters and language, it is a satiating novel. Girls are disappearing in a small town in Missouri in 1975. A boy named Patch saves one of the girls from being kidnapped and is taken instead, irrevocably altering all the characters involved in heartbreaking turmoil. If you can get through the murky middle, some of which could have been edited, you will enjoy the end. It is not so much a thriller, but a literary drama filled with interesting twists, creating a slow pull for the reader to find out the truth while enjoying these original characters and their rich relationships with one another. (Liza Jones)

Buzzworthy Comments

We asked Facebook friends and the Delta Magazine fan page group members to share the best love story they have ever read. o Alice Pyles, radiology director Moorhead, Mississippi

The Wedding

by Nicholas Sparks o Betty J. Cox, retired Ruleville, Mississippi

Where the Red Fern Grows

by Wilson Rawls o Barbie Jamieson Cheatham, retired Oxford, Mississippi

The Notebook

by Nicholas Sparks o Anne Marie Pate, attorney Cleveland, Mississippi

The Hottest State

by Ethan Hawke o Anita Grossman Horn, retired Pine, Colorado

The Frozen River

by Ariel Lawhon o Aimee Robinette, claims specialist Columbia, Mississippi

Gone With the Wind

by Margaret Mitchell Chris Whitaker

For the Record Books Delta Magazine fans are currently reading o MaryGay Stover The Girl With Seven Names

o Allison Parker White The Women

by Lee Hyeonseo Lee and David John

by Kristen Hannah

o Cindy Turner Roberts Mercy by Jodi Piccoult The Boyfriend by Freida McFadden o John Duease Deer Creek Drive by Beverly Lowry o Suanne R. Brown What an Owl Knows

o Tommy Woo Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity

by Jennifer Ackerman

o Trish Berry The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides 34 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

by Peter Attia and Bill Gifford

o Charlotta Hickman Gibson The Wedding People by Alison Espach o Renelda Pharr Owen The Barn by Wright Thompson o Sandra Perry My Name is Resolute

by Nancy Turner

o Olive Crotwell Kitchens JFK Jr.: An Intimate Oral Biography

by RoseMarie Terenzio and Liz McNeil

o Jean F. Carpenter A Little Crazy

by David Magee

o Teresa Crawford Manning Southern Man

by Greg Iles

o Peggy Gladden The Barn by Wright Thompson

Lifeform by Jenny Slate (Little Brown Book Group) Jenny Slate’s strange, freewheeling mind has made her a talented and beloved essayist in her newest collection, Lifeform. Slate has already proven herself a talented actress and comedian, but this latest collection cements her as a majestic writer. Combining laughout-loud observations and jarringly gorgeous, moving, deep insights, Slate’s style puts her in a category all her own when she details her journey from heartbreak to love to engagement to marriage to pregnancy to motherhood in this book. It is profound how funny, strange, and random her essays are, and yet, how they all come together to uplift the heart and mind of the reader. They are simply delightful in their imagination and wit. And all of this is to prove a beautiful point: we are supposed to play, to use whimsy, and invent our own everyday life.

That is how to stay young and free in a heavy world. (Liza Jones) Of Salt and Spirit: Black Quilters in the American South by Dr. Sharbreon Plummer (University Press ) Of Salt and Spirit: Black Quilters in the American South surveys some of the richly diverse quiltmaking traditions maintained by Black women in the US South during the twentieth and twenty-first centuries. Drawn from the Mississippi Museum of Art’s holdings, the works featured in this publication highlight a major 2022 gift of quilts collected by renowned Black folklife documentarian Roland L. Freeman.

In earlier studies of African American quilters, Freeman observed that popular interest in quilts had resulted in “insufficient attention to who these quilters were, what quilting meant in their lives and what it represented within their community.”Prevailing scholarship continues to frame Black Southern quiltmaking as an exclusively improvisational artform. Of Salt and Spirit intervenes in this narrative by foregrounding the complex relational and archival practices of Black women quilters who cultivate networks of mutual support and preserve personal histories around and through their craft. (DM Staff) Unit 29: Writing from Parchman Prison by Louis E. Bourgeois (Vox Press) Writings from Parchman Prison is a collection of essays, poems, and art created by inmates of Mississippi State Penitentiary’s largest unit. It is a compilation created by over thirty detainees over the span of three years. Most of the contributors in the book had never created art before, yet produced a harrowing and honest reflection on life while incarcerated. It provides a rare and gritty portrayal of prison realism, with potent commentary on their experiences in prison. Each writer in this book has their own distinct voice, with passages that cover a variety of topics such as religion, neglect, trauma, violence, and suicide.

Facilitated by VOX Press and its Mississippi Prison Writes Initiative, Unit 29 offers a raw and honest portrayal of life in Parchman Prison, including vivid descriptions of harsh living conditions, inadequate medical care, and the prevalence of drugs and contraband. Despite the grim realities, some writings reflect hope and resilience, often through religion and education. The book humanizes the inmates, presenting them as individuals with unique voices and experiences. It is available online at www.voxpress.org and on Amazon. (DM Staff ) DM DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 35

36 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 37

ART What began a childhood love of calligraphy and lettering has blossomed into a lifetime passion, and now a growing business, for Oxford artist Beth Hunt.

A Journey in Ink Beth Hunt Calligraphy and Design brings elegance to the ordinary

BY COURTNEY INGLE • PHOTOGRAPHY BY HUNT MARKETING

wedding is a celebration of love and commitment, but it also reflects the story of two people becoming one. A wedding is far beyond a one-day event; it’s a journey, and Beth Hunt Calligraphy works to transform your typical save-the-dates, invitations, signage, and more into treasured keepsakes, ensuring that every couple’s big day is as unique as their story.

A

When Beth Hunt received her first calligraphy set as a Christmas gift as a little girl, she couldn’t have known it would lead to her lifelong love for the art. “I asked for a calligraphy set for Christmas when I was around ten. I would sit at my little desk, copying the sample letterforms from the kit, completely fascinated by the process.” This early passion for lettering and art never faded, even as she pursued a business degree at Ole Miss. It also unknowingly planted the seed for what would one day become her business.

38 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Her calligraphy journey took a significant turn when she planned her own wedding. “When I got married, I wanted to address our save-the-dates myself. That was when I realized how much I loved calligraphy and how fulfilling it was to create something meaningful.” What began as a personal touch for her wedding soon became a sought-after service among friends. Her husband, Will, encouraged Beth to turn her talent into a business in 2009. “That same day, we set up a Facebook page, sent out emails to friends, and I had my first client by the afternoon. That’s when Beth Hunt Calligraphy & Design was officially born.”

As a self-taught calligrapher, Hunt launched her business at a time before online classes and tutorials were available. “When I started, there weren’t YouTube tutorials or online classes—I had to figure things out through trial and error.” Her business evolved from there, and her first paid wedding job came through word-ofmouth while she was living in Washington, D.C. “A friend

working on Capitol Hill mentioned that her coworker needed a calligrapher, which became my first paid wedding job. Word-ofmouth spread quickly from there.”

Her business degree also played a key role in her success. “I studied business in college, and while I didn’t expect to use it this way, it helped me figure out pricing, marketing, and running a sustainable business.” However, she soon learned the challenge of balancing her artistic passion with profitability in the business.

“There were times I created things I loved, but no one wanted to buy. That’s when I learned the balance between artistic fulfillment and running a business.”

Hunt’s services extend far beyond traditional wedding invitations. “I do everything from invitation suites to custom calligraphy for signage, seating charts, and small details like place cards and menus.” Her work is about personalization, whether creating monograms or writing on whatever unique materials she is presented with. “People bring me all sorts of materials—acrylic blocks, oyster shells, even macarons—to write on. I love finding creative ways to make the details unique!”

She collaborates closely with brides and wedding planners to ensure that every piece aligns with the wedding’s theme and color palette. “Wedding planners have the best ideas, and I love working with them and brides to bring a couple’s vision to life through paper and ink.” The shift from traditional black ink to bold, colorful styles has also opened new creative possibilities.

“Black ink will always be classic, but I love it when couples

BETH HUNT

Customized hand-painted Easter eggs timeless are keepsakes that have become one of Hunt’s most beloved creations.

These hand-painted macarons, personalized with edible paint, are perfect for a party or bridal shower.

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 39

Hunt’s whimsical designs show up on more than paper, with the trend of customizing accessories in full swing.

40 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

BETH HUNT

BETH HUNT

Hunt’s work desk has an elegant touch with dusty roses and silver Julep cups filled with colored pencils, along with her tools of the trade. Below, gorgeous examples of Hunt’s calligraphy and bridal suites.

An original art print complements a whimsical tablescape by Sarah Smythe of Lagniappe. Smythe embroidered the napkins with one of Hunt’s monogram designs.

experiment with color. Matching the ink to bridesmaids’ dresses or florals makes everything feel cohesive.”

Hunt’s love of French culture and art history is evident in her work. “I’ve always been drawn to French art and design. There’s something about the elegance and detail that speaks to me.” Having studied French from childhood through college, that influence was truly locked in after graduation. “I took French in school, minored in it in college, and then spent a year living outside Paris teaching English, which deeply influenced my artistic style.”

Hunt’s designs often incorporate elements of eighteenthcentury French art. “I love incorporating elements of eighteenth-century French design—delicate florals, soft ribbons, and elegant script—to give my work a timeless feel,” Hunt shares.

When Hunt was involved in a life-altering accident in 2014, her journey took an unexpected turn. “I was struck by a car and spent over a year in recovery while my right leg healed.” Unable to walk or drive, it forced her to slow down, which she says opened new doors creatively. During that time, she continued to take calligraphy envelope jobs but also began to explore digital art. “I got an iPad and started digitally designing while I was recovering, which allowed me to continue working in a new way.”

This period of reinvention deepened her creativity and expanded her business. “It pushed me to explore new techniques, like digital monograms and custom illustrations, which have now become a huge part of my business.”

While weddings remain her primary focus, Beth has expanded her business in several ways, including offering calligraphy workshops, custom-designed stationery, and other seasonal artwork. “I started creating stationery, art prints, and paper goods that bring my love of calligraphy into everyday life.” One of her most beloved projects is her collection of hand-painted Easter eggs.

“I wanted to create keepsake Easter eggs that felt as special as a wedding monogram—something timeless that families could cherish.”

She also travels for in-person calligraphy events and pop-up shops, bringing her craft directly to customers. “I love meeting

Scripture cards are one of Hunt’s most popular offerings.

people and doing live lettering events at boutiques and markets— it brings a whole new level of connection to my work.”

Beth Hunt’s work is more than just beautiful script—it’s an art form that transforms weddings into deeply personal celebrations.

“Calligraphy adds a personal, artistic touch that makes a wedding feel special. It turns simple details into meaningful keepsakes.”

She is passionate about making every wedding unique. “I love knowing that something I create will be part of a couple’s most important day—it’s an honor.” Brides and wedding planners looking for that extra special touch can find her work online. “I share my latest work and upcoming events on Instagram and my website, so people can always see what I’m working on and where I’ll be next.”

For those looking to incorporate artistry and elegance into everything from their stationery to their homes to their wedding day, Beth Hunt offers an unforgettable touch that turns words into works of art.

For more information, follow her on Instagram @bethhuntdesigns, or visit bethhuntdesigns.com. DM DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 41

42 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

COURTESY OF GROUND ZERO BLUES CLUB

MUSIC

Robbins performing at Hal and Mal’s, the iconic Jackson music venue.

YOLANDE VAN HEERDEN

CHARLIE ROBBINS Learning the ropes, lucky breaks, and playing with legends

BY LIZZIE POWERS • PHOTOS COURTESY OF CHARLIE ROBBINS

44 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Ten-year-old Robbins at the home of Greenwood’s Yolande Van Heerden and blues historian Scott Berretta.

ometimes, fate comes in the form of a phone call.

It was just such a fateful call that landed up-andcoming blues musician Charlie Robbins on the stage at Ground Zero on New Year’s Eve, playing “Johnny B. Goode” with the Mauldin Brothers and CNN’s Omar Jimenez on keys, as CNN cameras swept from Paris to Los Angeles to Rio, and then back to Clarksdale, Mississippi. And it only got better when, later that night, Al

WHIT MEEK

Green took the stage to sing “Let’s Stay Together,” with Morgan Freeman joining for the second verse.

To say this was a dream come true for the nineteen-year-old Greenwood native would be an understatement, and the same could be said for the frenetic pace of his music career to this point.

Just a few short years ago, when Robbins finished his athletic and academic career at Pillow Academy, he knew it was time for music to take center stage. A standout running back and shooting guard, he had always poured his heart and soul into his passions, and now his dedication to practicing the guitar is no different. The intense focus had shifted.

“It was like all of a sudden, ‘I’m done with sports, I want to play the guitar,’” says Robbins.

Robbins’s interest in music began when he was a child riding in his father’s truck and listening to all genres on the radio.

However, one particular moment inspired him to pick up a guitar, and it happened at a Boy Scout camp when his family friend Mark Hudson brought out his guitar.

“Everyone was gathered around the campfire while he was playing, and I just thought it was the coolest thing. The very next day, I asked my mom if I could get a guitar.”

His mother, Boyce, remembers it well. “I could tell when

AMY CLOLINGER O’BRYANT

S

Robbins playing another time at Ground Zero with Heavy Suga and the Sweet Tones.

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 45

BOYCE ROBBINS

Robbins, in his red suede shoes, performing with The Mauldin Brothers, Levan Lortkipanidze, Alston Meek of Memhis, and CNN’s Omar Jiminez (on keys, right) on stage New Year’s Eve at Ground Zero Blues Club.

BOYCE ROBBINS

Charlie came home that it just did something to him,” she says.

At eight years old, Robbins got his first guitar and took a few lessons from local musicians, including Hudson, but it wasn’t until his teenage years that he began to practice seriously.

“It’s a lot of work to learn the instrument, and there’s a certain amount of curriculum you have to learn before you can actually play the thing the way you want to play it.”

Robbins’s first gig was at Sully’s, a pool and billiard hall in Greenwood. On Friday nights, when you walk in the front door of Sully’s, you immediately see a dozen pool tables with a nineball tournament going on—the players silent and focused, and to the right is a small stage with several tables full of locals.

“It was the perfect place to start,” says Robbins. “I was like, ‘Where can I play that will have a crowd—just a good place so I can get those first terrible gigs out of the way.’ You know your first one’s not going to be good.”

That night, Robbins was joined by bassist Matthew Gnemi and rhythm guitarist John Banusiewicz, forming the group RedRoot Revival.

That first gig led to a summer filled with performances, including those at The Alluvian Hotel and The Blue Magnolia.

However, Robbins credits the iconic Jackson blues venue, Hal & Mal’s, for helping him become more at ease as a performer.

Currently a student at Mississippi College, a chance meeting in Robbins with his blues idol, Christone”Kingfish” Ingram.

46 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

the MC gym with a man who happened to be Mississippi John Hurt’s grandson led to Robbins’s introduction to the venue. It was his new friend who encouraged him to take the stage at Hal & Mal’s.

“Hal & Mal’s has helped me develop and not get so nervous on stage,” says Robbins. “It’s been perfect for me to go and just play and figure out what songs are good for me and get used to playing in front of crowds and get feedback on your playing and singing.”

Having grown up in the place that birthed many blues legends, Robbins feels a strong connection to the music that emerged from this soil. “It is inspirational to know how many good guitar players came out of the Delta,” he says.

“All the greats who laid the foundation for rock’n’roll like Robert Johnson, Muddy Waters, and B.B. King—to grow up in the same place where they grew up—I was like, ‘Dang, I might have what they got.’ If you look at the ‘90s music, like Nirvana, going back to AC/DC, and then trace it back to The Beatles and The Stones—they all took ideas from the old blues people like Albert King and Robert Johnson.”

But there is one musician Robbins studies intently, and that is Christone “Kingfish” Ingram from Clarksdale.

“He’s my favorite guitar player right now,” says Robbins. “He doesn’t strictly play blues. He also plays rock, jazz, and fusion. It’s completely out of the box. That’s kind of how I want to be as a musician.”

Back to New Year’s Eve—Robbins had already planned to attend Morgan Freeman’s New Year’s Eve party at Ground Zero, where his idol, Kingfish, was set to play. Thanks to a connection

through a friend of his father, he met Levan Lortkipanidze, a world-class musician who took an interest in Robbins’s budding musical talent and invited him to join The Mauldin Brothers on stage at Ground Zero for their New Year’s Eve performance. If that weren’t exciting enough, he then learned the celebration at the iconic club would be featured on CNN. Robbins, who typically performs in jeans and a t-shirt, knew a snazzier attire was a must for this occasion, and the (aptly named) Super Soul Shoppe in Greenwood had just what he needed—an embroidered black satin jacket and a red shirt with matching red suede shoes.”

Following an 11 a.m. sound check, Robbins found himself locked inside Ground Zero with Levan, The Mauldin Brothers, Al Green, Morgan Freeman, Kingfish, and the CNN crew, including Omar Jimenez. And as they say, the rest is history.

Now fronting his band, The Charlie Robbins Trio, with Justin Brown on drums and Myles Forrest on bass, Robbins is continuing to carve his path in the music world. His musical journey, though still in its early stages, is already filled with unforgettable moments.

When asked where he sees himself in five years, the sage youngster strummed a few notes on his PRS guitar and answered: “I have no idea, but I mean, I don’t have any control over it, so I can’t really say. I don’t really think like that. Hopefully, I am doing all I can to put myself in the best spot I can be in five years, but then, I have no idea, so I’m just trying to do the best I can in whatever I’m doing right now.” DM

GIFTS BY KPEP

THE EVERYDAY GOURMET

Happily Ever After

Starts Here.

Everything you need to say “I do” in-style is waiting at Renaissance.

1000 Highland Colony Parkway, I-55 at Old Agency Road, Ridgeland, Mississippi RenaissanceAtColonyPark.com | 601.519.0900

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 47

48 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 49

The Mississippi Gentleman Hailing from Greenwood, Cincinnati Reds second baseman Hugh Critz is still known as one of the finest fielders in baseball history 50 50 || MARCH/APRIL MARCH/APRIL 2025 2025

was such a friendly person that “his Heextraordinary skill was simply taken for granted. He was one of the finest fielders in history, often mentioned as an example, people would say when praising a new player, ‘h e handles a ball like Crit z.’

”

– Ken Smith, Director Emeritus Baseball Hall of Fame

BY RICK CLEVELAND • PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHNNY JENNINGS

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 51

The unofficial Hughie Critz museum, housed in his granddaughter Jenny Gardner’s home, includes trophies, plaques, scrapbooks, photos, autographed baseballs, news clippings from his career.

I

year’s cotton crop, but that’s not what had Greenwood’s citizenry so excited on April 4, 1935.

That Thursday, Greenwood went baseball crazy. That day, the New York Giants, one year removed from a World Series championship, came to town to play the Cleveland Indians in an exhibition game that featured Greenwood’s own Hugh Melville Critz, known to his friends and neighbors as Hughie, the team’s star second baseman.

The Indians were managed by Walter “Big Train” Johnson, who would become one of the five charter members of baseball’s Hall of Fame just two years later. Bill Terry, another future Hall of Famer, managed and played for the Giants, whose roster included such baseball greats Mel Ott and Carl Hubbell, two more future Hall of Famers. The Indians featured hard-hitting center fielder Earl Averill, another future Hall of Famer.

Understand, these were all baseball gods, and this was back when baseball really was our national pastime. The Mississippi Delta was no exception. Every town and community had its own team—either semi-pro or minor league. What’s more, Greenwood was dedicating a brand, spanking new ballpark, Legion Field, located about two miles east of downtown on Carrollton Avenue, just past Odd Fellows Cemetery, where Critz, who died in 1980, is buried.

Greenwood showed out that day. Businesses took a holiday.

Schools let out. More than 6,500 fans, the largest crowd ever to watch a baseball game in Mississippi at that time, jammed into the new 52 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

COURTESY OF ALLAN HAMMONS

t was the first week of April 1935. Greenwood—the self-proclaimed Cotton Capital of the World—was home to just over 11,000 folks, including one famous Major League baseball player. It was almost time to plant that

A 1930s photo of a game being played at Greenwood’s Legion Field, a wooden structure that could accommodate up to 6,500 fans.

wooden structure. The grandstand and bleachers overflowed, and estimates were that another thousand fans stood back against the fencing in the outfield.

The mayor declared it Hughie Critz Day. Johnson, Terry, and Critz all spoke in pre-game ceremonies. Critz, who received by far the biggest cheers, was the recipient of several gifts. Critz rewarded the home crowd with a hard-hit single in his second turn at bat and, naturally, saved the day for the Giants in the ninth inning with a splendid running catch in shallow right field.

It turns out Critz was about to enter his twelfth and final season as a Major Leaguer. His is a remarkable story. The Baseball Encyclopedia tells us Critz was born in Starkville in 1900 and died

Left: Critz, pictured in uniform with his father. Right: Critz, in his seventies, at his desk at Hugh Critz Motors, the car dealership he stablished after his baseball career.

in Greenwood in 1980 at age 79. It tells us Critz was a wee man, The place is filled with baseball treasures, including a pair of standing just 5 feet, 8 inches tall, and weighing but 147 pounds, that Hughie’s size seven baseball cleats, which seem freshly shined but still he mainly played second base and batted .268 over a twelvehave the residue of infield dirt on and about the steel spikes. year career with the Cincinnati Reds and New York Says Gardner, “I wasn’t about to clean that dirt off.

Giants.

Would you?”

The Encyclopedia, baseball’s bible, tells us that The unofficial Hughie Critz museum also houses in 1933, Critz helped the Giants win the trophies, plaques, scrapbooks, photos, most of his National League pennant and then the World Major League contracts, autographed baseballs, Series in five games over the Washington and news clippings. Peruse the scrapbooks, and Senators, that he hit .322 for the Reds as a you learn so much about the man no lesser an rookie in 1924, and that he finished second in authority than Baseball Hall of Fame charter National League Most Valuable Player voting member Honus Wagner, a shortstop himself, in 1926. called “the greatest infielder I have ever seen.”

Clearly, Critz excelled as a baseball player Wagner was speaking after watching Critz and was one of the finest Major Leaguers help the Giants defeat the Washington Senators Mississippi has ever produced. A dependable four games to one in the 1933 World Series, hitter, he was better known as perhaps the best which naturally ended with Critz turning a double fielding second baseman in all of baseball. He also play for the final outs. was known as a clever and speedy baserunner and was We can learn so much more from those scrapbooks, inducted into the Cincinnati Reds Hall of such as how Critz, who hit only thirty-eight Critz didn’t play on the Mississippi State Major League home runs, once hit two in one Fame.

But there’s so much about Critz that baseball team until his junior year of game to beat the great Dizzy Dean and the St. baseball’s bible does not tell us, so much any college, playing for the legendary Coach Louis Cardinals’ famed Gashouse Gang.

Mississippi baseball fan—or any lover of Dudy Noble. He and his father before him There’s plenty more: were both elected captain of the MSU team.

Mississippi history, period— should know.

Critz never planned to play baseball for And for all that, you would need to visit the Greenwood home of anything other than fun and didn’t play on the Mississippi State team Jenny Payne Gardner, one of Critz’s four grandchildren who houses until his junior year of college. His father, Hugh Critz, had captained the unofficial Hugh Melville Critz baseball museum in her den. one of State’s earliest baseball teams and, years later, would be the DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 53

COURTESY OF ALLAN HAMMONS

An old newspaper photo of Legion Field stadium in its entirety. A variety of ticket stubs, baseball cards, and other memorabilia in Jenny Gardner’s collection.

54 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Left: A letter from Ken Smith, director emeritus of the Baseball Hall of Fame: “My hope is that this generation will know what a splendid second baseman played in the twenties and thirties. Here it is, forty-five seasons since Hugh Critz last played, yet here I am remembering him vividly.” Right: A letter to the editor demanding Hugh Critz remain as second baseman for the Cincinnati team endorsed by many supporters.

college’s president. The father suggested the son go out for baseball.

The son did. He not only made Coach Dudy Noble’s team, he was elected team captain, just as his father had been.

How, in 1927, Critz was a late holdout, an All-Star second baseman asking for a three-year contract worth $50,000. The Cincinnati Redlegs were offering a one-year contract for $10,000.

(Today, Texas Rangers second baseman Marcus Semien makes $25 million per season.)

About how Cincinnati baseball fans strongly protested Hughie’s 1930 trade to the New York Giants, so much so that a Cincinnati newspaper columnist penned a letter to Hughie headlined “A Farewell to Critz” in which he wrote: “You’ve shown Red fans and the fans of the National League the best baseball they’ve ever seen at second base.

You’ve been a bright spot in many a dark game and in several dark seasons…”

There’s so much more to the Hughie Critz story. After he graduated from State in 1920, Critz had no plans to continue in baseball. His chosen profession was in the cotton business, and he moved to Greenwood, the cotton capital, to become a broker. That was just in time for a farm depression that sent cotton prices plummeting. He played a little semi-pro baseball on the side, and when his Greenwood team joined the Class D Mississippi State

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 55

A pair of Critz’s size seven baseball cleats, as they were the last time he wore them, with the residue of infield dirt on and about the steel cleats.

League, he quit the cotton business and excelled as a hard-hitting third baseman. Modern baseball fans might be shocked to learn that the Greenwood team’s owner sold Critz to the Memphis Chicks for a sum of $2,000. Critz agreed to the sale on the condition that he receive half of the sales price. Funny thing: Critz had to lend the owner his $1,000 share so the franchise could survive. Critz eventually got his money, and the Chicks got one of the best players in franchise history.

Critz excelled as a shortstop for the Chicks and moved to Class AA Minneapolis in 1923. He made his Major League debut with the then-Cincinnati Redlegs 101 years ago, getting two hits in the first Major League game he ever saw. Furthermore, those two hits were against Hall of Fame pitcher Grover Cleveland Alexander, winner of an incredible 378 Major League games.

Another funny thing: Hughie Critz never talked much about baseball with his four grandchildren: Jenny Payne Gardner, Julie Pillow Crosthwait of Brandon, Durden Pillow Moss of Jackson, and Robert Leslie “Bob” Pillow of Ridgeland. They knew him as a doting grandfather who had long since retired as a baseball player and owned a car dealership in Greenwood and a nearby cotton plantation. His grandchildren didn’t call him Grandpa, or Gramps, or Papa. No, they called him Hughie.

“Hughie was such a kind man,” Bob Pillow said. “He was a great storyteller and a prankster, too. He sure did love his grandchildren.

I’ll tell you that.”

They loved him back. Still do. Durden Moss says, “My fondest memory is probably just sitting in his lap and him drawing me little pictures of animals and then letting me draw for him. For me, it sparked a lifelong love of art and becoming an artist myself.”

Says Julie Crosthwait, “It’s funny what you remember. I remember lying in bed with him, watching and listening to Lawrence Welk.

He’d massage my feet, and then I’d massage his. He was such a sweet, sweet man.”

Jenny Gardner, keeper of the unofficial Hughie Critz museum, tears up when talking about her grandfather, who died forty-five years ago. “When I get to heaven, I want to see Hughie,” she says. “I’ll get around to everyone else, but I want to see him first.” DM 56 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 57

Rediscovering Elegance THE REBIRTH OF LAGNIAPPE IN LELAND

BY STEPHANIE PATON PHOTOGRAPHY BY RORY DOYLE

58 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

From upholstered furnishings and luxurious bedding to porcelain lamps and home accessories, the items offered at Lagniappe will elevate any space in the home.

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 59

Lagniappe offers an extensive selection of china, glassware, and serving pieces, including Annieglass, Herend, Royal Crown Derby, Mottahedeh, and more.

IN THE HEART OF THE MISSISSIPPI DELTA, you’ll find a hidden gem that may look and feel new, but the building’s history dates back to 1915. Lagniappe, a store that was once a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike in Leland and then for years in Greenville, has since reemerged with a fresh breath of life, thanks to the passion and vision of the original owner and her daughter. Now working as a team, Sherry and Sarah Smythe reopened a Leland outpost in a grand way after three decades. “We were ready to bring Lagniappe back home,” says Sherry.

60 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

They found the perfect site for their shop in the downtown area of Leland in a row of contingent historic buildings that they fully remodeled. They liked that these buildings were located near the other successful downtown retail businesses— Lina’s Interiors, a Delta legacy business featuring antiques and gifts, K&K Tiers of Joy bakery, and Scout & Lola, a children’s boutique—and they also believed this choice would encourage more companies to join in on the exciting things happening in downtown Leland.

Additionally, restaurants such as Vito’s, Fratesi’s, and the Thompson House 1902 Restaurant, as well as several local museums and attractions, contribute to Leland’s revitalization rebirth as a weekend destination.

“We were thrilled to learn that the Smythes were serious about bringing part of downtown Leland back to life,” says Leland Mayor Kenny Thomas. “Based on my experience working with Sherry and Sarah, I knew that whatever they did would be outstanding—and they exceeded everyone’s expectations. It’s also created a ripple effect, inspiring others to invest in Leland’s revitalization.”

Since the Lagniappe project began three years ago, other investors have stepped up. Jerry and Misty Galloway, along with Miller and Bella Gehrke, owners of The Thompson House Inn, the bed and breakfast that houses the

Thompson House 1902 Restaurant, recently purchased a downtown property.

They plan to transform it into a Parisianstyle antique shop with a pastry and coffee café.

Leland resident Rob Baker also invested in a downtown property, renovating it to house a licensed behavioral health practitioner. He is now planning upper-story housing units to encourage downtown living.

“Leland is one of those unique small towns where you can still walk to everything—the grocery store, post office, school, and restaurants,” says Mayor Thomas. “With the town’s walkability, these new downtown living opportunities should fill up quickly.”

When the Smythe’s began planning the project, and considered the scope of the renovation and their desire to respect the historical significance of the structures, they quickly reached out for guidance.

“Due to structural challenges in connecting the three buildings, they enlisted architect Ryan Biles of Kudzu Collective, known for his expertise in historic restoration. Biles developed the plans based on Sarah’s design vision while ensuring compliance with historic preservation standards.

“We found photos of the building facades from 1927 and used them as guides,” says Sherry. “Our goal was to stay as close to the original design as possible while incorporating a fresh look that reflects our brand.”

The initial phase of the project took

In addition to the design elements and inspiration filling the store, Sarah Smythe also designed inviting and comfortable spaces in the store for people to sit and linger.

three years from purchase to planning and approval to construction. However, Sarah believes the remaining renovations will progress more quickly. “I think we can have three to four additional buildings restored and ready for businesses within six months,” she says. “We’ve got plans for a bookstore, a Pilates and health studio, and the relocation of Scout & Lola’s children’s boutique.”

For the time being, though, Sherry and Sarah’s charming establishment complements the others well and is once

again serving its longtime supporters while also inviting a new audience to experience its curated offerings, elevated ambiance and design inspiration.

At Lagniappe Leland, visitors are greeted by an exquisite design flawlessly executed by Sarah, who doubles as an interior designer. Her work blends classic elegance with touches of contemporary flair, and the store’s interior is a feast for the senses, purposely designed to create an atmosphere of warmth and sophistication.

When you step into Lagniappe, it feels as DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 61

After three decades operating in Greenville, Sarah and Sherry Smythe reopened Lagniappe in Leland, its original hometown, and along with several other key downtown businesses, have sparked a revival in the small Delta town.

though you are stopping by a friend’s home for a dinner party, complete with beautifully furnished rooms and aspirational tablescapes. Every detail was thoughtfully considered, from the double wood doors to the checked tile floors and entry counter to the stunning displays and styled tables. It’s an environment that immediately transports you to a place of both luxury and comfort.

Lagniappe offers an extraordinary selection of furnishings and gifts while it also boasts an array of high-end home accessories, each piece carefully chosen for its quality and aesthetic appeal. From

62 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

upholstered sitting chairs to porcelain lamps and sumptuous bedding, the items available at Lagniappe will elevate any space. The selection of heirloom pieces and fine china also make Lagniappe the perfect registry destination for any bride.

With such an impressive collection, brides can create their dream wishlists with ease.

A retail shop and a hub for interior design services and event styling needs, the store’s multi-functionality sets it apart and ensures that each customer’s experience is personalized and comprehensive. Whether you’re searching for the perfect addition to your home or need expert guidance in

selecting your china as a new bride, Lagniappe Leland has a tailored service to meet your every need.

Lagniappe Leland is more than a store, though. It is the embodiment of a love for the finer things in life. Each corner is designed to inspire, each product selected to enchant. The store harmoniously blends nostalgia and modernity, inviting visitors not just to shop, but to savor the journey. It is this blend that positions Lagniappe as an essential stop on any trip to Leland.

A revival of a beloved store and a celebration of elegance and refinement,

The Smythes found the perfect site for their shop in a row of historic buildings in downtown Leland they fully remodeled. Below: A “before” photo showing the original walls that were opened up to create the archways that unite the buildings, and the degree to which the property had declined—including the absence of a roof.

Lagniappe’s reopening is a testament to the enduring legacy of the owner and the innovation of her daughter, who have both given it new life while simultaneously adding to its rich history.

For those who appreciate the beauty of exceptional design, the allure of highquality furnishings, and the joy of finding the perfect gift, Lagniappe Leland promises everything you need. It is a place where the love of luxury and the art of living gracefully come together, making it a must-visit destination for home and shopping enthusiasts exploring the Mississippi Delta. DM

For an additional bit of “lagniappe,” cocktails are served at all their events, and coffee and mimosas are offered to guests from their in-store bar.

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 63

64 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 65

HOPSON Hospitality Hopson Hospitality is more than a business for Tate and Chelsea Antici and their children. It has become a way of life, rich with history and the excitement of meeting new people passing through from around the world.

66 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Young family brings fresh vision to the historic venue

BY COURTNEY INGLE • PHOTOS COURTESY OF HOPSON ARCHIVES

Live music on Monday nights has become a must-do weekly event for locals and tourists alike.

HE HOPSON COMMISSARY outside Clarksdale is one of those iconic spots that was always a staple for travelers, a stomping ground for local folks, and a hotspot for music. Now known as Hopson Hospitality, this revitalized property is a venue that will bring Delta charm and history to any event, promising to cement the occasion into memory for a lifetime.

T

The Hopson Commissary porch is a beacon in the area, a welcoming sight to any who come for a true Clarksdale experience.

The Hopson Hospitality property, owned by Tate and Chelsea Antici, is a hotbed of Delta history dating back to the 1800s. Built in 1924 by the Hopson family, the property has had many iterations.

Walking the grounds of Hopson Hospitality is almost like stepping back in time–the original vault for the commissary is still in place, as is the old cotton-weighing scale. Though the times have changed, evidence of the past lingers long after its original use. The venue was also once an antique mall, with many remaining trinkets and treasures now part of the property and sometimes for sale. The farm is also where history was made. In the fall of 1944, International Harvester introduced the first cotton picker on the Hopson farm, making it the first in the world to grow and harvest a commercial acreage of cotton produced entirely by mechanical methods.

The Anticis are passionate about continuing the legacy of Hopson, not only because it is part of the lifeblood that flows into the culture of the community but also because Clarksdale is their home. “We were both from Clarksdale but had moved to Nashville after college. After being gone about twelve years, we saw that Hopson’s was for sale. There really wasn’t a big DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 67

Founder Howell Hopson, Sr. and sons.

Stop by Hopson Market for everything from sandwiches, snacks, fresh eggs and produce, homemade pickles, to antiques and unique finds.

68 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Hopson was the testing ground for different prototypes of the mechanized cotton picker, which revolutionized the farming industry.

This led to it being the first operation in the world to utilize a mechanized cotton picker.

discussion—it was just, ‘Okay, we’re doing this.’ We both felt like this was where we were supposed to be.”

The couple immediately knew they wanted to expand the venue’s offerings. “We wanted to create a space that felt welcoming for both locals and visitors. That’s why we changed the name to Hopson Hospitality—we wanted it to really represent Southern hospitality at its finest.”

The Anticis have taken Hopson Hospitality’s historical beginnings and built a unique venue for events of all types while preserving its history.

“The front main area was the general store, and the back was the office where they did all their business. It’s got a lot of really cool history, and we’ve worked hard to keep the original character, from the cottonweighing scale to the walk-in vault,” Chelsea says, adding these pieces provide a unique appeal, particularly for couples looking for an authentic Delta wedding experience.

“Hopson has this history and character that you just can’t recreate. It’s not polished or overly fancy—it’s real, it’s got stories, and it’s the kind of place where people can truly feel comfortable and at home,” Chelsea says.

“We’ve hosted events as small as twenty or thirty people and events for as many as four to five hundred. The space allows you to do both—whether you want something intimate and cozy or a big party where everyone is out on the dance floor.”

The historical pieces aren’t removed for the events; they become part of the decor, creating a truly individual atmosphere.

With its rustic bar and eclectic decor, Hopson Hospitality lends itself as an event space and wedding venue.

“We have so many antiques and unique pieces that have been collected over the past hundred years. Every time I walk through, I still find something new. It’s almost like a museum, but one you can throw a great party in,” says Chelsea. “I think the brides who get married here are typically really laid-back. They want their wedding to be more about having a good time with friends and family than about putting on a super formal event.”

Chelsea adds that there’s another reason they’ve changed the name from Hopson Plantation to Hopson Hospitality. Visitors can now make themselves home with accommodations available for rent on the grounds.

“One of our bartenders always says ‘Welcome home’ to everyone who walks through the door. That’s really the feeling we want—where guests feel like they’re just walking into a big family celebration,” she adds.

“We have one rental unit on the Hopson property itself, The Loft at Hopson. It’s a converted storage building with two bedrooms, a full kitchen, and a bathroom.

It keeps the same eclectic, vintage feel of Hopson, so guests get the full experience.”

The Anticis also own a unit in High Cotton Condos in downtown Clarksdale,

right on Delta Avenue, for a more urban vibe while still being close by. The more modern rental still connects to Clarksdale’s unique culture and is only a short distance from Hopson Hospitality.

Hopson Hospitality has become a mainstay in the Delta for everyone with almost any need. Chelsea has an on-site garden and chicken coop, offering farm-to-

table vegetables and fresh eggs in Hopson Market. Another new offering under the Antici ownership is a daily lunch and regularly scheduled events that invite everyone to grab a plate, pull up a chair, and enjoy.

“We want to be more than just an event venue—we want to be part of the community. That’s why we do a mix of DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 69

The Loft at Hopson can be your “home away from home” at the venue.

One of Antici’s favorite spots is the yearbook nook with Ole Miss, Mississippi State, Delta State, Lee Academy, Clarksdale High School, and other miscellaneous local school yearbooks dating back to 1949.

private events such as Labor Day events, Christmas parties, weddings, and rehearsal dinners. But we also open our doors for fundraisers, festivals, and other public gatherings,” Chelsea says.

Ask anyone in Clarksdale about what to do in town, and Monday nights at Hopson’s is one of the first things mentioned.” Every Monday night, we offer live music and a buffet dinner. It’s super casual—just grab a plate and enjoy the music. It’s such a fun mix of locals and tourists, and it keeps Hopson on everyone’s radar, even between big events,” Chelsea says.

“We (also) host many music events, like Pinetop Perkins’ Homecoming Festival after King Biscuit, where all these musicians come down to play where Pinetop worked as a tractor driver. It’s also a fundraiser for their youth workshop, held at Hopson, where blues legends teach kids the blues.

Seeing these kids perform at the end of the week is just incredible.”

For the Anticis, Hopson Hospitality isn’t just a venue. It’s home. “Our kids are here all the time. It’s really a family-run place, and we lean on our parents a lot for help since we work so many nights. But it’s great that our kids get to grow up in this environment, meeting people from all over the world.” It’s not unusual at all to have international guests in Clarksdale any day of the week!

Chelsea adds that Hopson Hospitality is more than just a venue. It’s an experience.

“It’s not just a wedding venue—it’s a place with history, character, and a real sense of community. Whether it’s a wedding, a music festival, or just a regular Monday night, there’s something special about being here.” DM

The Pinetop Perkins workshop is held each year at Hopson, with blues legends coming to teach students the blues.

70 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Over 120 Years of Combined Experience!

Welcoming our new provider, Lauren S. Mize, FNP-C

Meet our team!

Katie W. Sartin, CFNP • Shani K. Meck, M.D. Lindsey M. Turner, M.D. • Michelle Taheri, M.D. Missy J. McMinn, M.D. • Donna G. Breeland, M.D. Sharon K. Brown, CFNP

EastLakelandOBGYN.com | 601.936.1400 DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 71

72 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 73

HOME

A Happy Place Blending new elements with treasured pieces, this Cleveland couple is downsizing by design

BY TERRI GLAZER PHOTOGRAPHY BY RORY DOYLE

74 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

An open floor plan and plenty of windows allow light to fill every inch of the living area and kitchen.

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 75

Designer Judy Wilson chose light fixtures with dimmers as a bold statement in the living room to emphasize the twelve-foot ceilings and beams, and to spread the light around the room.

“T

he one goal I wanted for the house was every time I pulled up in my driveway, I wanted to have a smile on my face, and the team accomplished that. We love it.” Lynn Radicioni could not be happier with her new home.

The longtime Cleveland resident and her husband Louis decided it was time for a change in 2023. That decision didn’t come easily; they had lived in their previous home for forty-nine years. The couple loved their neighborhood, which full of young families while they were raising their three children. As their family grew, they completed several additions to the house, but as empty nesters their lifestyle changed. “We both retired and wanted to have a space that would fit our new needs,” Lynn says.

76 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

After searching for an existing home, the Radicionis made a big decision—they would buy a lot and build a new house in Cleveland’s Mockingtrail Square, a new development targeted toward home buyers looking to make a change. Says developer Chris Collins, “There was a need in Cleveland for people aged 50 and over, who wanted to downsize, to be able to do that and have a nice area. I was trying to come up with a concept that would appeal to that age group.” The owner of Roy Collins Construction

Thibaut drapery and upholstery fabrics bring color, texture, and pattern to the new living area. Floor-to-ceiling drapes and rugs provide beauty and abate the echo factor often created in rooms with hard floors and tall ceilings.

teamed with local homebuilder Kim Buehring to develop the 50lot neighborhood.

Baton Rouge-based architect Michael Hogstrom laid out the lots and drew potential floor plans that incorporated Collins’s vision. “I wanted [the houses] to be filled with light,” the developer recalls. “I told him the primary baths and bedrooms, the dens, and the kitchens had to be comparable in size to what [future owners] had in their original houses because those are the spaces they would use the most. And throughout the houses, we wanted great finishes.”

Buehring says she understands that the building process can be a bit daunting for clients. “Moving from a bigger home where they raised their families can be a hard change. We want to make

their experience as easy and stress-free as possible. We want them to be excited for their transition to their new home.”

After experiencing a bit of that apprehension initially, Lynn soon came to enjoy the challenge of creating a home that would meet their specific needs. Knowing a dream team was by her side made all the difference, she says. She credits Buehring for making the construction process a breeze. “Kim was instrumental to success in the day-to-day building process. Any questions or concerns Louis and I had she addressed immediately.”

Hogstrom created a custom plan that accommodated the Radicionis’ desire for an open layout. Designer Judy Wilson came on board from the beginning, and her help proved invaluable, as she suggested modifications to further personalize her clients’ new DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 77

The couple’s existing table and chairs fit perfectly in their new dining area, with the adjacent butler’s pantry a jewel box nestled between the dining room and the back hall passageway. The space serves as an elegant wet bar area complete with custom mirrored cabinetry designed by Wilson.

78 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

A serene landscape painting and graceful mercury glass lamps add sophistication to the butler’s pantry..

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 79

Wilson expertly blended the Radicioni’s family heirlooms, and treasured antiques with tasteful modern accents to make the primary bedroom feel cozy and collected.

home. “Being involved at the start, we were able to make small changes that had a big impact, like replacing built-in bookcases around the fireplace with windows to maximize light in the living room,” she says.

Wilson also helped the Radicionis decide what to bring from their previous home. “My other house had more walls and cabinets, and we had lots of furniture and accessories, so we really had to downsize in that respect,” says Lynn. The couple knew they wanted to keep their dining table and chairs, along with some other furniture and rugs. Wilson incorporated their treasured pieces into a design plan that respected the owners’ traditional taste while adding more modern elements for an updated feel.

“Above all, the house is comfortable,” says Wilson. “Although it has some dressed-up elements, it isn’t overly serious; it’s elegant, yet casual.”

The designer achieved that ambiance in the living room by pairing a velvet sofa with a more casual seagrass rug. New additions like gold tone and glass tables blend seamlessly with

80 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

The mood is elegant in the primary bath, where crisp white blends beautifully with gold-toned accents and touches of soft teal found throughout the home.

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 81

Classic design elements and an updated color palette combine to create a bit of a dressed-up feel in the hall bath.

some of the Radicionis’ favorite pieces collected throughout the years. An antique pub table and chairs were on the must-bring list. Nestled in a sunny corner of the room, the grouping is a favorite spot for the couple to play games or enjoy a snack with their grandchildren, who visit frequently.

The room opens to the kitchen, where crisp white wall cabinets reach to the 12-foot ceilings. Their generous scale provides abundant storage, even room for a concealed coffee bar that can be hidden when not in use to keep the sightlines clean and uncluttered.

Wilson covered the dining room walls in a subtle paper. “It creates a little soft separation in the open concept,” she says. A new acquisition, “Whirlwind,” part of the John Richard Collection, employs white leather ribbons to create the threedimensional design. The contemporary piece looks right at home juxtaposed against the family’s Queen Anne dining set.

The mood takes on a bit more drama in the attached butler’s pantry, another spot where Wilson modified the original blueprint. Though the plans called for upper and lower cabinets, the designer deleted the uppers on one side. Art above and a pair of tall lamps on the quartz counters elevate the feel of the walkthrough pantry. On the other wall, full-height cabinets, dressed up with decorative millwork and mirrored backs, complete the snazzy look and also provide plenty of storage space.

The butler’s pantry walls, trim, and cabinets are all covered in the same saturated gray-green paint. “From the beginning, we were excited about the color,” Wilson says. To create flow

82 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

“

A soft teal color is used throughout the house in various ways, such as the subtle printed fabric for the window treatments in the living room and the roman shades in the primary bathroom. The color is more prominent with the paint used in the butler’s pantry, on the kitchen island, inside the door into the garage, and in the bathroom, with a beautiful wallpaper complemented by the brushed gold framed mirror.

”

– JUDY WILSON

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 83

The patio includes a grilling area and comfortable seating. The homeowners say its location just off the living room allows gatherings to flow effortlessly from indoors to out.

84 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Architect Michael Hogstrom envisioned a cohesive look for the development. He planned the site and created plans that include distinctive elements to afford the neighbors maximum privacy.

throughout the home, she reprised the shade on the kitchen island and in the hall bath wallpaper and fabrics.

Because the hall bath doubles as a powder room when the homeowners entertain, Wilson made sure it had an extra element of panache. In addition to the Anna French wallpaper, she chose a Matouk shower curtain in place of a glass shower door. Its graceful monogram and full floor-to-ceiling expanse soften and beautify the space. Vintage statuettes on the vanity add an unexpected touch of chinoiserie.

As in the rest of the 2,000-square-foot home, the primary bedroom, and bath are “smart-sized,” large enough to be comfortable, but with no wasted space. In the bedroom Wilson freshened up a family heirloom spindle bed and other favorite pieces collected by the Radicionis by adding new upholstery, bedding, lamps, mirrors, and drapes. “They had so many beautiful things, accessories and furniture, for us to choose from, but we didn’t want to pack this new house full,” says the designer.

Lynn is a fan of the new design. “I love having more of a minimal look, but still that homey feeling.”

The primary bath includes a feature the couple waited almost fifty years to have. “We are enjoying the double sinks, for sure!”

She also beams about their custom walk-in closet. Thoughtful elements like a zero-entry shower and comfort-height cabinets reflect the consideration with which the home was conceived and constructed.

Both the owners love their new home, but Louis has a special affection for the covered patio. Just off the living room, the sizable space holds an outdoor kitchen with a grill, sink, and refrigerator, as well as a seating area with a television. Lynn explains, “It was important to him to be able to cook year-round away from the elements.” An outdoor heater keeps the patio cozy in the winter; in warmer months a large ceiling fan creates airflow and a motorized screen wall keeps insects at bay.

The Radicionis say one of their favorite things about their new home goes beyond the walls of the house—they love the neighborhood. Collins agrees wholeheartedly. “There’s such a neighborly feel. [The residents] all seem to be good friends. They walk and they visit; they check on each other.”

“We’re rekindling friendships and making new ones, too,” Lynn adds with a smile. “That’s been one of the most special things about being here.” DM

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 85

86 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

FRIDAY, MAY 9 & SATURDAY, MAY 10 DOWNTOWN SENATOBIA 5K Race BBQ & Steak Cooking Contest Arts & Crafts Cornhole Tournament Car Show Live Music

For More Information: senatobiamainstreet.com

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 87

Delta Magazine’s

WEDDING S H O W C A S E

Parker-Bagley, Patrick Remington Photography

88 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Presenting Delta Magazine’s 2025 Wedding Showcase— what a remarkable year it has been! In the pages ahead, we celebrate the diverse array of wedding styles from this season’s newlyweds, from extravagant affairs that last well into the night to intimate, heartfelt gatherings in family homes and backyards.

Explore with us the latest trends in color palettes, cakes, florals, and more. Our thoughtfully curated collection of stunning wedding photography, along with formal wedding and engagement announcements, will transport you directly into these unforgettable moments. Whether you’re dreaming big or planning something small and meaningful, we hope this showcase sparks inspiration for your own special day!

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 89

A Labor of Love

BY TERRI GLAZER • PHOTOS BY LAUREN DORMAN

A

lthough she didn’t realize it at the time, Beth Crowe began working on her son’s wedding from the time he was an infant. She and her

husband, David, had just built their first home, a combination barn and house on family land in Drew, when their oldest child, Cross, was born. It wasn’t long before Beth was out planting on the property with the baby in tow in a backpack. She says, “I’m a landscape person. I’ve always loved planting shrubs and bedding plants, trees, and all of it. It’s all Cross has ever known.”

Years passed. The Crowes built their permanent home on adjacent land. Cross grew up and went to Mississippi State, where he fell in love with fellow student Emma Hardy of Cleveland.

Once they got engaged, they immediately decided they wanted their wedding at the Crowes’ place. While Beth and Emma’s mother, Allyson Hardy, both loved the idea of their children being married in such a meaningful setting, they also realized that it would be a huge undertaking. Undaunted, the pair of moms rolled up their sleeves, called on their natural talents, and set out to give 90 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

the couple a unique and very personal wedding on October 19, 2024.

The Crowes had used the barn for storage since they moved out in 2005. While the cypress seedlings lovingly placed years before had grown into stately trees, some of the plantings on the twelve-acre plot had become a bit overgrown. Major renovations to the barn, both interior and exterior, also went to the top of the to-do list. Calling the upcoming nuptials “the best excuse for gardening I ever had,” Beth went all in, planting thousands of flowers for the rehearsal dinner, ceremony, and reception.

Meanwhile, Allyson, an accomplished painter and art teacher at Delta Arts Alliance, was using her creative talents to compose a vision for the event. She and Emma developed a palette that combined soft fall colors with accents of deeper tones. “We wanted a natural, rustic elegance, with some boho touches, focused on the outdoor setting, the barn. They all played off each other,” Allyson says.

Beth turned to a variety of sources, including Floret Flower

Wanting to create a unique floral focal point, Beth Crowe thought of placing a canoe by the pond. Once it was filled with candles and flowers, it served as a perfect backdrop for the couple’s first look.

The impromptu gallery wall hung with Allyson Hardy’s original art in thrifted frames.

Natural fall elements with brass touches, along with hanging lanterns, layered rugs, and comfortable seating areas, were arranged throughout the tent.

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 91

The invitations were classic but reflected the colors of fall with the deep plum ink. It tied together beautifully with Allyson Hardy’s art print wedding favor and original art envelope liner.

Mother of the bride Allyson Hardy began the artistic process by making many small abstracts in the colors of the wedding. This eventually was used as the envelope liner for the invitation.

Beth’s bounty of flowers including zinnias, cosmos, Queen Anne's lace, displayed in a collection of vintage glass and brass added a unique and special touch to the tablescapes throughout.

92 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Farm of Magnolia Network television fame, to find flower seeds in the perfect colors. Celosia, zinnias, gomphrena, cosmos, heirloom mums, dahlias, ornamental sage, Queen Anne’s Lace, eucalyptus, and more went into the ground and a series of raised planters in early spring. Then came months of tending to the very special plants. “To keep them blooming, you have to keep cutting them. So, I cut flowers every week from sometime in May. I was cutting buckets full of zinnias from six different locations on the property up until the wedding,” Beth says. “We cut, we sprayed, and we fertilized. And watered. A lot of it was under irrigation,

The moms wanted to reflect Cross’ love of hunting and nature in a less traditional way. A moss wall, made by Allyson Hardy, and a tree stump-inspired groom’s cake made for the perfect groom's table.

Guests enjoyed a perfect fusion of boho charm and timeless elegance, with cozy vintage seating arrangements spread throughout the tent and barn.

but for the rest, we were filling up a huge tank with a couple hundred gallons of water. We’d have to haul it in a truck to water the zinnias several times a week.”

Things were busy back in Cleveland at the Hardy’s home, too.

Allyson began to paint, first capturing on canvas the spot in Glacier National Park where Emma and Cross were engaged. What followed was a series of paintings to be used in the wedding. With the chosen flowers as inspiration, she created a small piece to use as the liner for the invitation envelope, as well as six large paintings that were hung in the barn and tent for the wedding.

In addition to flowers and art, the wedding vision included an array of design elements not available from standard rental companies. “Facebook Marketplace and eBay became my best friends,” says Allyson with a laugh, recalling how she would scour the online sales sites, along with estate sales, for vintage furniture, brass, and glass to create the vibe. Then there were the pews. From the very beginning, bride Emma wanted church pews for the ceremony. Following an extensive search for the right pews in the right location, Allyson finally came across twenty-five that happened to be in Red Banks. Both families pitched in to move the pews to the farm, then deep clean and restore them to ensure they were spiffed up for the big day.

The Crowe’s barn also yielded treasures waiting to come back

The bride’s mother, Allyson, found a Rene Ruiz dress that seemed to be inspired by her paintings, and her friend and wedding officiant snapped this picture with her art in the barn.

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 93

Emma had dreamed of using real pews for the outdoor wedding, and after scouring Facebook Marketplace, the moms made it happen! Now to sand, clean, and polish them!

The bride’s great-grandfather was a small-town Mississippi Justice of the Peace. He typed marriage licenses on this very typewriter. Guests were invited to write a message for the happy couple on postcards that were dropped into the large antique mailbox.

to life for the special occasion. An antique storefront counter stashed away for years found new life as the main bar at the reception. A group of old doors, stripped and repainted, became a one-of-a-kind wall on a former screen porch, and a canoe placed by a pond, filled with candles and flowers, served as the most romantic backdrop for the couple’s first look.

A project this big had to be a group effort—both Beth and Allyson are quick to mention how much work their husbands, David and D.D., did to make their children’s dream wedding a 94 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

reality. Siblings, in-laws, and even family friends became part of the effort. The moms’ biggest kudos, however, go to the young couple. While working full-time as a nurse and studying full-time to become a nurse practitioner, Emma still found time to be an active part of the preparations. “Any time not spent working or studying was spent tending to the flower garden, sanding and staining walls, landscaping, painting, and much more,” says the newlywed.

Adds Allyson, “Another unique thing about this wedding is that Cross was so involved in it. I truly don’t think there’s ever been a groom who put so much sweat equity into his wedding. He left all the creative stuff up to us, but it couldn’t have happened without him working so hard on it.”

The newly married Emma perhaps summed up the experience best in the description she included with her submission for this article: “Our wedding was the most beautiful and magical thing you’ve ever seen, all created by a labor of love.” DM

96 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 97

Rain or Shine PHOTOS BY ASHLEIGH COLEMAN

I

always dreamed of having my wedding at the home where I grew up. We considered a destination wedding—Asheville, my home for the past several years, was a strong contender—but my heart was set on Shelby, Mississippi. In hindsight, it was the perfect choice. Three weeks before our wedding, Hurricane Helene swept through Asheville, shutting everything down. I even had trouble tracking down my dress at the shop where it was being altered!

Our original plan was to marry in the front yard beneath the towering pecan and live oak trees, where I played as a little girl.

My mother and I even planted rye grass in hopes of coaxing some greenery to grow in the shade. Everything was set for a beautiful day—until, after two and a half months of drought, the rain arrived.

With just a week to go and more rain in the forecast, our planner, Bob Wilbanks, kept us calm and swiftly arranged for a tent. There seemed to be a pause in the deluge toward the end of the week, but that was not to be! The morning of the wedding, three and a half inches of rain fell, leaving the ground completely soaked. Bob quickly improvised, 98 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

laying out unused rectangular tables to create a dry aisle for us to walk on. We moved much of the reception indoors, which turned out to be a blessing. Our family had hosted so many wonderful gatherings during my childhood, and celebrating our wedding there felt absolutely right.

One of my closest childhood friends, Florie Martin, suggested an idea she had heard from a friend’s grandmother—saving some of the rainwater to use for our first child’s christening. My mother loved the thought, and after filtering it several times, we set it aside in the refrigerator, waiting for the day we might need it.

Miraculously, the rain stopped just two hours before our 4:00 afternoon ceremony.

As if on cue, a breathtaking rainbow stretched across the sky, followed by a spectacular sunset that set the perfect tone for our reception. Even the fireworks went off without a hitch.

What started as a stressful, rainy day turned into an unforgettable, joy-filled celebration. A wedding at the home where you grew up is truly a treasure, and not even a Delta downpour could dampen our happiness! – CHARLOTTE MING CAMP DM

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 99

100 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

You deserve every beautiful Blume

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 101

Love and Legacy on the Family Farm PHOTOS BY HELENA KAYE

B

eing part of an agricultural family has always been one of my greatest joys. Some of my fondest memories include playing in cotton trailers and corn pods and riding tractors with my father and grandfather. My dad, a fifth-generation farmer, instilled in me a deep love for this way of life, and for as long as I can remember, I have dreamed of getting married on our family farm.

With the help of Fresh Cut Catering and Floral, that dream became a reality in the most beautiful way. I married the love of my life, Hayes Hansford, beside the stunning lake my great-grandparents built the year I was born—the very place we now call home. Fresh Cut worked magic, transforming a simple farm shed into the most breathtaking venue I have ever seen.

The backdrop for our special day was a field of bright white cotton, planted with love by my father and husband. One of 102 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

the most unique touches was a custompainted cotton bale, created by our dear friend and talented local artist, Olivia Anderson. Alongside it, a gleaming, freshly polished combine made for the perfect photo spot.

The groom and groomsmen wore boutonnieres crafted from cotton handpicked from our own fields—a beautiful, personal touch. In the groom’s section, we displayed the last cotton bale my late grandfather ever ginned, a heartfelt tribute to him and the life he cherished. These small but meaningful details wove our family’s farming legacy into every part of our day, making it even more special.

One of the most treasured moments was captured forever in a stunning watercolor by Wyatt Waters, preserving our first dance in a way I will always hold dear. – ELIZABETH KYLE RAGLAND DM

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 103

104 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 105

specialmoments

Shepherd—Lucas, John Clemmer Photography

A Guiding Light

“One of my favorite moments of our amazing wedding weekend was being able to wear my mother’s wedding dress at our rehearsal dinner. My beautiful mom, Tammy, lost her battle with brain cancer on April 6, 2021.

She has always been my light, my rock, and my best friend. Being able to have her dress redesigned by Sandra Ashford made it feel like my mom was with me in that special moment, guiding me every step of the way.” –CALLIE SHEPHERD LUCAS

Farmer-Alderman, Kelly Ginn Photography

Flower Power

The flowers from Oxford Floral were, without a doubt, my favorite part of my wedding weekend. I’ll never forget the excitement I felt when I saw the van pull up, overflowing with blooms—it was like a dream come true, and in that moment, I knew everything was going to come together perfectly. From the moment I saw the finished arrangements, I realized Oxford Floral didn’t just bring my vision to life—they created something beyond what I had even imagined. The way the colors, textures, and compositions blended was nothing short of magical, with each bloom carefully chosen to capture the essence of the day in a way I couldn’t have put into words. One of the most unforgettable moments was when I saw the finished flower fountain—a concept owner David Naron created entirely on his own. I never would have thought of it myself, but once it was in place, it took the atmosphere to a whole new level, turning the space into something breathtaking. The flowers didn’t just complement the day, they enhanced it, making every moment even more special than I had dreamed. – MAGGIE FARMER ALDERMAN

Fowlkes-Graham, AL Weddings

Setlist for a Lifetime

We loved that our favorite college band, Trotline, was able to perform at our wedding. My college roommate and I got to sing our favorite song, “Callin’ Baton Rouge” on stage, just like we did the night before college graduation. And my hubby joined us on the tambourine! They are famous for taking selfies with their crowd at concerts, so we got one, too!

– ELIZABETH FOWLKES GRAHAM

106 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Morris-Clossman, Darling Juliet Photography

Hops & Hooves

One of my favorite memories of our wedding weekend was at the cocktail hour following our ceremony. My friend who owns Black Burro Events brought Lola, one of her famous Beer Burros, to carry around beer and seltzers to our guests during our cocktail hour. It was a blast and such a big hit! We still have guests tell us how much they loved little Lola and how she was the highlight of our cocktail hour! – NATALIA MORRIS CLOSSMAN

Ridge-Adams, River + Rae Photography

“During our reception, instead of tossing my wedding bouquet to one of the single ladies in the crowd, I dedicated it to my mom. I was able to stand up and tell all of our many guests how important she is to me, how wonderful she is, how she has helped me with every step of my life, and thank her for everything she has done for me. That woman deserves the world aAndI owe everything to her!” – EMILY RIDGE ADAMS

Gibson-Hughey, Karla Pound Photography

Something Old, Something Renewed

The night before our wedding, Conner's parents hosted a beautiful rehearsal dinner for our family and friends at The Capital Club in historic downtown Jackson. The evening felt even more special as I wore my mother’s wedding dress—a white silk gown adorned with silk Venice lace—that I had redesigned and altered by Sandra Ashford. That night, as a token of our appreciation, we gifted our parents and grandparents embroidered handkerchiefs inscribed with our wedding date. – GEORGIA GIBSON HUGHEY

Teevan-Fourie, Madeline B Photography

Designed with Love

I designed and printed our own "wedding newspaper" with all the details for the weekend, including the itinerary, information about the wedding party, the venue, and more, which was included in our guest bags. I also designed our wedding monogram, which I had printed on personalized tissue paper and the gift tags for the bags. – HANNAH TEEVAN FOURIE

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 107

Murphey-Seibert, B. Flint Photography

A Father's Memory, A Bride's Heart

As Von and I celebrated our wedding day, every moment was a tribute not only to our love but also to my father, Ken Murphey, whose presence was felt deeply throughout the day in ways that were both heartfelt and unforgettable. One of the most unforgettable moments of our wedding was the lantern release, a tradition we started after his passing to honor his memory. The night of his birthday, we invited our closest friends to each write messages on lanterns that reminded us of him. I wrote “My Hero” because my dad was my hero. At the wedding, we recreated this moment to honor him, and as the band played “My Hero” by the Foo Fighters, we released lanterns into the sky in my dad’s honor. Out of a hundred, only thirteen, a symbolic number in our family, stayed lit, drifting toward where my dad is buried and forming a perfect cross in the sky. Our wedding was more than a celebration of love between Von and me; it was a heartfelt tribute to my dad and the impact he continues to have on our lives. – KATE MURPHEY SEIBERT

Flowers-Stovall, Anne Russell Photography

A Thoughtful Touch

My bridesmaids’ luncheon was nothing short of magical. It was lovingly hosted by the mothers of my dearest childhood friends—women who have been a cherished part of my life since I can remember. Additionally, one of my close friends, who started the brand Stitch Fete, added a beautiful personal touch by monogramming cloth napkins with my new initials.

These classic napkins adorned each place setting, creating a considerate and meaningful detail. As a heartfelt wedding gift, I will treasure them forever! – KATHERINE FLOWERS STOVALL

Parker-Ouzts, Patrick Remington Photograhpy

Love, Friendship, and Family Traditions

Our home wedding and reception were both so incredible. It was a lot of work, but I wouldn’t have had it any other way. The day was perfect! One of my favorite memories is one of my very best friends—and bridesmaid, Kamryn Chambers, made my wedding cake. It was absolutely perfect and all the guests still talk about how delicious it was. Another special detail is we used my greatgrandmother's antique tablecloth, which had been passed down for three generations, for the cake table.

– ALEX PARKER OUZTS

108 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 109

110 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 111

A Magical Florida Wedding Weekend PHOTOS BY WESLEYANN MCMULLEN

112 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

I

’ve always dreamed of a destination wedding. Once I realized Rosemary Beach was the perfect spot to say, “I do,” I was so excited to bring family and friends from Clarksdale and New Albany to my favorite little place for the weekend. There were so many unique and special parts of my

wedding, but what we treasure most is that our friends and family traveled there to celebrate Mason and me.

The festivities began when a lot of special people hosted an amazing bridesmaid’s luncheon for us in the heart of Rosemary at Edward’s. My godmothers, my mom’s college roommates, my Chi Omega sisters, the wonderful “Mag Pies,” the lovely “Lunch Group,” and my amazing sisters-in-law planned a breathtaking shower with flowers imported from Holland. The event was filled with delicious food, beautiful menus, place cards, linens, gifts of monogrammed pashminas, and lots of laughter and love.

The rehearsal dinner was a truly magical evening held at the beautiful Restaurant Paradis just across the street from our home in Rosemary.

As we gathered, we were enveloped in a warm and inviting atmosphere surrounded by stunning glass vases filled with bright floral arrangements made

by Garden District Memphis, which were also imported from Holland. Beautifully waxed place cards led to seating at the tables. Particularly heartfelt was the seat thoughtfully set for my older brother, who we lost in 2017. His absence was deeply felt, but I could feel his spirit all night with the special seat and flower arrangement in his remembrance. My brother was also remembered during the toasts, and the stories and laughter reminded us that he would always be part of our lives and celebrations.

After the rehearsal dinner, the energy shifted into high gear as we transitioned into our post-toast and embraced the Havana style! For a festive touch, the men donned Cuban straw hats, and Cuban cigars were distributed to add to the lively ambiance.

One of the highlights of the evening was the unique Chiquita Banana crowns my mother designed and created with the help of her close friends! These whimsical hats adorned the mannequins on all the tables and were a fun accessory for all the ladies to wear— truly setting the mood for the evening.

As the night unfolded, we sipped delicious Cuban cocktails— including Mojitos, Hemingway’s, and El Floridians. The DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 113

114 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

unforgettable memories made our rehearsal dinner an incredible prelude to the wedding. It was a night I will always cherish in my heart.

On our wedding day, we woke up to an unforgettable, delicious brunch with French pastries, jams, condiments, fresh fruit, and mimosas. Beautiful linen napkins were monogrammed with my new initials—and had a monogram of my best friend and dog, Finley.

The ceremony that evening was held at the Chapel of the Beach in Rosemary, which Garden District Memphis had adorned with an elegant English garden arch. Baskets of handmade handkerchiefs were at the door for “happy tears.” As we exchanged our vows, it meant so much to know we were surrounded by loved ones who were there to witness our commitment to each other.

After the ceremony, the celebration continued into the night, and the energy was electric. We entered the reception led by a Second Line band from New Orleans and were followed by our wedding party. The band Az Iz kept everyone on the dance floor the entire night, and the unique addition of the strolling lady dressed as a bride brought fun and whimsy to the festivities. Guests wore light-up cowboy hats and capes as they enjoyed some of our favorite things— sushi, lemon drops, and chocolate martinis.

One of my absolute favorite memories is the expression on Mason’s face when he saw his groom’s cake and how shocked he was that it was not an actual golf bag but a cake!

Every smile, every laugh, and every dance move shared with friends and family made the night unforgettable. I loved every moment—and am grateful for the memories we created together.

My wedding was not just an event—but a celebration of love I will always hold dear in my heart. February 17 will always be my favorite day because that is the day I married my best friend. – ANN GRANVILLE HEATON MAXEY D M

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 115

116 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 117

GIFT GUIDE WEDDING GIFTS Gilded LUXE IN SHADES OF GOLD

Gifting

Help the newlyweds start their next chapter with elegant, gold-toned home essentials that bring warmth, style, and a touch of glamour

2.

Decorative boxes are lovely resting on a coffee table or stack of books and a perfect place to hide the remote!

1.

3.

1. Ackley Boxes

Oxford Home Furnishings, Oxford Instagram: @oxfordhomefurnishings oxfordhomefurnishings.com, 662.419.9702

Modern champagne flutes are a perfect addition to the newlywed’s home bar.

2. Botanical Garden Lamp

The Olive Tree, Starkville Instagram: @theolivetreestarkville theolivetreestarkville.com, 662.722.3019

3. Modern Glass Hammered Champagne Flute Shoppes on South Main, Greenville Instagram: @shoppesonsouthmain facebook.com/shoppesonsouthmain, 662.702.3999

5.

4. Blue Skies Salad Servers

Howard & Marsh Exchange, Greenwood Instagram: @howardandmarsh facebook.com/HowardandMarsh, 662.219.0756

A beautiful table lamp adds instant elegance to any home.

5. Abri Large Paneled Table Lamp Lagniappe Fine Gifts, Leland Instagram: @misslagniappe lagniappefinegifts.com, 662.335.3722

6. Wavy Bowl

Mod + Proper, Cleveland Instagram: @modandproper shopmodandproper.com; 662.400.3111

6.

118 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

4.

7. Handkerchief Votives

Babcock Gifts, Memphis Instagram: @babcockgifts babcockgifts.com, 901.763.0700

8. Uttermost Balkan Mirror

Bartlett Home Furnishings, Bartlett Instagram: @bartlett_home bartletthomefurnishingsmemphis.com, 901.388.6030

7.

8.

9. Baobab Candle

Lagniappe Fine Gifts, Leland Instagram: @misslagniappe lagniappefinegifts.com, 662.335.3722

10. Lucite Domino Set

Details, Greenwood Instagram: @shop_details_gwood Facebook: Details - Greenwood, 662.219.0328

11. Gold and Glass Bowl

A gorgeous mirror for the home is a gift that will last a lifetime.

Babcock Gifts, Memphis Instagram: @babcockgifts babcockgifts.com, 901.763.0700

9.

12. Vietri Rufolo Glass Charger Babcock Gifts, Memphis Instagram: @babcockgifts babcockgifts.com, 901.763.0700

13. Donisha Planters

Oxford Home Furnishings, Oxford Instagram: @oxfordhomefurnishings oxfordhomefurnishings.com, 662.419.9702

14. Annieglass Edgey Gold Pedestal Cake Stand

10.

Rosson Co., Cleveland Instagram: @rossoncompany rosson-co.shoplightspeed.com, 662.843.3986

11.

Decorative planters are an unexpected but useful gift!

12.

13.

14.

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 119

120 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 121

2025

nd e r T g n i d d e W

s

FANTASTIC FLORALS

Lamensdorf-LaPoff, Darren Ornitz Studio

Farmer-Alderman, Kelly Ginn Photography

Odom-Kreilick, Rob & Deanna Photography

122 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Murphey-Seibert, B. Flint Photography

Bruton-Greenlee Patrick Remington Photography

Whatley-Norwood, Patrick Remington Photography

Parker-Bagley, Patrick Remington Photography

Lamensdorf-LaPoff Darren Ornitz Studio

Farmer-Alderman, Kelly Ginn Photography DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 123

Bridal Registry Custom Monogramming and Gifts

9850 HWY 51 N | 662.460.2016

124 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Rebekah CarawayCreative rcara rcarawaycrea creative tive • 662 662.820 820.7723 7723 • hello@rebekahcara hell o@rebekahcaraway.com com

126 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Scott-Jernigan, Beth Giachelli Photography

GROOM & GROOMSMEN STYLE

Morris-Clossman, Darling Juliet Photography

Fowlkes-Graham, AL Weddings

Looney-Foster, Kayla Wolfe Photography

Ming-Camp, Ashleigh Coleman Fyfe-Perry, Alden Chapple Alden Chapple Photography 128 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Bell-Bass, Elizabeth Hoard Photography

Ragland-Hansford, Helena Kaye

Antici-Martin, B. Flint Photography

Pruitt-Goode, Helena Kaye Photography

Teevan-Fourie, Madeline B Photography

Bruton-Greenlee, Patrick Remington Photography DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 129

130 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 131

CONFECTION PERFECTION

Looney-Foster, Kayla Wolfe Photography Farish-Mullins, Kayla Wolfe Photography

Antici-Martin, B. Flint Photography 132 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Quinton-Tidmore, Skelton Photography

Barton-Van Der Heever, Letty Weeks Photography Gibson-Hughey, Karla Pound Photography

Brozovich-McCarney, Patrick Remington Photography

Mother of the bride, Julia Ming, made the stunning cake complete with representation of their favorite pups!

Bell-Bass, Elizabeth Hoard Photography

Looney-Foster, Kayla Wolfe Photography Ming-Camp, Ashleigh Coleman DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 133

Hazlewood-McArthur, Kylie Wooten

Lamensdorf-LaPoff, Darren Ornitz Studio Shepherd-Lucas, John Clemmer Photography

Ridge-Adams, River + Rae Photography 134 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Fowlkes-Graham, AL Weddings

Farmer-Alderman, Kelly Ginn Photography

Pruitt-Goode, Helena Kaye Photography

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 135

136 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 137

138 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 139

GIRLS, GOWNS & GLAMOUR

Bruton-Greenlee, Patrick Remington Photography

Teevan-Fourie, Madeline B Photography

Morris-Clossman, Darling Juliet Photography

Odom-Kreilick, Rob & Deanna Photography

Farmer-Alderman, Kelly Ginn Photography Hazlewood-McArthur, Kylie Wooten 140 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Brozovich-McCarney, Patrick Remington Photography

Murphey-Seibert, B. Flint Photography

Antici-Martin, B. Flint Photography

Flowers-Stovall, Anne Russell Photography DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 141

Pruitt-Goode, Helena Kaye Photography

Shepherd-Lucas, John Clemmer Photography

Parker-Ouzts, Patrick Remington Photograhpy

Hazlewood-McArthur, Kylie Wooten

Bruton-Greenlee, Patrick Remington Photography Parker-Bagley, Patrick Remington Photography 142 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 143

144 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 145

HOME WEDDINGS

Bruton-Greenlee, Patrick Remington Photography

Ming-Camp, Ashleigh Coleman

Looney-Foster, Kayla Wolfe Photography 146 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Antici-Martin, B. Flint Photography

Looney-Foster, Kayla Wolfe Photography

Parker-Ouzts, Patrick Remington Photograhpy

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 147

148 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

150 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 151

RIBBONS, BOXES & BOWS

Flowers-Stovall, Anne Russell Photography

Farmer-Alderman, Kelly Ginn Photography

Fowlkes-Graham, AL Weddings

Brozovich-McCarney, Patrick Remington Photography 152 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Bell-Bass, Elizabeth Hoard Photography

Lamensdorf-LaPoff, Darren Ornitz Studio

Williams-Harrick, Remy Mitchell-James Murphey-Seibert, B. Flint Photography DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 153

LITTLE PEOPLE

Brozovich-McCarney, Patrick Remington Photography Antici-Martin, B. Flint Photography

Parker-Bagley, Patrick Remington Photography

Ridge-Adams, River + Rae Photography

Pruitt-Goode, Helena Kaye Photography 154 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Looney-Foster, Kayla Wolfe Photography

Bruton-Greenlee, Patrick Remington Photography

LOCATED ON W JACKSON ST IN RIDGELAND THEPARTYBYELLEJAMES.COM DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 155

156 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

RECEPTION FUN & FAVORITE THINGS

Antici-Martin, B. Flint Photography

Antici-Martin, B. Flint Photography

Antici-Martin, B. Flint Photography

Bruton-Greenlee, Patrick Remington Photography 158 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Farmer-Alderman, Kelly Ginn Photography

O'Neal-Ramsey, Ana Blakely Photography

Parker-Ouzts, Patrick Remington Photograhpy

Looney-Foster, Kayla Wolfe Photography

Barton-Van Der Heever Letty Weeks Photography

Bell-Bass, Elizabeth Hoard Photography Bell-Bass, Elizabeth Hoard Photography

Bush-Giachelli, Katelyn Anne Photography DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 159

Bruton-Greenlee, Patrick Remington Photography

Looney-Foster, Kayla Wolfe Photography

Gibson-Hughey, Karla Pound Photography

Teevan-Fourie, Madeline B Photography Gibson-Hughey, Karla Pound Photography

Bruton-Greenlee, Patrick Remington Photography Bruton-Greenlee, Patrick Remington Photography 160 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

ALL IN THE DETAILS

Lamensdorf-LaPoff, Darren Ornitz Studio

Farmer-Alderman, Kelly Ginn Photography

Odom-Kreilick Rob & Deanna Photography

Scott-Jernigan Beth Giachelli Photography

Parker-Ouzts, Patrick Remington Photograhpy

Shepherd-Lucas, John Clemmer Photography DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 161

Whatley-Norwood, Patrick Remington Photography

EXCEPTIONAL EXITS

Farish-Mullins, Kayla Wolfe Photography Ridge-Adams, River + Rae Photography

Odom-Kreilick, Rob & Deanna Photography 162 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Bell-Bass, Elizabeth Hoard Photography

Murphey-Seibert, B. Flint Photography

The look you would expect

318 Howard St reet • Greenwood, MS 662 .453. 2114 • thealluvian.com

Brozovich-McCarney Patrick Remington Photography DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 163

164 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 165

Boys and Girls Sizes NB-16

662.219.0327 309 Howard Street Greenwood, Mississippi

shopsproutgreenwood.com

166 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ADAMS

JENNINGS

First Baptist Church • Sumner • Katie Hendricks Burks

Lauren Michelle Adams

& John William Jennings

Wedding Date November 28, 2024 Bride’s Parents Mr. and Mrs. Mario Radrigan Mr. Michael Emison and the late Mr. Steven D. Adams Groom’s Parents Mrs. Terri Jennings and Mr. Phil Jennings Bride’s Hair and Makeup Hayley Hood Honeymoon Location Jamaica

168 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ANTICI

MARTIN

Saint George’s Episcopal Church • Clarksdale • B. Flint Photography

Mr. and Mrs. Charles Ray Antici are pleased to announce the marriage of their daughter, Anna Brittain Antici, to Jonathan Wayne Martin, son of Mr. and Mrs. Terry Wayne Martin. The couple was united in marriage at six o’clock in the evening on Saturday, February 24, 2024, at Saint George’s Episcopal Church in Clarksdale.

The bride is the granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Antici, the late Mrs. Carolyn Alford Salmon, and the late Mr. William Thomas Salmon. The groom is the grandson of Mrs. Emma Lou Bailey, the late Mr. John Thomas Bailey, the late Mrs. Margaret Bernice Fox, and the late Mrs. Brenda Carol Hilburn.

The ceremony, officiated by Reverend Charlie Deaton, was centered around faith and love. The ceremonial music, including “Seek Ye First” played by The Honorable Jay Westfaul on the organ, set the tone for the Christ-centered evening; Aubrey Powell McKee sang “The Blessing” as the couple lit candles from the Christ Candle and passed the light of Christ through the congregation.

Given in marriage by her father, the bride was escorted down the aisle wearing a lovely ivory dupioni gown from The Bridal Path, designed by Lea-Ann Belter. The fit-and-flare gown featured pleated off-the-shoulder sleeves that framed the strapless neckline and draped bodice. With a buoyant back bow, the fitted skirt opened at fingertip length, falling into a beautiful chapel train.

Complementing the bride’s ensemble was a bouquet of white roses and hydrangeas designed by Wendy Putt of Fresh Cut Catering and Floral.

Serving the bride as her attendants were her siblings, Allison Antici Britt and William Kirk Antici. The groom’s children, Bailey

Brooke Martin and Jonathan Blake Martin, served as his attendants. The couple’s nieces, Georgia Mae Britt and Lucy Parker Britt, were the flower girls, and William Channing Antici, nephew of the couple, served as the ring bearer.

Program attendants were godchild, Elisabeth Tate Fleming and niece, Elizabeth Grace Pierce. John Sawyer Antici and Christopher Calvin Pierce, the couple’s nephews, served as ushers. The ceremony featured readings by the groom’s sister, Blair Martin Pierce.

Following the ceremony, the bride’s parents hosted a joyous tented reception at their home in Clarksdale with musical entertainment provided by Manhattan Orchestra by Jordan Kahn Music Company. A delicious buffet featuring the couple’s favorite foods was provided by Pretty Presentations. Photography by B. Flint Photography and videography by Frameblender Films captured the magic of the evening. Kendall Poole Event Planning served as wedding coordinator.

The couple’s departure was marked by a lively second-line procession led by Manhattan’s horn section, followed by a tunnel of streamers made by friends and family and a surprise fireworks display. The evening culminated in the couple’s departure in their golf cart.

On the eve of the wedding, the groom’s parents honored the couple with a lovely rehearsal dinner at the Clarksdale Country Club.

The couple is overjoyed to begin their new life together in Clarksdale and grateful for the love and support of their family and friends.

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 169

ANNOUNCEMENTS

BARTON

VAN DER HEEVER

Bridlewood of Madison • Madison • Letty Weeks Photography

Kathryn Bess Barton

& Marco Van Der Heever

Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Reception Venue Floral Design Catering Wedding Cake and Groom’s Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Bride’s Makeup Invitations and Stationery Honeymoon Location 170 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

November 22, 2024 Mr. and Mrs. Robert Burgess (Bobby) Barton Mr. and Mrs. Victor Van Der Heever Alana Rose from Lace Bridal Boutique Bridlewood of Madison Drake’s Designs Florist and Gifts, Inc. Terry and Chad Chester Adrienne Saxon Cakes DJ Beazzzy (Brandon Lott) Amy Adkinson Sumrall, Salon Sixteen Maggie Milnick TMI, Too Many Invitations Sandals Regency La Toc, St. Lucia

ANNOUNCEMENTS

BROZOVICH

MCCARNEY

St. Joseph Catholic Church • Greenville • Patrick Remington Photography

Casey Marie Brozovich

& Matthew Stanton McCarney

Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Reception Venue Floral Design Catering Wedding Cake and Groom’s Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Bride’s Makeup Invitations and Stationery Honeymoon Location

September 14, 2024 Dr. and Mrs. William Brozovich, senior Mr. And Mrs. Andrew Joseph McCarney La Premiere from Stanley Korshak Greenville Golf and Country Club Fresh Cut Catering & Floral Greenville Golf and Country Club Ashley Mahalitc Frazier Compozitionz Avery Senter Miskelly and Silvey Morris Kendall Winslett and Devan Ellington Greenville Printing Center Bora Bora and Moorea, French Polynesia

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 171

ANNOUNCEMENTS

BELL

BASS

Rosedale Methodist Church • Rosedale • Elizabeth Hoard Photography

172 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Leslie Anne Bell

& B Hampton Bass V

Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Wedding Planner Reception Venue Floral Design Catering Wedding Cake and Grooms Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Bride’s Makeup Invitations and Stationery Honeymoon Location

December 21, 2024 Mr. and Mrs. Marvin Alden Bell III Mr. And Mrs. B Hampton Bass IV Maggie Louise Bridal Ever After Moments GRAMMY Museum Mississippi Maggie Louise Bridal David Crews Wildflour Cake Shop 4 Barrel Funk Hayley Hood Makeup by McKenna Rebekah Caraway Creative St. Lucia

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 173

ANNOUNCEMENTS

BRUTON

GREENLEE

Madison Drew Bruton

& Jason Miller Greenlee

Lake Washington First Baptist Church • Glen Allan • Patrick Remington Photography

Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Wedding Planner Reception Venue Floral Design Catering Wedding Cake Groom’s Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Bride’s Makeup Invitations and Stationery Honeymoon Location 174 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

April 20, 2024 Mr. and Mrs. Jeffery Drew Bruton Mr. and Mrs. Vernon Underwood Greenlee Lazaro from Bridal Path Amanda Cottingham, The Pantry Inc. Jeffery Bruton Residence The Pantry Inc. The Pantry Inc. Carol Hunter Ashley Frazier Big Bling and the Funk Machine BATA Beauty Company April Renee Makeup Fresh Ink and Rebekah Caraway Creative Sandals Royal Barbados, St. Lawrence Gap

ANNOUNCEMENTS

BUSH

GIACHELLI

St. John’s Methodist Church • Greenwood • Katelyn Anne Photography

Analise Rivers Bush

& Jonathan Lake Giachelli

Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Wedding Planner Reception Venue Floral Design Catering Wedding Cake and Groom’s Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair and Bride’s Makeup Invitations and Stationery Honeymoon Location

May 18, 2024 Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Rivers Bush Mr. and Mrs. Robert Glenn Giachelli Amsale from Maggie Louise Bridal A Pryor Engagement The Carl Center at The Historic Elks Lodge Grapevine Floral and Catering Grapevine Floral and Catering Grapevine Floral and Catering Dr. Zarr’s Amazing Funk Monster The Collective Salon Fresh Ink Barbados

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 175

ANNOUNCEMENTS

FARISH

MULLINS

The Lodge at Donahoe Farms • Indianola • Kayla Wolfe Photography

176 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Kendall Machell Farish Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Reception Venue Floral Design Catering Wedding Cake and Groom’s Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Bride’s Makeup Invitations and Stationery Honeymoon Location

& Austin James Mullins

May 11, 2024 Mr. and Mrs. Jon Michael Farish Mr. and Mrs. Coby Bardwell Mullins, Mr. and Mrs. Michael Brandon Soldevila Essence of Australia from Amelia Grace Bridal The Lodge at Donahoe Farms Corey Smith Sookies Catering Cups-N-Cakes Bakery Style Entertainment Melissa Logan with Kut Works Salon & Boutique Erin Higgins with Erin Higgins Artistry The Knot and Minted Alaska DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 177

ANNOUNCEMENTS

FARMER

ALDERMAN

Dunleith Historic Inn • Natchez • Kelly Ginn Photography

178 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Maggie Elizabeth Farmer

& James Howard Alderman II

Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Wedding Planner Reception Venue Floral Design Catering Wedding Cake and Groom’s Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Bride’s Makeup Invitations and Stationery

March 2, 2024 Mr. and Mrs. John Kelly Farmer Mr. and Mrs. James Howard Alderman Monique Lhuillier from Maggie Louise Ellen Thomas Event Design Dunleith Historic Inn Oxford Floral Dunleith Historic Inn Molly Manning Robertson The Compozitionz Band Heart and Soul by Ally Nicole A. Reneé Makeup Artistry Emily Damiens

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 179

ANNOUNCEMENTS

FLOWERS

STOVALL

Clarksdale Methodist Church • Clarksdale • Anne Russell Photography

Katherine Faulkner Flowers Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Wedding Planner Reception Venue Floral Design Catering Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair and Makeup Invitations and Stationery Honeymoon Location 180 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

& Adam Tonquin Stovall

June 1, 2024 Mr. and Mrs. Taylor Allen Flowers, junior Mr. and Mrs. Adam Tonquin Stovall V Monique Lhuillier from Maggie Louise Bridal Latham Stevens Events Home of the Bride’s Parents Angela’s Flowers, Gifts, and Events Chris Green Wildflour Cake Shop The Super 5 The Studio Latham Stevens Events Sugar Beach, St. Lucia

ANNOUNCEMENTS

FYFE

PERRY

St. Elizabeth Catholic Church • Clarksdale • Alden Chapple Photography

Brooks Douglas Fyfe Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Wedding Planner Reception Venue Floral Design Catering Wedding Cake Groom’s Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair and Makeup Invitations and Stationery Honeymoon Location

& Lawton Greene Perry

December 14, 2024 Mr. And Mrs. Brian Webster Fyfe Mr. and Mrs. George Pace Perry, junior Martina Liana from Maggie Louise Anna Brittain Martin with Kendall Poole Event Planning Clarksdale Country Club Fresh Cut Catering & Floral Pretty Presentations Alice Chow Debbie Alderson Party Planet Brynn Chesney Rebekah Caraway Creative Bungalows Key Largo DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 181

ANNOUNCEMENTS

FOWLKES

GRAHAM

St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church • Birmingham, Alabama • AL Weddings Elizabeth Ruth Fowlkes and William Hunter Graham were united in holy matrimony at half past five in the evening on April 13, 2024, at Saint Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Vestavia Hills, Alabama, with the Reverend John Burruss officiating. The bride is the daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Thomas DeBow Fowlkes of Oxford and Dr. Laura Fowlkes Young of Ringgold, Georgia. She is the granddaughter of the late Ruth Fowlkes Stigler and Thomas Fowlkes of Clarksdale, Gisela Phelps and the late Walter Daniel Phelps of Chattanooga, Tennessee, and the late Harriett Cockrill Rowland of Oxford. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. William Avery Graham of Lincoln, Alabama. He is the grandson of Mrs. Wilda Ray Graham and the late William Neil Graham of Lincoln, Alabama, and the late Annis Fay Kilgore and William Thomas Kilgore of Anniston, Alabama.

The prelude and nuptial music were performed by pianist Natalie Tally. Mothers and grandmothers were seated to “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” by J.S. Bach, and the wedding party processed to Pachelbel’s “Canon in D.” The bride processed down the aisle, escorted by her father, to Jeremiah Clarke’s “Trumpet Voluntary in D Major.” During the ceremony, the congregation sang “Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing” before the couple recessed to Mouret’s “Rondeau.”

The bride’s ensemble was a heartfelt reflection of family heritage.

She wore a light ivory Mikado gown by Atlanta designer Anne Barge, featuring a V-neckline, a wide band at the waist, and a deep V-back.

The full A-line skirt swept into a chapel-length train. The bride wore pearl studs, a wedding gift from the groom, along with a pearl solitaire necklace, a gift from her mother, and a borrowed pearl bracelet from her paternal aunt. The bride’s shoes, with a beautiful satin ribbon, served as her “something blue.” Completing her ensemble was a Brussels lace veil borrowed from her paternal aunt, Beth Fowlkes DuVall, which was purchased in Belgium in 1969. The bride’s bouquet, designed by Birmingham floral designer Lisa Bailey, was pinned with her paternal grandmother’s lavalier charm, borrowed from her cousin Melissa DuVall Martin.

The bride carried a traditional hand-tied bouquet of white snapdragons, blush and cream butterfly ranunculus, pink Mondial roses, dusty miller, blue tweedia, white ranunculus, peach stock, polar star roses, and candlelight roses. Floral arrangements throughout the church echoed these choices, with the addition of blue hydrangeas and delphinium.

Attending the bride as maids of honor were her sisters Katherine DeBow Fowlkes of Birmingham, Alabama, and Margaret Anne Mallon of Hilton Head, South Carolina. Bridesmaids were Margaret Kellye Sinervo of Oxford; Kelci Armstrong Miller of Ocean Springs; Kelsey Hendrix Long of Auburn, Alabama; and Anna Graham Jones of Alabaster, Alabama. Ellison Gray DuVall and Lillian Reade DuVall of Atlanta, Georgia, attended as junior bridesmaids. Pierce Louise Miller of Ocean Springs served as flower girl. Bridesmaids wore dusty blue chiffon dresses, while the junior bridesmaids wore blue floral satin twill dresses. The flower girl and ring bearers wore heirloom dresses and linen sets.

John Clayton Jones of Alabaster, Alabama, served as best man.

Groomsmen were James Kody Gibson of Molino, Florida; Britton Lane Taylor of Kinston, Alabama; Justin Kai Simmons of Prattville, Alabama; Daniel Joseph Barfield, Brennan Taylor Barfield, and Frank

182 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Tyler Hitt, all of Oxford. John Graham Jones of Alabaster, Alabama, and Vaughn Thomas Miller of Ocean Springs served as ring bearers.

James Luther Martin and Margaret Herron Rowland, cousins of the bride, read scripture during the ceremony. Cammie Turner and Emily Vogelgesang served as program attendants. Whitman Morse Rowland, Charles DeBow Martin, and Thomas Ellison Martin, cousins of the bride, and Jacob Robert Turner and Peter Gregory Turner, friends of the groom, served as ushers.

Following the ceremony, guests were escorted to the church courtyard for a cocktail reception. Upon arrival guests were greeted with champagne and butler passed hors d’oeuvres including chicken satay, bacon wrapped dates, and crab cakes. Guests enjoyed signature cocktails from the Bubbles and Brews truck, decorated as “Sadie’s Bar” in honor of the couple’s chocolate Labrador Retriever.

The bar featured a watercolor of Sadie by Clara Barber. Additionally, “The Double Decker Bar,” paid homage to the bride’s hometown of Oxford with custom signage created by Kelci Miller.

Upon entering the reception for dinner and dancing, guests passed a memory table featuring photographs of loved ones who were not able to be present. Guests enjoyed delectable cuisine prepared by Cafe Iz. The main buffet featured grilled beef tenderloin, au gratin potatoes, creamed spinach, sauteed mushrooms, and a choice of parmesan chicken.

The three-tiered strawberry and buttercream cake, created by Barb’s Cakes, was adorned with blush pink roses and was displayed on a silver plateau at the reception’s entrance. The groom’s three-tiered old-fashioned chocolate cake featured a likeness of Sadie in chocolate.

Artist Wyatt Waters was on hand to paint a scene of the evening, titled Cake by Candlelight. Guests enjoyed music from Trotline Band, a favorite from the couple’s college days, and one of the evening’s highlights was when the bride and groom, along with the bride’s college roommate Emily, performed “Callin’ Baton Rouge” in tribute to a pre-graduation celebration.

Upon arrival to the hotel, guests were greeted with welcome boxes, adorned with the couple’s signature monogram and dusty blue ribbon, filled with the couple’s favorite snacks, including chocolate chip cookies and Delta Cheese Straws baked in Nashville, Tennessee.

As the night concluded, the bride and groom exited through a shower of rose petals and departed in a Jeep, courtesy of their friends, the Barfields. The bride and groom wish to express their gratitude to the family and friends as well as Chasity Burroughs Events for creating a magical evening. They are also grateful to AL Weddings for capturing the photographs for the wedding and to Cameron Zane Productions for capturing a beautiful video to remember the day.

On the eve of the wedding, the groom’s family hosted a rehearsal dinner at the Clubhouse on Highland. Catered by Alexander the Great Events, the dinner featured the groom’s favorite, a breakfast theme.

Following the rehearsal, family and close friends joined the couple for a private communion.

Following the wedding, the bride and groom honeymooned at the Grand Hotel in Fairhope, Alabama, and now reside in Lincoln, Alabama.

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 183

ANNOUNCEMENTS

GIBSON

HUGHEY

Christ United Jackson • Jackson • Karla Pound Photography

A celebration and blessing of the marriage of Georgia Cothern Gibson and Conner Neal Hughey was held at six o’clock in the evening on January 27, 2024, at Christ United Church in Jackson.

Reverend Eddie Rester officiated the double-ring ceremony.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Nelson Eugene Gibson, junior, of Jackson. She is the granddaughter of Mrs. John William McPherson and the late Mr. McPherson of Indianola, the late Mr. and Mrs. Donald Bernard Bohn and the late Mr. Gibson of Brookhaven.

The bridegroom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Blake Hughey of Little Rock, Arkansas. He is the grandson of Mr. Jack Wilson Hughey and the late Mrs. Hughey of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, and the late Mr. and Mrs. David Milton Neal, senior, of Vicksburg.

Given in marriage by her parents and escorted by her father, the bride wore a beautiful fit-and-flare gown of ivory Mikado with a cathedral-length veil of ivory lace from Elle James Bridal. For the ceremony, the bride wore a long-sleeved topper of ivory lace and changed into a voluminous organza off-the-shoulder topper for her reception. The bride carried a traditional hand-tied bouquet of white hydrangeas, peonies, ranunculus, and roses. The bride’s maternal grandmother wore a handmade crocheted white dress with a gold silk lining that she wore on her fiftieth wedding anniversary, which was originally worn by the bride’s greatgrandmother on her fiftieth wedding anniversary.

Following the ceremony, the bride’s parents honored guests with a reception at the Country Club of Jackson. Upon arrival, the guests were greeted with pre-poured glasses of prosecco with 184 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

fresh cranberries. The entrance and tables were adorned with large arrangements filled with white hydrangeas, ranunculus, roses, orchids, and greenery.

The traditional four-tiered almond and buttercream wedding cake, designed by That Special Touch, featured a sleek design with fresh hydrangeas and roses between each layer. The silver cake knife used by the couple was also used by the bride’s parents on their wedding day. The two-tiered chocolate ganache groom’s cake featured a golf theme.

The couple shared their first dance to “Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours)” by Stevie Wonder. Family and friends celebrated the bride and groom to the amazing sounds of the Compozitionz of Jackson. Live-event artist Miriam Shufelt painted the couple’s first dance at the reception. After dancing the night away with friends and family, the couple departed with a sparkler exit and left in a decorated golf cart.

Crisler Boone exceptionally planned and coordinated the wedding day events. Wendy Putt of Fresh Cut created the elegant floral arrangements for the wedding day and rehearsal dinner. Karla Pound of Pound Photography beautifully captured all the special moments of the couple’s wedding day.

Following a honeymoon in Montego Bay, Jamaica, the couple is at home in Jackson where they are both medical residents at UMMC.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

LOONEY

FOSTER

Residence of the Bride • Tribbett • Kayla Wolfe Photography

Correan Alyce Looney and John Thomas Foster, junior, were

Following the ceremony, the couple’s family and friends

united in marriage on November 23, 2024, at the home of the

celebrated with them at a backyard reception. As the sun set, the

bride’s parents in Tribbett under a warm glow of a Delta sunset.

guests danced to music by The Delta String Band and enjoyed

The bride is the daughter of Mark and Rhonda Looney of

food prepared by a close family friend, Debbie Rankin, owner of

Leland. She is the granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Gene

Catering by Debbie. The bride chose a three tiered white cake with

Wingfield of Steele, Missouri, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Z.M.

buttercream icing topped with Wolfe Love Birds while the groom

Looney of Leland.

chose a red velvet cake topped with a rainbow trout carved by the

The groom is the son of Tom Foster of Aransas Pass, Texas,

groom. Cakes were made by Carol Hunter of Cakes-Carol Hunter.

and Kathy and Jerry Mooneyham of Decatur, Texas. He is the

The tent was filled with fall florals arranged by the bride’s

grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Stout and the late Mr. And Mrs.

brother, Randle Looney. Terracotta-colored roses, peach English

James Foster, all of Fort Worth, Texas.

garden roses, antique green hydrangeas, bronze amaranths, and

Attending the bride and groom as flowers girls were the bride’s cousin, Lucy McGee, and the groom’s nieces, Caroline and

champagne sweetheart roses were mixed with foraged fall foliage, fruit, and candlelight.

Annette Foster. Attending them as ring bearers were the bride’s

The couple is now at home in Lander, Wyoming, a small

cousins, Lovell McGee and Jayden Norris. The bride’s uncle, Bud

mountain town. The bride is a speech language pathologist, and

Porter, officiated the ceremony.

the groom is a family medicine physician.

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 185

ANNOUNCEMENTS

HARDY

CROWE

Crowe Family Property • Drew • Lauren Dorman Photography

186 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Emma Kathleen Hardy Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Wedding Planner Reception Venue Floral Design Catering Wedding Cake Groom’s Cake Entertainment Videographer Bride’s Hair Bride’s Makeup Invitations and Stationery Honeymoon Location

& David Cross Crowe

October 19, 2024 Mr. and Mrs. Darry Dewayne Hardy Mr. and Mrs. David Mabus Crowe The Bridal Path Jennifer Mullen Events and Designs Crowe Family Property Wren & Rose and Delta Party Rental Catfish Cabin Bobbi Cakes, LLC Midnight Louise Cookie Co. Spunk Monkees (reception), Mississippi Strings (ceremony) Abundant Films Marisa Farr Erin Higgins Artistry & Lauren Aldridge Menage Fine Stationary & Gifts, Calligraphy Designs by Lyn and Allyson Hardy Art Bora Bora, French Polynesia DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 187

ANNOUNCEMENTS

HAZLEWOOD

MCARTHUR

Castle Hill • Oxford • Kylie Wooten Photography

188 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Mary Alice Hazlewood

& Michael Greer McArthur III

Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Wedding Planner Reception Venue Floral Design Catering Wedding Cake Groom’s Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Bride’s Makeup Invitations and Stationery Honeymoon Location

July 20, 2024 Ms. Melissa Lester Hazlewood and Mr. Lee Bennett Hazlewood Mrs. Crystal McArthur Freeman and Mr. Michael Greer McArthur II Kelly Faetanini from The Bridal Path Lexie Beth Arnold Castle Hill Fresh Cut Catering & Floral Castle Hill Bremma’s Cakery & Confections Cakes by Iris Mustache The Band Heart and Soul by Ally Nicole McKenna Goddard and Libbi Kyle Hansford ASAP Printing St. Lucia DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 189

ANNOUNCEMENTS

HEATON

MAXEY

Carillon Chapel • Rosemary Beach, Florida • Wesleyann McMullen

190 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Ann Granville Heaton Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Wedding Planner Reception Venue Floral Design Catering Wedding Cake and Groom’s Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Bride’s Makeup Invitations and Stationery Honeymoon Location

& Mason Reece Maxey

February 17, 2024 Mr. and Mrs. William Cliff Heaton Mr. and Mrs. Scott Mathews Maxey and Ms. Kimberly Mason Maxey Ann Barge Couture Arden Sanders Events St. Augustine Green Garden District Memphis Townsend Catering Company Barb’s Cakes Az IzZ Band Jessica Gallant Yvette Nation Azberger Stationers (invitations), Forget Me Not Studio (stationery) St. Lucia DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 191

ANNOUNCEMENTS

LAMENSDORF

LAPOFF

Wythe Hotel • Brooklyn, New York • Darren Ornitz Studio

192 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Lauren Elizabeth Lamensdorf Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Wedding Planner Reception Venue Floral Design Catering Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair and Makeup Invitations and Stationery Honeymoon Location

& Mitchell Lewis LaPoff

May 11, 2024 Mr. and Mrs. Mike Lamensdorf Mrs. Susan LaPoff and the late Dr. Stephen LaPoff Eisen Stein Ashley Douglass Events Wythe Hotel Doan Ly, a.p. bio Wythe Hotel Wild Flour Highline String Quartet (ceremony), The Eleven (reception) Face Time Beauty Bella Figura Italy DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 193

ANNOUNCEMENTS

MING

CAMP

The Ming Residence • Shelby • Ashleigh Coleman

Charlotte Gaines Ming Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Wedding Planner Reception Venue Floral Design and Catering Wedding Cake Groom’s Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Bride’s Makeup Invitations and Stationery Honeymoon Location 194 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

& Jason Andrew Camp

November 9, 2024 Dr. and Mrs. Jeffery Allan Ming Mrs. Karen Camp and the late Mr. Gary Adams Camp Anne Barge from The Bride Room, Nashville Bob Wilbanks The Ming Residence Grande Design Mother and aunt of the bride Sweet Annies Grandboyz Willow Rooker Betsy Rush Crane Negril, Jamaica

ANNOUNCEMENTS

NOE

COWART

St. Elizabeth Catholic Church • Clarksdale • John Clemmer Photography

Caroline Chrestman Noe

& Mark Jackson Cowart, junior

Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Wedding Planner Reception Venue Floral Design Catering Wedding Cake and Groom’s Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Bride’s Makeup Invitations and Stationery Honeymoon Location

November 16, 2024 Mr. and Mrs. Joe Noe III and Mrs. Robin Shellman Noe Mr. and Mrs. Mark Jackson Cowart and Mrs. Lisa Mitchell Cowart Elle James Bridal Kendall Poole Event Planning The Norman Brown Commons Building Floral Galleries Rentals Fresh Cut Catering & Floral Sally Chow Souled Out Tallie Pickett Smith Jamie Bobbitt Gifts by KPEP St. Lucia DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 195

ANNOUNCEMENTS

MORRIS

CLOSSMAN

Graystone Quarry • Franklin, Tennessee • Darling Juliet Photography

196 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Natalia Morris

& Peyton Phillips Clossman

Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Wedding Planner Reception Venue Floral Design Catering Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Bride’s Makeup Invitations and Stationery Honeymoon Location

August 17, 2024 Mr. and Mrs. Jason Kendall Morris Mr. and Mrs. Philip Worstall Clossman Gwinn by Justin Alexander Ellen Angersbach Graystone Quarry Graystone Quarry Florist Suzette Catering and Events Graystone Quarry DJ Josh Hearing Helen Bush Glam Nashville Designs in Paper Playa del Carmen, Mexico

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 197

ANNOUNCEMENTS

MURPHEY

SEIBERT

Clarksdale Methodist Church • Clarksdale • B. Flint Photography

198 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Katherine Tatum Murphey

& Marc Von Seibert II

Wedding Date October 5, 2024 Bride’s Parents Mrs. Richard Kendrick Murphey, junior and the late Mr. Richard Kendrick Murphey, junior Groom’s Parents Mr. and Mrs. Marc Von Seibert Wedding Gown Anne Barge from The Bridal Path Wedding Planner Ellen Thomas Event Design Reception Venue Cutrer Mansion Floral Design Oxford Floral Catering Elizabeth Heiskell Catering Wedding Cake and Groom’s Cake Alice Chow Entertainment Blackberry Breeze Bride’s Hair The Studio Bride’s Makeup Mary Shields Hunter Invitations and Stationery Fresh Ink Honeymoon Location Playa del Carmen, Mexico DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 199

ANNOUNCEMENTS

O’NEAL

RAMSEY

The Episcopal Church of the Nativity • Greenwood • Ana Blakely Photography The families and friends of Molly Kathryn O’Neal and Nelson Ppool Ramsey gathered for a festive and intimate “Delta Destination” wedding in Greenwood during the recent Christmas season. The couple was united in marriage at six o’clock in the evening on December 14, 2024, at the Episcopal Church of the Nativity in Greenwood.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Carl O’Neal of Madison. She is the granddaughter of Mrs. Sara Ann Dale of Greenwood, the late Mr. and Mrs. Madison Sylvester Dale, junior, of Glendora, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Linville Earl Marter of Grenada.

The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Ppool Ramsey of Madison, Mississippi. He is the grandson of Mrs. Ralph Raymond Ramsey, junior, and the late Mr. Ramsey, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Eugene Fraley, all of Hot Springs, Arkansas.

The ceremony was officiated by Reverend Don Chancellor, rector of the Church of the Nativity, and Reverand Will Compton, rector of the Chapel of the Cross in Madison, the bride’s home church. The wedding ceremony was directed by Katie Dale, cousin of the bride. Music was provided by organist David Williamson, and flowers were provided by Pryor Hackleman of A Pryor Engagement.

Given in marriage by her parents and escorted by her father, Molly wore a custom-created gown by Antonio Gual from Elle James Bridal. The fitted dress was covered entirely in Alencon lace and featured an open back, a chapel train adorned with covered buttons, and long lace sleeves which ended in delicate points over her wrists. She wore a cathedral-length veil of classic tulle and carried a nosegay bouquet of winter white peonies, roses, hydrangeas, and cala lilies. Tucked into her bouquet and serving as both her “something old” and “something blue” was a cherished hand-embroidered handkerchief that has been carried by generations of brides in the groom’s family, dating from the mid1800s in Scotland. The mother of the bride carried a handkerchief that belonged to her mother, the late Pi Dale of Glendora, the bride’s grandmother.

Mrs. Charles Morson Emerson II, sister of the bride, attended as matron of honor, and Steve Ramsey stood as best man for his son. Serving as ring bearers were Molly’s nephews, Henry Kenneth O’Neal and Andrew Michael O’Neal, sons of Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Terry Rowell O’Neal, brother and sister-in-law of the bride. Stephen O’Neal served as scripture reader. Charles Mills Emerson, nephew of the bride, served as usher along with his father Chas Emerson and Stephen O’Neal. Anne Mitchell Emerson, Elizabeth Emerson, and Hattie Emerson, nieces of the bride, greeted guests and served as program attendants.

Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed champagne and cocktails at the Carl Center where the “halls were decked” with twinkling Christmas trees, yards of garland, and stunning winter flower arrangements. Guests were then ushered upstairs for a

200 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

glittering candlelight seated dinner catered by Karyn Burrus of Grapevine Catering, featuring a lovely winter salad and beef tenderloin. During dinner, family and friends regaled one another with heartfelt toasts and entertaining stories, after which guests returned to the first floor for more cocktails and the cutting of the cakes. With a nod to the bride’s lace gown, the traditional threetiered wedding cake created by Karyn Burrus was encircled in intricate ivory sugar “lace” and topped with roses. The stunning groom’s cake was prepared by Brandi Matthews of Pecan Grove Cakes and echoed the groom’s uniform from The United States Military Academy at West Point, from which he graduated in 2023.

Several of his West Point classmates were guests and displayed their class rings alongside the cake. Guests finally gathered along the beautiful front steps of the Carl Center as the happy couple descended in a shower of sparklers and were whisked away in a vintage convertible Mustang graciously provided by family friend Will Lott.

On the evening before the wedding, after checking in to their rooms at the Alluvian Hotel, family and friends strolled to 222 Howard for a festive welcome party featuring holiday cocktails and heavy hors d’oeuvres. The venue sparkled with Christmas lights and decorations, including the childhood Christmas stockings of the bride and groom. The bags of goodies provided to hotel guests included spring water from Hot Springs, Arkansas, home of the groom’s family, and homemade cheese straws made by Kathryn Dale Roland, the bride’s aunt.

On Saturday before the wedding, guests enjoyed the downtown festivities of Greenwood’s “Delta Dickens Christmas,” featuring carriage rides, Victorian carolers, and real snow! While getting ready for the ceremony, the family was treated to delicious sandwiches and snacks lovingly provided by Page and Perry Whites, cousins of the bride.

The couple wishes to give special thanks to all of those who helped create the perfect wedding weekend. Pryor Hackleman of A Pryor Engagement served as the wedding planner, and Karyn Burrus of Grapevine Catering prepared the food for both nights.

Romney Brock assisted with planning and decor at 222 Howard.

The photographer for the weekend was Ana Blakely, and videography was provided by Matthew Moore and Third Bird Films. Gabby Denton of Legends Salon styled the bride and wedding party’s hair, and Mary Shields Hunter did makeup. Wyly Biggers provided music, Chris Orr provided bartending services, and Andy Hackleman supplied sound services. The wedding invitations featured the calligraphy of the talented Beth Stevens.

Following a brief honeymoon in New Orleans, Louisiana, the couple is at home in Belton, Texas, where Molly is a registered nurse, and Nelson is an active-duty Army Armor officer stationed at nearby Fort Cavazos, Texas.

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 201

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ODOM

KREILICK

Christ Methodist Church • Memphis, Tennessee • Rob & Deanna Photography Christine Elizabeth Odom and Kurtis Richard Kreilick were united in marriage on June 15, 2024, at Christ Methodist Church in Memphis, Tennessee.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Michael Todd Odom of Memphis. She is the granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Benard Olan Lovorn of Rolling Fork and the late Mr. and Mrs. Robert Graham Odom of Pensacola, Florida. Mr. and Mrs. Robert Larry Tisdale of Arlington, Tennessee, are honorary grandparents of the bride.

The groom is the son of Mr. Steven Wagner Kreilick and Ms. Patricia Marie Kreilick of Burgoon, Ohio. He is the grandson of Mrs. Shirley Ann Hammer and the late Mr. Charles Richard Hammer and the late Mr. and Mrs. Lester Willis Kreilick all of Burgoon, Ohio.

The Reverend Dr. Jacquelin Gatliff officiated the double-ring ceremony. Ms. Angela Saunders, organist, and the Beth Luscombe String Quartet accompanied the soloist Mr. Benjamin Grady Staton. They presented a program of nuptial music which included “The Lord’s Prayer” and “In This Very Room.”

LeFleur of Memphis served as florist for the ceremony and reception. The church doors welcomed guests with wreaths of the bride’s favorite flower, butterfly ranunculus, and sashes adorned with the couple’s monogram. Arrangements of orchids, roses, snapdragons, and butterfly ranunculus flanked the altar and the cross, while matching pew arrangements flanked the aisle. The flowers were placed in loving memory of Mr. and Mrs. Benard Olan Lovorn, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Graham Odom, Mr. Charles Richard Hammer, and Mr. and Mrs. Lester Willis Kreilick.

Escorted by her father, the bride wore an ivory organza gown with fitted bodice. The bodice, basque waistline, and chapel-length train were enhanced with re-embroidered lace and silk floss motifs encrusted with seed pearls and iridescent crystals. The bride wore a fingertip veil edged in matching crystals.

The bride carried a cascading bouquet of phalaenopsis orchids, butterfly ranunculus, and roses tied with ivory satin ribbon.

Pinned to the ribbon was a photo brooch of her maternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Benard Olan Lovorn, when they were celebrating their honeymoon. The brooch was a gift from the bride’s cousin Mrs. Leslie Dees. Also, very special to the occasion was the bride’s wedding band, as it was the wedding band of her maternal great-grandmother Mrs. Grace Heath; the ring’s inscription reads, “Jim to Grace, 01.15.1920.”

The maid of honor was Miss Ashley Marie Evans. Miss Sarah Julia Besser, Mrs. Caitlin Leigh Freeman, Mrs. Jessica Janelle Gray, Mrs. Madeline East Rusnak, and Ms. Karri Kreilick Schieb, sister of the groom, served as bridesmaids. Junior bridesmaids were Miss Landry Rose Holland, cousin of the bride, and Miss Lillian Harper Schieb, niece of the groom. All carried bouquets of roses, ranunculus, boxwood, and sprengeri fern. Miss Lorelei Marie Dees

202 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

and Miss Helen Christine Windham, cousins of the bride, served as garland girls. They carried a kneeler garland of boxwood adorned with roses, orchids, and fern. Miss Addison Marie Nieset and Miss Charlie Marie Kay Nieset served as flower girls and carried baskets of miniature roses and fern.

Mr. Spencer Grey Windham, cousin of the bride, was ring bearer. The best man was Mr. Thomas Lawrence Nieset, and Mr. Kevin Charles Holcomb, Mr. Alexander James Nieset, Mr. Roman Lawrence Nieset, Mr. Timothy Christopher Nieset, and Mr. Prashanth Raj served as groomsmen. Mr. Ethan Charles Fox, Dr. Kyle Maclin Freeman, Mr. Benjamin Grady Staton, Mr. Lucas Martin Leme Teixeira, and Mr. Aaron Houston Wingo served as ushers. All wore boutonnieres of stephanotis.

The bride’s “something blue” was her “blue crew,” great friends and relatives that, along with the bridesmaids, helped her celebrate throughout the preceding year and at the wedding.

Cousins of the bride, Mrs. Mandy Hattaway Windham, Mrs. Leslie Newman Dees, Mrs. Lisa Newman Reed, and dear friends of the bride, Miss Abigail Elizabeth Basham, Mrs. Rebekah Thomas Bowers, Miss Mackenzie Marie Bridges, Dr. Shelby Lynn Freeman, Miss Kenedi Renee Kelley, and Miss Mardi Morgan Traskowsky, comprised the “blue crew.” All wore white ranunculus wrist corsages adorned with blue ribbon.

The reception following the wedding was held in the Continental Ballroom of The Peabody Hotel. Guests were greeted with passed hors d’oeuvres, champagne, and music by the jazz trio of the band. The Party Jammers full band provided music for the entire evening. The guests were served dinner at tables overlaid with pink champagne cloths and adorned with high and low arrangements of roses, ranunculus, orchids, watermelon anthurium, butterfly ranunculus, ivy, and fern. The five-tiered wedding cake appeared to pop from a large floral display that covered the balcony rail below the cake and wrapped the arched doorway behind the cake. The ballroom was transformed into a fragrant garden. The groom’s four-tiered square cake was adorned with Star Wars symbols. Guests danced the night away, as the Party Jammers provided great entertainment and music. Late night bites including a donut wall loaded with a variety of famous Gibson’s donuts, clothesline bacon, sliders, and french fry shots were served in the ballroom annex, the Louis XIV Room.

The guests exited the ballroom with favors of inscribed stemless wine glasses and mints. The couple’s send-off was through a tunnel of lighted ribbon wands held by the guests. The couple departed the Peabody in a white horse-drawn Cinderella carriage bearing a “Just Married” sign on the rear of the carriage.

After a honeymoon cruise to Bermuda, the couple makes their home in Memphis.

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 203

ANNOUNCEMENTS

PARKER

OUZTS

The Parker Residence • Drew • Patrick Remington Photography

Alex Parker Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Wedding Planner Reception Venue Floral Design Catering Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair and Makeup Invitations and Stationery Honeymoon Location 204 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

& Ashton Ouzts

October 26, 2024 Mr. and Mrs. Michael Couch Parker Ms. Valerie Ouzts and Mr. Brad Ouzts The Bridal Path Ever After Moments The Parker Residence Celeste House Milbrand Stafford’s Market & Deli Kamryn Otts Chambers, bridesmaid The Grand Boys Sammi Leinhart The Image Specialist Nayara, Costa Rica

ANNOUNCEMENTS

PARKER

BAGLEY

Morgan Parker

& Landon Bagley

Sterling Hall • Canton • Patrick Remington Photography

Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Wedding Planner Reception Venue Floral Design Catering Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair and Makeup Invitations and Stationery Honeymoon Location

November 23, 2024 Mr. and Mrs. Michael Couch Parker Mr. and Mrs. Paul Bagley The Bridal Path Ever After Moment Sterling Hall Lisa Kelly Susie Morgan Turquoise Chandelier Grove Factor Olivia Preston Artistry The Image Specialist Sandals, Barbados DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 205

ANNOUNCEMENTS

PRUITT

GOODE

Southern Oaks • New Orleans, Louisiana • Helena Kaye Photography

Ashton Elizabeth Pruitt and Gary Franklin Goode III were united in marriage at half past six o’clock in the evening on Saturday,

Bridesmaids were Anna Douglas Talley, Martha Katharine Goode, Milligan Louise Prickett, and Kelsey Dawn McCoy.

February 3, 2024, at Southern Oaks in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Attending the groom as best man was his father, Gary Franklin

The bride is the daughter of Ms. Tara Ashton of Bryant,

Goode II of Lyon, Mississippi. Groomsmen were Ron Wesley Perry

Arkansas, and Mr. Dane Edward Pruitt of Little Rock, Arkansas.

II, Franklin Chase Crumpton, Anthony Curtis Antici, Gregory Tyler

She is the granddaughter of Ms. Linda Pruitt and the late Jimmy

Dalton, Eustis Corrigan III, Richard Frazier Hull, junior, and William

Pruitt of Osceola, Arkansas, and Mr. Charles Ashton of Hot Springs,

Shepherd Carpenter. Ushers were Joel Raymond Reeves, Mark

Arkansas, and Ms. Mary Lou Brown of Paragould, Arkansas.

Bolling Crumpton, junior, and Randolph Jefferson Talley III.

The groom is the son of Mr. And Mrs. Gary Franklin Goode II

Following the ceremony, the reception was held at Southern

of Lyon, Mississippi. He is the grandson of the late Sue Goode of

Oaks in New Orleans, Louisiana. The rehearsal dinner was held

Benton, Arkansas, and the late Gary Goode of England, Arkansas,

on the eve of the wedding at Le Pavillon Hotel in New Orleans,

and the late Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Nolan of Tunica, Mississippi.

Louisiana. After a week-long vacation in Antigua, the couple

Attending the bride as matron of honor was Sydney Elmore of

returned home to Oxford, Mississippi. The bride is a registered

Texarkana, Arkansas, with her sister Emma Katherine Pruitt of

nurse with Baptist Memorial Hospital, and the groom is a farmland

Bryant, Arkansas, serving as her maid of honor.

property manager in the Trust Department for Regions Bank.

206 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

ANNOUNCEMENTS

QUINTON

TIDMORE

The Lyric Hotel West End • Cleveland • Skelton Photography

Anna Grace Quinton and Tanner Tidmore were united in

Attending the groom as best man was his brother, Hays

marriage at half past six o’clock in the evening on Saturday, May

Tidmore of Merigold. Groomsmen were Craig Hankins, Collins

25, 2024, at The Lyric Hotel in Cleveland.

Tabb, Connor Cariker, Leland Cariker, John Thomas Matthews,

The bride is the daughter of Dr. and Mrs. William Neil Quinton of Oxford. She is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Bill Quinton of Cleveland and Ms. Patricia Coleman of Oxford.

The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Arden Clyde Tidmore of Merigold. He is the grandson of Mrs. Louise Tidmore and the late Mr. Archie Clyde Tidmore of Merigold and the late Mr. and Mrs. William Wayne Wyatt of Yazoo City.

Attending the bride as her maid of honor was her lifelong friend

Brandon Bergold, Hardy Franklin, Tyler Quinton, Conner Quinton, Matt Stowers, and R.J. Phillips.

Clayton Hankins served as the ring bearer. Sarah Reese Stoner and Channing Cooper served as the flower girls. Pastor Fish Robinson, of Community Church in Oxford, officiated the wedding ceremony.

Following the ceremony, the reception was held at the Cleveland Country Club. The rehearsal dinner was held on the eve

Leslie Anne Bass of Duncan. Bridesmaids were Mary Anna Walker,

of the wedding at Crawdads in Merigold. After a week-long

Bayley Bond, Gracie Ray, Brianna Britt, Julia Smyth, Brooke Belson,

honeymoon in Barbados, the couple is at home in Hernando. The

Elizabeth Hale, Meredith Thoren, Emily Placet, Bennett Strickland,

bride works as a speech language pathologist at Moore Pediatric

Travis Coopwood, and Emma Quinton as junior bridesmaid.

Therapy, and the groom is a sales representative at Morgan Steel.

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 207

ANNOUNCEMENTS

RAGLAND

HANSFORD

Elizabeth Kyle Ragland

& Hayes Preston Hansford

Bride and Groom’s Residence • Bentonia • Helena Kaye Photography

Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Wedding Planner Reception Venue Floral Design and Catering Wedding Cake and Groom’s Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Bride’s Makeup Invitations and Stationery Honeymoon Location 208 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

September 28, 2024 Mr. and Mrs. Ryan Ragland Mr. and Mrs. Todd Parrish and the late Preston Hansford The Demeter Gown by Èlysèe Bridal Design Laura Beth Shufelt with L. Bliss Ragland Farms (bride’s family farm) Fresh Cut Catering & Floral Cakes by Iris Jason Miller Band (reception) Jacob Arnold (cocktail hour/first dances) Hannah Margaret Nunley HM by Asia Nicole Fresh Ink Bahamas

ANNOUNCEMENTS

SCOTT

JERNIGAN

First Presbyterian Church • Lake Village, Arkansas • Beth Giachelli Photography

Peyton Elizabeth Scott Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Wedding Planner Reception Venue Floral Design and Catering Wedding Cake and Groom’s Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Bride’s Makeup Invitations and Stationery Honeymoon Location

& Steven Ross Jernigan II

February 3, 2024 Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Calvin Lang and Mr. William Paul Scott, junior Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Ross Jernigan Amelia Grace Bridal Amanda Cottingham Lake Village Country Club The Pantry Inc. Shelaine Fulton The Patrick Smith Band Hair by Anna Nicole Thomas BATA Beauty Company Rebekah Caraway Creative St. Lucia DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 209

ANNOUNCEMENTS

RIDGE

ADAMS

The Gin at Nesbit • Nesbit • River + Rae Photography Dr. Emily Clare Ridge and Mr. Zachary Davidson Adams were united in marriage at noon on September 14, 2024, at a small intimate Mass at St. Mary Catholic Church in Batesville.

The bride is the daughter of Mrs. Robin Humphries Ridge and Mr. Willis Freeman Ridge of Courtland. She is the granddaughter of the late Mrs. Wanda Lynette and Mr. Charles Eugene Ridge of Helena, Arkansas, and the late Mrs. Alice Anne and Mr. Roger Humphries of Punta Gorda, Florida. The groom is the son of the late Mr. Gregory Davidson Adams and Mrs. Stacey Dean Coalter and Mr. John Mike Coalter of Nesbit. He is the grandson of the late Dr. George Everett Adams of Milligan Ridge, Arkansas, and Mrs. Tolitha Kaye Adams of Manila, Arkansas, and the late Mr. John Nathan Dean and Mrs. Mickey Hope Eason (Pace) both from Tyronza, Arkansas. The ceremony of holy matrimony with Eucharist was officiated by Father Pradeep. Music was provided by vocalist Katie Azar, a lifelong friend of the bride’s family, along with a string trio. The gathered guests listened to Scripture readings from Genesis and Corinthians read by Austin Dye. Escorted by her father, Emily wore a very special vintage dress that was repurposed to fit her perfectly. The dress was worn by her mother, Robin Ridge, on her wedding day in 1985. She was able to keep it a surprise and shared many meaningful tears of joy when her mother noticed what she was wearing.

On September 28, 2024, Emily and Zac then celebrated their union of marriage in the presence of all of their friends and family at The Gin at Nesbit with a reception following. The ceremony was officiated by John Mike Coalter. The gown and matching veil were chosen at Barefoot Bride in Memphis. The bride walked down the aisle wearing her mother’s blue gem ring borrowed for the occassion and with her Grandmother Wanda’s vintage wedding ring tied to her bouquet. Lisa Dye and Molly Garner attended the bride as matrons of honor. Bridesmaids were Nicole Tavaras, Rachel Moor, Amber Blalock, Olivia Phillips, Sarah Wright, Christina Berry, and Huong McKenney. The bridesmaids wore floor-length dresses of various styles, each in a different shade of green. Nic Adams served as his brother’s best man. Groomsmen included Emily’s brother James Ridge, Blake Clothier, Jake Stone, Cade Edwards, Taz Zettergren, Mac McDonald, Tyler Lacefield, and Dylan White. Emily’s nephew, William Knox Ridge, and Zac’s cousin, Jack Bagwell, were the ring bearers. Elliot and Blair Bagwell helped welcome the bride down the aisle as flower girls.

The couple’s first dance was the perfect song to describe their

210 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

love: Jordan Davis’s “What Makes My World Spin Around,” a fresh, jaunty song about life’s simple pleasures. The father-daughter dance brought tears to all the guests’ eyes while Tim McGraw’s “My Little Girl” played, and everyone felt all the love in the room while Drew Baldridge’s song “Can She Have This Dance” played for the mother-son dance. Emily honored her mother by giving a love-filled, appreciative toast and dedicating her bouquet to her.

Kathleen Davenport with Pineapple Processions coordinated the events of the day, and Pink Flamingo provided the food and even remade Emily’s Grandmother Alice’s famous green bean bundles that were enjoyed by all. Sweet Serendipity Wedding Cakes helped make the bride’s cake dreams come true. The bridal cake was the most mouthwatering traditional almond wedding cake flavor with homemade buttercream icing and was beautifully decorated with real wildflowers and pressed flowers all over the cake. Florals were gifted to the newlyweds by Zac’s cousin’s farm, Bagwell Family Farmstead. Wildflowers including snapdragons, zinnias, dahlias, daisies, amaranth, yarrow, scabiosa, and cosmos filled the bouquets designed by One Fine DayZee. The centerpieces, back drops, boutonnieres, and bouquets all had turkey feathers incorporated to reflect Zachary’s love of turkey hunting.

The couple was honored with several parties prior to the wedding including a surprise engagement party held by the Coalters in their beautiful home. Mrs. Stacey also held a lovely bridal shower at her home with her many welcoming friends and family. The bachelorette party was a fun-filled trip to New Orleans with bridesmaids and friends; the groomsmen enjoyed a trip in St. Louis to watch the Cardinals play. On the day of her parents’ anniversary in July, the bride was honored by her mother’s friends with a bridal shower at the home of Mrs. Maribeth Haire in Batesville. The shower was hosted by all the wonderful hometown ladies who helped raise the bride throughout her life. On the eve of the wedding, the groom’s parents hosted a rehearsal dinner at the Hernando Golf and Racquet Club with wonderful food, toasts, shared love and laughs, and slide shows with memorable old photos of family members and the bridal party.

The couple enjoyed a relaxing honeymoon in the Bahamas after the wedding. They now call Hernando home, where Dr. Emily is the owner and optometrist at Elite Eyecare and Zac is a top producing outside sales rep for Sunbelt Rentals.

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 211

ANNOUNCEMENTS

SHEPHERD

LUCAS

First Baptist Church of Greenville • Greenville • John Clemmer Photography

Callie Marie Shepherd Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Wedding Planner Reception Venue Floral Design Catering Wedding Cake and Groom’s Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair Bride’s Makeup Invitations and Stationery Honeymoon Location 212 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

& Turner Pratt Lucas

September 21, 2024 Mr. Richard Thomas Shepherd and the late Mrs. Tammy Buckner Shepherd Mr. Christopher Glenn Lucas and Mrs. Penelope Marlow Goodman Martina Liana from Elle James Bridal Kendall Poole Event Planning The Greenville Golf and Country Club Lavish Fleur The Greenville Golf and Country Club Cakes by Iris Compozitionz Tallie Smith Victoria Randall Kendall Poole Event Planning St. Lucia

ANNOUNCEMENTS

TAYLOR

RAYER

Saint Joseph Catholic Church • Greenville • Letty Weeks Photography

Mary Elizabeth Taylor and Christopher Taylor Rayer were united

Attending the groom as best man was Trevor Warner of Baton

in marriage at seven o’clock in the evening on Saturday, December

Rouge, Louisiana. Groomsmen were Robert Rayer, Jack Rayer,

28, 2024, at Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church in downtown Greenville.

and Cody Faucheux. Ushers were Thomas Sherman, Spenser

The bride is the daughter of Gary and Kim Taylor of Greenville.

She is granddaughter to the late Dr. and Mrs. Leon Lenoir of Greenville and the late Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Taylor of Bewdley, England.

Simpson, and Austin Simpson.

Grant LaFleur, Henry Rayer, James Slayton, and Whelan Slayton served as ring bearers, and Georgia LaFleur, Taylor

The groom is the son of Christopher Rayer and Kathleen Rayer

LaFleur, and Waverly Sheehan served as the flower girls. Father

of Covington, Louisiana. He is the grandson of the late Mr. and

Aaron Williams of St. Mary’s Basilica in Natchez officiated the

Mrs. Thomas Rayer of New Orleans, Louisiana, and the late Mr.

wedding Mass.

and Mrs. Robert Kuebel of New Orleans, Louisiana.

Following the ceremony, the reception was held at Cedar

Attending the bride as maid of honor was her sister Anne Taylor

Acres, the home of the bride’s grandparents. The rehearsal dinner

of Gulfport with Breanna Rose Sheehan of Collierville, Tennessee,

was held on the eve of the wedding at The Thompson House Inn

serving as matron of honor. Bridesmaids were Lenoir Taylor

in Leland. After a two-week honeymoon in New Zealand, the

LaFleur, Sarah Taylor Slayton, Laci Bernardi, and Christin Stafford.

couple is at home in Mandeville, Louisiana.

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 213

ANNOUNCEMENTS

TEEVAN

FOURIE

White Pillars • Biloxi • Madeline B Photography

214 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Hanna Marie Teevan Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Wedding Planner Reception Venue Floral Design Catering Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair and Makeup Invitations and Stationery Honeymoon Location

& Almero Fourie

February 24, 2024 Mr. and Mrs. Neil Bernard Teevan Mr. and Mrs. Francois Fourie Maggie Louise Bridal Allison Gay-Cunningham White Pillars Beth Cranford Floral White Pillars Whipped, LLC DJ Dawn Patrol Cody Shafer Hanna Marie Teevan Nassau, Bahamas

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 215

ANNOUNCEMENTS

WILLIAMS

HARRICK

The Vaucluse House • Sydney, New South Wales, Australia • Remy Mitchell-James Photography The bride, Kristen Marie Williams, is the daughter of Glenn H.

While Declan hails from Melbourne, Kristen and Declan both

Williams, a life-long resident of the Delta. Glenn is an attorney in

obtained employment in Sydney, where they now reside. Declan

Cleveland whose practice focuses primarily on personal injury and

is employed as an advertising executive, and Kristen is a crisis

agricultural bankruptcy. Kristen’s mother, Mary Phillips, is a resident

counselor for children and young adults. After becoming settled

of Tallahatchie County and is a schoolteacher in Charleston. The

in their careers in Sydney, the couple planned their wedding.

groom, Declan Harrick, is the son of Paul and Janita Harrick,

For the venue they chose the Vaucluse House in Sydney, a

residents of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. Paul is a business

heritage-listed historic property, which includes a Gothic-Revival

owner, and Janita is a doctor of podiatry.

country estate constructed in 1839 and twenty-eight acres of

While living in Australia, Declan was recruited by Delta State

formal gardens and grounds. The nuptials were celebrated on the

University, and he accepted a scholarship to the Statesmen

lush grounds of the estate followed by a formal dinner for over one

Basketball Team. During his time as a member of the team, the

hundred guests. In keeping with Australian tradition, friends and

Statesmen competitively played in the conference title game.

family delivered many warm and funny speeches at the dinner.

Kristen and Declan began dating and fell in love during their

The day following the wedding, family and friends gathered at

junior year at Delta State. They dated until they both graduated

the Lord Dudley English Pub in Sydney to say their goodbyes, with

and obtained their bachelor’s degrees. Declan then returned to

many returning to the U.S. and others to various parts of Australia.

Australia, where he studied advertising and won awards in national advertising competitions. Kristen remained at Delta State to obtain her master’s degree. After visiting Declan in Australia, they realized that they could not be apart, and Kristen joined Declan in Australia after completing her master’s.

216 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Despite the great distance between the Delta and Australia, the people of Australia and the people of the Delta are similar in many wonderful ways and bonded easily.

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 217

ANNOUNCEMENTS

WHATLEY

NORWOOD

Meagan Leanna Whatley

& Hunter Dale Norwood

Chinaberry Chapel at Peacock in the Delta • Shaw • Patrick Remington Photography

Wedding Date Bride’s Parents Groom’s Parents Wedding Gown Wedding Planner Reception Venue Floral Design and Catering Wedding Cake Entertainment Bride’s Hair and Makeup Invitations and Stationery Honeymoon Location 218 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

November 9, 2024 Mr. and Mrs. Edward Lee Whatley Mr. and Mrs. Carl Jerome Norwood, junior Martina Leona from Maggie Louise Kendall Poole Event Planning The Warehouse Fresh Cut Catering & Floral Chow Cakes The Party Jammers Vanity Salon Kendall Poole Event Planning Excellence Resort at Playa del Mujeres, Mexico

ENGAGEMENTS

Elizabeth Strickland Bassie & Landon Reid Howard Mr. and Mrs. William Thomas Bassie of Gunnison announce the engagement of their daughter, Elizabeth Strickland Bassie, to Landon Reid Howard, son of the late Mr. Olen Bret Howard of Clarksdale and Dr. and Mrs. Patrick Ellison Sewell of Shreveport, Louisiana.

The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mrs. Jacqueline Pennington and the late Reverand Dr. William Arthur Pennington, junior, of Cleveland and the late Mr. and Mrs. Victor Albert Bassie of Gunnison. Libby is a graduate of Mississippi State University and is currently a student at the University of Mississippi Medical Center School of Physical Therapy.

The prospective groom is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Bobby Earl Howard of Clarksdale, Carla Ann Walker of Cape Girardeau, Missouri, and Mr. and Mrs. James Keith Pritchard of Jackson, Tennessee. Landon is also a graduate of Mississippi State University and is employed by the KBH Corporation.

The two were engaged on April 15, 2023. The marriage will take place on May 17, 2025, at First United Methodist Church with a reception to follow at the Delta Arts Alliance in Cleveland.

Avery Breanne Douglas & Koleman Lee Hardin Mr. and Mrs. Evan Cody Douglas of Weimar, Texas, and Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Lee Waller of La Vernia, Texas, are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Avery Breanne Douglas to Koleman Lee Hardin, son of Mr. and Mrs. Kristopher Lee Hardin of Rosenberg, Texas.

The mother of the groom, Kelly Mann Hardin, is a Skene native.

The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mr. And Mrs. Dallis Clyde Douglas of Smithville, Texas, and Mr. and Mrs. John Bryan Craig of La Vernia, Texas. Avery is a graduate of Texas A&M University with a degree in business administration. She is currently employed at Hunton Trane Distribution in Houston, Texas.

The prospective groom is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Albert Rhuben Mann III of Skene and Mr. and Mrs. Carl Wayne Hardin of Rosenberg, Texas. Koleman is a graduate of Texas State University where he earned a degree in business marketing. He is employed at Hunton Trane Services.

Koleman and Avery celebrated their engagement on October 19, 2024, in a beautiful open area piece of land near their home. They will exchange vows on May 16, 2025, at The Stables on the Brazos in Fulshear, Texas, with a reception to follow. Thursday evening before the wedding, the bride and groom will celebrate with members of the wedding party and family at a rehearsal dinner hosted by the groom’s parents at Braman Winery.

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 219

ENGAGEMENTS

Sarah Frances Downs & Samuel Thomas Mosley Mr. and Mrs. Frederick Alfred Downs of Cleveland are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Sarah Frances Downs, to Samuel Thomas Mosley, son of Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Brooks Mosley of Jackson.

The bride-elect is the granddaughter of the late Mrs. Sarah Blaylock Williams and the late James Alfred Holder of Ruleville, and Mrs. Frances Braswell Downs and the late Morris Enoch Downs of Linn.

The bride-elect was valedictorian of her graduating class at Indianola Academy, after which she attended Mississippi State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biochemistry and graduated summa cum laude. She was also a member of Chi Omega Fraternity and was honored to serve as president of her chapter. Sarah Frances is a student at the University of Mississippi Medical Center School of Medicine in Jackson.

The prospective groom is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Mitchener of Columbus, and the late Margaret Brooks Mosley and the late Joseph Thomas Mosley of Starkville. He is a graduate of Jackson Preparatory School and Mississippi State University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree, graduating magna cum laude, and a master’s degree, both in accounting. He was a member of Beta Alpha Psi Honors organization, where he served as treasurer, and was a member of Sigma Chi Fraternity. He is an accountant at Sedgwick, a global managed care solutions company based in Memphis.

The couple plans to exchange vows on June 7, 2025, at the First Baptist Church in Cleveland, with a reception following at the Cotton House Hotel.

Molly Barron Fontenot & Jackson Brake Pickering Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Barron Fontenot of Hollandale are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Molly Barron Fontenot, to Jackson Brake Pickering, son of Mr. Charles Willis “Chip” Pickering and Ms. Leisha Prather Pickering of Jackson.

The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mr. Edward William Shackleford and the late Mrs. Barbara Evans Bruton of Hollandale, and of Mr. Billy Barron Fontenot and the late Mrs. Shirley Jones Fontenot of Hollandale. The brideelect was valedictorian of her graduating class at Washington School, after which she attended the University of Mississippi, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in biochemistry and graduated magna cum laude. She was also a member of Chi Omega Fraternity and was honored to serve as vice president of her chapter. Molly is a student at the University of Mississippi Medical Center School of Medicine in Jackson.

The prospective groom is the grandson of the late Dr. James Richard Prather and the late Evelyn Harper Prather of Memphis, and Judge Charles Pickering and Mrs. Margaret Anne Pickering of Laurel. He graduated from Jackson Academy and later earned a bachelor’s degree in business marketing from the University of Mississippi, where he served as president of the business school and vice president of the Kappa Alpha Order. He currently works in his family-owned business alongside his business consulting work. Jackson serves on the board of the Mississippi Heritage Trust, is an advisory board member of Downtown Jackson Partners, and is actively involved in improvement projects in Jackson.

The couple plans to exchange vows in the latter part of 2025.

220 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

ENGAGEMENTS

Alexis Leigh Janoush & Robert Fulton Ming Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Bradford Janoush and the late Leigh Brown Janoush of Cleveland are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Alexis Leigh Janoush, to Robert Fulton Ming, son of Dr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Allan Ming of Shelby.

The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Williams Janoush of Rosedale, Ms. Frances Pantin Janoush, Ms. Josephine Ferri Brown and the late Mr. Linwood Lloyd Brown, junior and Mr. and Mrs. Henry Edward Coleman of Cleveland. Alex is a graduate of Delta State University, earning her Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies. She is employed by Rimmer-Child & Koonce as an insurance agent in Cleveland.

The prospective groom is the grandson of the late Dr. and Mrs. Hugh Allan Alexander of Greenville and the late Mr. and Mrs. Marcus Lafayette Ming of Shelby. Robert is a graduate of Mississippi State University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Agriculture and Life Sciences. He is employed with the family business, Ming Planting Company of Shelby.

Alex and Robert were engaged in New Orleans on January 1, 2025.

The couple plans to exchange vows on December 6, 2025.

Sarah Bennett Shelton Smith & Brown Burch Baine, junior Mr. and Mrs. James Rogers Smith, IV of Merigold, are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Sarah Bennett Shelton Smith to Brown Burch Baine, junior son of Mr. and Mrs. Brown Burch Baine of Memphis, Tennessee.

The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mrs. Shelley Smith Beene of Jasper, Tennessee, and the late Lemuel Robert Beene of Cleveland, Tennessee, and Dr. Stephanie Cortner Smith of Monteagle, Tennessee, and the late James Rogers Smith, III of Merigold. She was also a special “granddaughter” of Mr. and Mrs. Lee McCarty, whom she lovingly called Unk and Aunt Pup. Sarah Bennett is a graduate of Virginia Episcopal School and a 2024 graduate of the University of Mississippi, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Integrated Marketing Communications. While at Ole Miss, Sarah Bennett was a member of Delta Delta Delta sorority.

Sarah Bennett is employed as a growth specialist at Speak Creative in Memphis.

The prospective groom is the grandson of the late Dr. Norwood J. Fleming and Ms. Cecily Orr Hulett of Montgomery, Alabama, and Dr. and Mrs. Rodney Baine of Clarksdale, Mississippi. Burch is a graduate of Memphis University School and a 2022 graduate of the University of Tennessee at Knoxville where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial and Systems Engineering. At UT, Burch was a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity and served as Librarian and Alumni Relations Chair.

Burch is employed as an engineer at Memphis Light, Gas and Water.

The couple plan to exchange vows on May 17, 2025, at the Monteagle Sunday School Assembly with a reception to follow.

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 221

ENGAGEMENTS

Mary Grace Summers & Coleman Kingsley Warrington Mr. and Mrs. William Larry Summers, junior, and the late Heather Christine Summers of Yazoo City are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Mary Grace Summers, to Coleman Kingsley Warrington, son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Bradford Janoush and the late Richard Eugene Warrington of Cleveland.

The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Larry Summers, Mr. and Mrs. V. E. McNair, III, Mrs. Peggy Isonhood Appleton, and the late Mr. Robert David Appleton, Jr. of Yazoo City. Mary Grace earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Delta State University, where she was a member of the Kappa Delta Sorority. She is currently employed by Bolivar Medical Center as an Emergency Department nurse.

The prospective groom is the grandson of Dr. James Edward Warrington, senior, and the late Mrs. Gladys Wiggs Warrington of Marks, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Edward Coleman and the late Mrs. Gailua Trantham Coleman, Ms. Frances Pantin Janoush of Cleveland, and Mr. and Mr. Joseph Williams Janoush of Rosedale. Coleman is a graduate of Delta State University, where he earned a master’s degree in business. He was also a member of the Kappa Alpha Order Fraternity. Coleman is self-employed with C3 of Cleveland.

The two were engaged on October 24, 2024, and plan to exchange vows on May 3, 2025, at First Presbyterian Church in Cleveland.

Rayne Hope Theunissen& Evan Barrett Pellegrin Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Dan Theunissen III of Hollandale are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Rayne Hope Theunissen, to Evan Barrett Pellegrin, son of Mr. and Mrs. Jeremy Wayne Polk and Mr. and Mrs. Michael Anthony Pellegrin of Madison.

The bride-elect is the granddaughter of the late Mrs. Mary Roberts and the late Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Roberts of Hollandale. She is also the granddaughter of the late Mrs. Janet Theunissen and Mr. Dan Theunissen of Hollandale. Rayne attended Mississippi State University where she completed her bachelor’s degree in the agricultural sciences program with a concentration in production and management of animal and dairy science. She is currently employed as the front manager at the Dawg House Playground and Salon in Starkville.

The prospective groom is the grandson of Nelda Barrett of Trujillo, Honduras, Mr. and Mrs. Rex Barrett of Olive Branch, and Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Polk of Chula Vista, Alabama. He is also the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Clarence A. Pellegrin of Mandeville, Louisiana, and the late Mrs. Martha Jeaneen Ewing and Mr. Milton C. Ewing III of Anguilla. Evan is a graduate of Mississippi State University where he earned his bachelor’s degree from the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. He is a field technician with Simplot Grower Solutions in Macon.

The two were engaged on September 28, 2024. The couple will exchange vows on October 25, 2025, at the Immaculate Conception Church in Hollandale with a reception to follow at Linden Plantation in Glen Allen.

222 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

2025

Wedding Registry

S Lauren Michelle Adams & John William Jennings...................168

Lauren Elizabeth Lamensdorf & Mitchell Lewis LaPoff ...................192

Mary Elizabeth Taylor & Christopher Taylor Rayer ..............213

Anna Brittain Antici & Jonathan Wayne Martin ................169

Correan Looney & John Thomas Foster ......................185

Hanna Marie Teevan & Almero Fourie ...............................214

Kathryn Bess Barton & Marco Van Der Heever ..................170

Charlotte Gaines Ming & Jason Andrew Camp......................194

Leslie Anne Bell & B Hampton Bass V ........................172

Natalia Morris & Peyton Phillips Clossman ..............196

Casey Marie Brozovich & Matthew Stanton McCarney ..........171

Katherine Tatum Murphey & Marc Von Seibert II .......................198

Madison Drew Bruton & Jason Miller Greenlee.....................174

Caroline Chrestman Noe & Mark Jackson Cowart, junior ........195

ENGAGEMENTS

Analise Rivers Bush & Jonathan Lake Giachelli................175

Molly Kathryn O’Neal & Nelson Pool Ramsey ......................200

Elizabeth Strickland Bassie & Landon Reid Howard....................219

Kendall Machell Farish & Austin James Mullins.....................176

Christine Odom & Kurtis Kreilic.................................202

Avery Breanne Douglas & Koleman Lee Hardin.....................219

Maggie Elizabeth Farmer & James Howard Alderman II...........178

Alex Parker & Ashton Ouzts.................................204

Sarah Frances Downs & Samuel Thomas Mosley.................220

Katherine Faulkner Flowers & Adam Tonquin Stovall ..................180

Morgan Parker & Landon Bagley ..............................205

Elizabeth Fowlkes & Hunter Graham.............................182

Ashton Elizabeth Pruitt & Gary Franklin Goode III................206

Brooks Douglas Fyfe & Lawton Greene Perry ....................181

Anna Grace Quinton & Tanner Tidmore ............................207

Georgia Cothern Gibson & Conner Neal Hughey .....................184

Elizabeth Kyle Ragland & Hayes Preston Hansford................208

Emma Kathleen Hardy & David Cross Crowe........................186

Emily Clare Ridge & Zachary Davidson Adams .............210

Mary Alice Hazlewood & Michael Greer McArthur III ...........188

Peyton Elizabeth Scott & Steven Ross Jernigan II................. 209

Ann Granville Heaton & Mason Reece Maxey ......................190

Callie Marie Shepherd & Turner Pratt Lucas........................212

Meagan Leanna Whatley & Hunter Dale Norwood ...................218 Kristen Williams & Declan Harrick..............................216

Molly Barron Fontenot & Jackson Brake Pickering................220 Alexis Leigh Janoush & Robert Fulton Ming.......................221 Sarah Bennett Shelton Smith & Brown Burch Baine, junior ............221 Mary Grace Summer & Coleman Kingsley Warrington.......222 Rayne Hope Theunissen & Evan Barrett Pellegrin...................222

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 223

224 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 225

FOOD

A Taste of Spring Celebrate the season with two lemony shrimp-centric menus, fresh salads, and indulgent desserts—all served on a beautifully simple outdoor table

BY CINDY COOPWOOD • PHOTOGRAPHY BY RORY DOYLE

226 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

SPRING HAS ARRIVED, and along with it, a multitude of occasions to host a beautiful outdoor luncheon. From bridal brunches to Easter lunches to birthday celebrations, try these seasonal menus featuring delicious shrimp dishes, simple salads, and two incredible desserts. Make it even more special by setting a lovely table outside on your patio or deck. We kept it simple with a pastel palette in our tablecloth, china, vintage linen napkins, and effortless florals with a pop of pink!

Spring Luncheon Menus Skillet Shrimp Scampi with Fried Lemon and Peas Fresh Berry Salad with Parmesan Crusty French Bread Lemon Pudding Cake Robert St. John’s Baked Shrimp and Squash Louisiana Sensation Salad Warm Olive Bread Toasted Coconut, Pecan, and Caramel Pie

SKILLET SHRIMP SCAMPI WITH FRIED LEMON AND PEAS 1 pound thin spaghetti 2 lemons, sliced in ¼ slices ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil 4 tablespoons butter 1 pound large or extra-large shrimp, peeled 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon black pepper ⅛ teaspoon red-pepper flakes, 3 tablespoons minced garlic 1 cup dry white wine 3 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 cup frozen green peas ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped

Prepare pasta and keep warm.

Pour olive oil into a medium skillet and fry sliced lemon over medium-high heat until beginning to brown. When nicely browned, remove from skillet and set on a paper towel to drain.

Add 4 tablespoons butter to the same skillet and allow to melt. Season shrimp with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if desired; toss shrimp and garlic into skillet, and sauté until the shrimp are cooked through. Pour in wine and add lemons back in, cooking to reduce liquid. If needed, more butter may be added to enrich the sauce. Stir in peas the very last couple of minutes to keep their bright green color. Adjust seasonings and toss with pasta. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve.

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 227

228 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

FRESH BERRY SALAD WITH PARMESAN This classic salad goes with just about anything you’ll serve this spring. Feel free to use your favorite berries—which add a pop of color to the greens—and keep it simple with a quality store-bought vinaigrette!

1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped 2 cups fresh blackberries and raspberries ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced ½ cup Parmesan, shredded Balsamic vinaigrette of your choice

In a large bowl, combine lettuce, berries, and red onion. Drizzle with dressing of your choice over salad, tossing to coat. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan. Serve immediately.

LEMON PUDDING CAKE Just right for spring, this lemon pudding cake is baked until it's moist and fluffy on top, with a delicious lemon pudding on the bottom, for the perfect balance of sweet and tart. ¼ cup flour, sifted 1 cup sugar ¼ teaspoon salt 1½ teaspoon lemon rind (1 lemon) ¼ cup lemon juice 2 egg yolks, well beaten 1 cup milk

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Separate eggs, reserving yolks. Beat egg whites with a hand mixer until stiff peaks form, and set aside. Sift flour, sugar, and salt into a large mixing bowl.

Stir lemon rind, lemon juice, egg yolks, and milk into the flour mixture. Fold egg whites into the batter. Pour batter into a 1-quart baking dish and place in a larger pan of hot water, with water coming to about 1 inch up the side of the dish. Bake for 50 minutes and serve warm or at room temperature.

Baked Shrimp and Squash is one of my favorites.

I call it the perfect example of Pineyw ds cuisine.

Seaf d from the Gulf, vegetables from the South Mi i i i garden, and Creole flavors from New Orleans.

“

– ROBERT ST. JOHN

”

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 229

230 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

ROBERT ST. JOHN’S BAKED SHRIMP AND SQUASH This is a fabulous centerpiece for any spring or summer menu, with Gulf shrimp, fresh squash, and Creole flavors. It may be served with a side of wild rice or simply a salad and French bread. Delicious!

6 cups yellow squash, in ¾-inch cubes ¼ cup clarified butter 1 tablespoon garlic, minced 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon pepper, freshly ground 1 tablespoon Creole seasoning ½ cup green onion, chopped 3 cups shrimp (36–42 count), peeled and deveined ¼ cup clarified butter 1 tablespoon Old Bay Seasoning 1 tablespoon garlic ½ cup onion, diced ¼ cup red bell pepper, medium dice ¼ cup green bell pepper, medium dice 4 tablespoon butter, cubed ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated 1 cup sour cream ¼ cup green onion 1 tablespoon hot sauce 1 cup Ritz crackers, crumble ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated 2 tablespoon parsley, chopped

SENSATION SALAD DRESSING Somewhere between Italian and Caesar, Sensation salad dressing is a classic Louisiana recipe, as is the salad of the same name. Bright, lemony, and garlicky, this vinaigrette is loaded with Romano cheese and coarse ground pepper.

4 2 4 ½

tablespoons white wine vinegar tablespoons lemon juice, about 1 small lemon cloves garlic teaspoon coarse ground black pepper

½ ⅓ ⅔ 1

teaspoon salt cup extra-virgin olive oil cup vegetable oil cup grated Romano cheese

Combine vinegar, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and garlic in a blender and blend until the garlic starts to break down. While the blender is running, add the oil in a slow, steady stream.

When emulsified, transfer to a serving or storage container and whisk in grated cheese.

Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

Note: This salad dressing is incredible on your favorite greens, but if you want to make a traditional Louisiana Sensation salad, simply toss some Romaine lettuce, freshly chopped parsley, and Sensation dressing together.

Sauté the first seven ingredients until the squash is cooked. Place squash in a colander and press out excess moisture with the back of a spoon. Pour all into a stainless steel mixing bowl.

Sauté the next seven ingredients until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.

Transfer shrimp to the mixing bowl with the squash.

Immediately add butter, parmesan cheese, cheddar cheese, sour cream, green onion, and hot sauce to the bowl with the hot shrimp/squash mixture. Stir well until butter and cheeses are melted.

Pour the mixture into a 9 x 13 casserole dish. Mix together the Ritz crumbs, Parmesan, and parsley. Top casserole with the cracker crumb mixture and bake at 350 degrees until bubbly.

Recipe published in A Southern Palate cookbook, Different Drummer Press

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 231

TOASTED COCONUT, PECAN, AND CARAMEL PIE This pie comes together quickly and is loved by everyone. Plus, the ingredients are all pantry staples and easy to keep on hand. It should definitely be in your spring and summer dessert rotation!

1 stick butter 1 8-ounce package flaked coconut ½ cup pecans, chopped 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened 1 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk 1 12-ounce container frozen whipped topping, thawed 1 12-ounce jar caramel ice cream topping

Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add coconut and pecans. Toss well, and saute until coconut is lightly browned. Set aside to cool.

In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until fluffy. Pour in condensed milk and mix until smooth. Fold in whipped topping.

To assemble: Spread ¼ of the cream cheese mixture into each pie crust. Sprinkle ¼ of coconut pecan mixture over each pie. Then drizzle ½ of caramel topping over each coconut layer.

Repeat layers with remaining cream cheese mixture and remaining coconut mixture. Pies may be served chilled or frozen.

Note: A store-bought graham cracker crust may be used to save time. If preferred, pastry pie shells also work beautifully.

232 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

GRAHAM CRACKER CRUST Double this recipe to make two crusts for the Toasted Coconut, Pecan, and Caramel Pie. 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs, about 12 full sheets, finely crushed ⅓ cup sugar 6 tablespoons butter, melted

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a small bowl. Press crumb mixture into an 8inch pie pan and press the back of a measuring cup firmly in the bottom and up the sides of the pan.

Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely before filling. DM

NOW OPEN

Your New Favorite Staple

WWW.STAPLECLEVELAND.COM

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 233

Join us

PAMPERED PAWS AT THE SILO PET GROOMING SERVICES

Grooming • Bathing • Teeth Brushing Nail Clipping • Flea Treatments

HOURS: Monday - Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

6464 Silo Square Lane | Southaven, MS | 662-470-4267 Located in between Lucky Dog and Oasis Grooming 5K | KID COLOR FUN RUN | LIVE MUSIC | ARTIST VENDORS CHILDRENS AREA | LOCAL FOOD | AUTHORS ROW

234 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

COUPON: 10% off all services | Must show coupon (exp. 4/25)

%DQNLQJ 0DGH 6LPSOH 2SHQ <RXU &KHFNLQJ $FFRXQW 2QOLQH 7RGD\ "U 1MBOUFST #BOL XF NBLF CBOLJOH FBTZ BOE DPOWFOJFOUnjTP ZPV DBO GPDVT PO XIBU NBUUFST NPTU 0QFO B DIFDLJOH BDDPVOU POMJOF JO KVTU NJOVUFT BOZUJNF BOZXIFSF 4LJQ UIF USJQnjHFU TUBSUFE OPX 7JTJU XXX QMBOUFST CBOL DPN UP PQFO ZPVS BDDPVOU UPEBZ

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 235

HISTORY

The 333rd Field Artillery Battalion was a segregated African American unit formed in 1942, pictured here and on the following page preparing artillery in the field.

The

Forgotten Heroes of Wereth

The story of eleven African Amercian soldiers, including three Mississippians, massacred in Belgium in 1944

BY JIM BEAUGEZ • PHOTOS COURTESY OF KIP PRICE 236 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Black GIs, now known as the Wereth Eleven, were omitted.

“I’ve been on a mission for over twenty years to continue educating and letting people know about this important part of our history,” says Kip Price, a West Virginian who grew up next door to T/4 James Aubrey Stewart, a technical skills expert who also died in During this whirlwind period, which brought the liberation of the Wereth massacre.

France and teed up the Allies’ eventual victory on the Western Front, The 333rd Field Artillery Battalion was a segregated African the more than 200,000-strong army had outpaced its supply lines.

American unit formed in 1942 and trained at Camp Gruber, In response, Eisenhower ordered a halt in the Ardennes, a forested Oklahoma. In early 1944, the battalion was among the 1.6 million region of eastern Belgium marked by rolling hills and deep ravines.

American troops sent to England for additional training before their Meanwhile, over the border in Germany, deployment to the European front. By July 1944, Führer Adolf Hitler poised his army to take the unit had landed in Normandy and was advantage of the situation, as well as poor weather actively supporting American forces, playing a conditions that grounded Allied aircraft, calling in critical role in the liberation of occupied a massive counter-offensive campaign meant to territories, including La Haye-du-Puits. cripple the Allied forces once and for all.

Equipped with the powerful 155mm M1 On December 16, 1944, an army of more howitzer, the 333rd and a companion unit, the than 400,000 German soldiers attacked the 969th Field Artillery Battalion, provided artillery Allies in what became known as the Battle of the support during key battles. Their firepower Bulge, the single bloodiest battle US soldiers helped Allied forces push through German would witness in the entire war. defenses. In October 1944, they were assigned Three Mississippians—Cpl. Mager Bradley, to the Ardennes, an area mistakenly believed to 27, of Bolivar County, Staff Sgt. Thomas J. be quiet and secure, as winter approached.

Forte, 29, of Jackson, and Pfc. Jimmie Lee Positioned near the town of Schönberg, the Leatherwood, 24, of Pontotoc—were on the ground 333rd Field Artillery Unit Emblem 333rd was caught in the onslaught on as part of the 333rd Field Artillery Battalion, a Black December 16. Despite being overwhelmed by regiment that served alongside their White counterparts during the the Germans, the men of the 333rd continued to fire their howitzers war. Along with eight other soldiers from the 333rd, they met a in support of their fellow soldiers, allowing many American troops particularly grisly end at the hands of German SS troops. to escape.

Unlike other heroes of WWII, though, their story was As German forces advanced, the battalion sustained heavy forgotten by most for decades. After the war ended, the Senate casualties, with at least 220 of its 500 soldiers either killed, wounded, Armed Services Committee documented twelve incidents of or captured. Among those who managed to escape were eleven American soldier and Belgian civilian massacres by Nazi troops, soldiers from different batteries of the 333rd, who set off on foot published in the 1949 Congressional Report on War Crimes with through the snow-covered forest in hopes of reaching American the names of victims and where they were killed. But these eleven lines.

ix months after landing at Normandy, the Allied forces of American, British, and Canadian soldiers led by Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower were making major strides on their push eastward toward Germany.

S

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 237

As supplies pour ashore at Omaha Beach, scores of barrage balloons inhabit the skies over the ships and equipment to protect the exposed men and machines from German attack on D-Day, June 6, 1944. Courtesy of the National Archives.

After hours of trudging through deep snow, on December 17, the Wereth Eleven arrived at the Belgian hamlet of Wereth. A local resident, Mathias Langer, welcomed them into his home, offering them food and shelter from the cold. However, not all the village’s residents were sympathetic to the Allies’ cause. Nazi forces were alerted to their presence, leading to the soldiers’ capture by a patrol from the 1st SS Panzer Division.

Exhausted and unarmed, the men had no choice but to surrender. The SS soldiers forced them to sit in the cold for hours before marching them to a nearby field, where the men were tortured and murdered. Some, like Forte, had their fingers cut off, while others were run over by vehicles, beaten with rifle stocks, and bayoneted.

The remnants of the 333rd Field Artillery Battalion continued to fight after the massacre while the bodies of these soldiers remained in the snow for nearly two months before being discovered in February 1945. But unlike the infamous Malmedy Massacre, which

238 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

occurred the same day against White American prisoners, the Wereth atrocity received little attention. Investigators from the US Army’s war crimes unit recorded the horrific details and interrogated more than 1,000 members of the SS division, but in the end, no one was held accountable.

The European theater ended five months later, on May 8, 1945, when German troops surrendered. The entire war ended nearly four months later, on September 2.

The US government closed the investigation into the Wereth massacre in 1947, designating it a classified secret, and notified the families of the murdered men about burial options for their fallen soldiers. Bradley’s wife, Eva Mae, had her husband’s body returned to the US and buried at Fort Gibson National Cemetery in Oklahoma, southeast of Tulsa, while Leatherwood was laid to rest in College Hill Cemetery in Pontotoc. Forte was buried at HenriChapelle American Cemetery and Memorial in Belgium with 7,986 of his brethren.

T/4 James Aubrey Stewart was a technical skills expert who also died in the Wereth massacre. Kip Price grew up next door to Stewart, not only becoming familiar with the story but became committed to telling the world about the Wereth Eleven.

For decades, the only memorial to these men was a small cross erected in 1994 by Hermann Langer, the son of Mathias Langer, who was twelve when his father welcomed the soldiers into their home. Unlike other sites commemorating the Battle of the Bulge, Wereth remained largely unknown until May 2004, when a new memorial was dedicated to honor their memory and all Black GIs and segregated units who fought in Europe during WWII. Slowly, word of these heroes began to spread. The Wereth Eleven, a 2011 feature film executive produced by Joseph Small, an American who discovered their story by chance while vacationing in Europe, brought much-needed attention. In 2017, the book The Lost Eleven: The Forgotten Story of Black American Soldiers Brutally Massacred in World War II—co-authored

by Robert Child, who had written and directed the movie—goes into more detail, with some passages of dialogue created to imagine the horror these men endured.

Price traveled to Wereth with Small to meet Langer, his family, and the community that now hosts the Wereth Eleven Memorial.

“We were in the same room the soldiers were in—they showed us the table that they had served the soldiers from,” he says. “It touches my heart and soul to think how much they showed their love and respect for these eleven soldiers, and they still are. They have a ceremony and memorial service every year.”

Finally, in 2017, the US Congress passed a resolution officially

Kip visiting the gravesite of Aubrey Stewart in Wereth, Belgium, 2012.

Kip in Wereth in 2012, with Hermann Langer, son of Mathias Langer, who harbored the soldiers in his home, offering them food and shelter from the cold.

recognizing the massacre and acknowledging the sacrifice of these men. The story of the Wereth Eleven, once forgotten, now stands as a testament to bravery, resilience, and the long struggle for justice and recognition.

“The story should have never been hidden, but God always finds a way to get the truth,” Price says. “And good always prevails over evil.” DM DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 239

Building a stronger grid And a brighter future These are exciting days in Mississippi. New industries and new jobs are moving to our state along with record investments.

Entergy is already hard at work to stay ahead of increasing power demands in our growing communities.

We’re not only adding more power generation, but diversifying our energy sources with cleaner and more efficient power generation. This diversified mix will help ensure long-term affordability and reliability for all of our customers.

Scaling up the grid also gives us the opportunity to upgrade infrastructure and technology throughout our system – ensuring a stronger and brighter future for Mississippi. Learn more at entergy.com/brightfuturems.

A message from Entergy Mississippi, LLC ©2025 Entergy Services, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

240 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 241

EVENTS

Double Decker Arts Festival, April 25–26

FESTIVALS, MUSIC & FUN THINGS TO DO September 16–April 13

Cleveland

Music America: Iconic Objects from America’s Music History Grammy Museum Mississippi grammymuseumms.org

February 27–March 2

Oxford

Oxford Film Festival

Dancing with the Stars, March 6

Various Venues ox-film.com

March 4, 7:30 p.m.

March 1, 7 p.m.

November 16–April 23

Jackson

Of Salt and Spirit: Black Quilters in the American South

The Lyric thelyricoxford.com

Mississippi Museum of Art msmuseumart.org

March 1, 8 p.m.

Gertrude Castellow Ford Center for the Performing Arts visitoxfordms.com

Starkville

Josh Meloy and Trenton Fletcher

Spring 2025 Series

Rick’s Cafe starkville.org

Bologna Performing Arts Center bolognapac.com

March 3, 7:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m.

February 4–April 10

Oxford

Dexter & The Moonrocks

Cleveland

March 6, 7:30 p.m.

Orpheum Theatre orpheum-memphis.com

Jackson

March 6, 7:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m.

Grand Funk Railroad

Exhibition: Mindbender Mansion

Duling Hall visitjackson.com

Bologna Performing Arts Center bolognapac.com

Mississippi Museum of Natural Science visitjackson.com

March 4, 2 p.m.

Jackson

Memphis

Dancing with the Stars

The Music of John Prince

February 14–May 14

Oxford

LOU Symphony Orchestra: Concerto Competition Concert

Starkville

March 6–7

Cleveland

Jackson

Mardi Gras Parade

Science Makers

Hamilton

The Golden at Adelaide starkville.org

Mississippi Museum of Natural Science visitjackson.com

Orpheum Theatre orpheum-memphis.com

March 4, 4 p.m.–7 p.m.

February 18–March 2

February 24–March 2

Memphis

Greenville

Mardi Gras Parade and Block Party Jackson

Scholastic Book Fair

Washington Avenue visitgreenville.org

The Mississippi Children’s Museum visitjackson.com

March 7–9

Memphis

Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Weekend 2025 Graceland graceland.com

March 7–9

Memphis

Spring Market Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Weekend 2025, March7–9

Agricenter International themarketshows.com

March 8–9

Jackson

Mississippi Animé Fest MS Trade Mart visitjackson.com

March 10–14, 9am

Jackson

Spring Break Art Camp Mississippi Museum of Art msmuseumart.org

March 14

R&B Spring Fest JXN Food & Wine, March 14–15 242 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Landers Center landerscenter.com

Southaven

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 243

Jeff Foxworthy, March 20

March 14–15

Jackson

JXN Food & Wine MS Museum of Art Garden visitjackson.com

March 15

Jackson

Run the Rainbow for Children’s Hal & Mal’s visitjackson.com

March 15, 7 p.m.

Oxford

Steve Poltz Concert The Powerhouse visitoxfordms.com

March 15–16

Southaven

Southern Flea Market Landers Center landerscenter.com

March 15–16

Tupelo

Monster Jam Cadence Bank Arena cb-arena.com

March 16, 3 p.m.

Oxford

Shamrock & Roll St. Patty’s Pub Crawl Various Locations visitoxfordms.com

March 17, 6 p.m.

Memphis

2025–2026 Broadway Season Reveal Orpheum Theatre orpheum-memphis.com

March 18, 7:30 p.m.

Memphis

An Evening with Judy Collins Halloran Centre orpheum-memphis.com

March 20, 5:30 p.m.

Artist Talk: L’Merchie Frazier Mississippi Museum of Art msmuseumart.org

Judy Collins, March 17 244 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Jackson

Zach Top and Lauren Watkins, April 4

March 20, 7:30 p.m.

Cleveland

An Evening with Jeff Foxworthy Bologna Performing Arts Center bolognapac.com

March 20–23

Southaven

Disney on Ice Landers Center landerscenter.com

March 21

Greenville

11th Juried Biennial Invitational Art Exhibit Greenville Arts Council visitgreenville.org

March 21–23

Jackson

Spring Market Mississippi Trade Mart themarketshows.com

March 22

Jackson

Hal’s St Paddy’s Parade and Festival Hal & Mal’s visitjackson.com

March 22

Greenwood

Viking Half Marathon 5k and 10K Cotton Row District vikinghalfmarathon.com

March 22, 7:30 p.m.

Tupelo

Tupelo-Golden Triangle SERA Rodeo Cadence Bank Arena cb-arena.com

March 27, 5:30 p.m.

Starkville

Starkville Shamrock Soiree: Green for a Cause Restaurant Tyler starkville.org

March 28, 5 p.m.

Laurel

Wine Down Downtown Downtown Laurel laurelmainstreet.com

March 28, 8 p.m.

Oxford

The Stews The Lyric thelyricoxford.com

March 28, 8 p.m.

Tunica

Queensrÿche Gold Strike Casino goldstrike.com

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 245

Sturgill Simpson, April 11

April 10, 7:30 p.m.

Cleveland

ZZ Top Bologna Performing Arts Center bolognapac.com

WIllie Nelson, April 10

April 10–13

Mary J. Blige, April 19

Clarksdale

22nd Annual Juke Joint Festival Downtown Clarksdale visitclarksdale.com

April 11

Starkville

Old Main Music Festival 2025 MSU Amphitheater songkick.com

April 11, 8 p.m.

Southaven

Sturgill Simpson

Zach Top, April 2

Landers Center landerscenter.com

March 29, 4:30 p.m.–11:30 p.m. Clarksdale

April 5

Tater Superbad Blues Festival

Naturefest

April 11, 7:30 p.m.

Downtown Clarksdale visitclarksdale.com

Mississippi Museum of Natural Science visitjackson.com

La canterina & The Beautiful Bridegroom

March 30–April 5

Jackson

April 5, 10am

JXN Indie Music Week

Family Day: All About Quilts

Fondren Downtown visitjackson.com

Mississippi Museum of Art msmuseumart.org

April 1, 7:30 p.m.

Oxford

William Shakespeare’s “The Comedy of Errors”, The Acting Company Gertrude Castellow Ford Center for the Performing Arts visitoxfordms.com

April 6, 7 p.m.

Jackson

Jackson

Oxford

Gertrude Castellow Ford Canter for the Performing Arts visitoxfordms.com

April 12, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Oxford

Mississippi Day Memphis

University of Mississippi visitoxfordms.com

The Millennium Tour 2025 April 12, 7 p.m.

FedEx Forum fedexforum.com

April 9, 6:30 p.m.

Tupelo

The Blues is Alright Oxford

Cadence Bank Arena cb-arena.com

Theo Von: Return of the Rat April 2, 8 p.m.

Oxford

Zach Top

The Pavilion Ole Miss visitoxfordms.com

The Lyric thelyricoxford.com

April 9–10, 9am

April 4

Starkville

Zach Top and Lauren Watkins

Greenville

Greenville Speedway 2025 Season Greenville Speedway visitgreenville.org

April 4–5

Jackson

13th Biennial Spring Home and Garden Tour 2025

Greenville

9th Annual Greenville Heritage Rodeo Washington County Convention Center visitgreenville.org

April 10, 6:30 p.m.

Cat Head Delta Blues and Folk Art visitclarksdale.com

April 16, 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

DOT DOT DOT Musical Bologna Performing Arts Center bolognapac.com

Tupelo

FCA Night of Champions Cadence Bank Arena cb-arena.com

April 10

Brandon

Willie Nelson Brandon Amphitheater grandonamphiteater.com

The O’Kays, April 19 246 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Clarksdale

Cat Head Mini Blues Fest

North Jackson thegardenclubofjackson.com

Rick’s Cafe rickscafe.net

April 4–September 28

April 13, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Cleveland

for Spring Pilgrimage April 1-13 For historic home tours and cultural experiences, come to Columbus for Spring Pilgrimage. And don’t miss our other exciting April events.

Plan your Columbus getaway today.

Catfish in the Alley: April 11-12 | Tales from the Crypt: April 2, 4, 9, 11 VISITCOLUMBUSMS.ORG for a complete list of attractions and events.

800.920.3533 | 662.329.1191 Dates are subject to change.

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 247

Thomas M. Fuerst

Prophetic Peril March 4, 6 p.m.: novel., Memphis Nadia Alexis and Melissa Ginsburg

Beyond the Watershed March 5, 6 p.m.: Off Square Books, Oxford Chad Holley

Shield the Joyous March 6, 6 p.m.: The Powerhouse, Oxford Catherine Coleman Flowers

Holy Ground

ZZ Top, April 10

Queensrÿche, March 28

March 11, 6 p.m.: novel., Memphis Gary Krist

Trespassers at the Golden Gate March 13, 5 p.m.: Lemuria Books, Jackson Chris La Tray

Becoming Little Shell March 29, 2 p.m.: Lemuria Books, Jackson

Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo, April 26

Ann Fisher-Wirth

Attached to the Living World

Marcus King Band, April 24

April 1, 5:30 p.m.: Off Square Books, Oxford

April 25–26

Oxford

City Summer, Country Summer

Downtown Square visitoxfordms.com

April 3, TBD: Lemuria Books, Jackson

April 25–26

Southaven

Extraordinary Women: Mercy & Grace Tour Tater Superbad Blues Festival, April 29

April 18, 7 p.m.–12 a.m.

Cleveland

Inside Out Academy Annual Sneaker Gala Bolivar County Expo visitclevelandms.com

April 19

Memphis

The O’Kays Halloran Centre orpheum-memphis.com

April 19, 7 p.m.

Landers Center landerscenter.com

April 26, 7:30 a.m.

Preston Lauterbach

Before Elvis Cleveland

Run4Zoe 5K Downtown Cleveland zoemeanslife.org/run4zoe

April 26

Mary J. Blige: The For My Fans Tour FedEx Forum fedexforum.com

April 4, 6 p.m.: novel., Memphis Landon Bryant

Bless Your Heart Brandon

Staind, Breaking Benjamin, and Wage War

April 26, 7:30 p.m.

Sara Fay Egan

The Through Line April 3, 6 p.m.: novel., Memphis

April 5, 2 p.m.: Lemuria Books, Jackson Landon Bryant

Bless Your Heart

Brandon Amphitheater brandonamphiteater.com

Memphis

Kiese Laymon

Double Decker Arts Festival

April 7, 6 p.m.: novel., Memphis

Memphis

Dolen Perkins-Valdez

Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo

Happy Land

Graceland Soundstage graceland.com

April 11, 6 p.m.: novel., Memphis

April 24–27

Kelsey Impicciche

Orpheum Getaways: New York

Voice of the Ocean

LITERARY EVENTS

New York orpheum-memphis.com

April 24, 7 p.m.

Oxford

Adam Gussow

Marcus King Band

My Family and I

The Lyric visitoxfordms.com

March 1, 2 p.m.: Lemuria Books, Jackson Chad Holley

April 25, 8 p.m.

Absolute Queen Gold Strike Casino goldstrike.com 248 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Tunica

Shield the Joyous March 4, 5 p.m.: Lemuria Books, Jackson

April 22, 6 p.m.: novel., Memphis Emily Henry

Great Big Beautiful Life April 22, 8am: Square Books, Oxford Jaz Brisack

Get on the Job and Organize April 30, 5:30 p.m.: Off Square Books, Oxford

DM

CELEBRATING

eaINrMs 30 Ey ENT NTERTA

OF LIVE IN THE DELTA

Mar.

6

GRAND FUNK RAILROAD

Mar. AN EVENING

20

WITH JEFF FOXWORTHY

BUY TICKETS

NOW! www.bolognapac.com 662.846.4626

Apr.

10

ZZ TOP

DELTA SEEN

Annual Taste of Greenwood Event on January 28 at the Leflore County Civic Center

Cynthia Stanciel and Maarlin Womack

Jonathan Grantham, Zeporiah McGee, Glorya Freeman, Emily Patridge, Bill Cook, and Elizabeth Scott Wickliffe

Holley Poe and Shawn Ashcraft

Yashica Jones and Paula Echols

Caleb Cox

Grace and Woody Whites

Tonya Stroup and Tanessa House

Christie Huff and Janice McClain

250 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Antiques & Garden Show of Nashville on January 31–February 2 at the Music City Center

DELTA SEEN

Antiques lovers from the Delta, Oxford, Memphis, and beyond traveled to the A&G Show in Nashville

Caren Nichol, Mia Henley, Lucia Heros, Mary Schell, Jenni Hamlett, Liz Helmsing, Alison Barton, and Anna Wunderlich

Evans Looney, III, Evans Looney, Jr., A&G Co-Chair Dawn Looney, and Larson Looney

Patty and Terry Gibbs of Lina’s Interiors of Leland.

Cindy Coopwood and Ann Morgan of Cleveland.

Memphis art consultant, Anna Wunderlich with Libbi Wunderlich and Julie Wunderlich.

Caroline Godkin and Florie Crump Martin of Nashville.

Erica Eason Hall and Hayden Hiter Guest of Oxford.

Priscilla Wright and Baylor Pillow of Oxford with London decorator Rita Konig, center.

Liz McEwan of Memphis; Jennifer Spink, London, England; Kathryn Painter, Memphis; A&G Co-Chair Dawn Looney; Jean Johnston, Memphis; and Angie Street of Memphis DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 251

DELTA SEEN

Screening presented by Mississippi Film Society of Rising Hope on January 13 at the Ellis Theater in Cleveland Photography by Lyndsi Naron

Terry Routman, Myrtis Tabb, Nan Sanders, and Bob Wilbanks

Charlie Jackson

Susan Ford and Lynn Shurden

Patricia Campbell and Grosby Thomas

Dennis and Mary Jean Gates

Ron Koehler and Deloris Terell

Merle LaMastus and Rose Strahan

Becky and Randy Jolly, Miriam Wahl, and Terri Cribb

Doyle and Bonnie Tubbs with Dawn Ales

252 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Ryan Parker, Mississippi Film Society and Carol Anderson, Mississippi Humanites Council

DELTA SEEN

Junior Auxiliary of Indianola Charity Ball on February 8 at the Indianola Country Club Photography by Katy Ann Dodd Photography

2024-2025 JA of Indianola Board Meredith McDowell, Ann Claire Edwards, Kelsey Pate, Allison Britt, Lanna Iverson, Claire Johnson, Anna Grace Putnam, and Lindsi Junkin

Brandi and Stephen Johnson

Katy Ann and Ben Dodd

Anna Grace Putnam and Crown Club Queen Lilli Dawson

Tyler and Carlie Johnson

Adelaide Fletcher received the JA of Indianola Service Award presented by Kelsey Pate, Vice President of JA

Swayze and Brandon Simpson

Katie and Chris Boykin

Kelsey Pate and Olivia Nobile

Lilli Dawson is a senior at Indianola Academy, Crown Club Treasurer and the 2025 Charity Ball Queen

Thomas Putnam and Cody Britt DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 253

DELTA SEEN

Junior Auxiliary of Clarksdale Charity Ball on January 25 at the Clarksdale Country Club

2025 Citizen of the Year winner, Hawk Hubbard with Mary Amelia Humber

Mary Martha and Jack Bobo

Chris and Amanda Mincey

Anna Claire Luster, Mary Amelia Humber, and Kristin Orr

Brooke Fleming, Anna Brittain Antici, and Mileah Williams

Duaine Brown, John Landon Ruscoe, and Will Young

Brooks Lewis with parents Meg and Richard Lewis

Duaine Brown, Hawk Hubbard, and Camille Brown

Francie Caudell, Chelsea Talley, and Mallory Collins

Jonathan and Anna Brittain Martin with Kristy and Shane Presley

Taylor and Jon Roy Flowers

Hawk Hubbard recieving the 2025 Citizen of the Year award presented by EG Fyfe

254 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

Celebrating 50 Years of Kappa Sigma Fraternity on February 1 at Delta State University Photography by Katy Ann Dodd Photography

DELTA SEEN

A selection of photos by Delta Magazine readers

Patrick Horton, Tom Graning, John Morris, Richard Safley, Kevin Jones, Mac Barnes, Eddie Henson, and Don Conger Back Row: Brian Washington, Chris Faulkner, Charlie Whitfield, John Acord, Bert Bell, Patrick Quinn, David Bingham, and John Thompson; Middle Row: Bryan Adams, Jamie Parsons, Ashley Henson, and Craig Casey; Front Row: Robert Maxwell, Chris Faulkner, Sam Clark, and Shane Boling

Don Porter, Ashley Henson, and Charlie Whitfield

Jack McNeil, John Causey, Mike Turner, Nick Crawford, and Lance Turnage founding members of the chapter

Tyler Hudson and Chris Johnson

Eddie Henson, John Morris, Patrick Horton, and Tom Graning

Delta Council Luncheon honoring Patrick Johnson as the new National Cotton Council President with Emily Johnson, Pat, Cecelia Johnson, Thomas Purifoy, Gary and Carol Adams, Tripp Hayes, and Frank Mitchener

Amy Foote Dotson, Leslie McCully, Kyle Rasco, Dwain Little, Benjamen Douglas, and Kevin Tharp at the Delta State University Choir Reunion at St. Matthew’s United Methodist Church in Madison.

Will, Nevin and Heather Sledge in New York City

Walker, Ashley, John, and John Christopher Cox at the Mississippi Tennis Hall of Fame Ceremony on January 25 at the River Hills Club.

DELTA MAGAZINE 2025

| 255

Thefinalword

Taffeta Dreams

t was 1984, a glorious spring afternoon. A friend and I had just picked up a couple of Sonic slushes, refreshments that still came with a colorful plastic zoo animal affixed to the cup, lagniappe that was seeing its final days. We were in my aqua ‘78 Malibu, windows down, Billy Idol on the radio. It felt like we were out for a joyride as we rolled down Highway 12 in my hometown of Starkville, the wind in our Sun In-tinctured hair. But we were on a serious mission, headed to West Brothers Department Store. We had to get some fabric and a pattern—an important pattern.

I’d spent many happy hours of my youth in the West Brothers fabric department, perched atop a tall stool flipping through Butterick and Simplicity tomes so that my master seamstress mama could make a knock-off version of some get-up I had ogled in Seventeen. But there would be no perusing this day. My friend and I already knew exactly what to purchase. Foregoing the stools, we headed straight for the metal cabinet with long, squeaky drawers to retrieve a pattern: Butterick 6593. It was a dress pattern showing three optional looks. The one my friend and I would both be sewing was the tea-length version with a sweetheart neckline and sleeves that were somewhat akin to having a balloon atop each shoulder. The fabric we’d purchase was peach in color. Taffeta. Yes, we were to be bridesmaids. Our mutual friend was getting married.

This was my first time serving in that role; maybe that’s why I remember the details of that afternoon. But the sense of novelty was shortlived, for as if there was something in the water, my close friends began getting engaged left and right. Between 1984 and 1994, I served in twelve weddings, none of the brides a relative. I was a bridesmaid ten times (twice as maid of honor) and a tea girl twice.

Decades later, my memories of the occasions run together like a watercolor in pastels, heavy on the mauve. I vaguely recall showers held in small apartments and fellowship halls, rehearsal dinners at local steakhouses, and squealing girls crowded in church bathrooms, the air laden with Lauren and Aqua Net. Perhaps the recollections are

I

Laurie Parker has been self-employed as both a writer and an artist for over thirty years. A former fellow member of the Mississippi Craftsmen’s Guild, she is also the author of twelve children’s books, a book of poetry, and five southern novels, including Gently Scattered Intentions, a story set in Greenville. You can see both her poetry and her artwork by following her Facebook page, Mississippi Writer Laurie Parker.

256 | MARCH/APRIL 2025

BY LAURIE PARKER

blurred because three weddings were all in December—the SAME December, same Baptist sanctuary. I do have a clear memory of that church’s pastor approaching me at the third reception as I stood in a corner eating toasted pecans from a doily-topped plate. His eyebrows raised in déjà vu, he quipped, “Always a bridesmaid, never a bride?” I recall turning red and responding only with a shrug, not knowing how to answer a question I’d not expected (plus, I was afraid I had pecans in my teeth).

My closet could have answered with a resounding “Yes!” My collection of taffeta numbers was growing, and I’d quickly acquired them in more colors than found in a roll of Necco Wafers: the initial peach, teal, lavender, midnight blue, seafoam, fuchsia, pale pink, and two in red.

And the not-to-be-forgotten mauve dress, the one with fabric I would swear was selected via the paint swatch the bride also used when buying the floral wallpaper border for her bedroom. And for every dress shoved into the far recesses of my closet, there was a pair of satin pumps dyed to match. As creative as both my mom and I were, we could envision no alterations that could make any of the dresses appropriate for another occasion—not even removing the gigantic bow situated just above the derrière on two of them.

So, along with those shoes, they were eventually sold at the occasional garage sale we used to have in my parents’ carport. I remember a heavy-set customer stuffing her wide feet into lavender pumps marked two dollars with masking tape.

“Gots me some Easter shoes!” she said, tottering off in them.

Whenever I run across a picture from one of those weddings in which I participated, I have to laugh. To have married in the eighties was to own an album of telltale photos that scream the decade. Although I never sported a poodle perm as did some of the other gals, my then-thick hair, layered as it was on top, was big in its own right.

But truthfully, our hair wouldn’t have looked right any other way than BUT big. We had to do something to balance out those colossal puffball sleeves! DM

Patio shade?

Yes please!

Block the sun. Beat the heat.

Transform your outdoor space with Phantom Screens. Enjoy the best of both worlds: shaded comfort and bug-free relaxation. Our retractable screens offer shade, privacy, pest protection, and more – all at the touch of a button. Customize your outdoor oasis to perfection.

Minimize glare from the sun

Reduce UV rays and solar heat

Eliminate unwanted bugs

Call us today for a free estimate

Visit us at

901-758-2121

southernscreens.com

Hassle-free installation included

Stay connected