EVENT Magazine March April 2018

HUNTSVILLE

Nutcracker Ball | Wafflepalooza XII | HSO Guild Silver Tea | Pineapple Awards Dinner MARCH / APRIL 2018

MAGAZINE

H

VOLUME 12, ISSUE 2

Feature

Weddings

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Upcoming Live Events Broadway Theatre League: A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder March 2-4 | Mark C. Smith Concert Hall Willie Nelson & Family March 6 | Mark C. Smith Concert Hall Alabama vs. Auburn Women’s Gymnastics March 9 | Propst Arena Jim Parker‘s Songwriters Series March 9 & April 13 | Playhouse Jason Mraz March 11 | Mark C. Smith Concert Hall Wynonna & The Big Noise March 15 | Mark C. Smith Concert Hall

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Mickey & Minnie’s Doorway to Magic!

March 18 | Mark C. Smith Concert Hall Eddie B: Teachers Only Comedy Tour March 23 | Mark C. Smith Concert Hall Kirk Franklin March 31 | Propst Arena Heads-N-Tails Crawfish Boil April 14 | South Hall Huntsville Symphony Orchestra: E..T. The Extra-Terrestrial April 14 | Mark C. Smith Concert Hall Jon Pardi April 19 | Mark C. Smith Concert Hall Monster Jam April 20-22 | Propst Arena Black Jacket Symphony: Guns N’ Roses April 21 | Mark C. Smith Concert Hall Celtic Woman April 24 | Mark C. Smith Concert Hall Huntsville Havoc Hockey March 2, 3, 16, 17, 23, 24 | Propst Arena

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Chicago May 8 | Propst Arena Jason Isbell & The 400 Unit May 10 | Propst Arena

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March / April 2018

EVENT Magazine

Contents

18 Publisher’s Letter

30

22 Art Tour of Homes Preview Party

20 Editor’s Letter

Apollo 17 – 45th Anniversary Dinner and Celebration

Events

86

Wafflepalooza XII

22

Art Tour of Homes Preview Party

88

24

Nutcracker Ball 2017

100 Black Men of Greater Huntsville 2017 Annual Holiday Gala

28

Carillon Club Luncheon

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

30

Apollo 17 – 45th Anniversary Dinner and Celebration

90

34

HSO Guild Silver Tea

94

40

EarlyWorks Society’s Supper With Santa

Community Foundation Women's Launch Event Amanda Howard Real Estate’s Annual Holiday Celebration Event

96

Southern States Bank Holiday Party

98

Southern States Bank Ribbon Cutting

50

Von Brewski Beer Festival

52

Grace Club Awards Luncheon

56

Voices of our Times: General Michael P.C. Carns

100

Soles Dance Center Company Dress Rehearsal

60

21st Annual Hospitality Pineapple Awards Dinner

102

Mercedes-Benz of Huntsville Christmas Party

75 Huntsville Happenings

76 Calendar

56 Voices of our Times: General Michael P.C. Carns

60 21st Annual Hospitality Pineapple Awards Dinner

Editorials 38

Spotlight: Stuart Obermann

43

Feature: Be a Guest at Your Own Wedding

54

Centerstage: Keith Yager

62

Wedding Resource Guide

65

Fashion: Best Dressed Guest

72

Guide to Buying an Engagement Ring

78

Taste: Hopeful Feast

84

Editorial: Monthly “Marryment”

38

65

54 72

On The Cover: Morgan Stanfill, Meg Eldridge, Linda Clardy, Clair Lee, Natalie Jones, Amanda Power at Amanda Howard Real Estate’s Holiday Party Photo by Steve Babin

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EVENT

HUNTSVILLE

A Letter from the Publisher

MAGAZINE

w

Spring is in the air! I realize we are not out of the woods with winter, but as I write this letter the end of it is in sight. And a welcomed sight it is! I am ready to be outdoors checking line items from my honey-do list.

While I am checking off on my to-do list, there are many future brides and grooms with their own check lists for their important day. In our Wedding Issue, we feature How to be a Guest at your Own Wedding. Having gone through it myself I know just how stressful planning can be. We also offer helpful tips on choosing the right engagement ring as well as style and fashion for guests on the big day.

In the midst of the busy event season we’ve got you covered with fun-filled gatherings. The Nutcracker Ball featuring talented dancers is a hit every year as well as Apollo 17 celebrating its 45th anniversary. We’ve stopped by the Wafflepalooza and capped this issue off with The Huntsville Museum of Art’s Voices of Our Times featuring the works of General Michael P.C. Carns.

As always, please shop with the advertisers you see within these pages. They are the sole reason we are able to provide this publication. And don’t forget to tell them you saw them in EVENT Magazine!

Happy Spring Huntsville!

Todd Stephenson President/Publisher

Scan the QR Code below to visit our website eventhuntsville.com Follow us on

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President/Publisher Todd Stephenson Editor Lori Boatfield Writers Amanda Allen Candice Fawcett Melissa Gerrish Contributing Writers Haley Loveday Melissa Rodriguez Judy Ryals Creative Director/Graphic Design Patty Satterly Website/Graphic Design Scott Seeley Graphic Design Amy Pearson Aiden Silvers Lead Photographer Steve Babin Photographers Reginald Allen Mark Jaeger Jeff White Isaiah Williams Contributing Photographer Maria Moore Director of Sales Carolyn Stephenson Account Executives Ann Lane Lee Nast Distribution Victor Mace Huntsville EVENT Magazine is published bi-monthly by Event Magazine, LLC, P.O. Box 14219, Huntsville, AL 35815 For advertising information please call 256.533.8078 or e-mail advertise@eventhuntsville.com For editorial information or to request coverage of an event, please visit our web site at www.eventhuntsville.com

SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION

Huntsville EVENT Magazine is published bi-monthly by EVENT Magazine, LLC. Although the magazine is distributed free throughout the area in Athens, Decatur, Fayetteville, Guntersville, Huntsville, Madison and Owens Cross Roads, paid subscriptions are available for $25.00 annually. For new subscriptions or changes of address, call 256.533.8078 or email subscriptions@eventhuntsville.com.

All contents © 2018. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use in whole or in part of the contents without the prior written permission of the publisher is prohibited.

Huntsville Event Magazine is a registered trademark of Event Magazine, LLC. All rights reserved. Unsolicited photographs or articles are submitted at the risk of the photographer or author. Event Magazine, LLC assumes no liability for the return of any unsolicited materials and may use them at its discretion.

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Editor’s Note

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Photo by Steve Babin

Springtime? Pinch me, so I know I’m not dreaming! As I write this note, we are still experiencing a rainy, dreary winter. Some spring blooms will be ever-so-welcome.

Speaking of blooms, bring on the bouquets. It’s our wedding issue! We offer advice on everything from choosing the perfect engagement ring all the way to tips on how to relax and be a guest at your own wedding. With our style advice in Fashion, you'll learn how to be the “Best Dressed Guest.” We even have a wine pairing editorial with suggestions for which wine to serve according to your wedding month.

We shine our Spotlight on Stuart Oberrmann, President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville. At Centerstage is Keith Yager, Head Brewer at Yellowhammer Brewery.

With a busy event season, we have enjoyed the chance to see firsthand, some of the people and organizations that make our area a better and kinder place to live.

From the Symphony Guild’s Silver Tea, which raises funds to support the Huntsville Youth Orchestra, to Supper with Santa, which benefits the educational programs of the EarlyWorks Family of Museums, we hope you are as inspired by reading about them as we were by attending.

And when you check out the photos of your friends and neighbors – and who was wearing the greatest dress where, don’t forget to check out the advertisers that make this publication possible. They allow us to highlight the fun and the philanthropy that happens in Huntsville. Shop in their stores, utilize their services and dine at their tables. And don’t forget to tell them you saw them right here in EVENT!

Here’s to you Huntsville!

Lori Boatfield Editor Follow us on

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www.eventhuntsville.com

Jim & Carolyn Rountree, Diane Reynolds, Jim Byrne

Art Tour of Homes’ Inaugural Preview Party

Jim & Ana Byrne, Zara & Todd Lowry

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Photos by Steve Babin

The Art Tour of Homes kicked off the tour with a preview party hosted by Arts Huntsville at the Monte Sano home of Ana and Jim Byrne. The party, sponsored by Bridgeworth Community Fund, offered an exclusive look at a sixth home not on the public Art Tour of Homes held on Saturday, January 27. Attendees had a chance to explore the home and art collection of the Byrnes, owners of The Little Green Store & Gallery on Monte Sano, as well as purchase a limited selection of art by the home tour hosts’ favorite artists.

The 100 guests enjoyed fare by Carrie’s Kitchen, Sweet Cakes Huntsville and Church Street Wine Shoppe. Flowers and décor were arranged by hostess Ana Byrne.

Chris & Kelly Kowalski

Sherry Polk, Lynn Kerkhof

“We want to thank Ana & Jim Byrne, as well as our other Art Tour of Homes hosts, for sharing their passion for the arts with our community, as well as our board, patrons, and community for their support,” said Allison Dillon-Jauken, Arts Huntsville Executive Director. n

Linda Spalla, Cindy Howard, Patricia McCarter Jodi Stephens, Carol Codori

Ainsley & Greg Bowen

Daniela Perallon, Lisa Bollinger, Carrie Marchese-Chambers

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Cathy Van Valkenburgh, Diane Strickland

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Nutcracker Ball Benefits Educational and Outreach Programs

Josh & Rebecca Goins, Holly & Greg Laue

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Photos by Reginald Allen

The 9th annual Nutcracker Ball was held on December 1, 2017 in the Von Braun Center North Hall. The evening featured an auction, a seated dinner, and a performance of the “Tea” Chinese dance from the Nutcracker and the Grand Pas de Deux of the Sugarplum and Cavalier.

Around 235 guests immersed themselves in the magical event with Chinese themed décor, and later danced the night away to the music of Groove. Sponsors included Aerojet Rocketdyne, Porsche of Huntsville and Booz Allen Hamilton. Proceeds benefited the Huntsville Ballet Company and their educational and outreach programs, including Discover Dance. n

continued on page 26 Stephen Simpson, Page Banks, JoLayne & Brandon Hall

Kelly May, Amy Henrich, Christy Bates, Kara Howard, Deb Bailey

Brent Brotherton, Christiana Lytal-Brotherton,, Illa Lytal, D.G. Lytal, Deborah Lytal-Britton, Cole Robert Britton

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Jennifer Wu, Stacey Butler

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Jonathan & Jessica Hal

Nutcracker Ball 2017 cont’d

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Justin & Tiphani Gay

Jobe & Lauren Belser

Kelly & Sarah May, Sarah & Christy Bates

Eric & Stacia Corbett

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Gina Guerrera, Jeanette Hyatt

Catie Wells, Ed Kellett

Margaret Fleischman, Amy Henrich

Charles Swanson, Nancy Cunningham, Brandy & David Worthy

Marjorie Cobb, Dr. Rebecca Howell

Lauren & Veronica Belser

Jamie & Lauren Hill

Brent Taylor, John Tidball

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C carriage h o u s e

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PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Ashley Mitchell, Michelle Campbell, Elizabeth Nuwayhid, Jill Cole, Tomalyn Dombrowski, Amelia Summerville, Aida Moultrie

Carillon Club Christmas Luncheon Photos by Todd Stephenson

The Carillon Club celebrated its annual Christmas lunch on December 6 at the Ledges.

The club has celebrated the event for more than 50 years. With 100 attendees, special guests included Executive Director of Girls, Inc., Stephanie Malone along with Girls Inc. members Kaylan Parham and Kennedy Freeman.

Floral arrangements were created by the Christmas Luncheon Committee with entertainment provided by G-Bach Trio.

Julie Stephens, Karen Kimbrough, Beverly Alm, Lorri Doss

The Carillon Club was organized in 1967. The club actively supports Girls, Inc. through monetary donations and hosting monthly celebrations at the Girls, Inc center on Blue Springs Road. n

Edna Block, Michelle Campbell

Melanie Steadmon, May Patterson, Amy Rathmann, Melissa Slaton

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Amy Cornelius, Lee Anne Smith

May Patterson, Carol May, Beth Moshier

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

Eve & Dr. Owen Garriott, Jane Smith

Dr. Gordon, Nicholas & Angela Telepun

Steven & Kenna Stewart

Randy Lycans, Dr. Lisa Monaco

Apollo 17’s 45th Anniversary Celebration

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Photos by Reginald Allen

The U.S. Space & Rocket Center’s Education Foundation celebrated the final lunar mission with a special evening with Apollo 17 Astronaut Dr. Harrison Schmitt in the Davidson Center for Space Exploration on December 7. Dr. Schmitt, who also served as a U.S. Senator for New Mexico, was the featured speaker for the evening and shared memories of being NASA’s first scientist astronaut and a member of the last Apollo crew. The evening began with a cocktail reception followed by dinner.

Dr. Schmitt is the only surviving member of the Apollo 17 crew, and he, Alan Bean, David Scott, Charles Duke and John Young are the only Apollo astronauts still alive.

This anniversary event honored not only the historic 12-day Apollo 17 mission but also all the men and women who supported the Apollo program.

Northrop Grumman was the title sponsor for the event, along with Orbital ATK as the presenting sponsor. n continued on page 32

Michael & Belinda Chen

Keri & Travis Collins

Homer & Linda Hickam, Janet & Tim Pickens

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Larry & Theresa Moxley, Karen & Dan Verwiel, Ann Clingempeel

Fred & Luke Luddy, Ben & Katie Chandler

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Apollo 17 - 45th Anniversary cont’d

Mary Lynne & Merrill Wright

Derrick Stanley, Dan Oligmueller

Kelly & Colin Warman

Eve & Dr. Owen Garriott Ken & Laura Gresham

Ron Creel, Tory Porter, Jane Smith

Teresa & Dr. Harrison Schmitt. Dr. Deborah Banrhart

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Wanda & Sherman Avans

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Denise Malone, Michaeola Mason

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Marie Newberry, Patti Thornton

Kelly Hamm, Penney Keane

Diana Finley, Joy Smith, Meg Kingsbury, Katie Jarres

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Symphony Guild Commemorates 52nd Annual Silver Tea Photos by Mark Jaeger

The 2017 Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Guild Silver Tea was an event of December 8, 2017. This marked the 52nd Anniversary of the Silver Tea, which is a major fundraiser for the Huntsville Youth Orchestra. Guests enjoyed the ambience of a beautiful setting and music performed by some of the area’s most talented young musicians.

Samantha Bentley, Leslie Crosby, Pam Gann

The stunning home of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Edward Crosby, Jr., well-known as the Moore-Rhett house, was the site of this year’s tea. The elegantly decorated home offered the perfect environment for the Huntsville Youth Orchestra to entertain guests. Delectable treats were provided by the catering of Sallie Ennis and Betty Lankford.

Attendees were warmly welcomed by Leslie Crosby, Home Hostess; Samantha Bentley, 2017 Silver Tea Chairman; and Pamela Gann, HSOG President. The Huntsville Youth Orchestra Executive Director, Deborah Brown as well as HYO Music Director Joseph Lee and Camilla Pruitt, Board President, were also on hand to show their appreciation for the support of the Youth Orchestra. n

continued on page 36 Mary Douglas, Susan Fredrickson

May Patterson, Michele Bethea, Elizabeth Nuwayhid, Pam Honkanen

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Stacey Gardner, Brenda Millberger

Paula Cushman, Linda Akenhead, Marcie Wingo

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HSO Guild Silver Tea cont’d

Ashley Scoggins, Julie Gold, Andrea Jones, Ruth Rainey

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Joseph Lee, Camilla Pruitt, Deborah Brown

Mary Ellen Peters, Nancy Colin

Ashlee Duesing, Escoe Beatty, Betty Tomlin

Candice Johannes, Michele Bethea, Pam Honkanen, Diane Hudson

Stacy Runnells, Judy Bicknell, Kathy Ludwig, Melynda Riling

Sarah Curtis, Joanne Sanders, Marianne McCoy

Jean Summers, Shirley Fugit, Mary Ellen Peters

Diane Washburn, Courtney Allen

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Marie Newberry, Anne Lewis

Candy Burnett, Suzanne O'Connor, Susan Fredrickson

Diane Hudson, Brandy Smith, Candice Johannes

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

Spotlight

Sî?›art Obermann 38

Written by Amanda Allen Photos by Steve Babin

Stuart Obermann is CEO and President of The Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville. The Community Foundation strives to improve the quality of life for all citizens of Huntsville through philanthropy.

EVENT: Tell our readers a little about yourself.

SO: I grew up in St. Louis, Missouri, and studied Mechanical Engineering at Missouri University of Science and Technology and Purdue University. I really never imagined I’d stay in Huntsville for more than 3 decades, but the community and the work environment was ideal for my family - providing a wonderful environment for starting and growing small tech businesses.

EVENT: How did your work at Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville come about?

SO: After spending over 20 years as an entrepreneur in the commercial tech sector, I got involved in several nonprofits as a volunteer and board member. Our son Eric graduated from Grissom High in 2000, and shortly after that began exhibiting symptoms of a motor-neuron disorder, that turned out to be ALS, or Lou Gehrig’s disease, and eventually, as the disease progressed, he had to withdraw from his computer science studies at Georgia Tech. My wife Marcia and I both took extended leaves from our careers to care for Eric, and we founded a chapter of the ALS Association to serve ALS patients and families across Alabama.

Eric passed in 2010 at age 28, and a few years after that, I decided to re-enter the job market. I looked at a few opportunities to lead start-up or early-stage tech companies, but did not find anything that I could really get excited about in the for-profit world. Then early in 2013, I learned that the Community Foundation was seeking someone to replace their original Executive Director. I applied for the job and started that summer. I found that my passion was in the nonprofit sector.

EVENT: What is the most fulfilling aspect of your job?

SO: I love that the mission of the Community Foundation is very broad and encompasses all aspects of our community. With ALS and most other nonprofit organizations, you are focused on a specific societal problem or population. At the Community Foundation we take a holistic view of our community, and recognize that to improve our quality of life here, we have to invest strategically and in many different areas – including education, neighborhoods and communities, basic needs, lifestyle and cultural organization, the environment, and more. Our work can impact everyone living in our community. I enjoy working with donors to help them develop a plan for their charitable giving which meets their specific needs, provides them optimal tax benefits, and gives them a way to have a greater impact on our community with their philanthropy. We can see the very tangible ways that our donors’ dollars are making a positive difference in the lives of others in our community, and that is very rewarding.

Spotlight which is a “giving circle.” Like-minded people of all ages can join give256 for a gift of $256 a year and actively participate in making grants to support various causes in our community. By pooling resources, a group of donors making relatively small gifts can make significant grants that make a real difference. We view this as the democratization of philanthropy – making it accessible for anyone who may be interested to participate.

EVENT: What do you do to unwind?

SO: A few years back, I had the opportunity to purchase a beautiful piece of undeveloped land on the bluff near our home, and have developed a small residential subdivision called Oak Bluff on Green Mountain.

Our family has always loved the outdoors and enjoys traveling, especially to visit national parks and other places of unspoiled beauty. I also enjoy tinkering with my vintage BMW, and occasionally take it to a car show to meet other car nuts. I try to stay active and became a runner fairly late in life – I really enjoy running races and duathlons - which are like a triathlon for people who don’t like to swim (racers run and cycle.)

EVENT: What is the one thing you really want the people of Huntsville and the surrounding areas to know about The Community Foundation and the work you do?

SO: The Community Foundation is a resource for everyone in our community.

We are here to help anyone who is interested in improving our great community through charitable giving. We support the nonprofit community by making grants and offering professional development seminars, and we provide corporations with a very low-cost and transparent way to give back to our community. And finally, we can create a way for families to create a permanent legacy by creating a fund that will support the causes that matter most to them. n

EVENT: What do you find most challenging?

SO: While we are very fortunate to live in a growing, thriving community with a strong economy, there remain a great many needs in our community that are not being addressed. We are also blessed that so many people and companies here are very generous and give back to the community both with financial support and as volunteers. It can be a real challenge to prioritize the many needs we have and match those to the resources our donors are willing to commit to help solve these problems. We look for or develop programs that provide the greatest “return on investment” and will address issues that are of interest to our donors.

EVENT: What are some things that people who aren’t really aware of all that the Community Foundation does might be surprised to learn? How can they get involved?

SO: One common misperception is that the Community Foundation is only for the wealthy. This is really not the case, as middle class families form the backbone of our diverse group of fundholders. While we do offer specialized funds for wealthy families and create legacy endowment funds through planned giving, we have many funds that welcome donors with gifts as small as $25. For example, a group of millennials recently started the give256 Fund (named after our region’s area code)

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The Early Works Society

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Logan Self, Jolly Santa Ray

Santa Stops in EarlyWorks Family of Museums Photos by Steve Babin The EarlyWorks Society's 15th Annual Supper with Santa was held November 27 November 30 at the EarlyWorks Children’s Museum Grand Hall. There were two seatings each evening with a total of 1200 parents and children attending the four-evening event. Families enjoyed an abundance of Christmas decorations designed by the EarlyWorks Society members, transforming the Grand Hall into a magical winter wonderland. Santa visited each table and talked to each child, creating many photo opportunities. Mrs.Claus and Santa’s elves also visited all the children. As an added attraction, performers from the Huntsville Ballet’s Nutcracker troupe performed, delighting everyone. The Ballerina Doll, Soldier Doll and Sugar Plum Fairy danced twice each night.

Supper with Santa is the EarlyWorks Society’s major annual fundraiser; proceeds benefit the EarlyWorks Family of Museums’ children education programs. n

Ashley Jordan, Nathaniel Otto, Madison Lynn

Oscar Burkhalter, Jeri Sue Plaxco

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Casey & Elyse Pendleton

Misty, Jonathan & Kenton Clark

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

Scottie Breen, Lois Logan

www.eventhuntsville.com

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Be a Guest at your own Wedding and Enjoy!

Photos by Maria Moore Photography Written by Melissa Rodriguez, Revel Events

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Congratulations!

You are now part of the exclusive group of people ready to embark on the journey of their lifetime. But rst, take a deep breath and look to hire a professional planner. You will thank me months from now. Every bride has carved out the wedding of her dreams on Pinterest even before the proposal (you know who you are) and that’s absolutely ne! You have a clear vision of your wedding day. Kudos to you for doing your homework – for researching your dress, venue, caterer and more.

Now it’s time to start the planning. You start by creating an excel sheet with a budget in mind. Next, begin to call vendors, attend bridal shows, make appointments, pin more things to your Pinterest board and group chat with your friends about everything and anything wedding related. But when do you start enjoying the journey? What will it take for you to let go and sit back and relax?

What kind of bride or groom will you be at our wedding? The one sipping champagne while you’re getting ready, telling fun stories to your bridesmaids or groomsmen, relaxed, focused and ready to celebrate. Or will you be on your phone trying to delegate to family members what their assignments are? Wondering, where is the photographer? Where is the make up artist? Why haven’t the orals been set up yet? STOP. Take a deep breath and realize you are meant to be a guest at your own wedding. If you are paying big bucks for the perfect venue, photographer and caterer, you can invest in a planner.

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A wedding planner doesn’t just send people down an aisle in an organized fashion. There is so much more complexity to the role.

The wedding planner is your trusty right-hand person, who can manage your budget, organize every idea and concept that comes to mind, she can reel you back in when things start to get overwhelming. Your wedding planner can be the Robin to your Batman – side kick and protector. When hiring a planner, remember there are package options that can be tailored to your needs.

The Full-Service Wedding Coordination package

is for the couples who want a full-time professional overseeing every aspect of their wedding day or weekend. This package includes (but is not limited to) assistance with: • Budget Development • Vendor Selection & Management • Unlimited Phone & Email access • Guest Services • Organization & Project Management • Event Installation & Production • Event Design • Personal Assistance • Transportation and Logistics • On-site staf ng

The Partial Coordinator is for the couple who has started the planning process and decides to hire a wedding expert to tie up loose ends and take care of all the remaining details. This package includes: • Ceremony & Reception Management • Personal Assistance • Rehearsal Management • Event Installation & Production • On-Site Staf ng

The Day-of Coordinator package is designed for the

bride and groom who have everything done, and want to have someone review all the details and oversee and coordinate the wedding on the day-of.

While truly, it begins one month before the wedding, as we con rm all the vendors and the venue, review your timeline, are on site on the day-of to ensure that everything you have planned goes according to your vision, including the wedding rehearsal (day before the wedding.) This package includes: • Vendor Coordination • Ceremony and Reception Venue Management • Personal Assistance • Rehearsal Management • On-Site Staf ng

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Wedding Musts Good lighting

Bad lighting could ruin a reception. If it is too bright people tend to shy away from the dance oor or from walking around mingling. I always tend to hit the off switch on the main power source and stick to ambient lighting, the fewer the house lights, the better. Substitute with candles, bistro lights or up-lighting around the room. This will make all the difference, making the room feel and look warm and inviting.

Keep the drinks owing!

Bartenders are a must! Having enough bartenders is crucial at a wedding, it helps expedite the cocktail hour process. If you have more than 100 guests at a wedding, I would suggest getting 2-3 bartenders behind the bar. Place the bar at a central location close to the dance oor. People tend to congregate at the bar and this placement could nudge them onto the dance oor.

Solid entertainment

A good emcee will de ne your reception atmosphere, this has to be someone that can read a room and play the right music at the right times, with a steady

48

ow of well-orchestrated music. Please create music lists for the DJ and or band, if you know your crowd is the type that enjoys a good old-school throw-back, add that to the mix. Consider adding an element of surprise, introduce a drum line, mariachi band, samba dancers, and keep the party alive. Make it a memorable time for your guests, and for you.

The wedding day is the most important event in a couple’s life. It is a celebration of a partnership and declaration of your dedication in front of your loved ones.

Make that day a lasting memory. Step back and let an expert guide you through the process, let them take care of all the details, run around behind the scenes like a good stage-hand and be a guest at your wedding and enjoy!

Founder Melissa Rodriguez has been in the events industry for a decade, beginning her career in Miami, Florida as an accounts supervisor for an event marketing agency, executing events for Fortune 500 brands throughout the United States.

This is where she developed her passion for event production and travel. After several years in the corporate world, Melissa’s career path shifted to more personalized events including; weddings, private functions, galas and more. Melissa’s diverse and extensive experience in event logistics and her creative vision is what sets her apart in the event planning industry. “Revel Events is about a gratifying event experience, that is uniquely your own. REVEL in life, love, travel and celebration. Revel Events - It’s Your Moment.” Contact Melissa at 786-246-6512 or reveleventsagency.com.

Practice Makes Perfect!

Call today to book your rehearsal dinner.

For more information, call 256.551.1818 or email HamptonCove@rtjgolf.com.

Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Hampton Cove 450 Old Highway 431 South · Owens Cross Roads, AL 35763

1

9

4:21 PM

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Jim McGuffey, Ellery Miller

Corrine Edmiston, Kristin Luna, Scott Van Velsor

Von Brewski Festival Brewed Up Fun for All

Gavin Langley, Alex Brown, Ethan Couch

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Photos by Steve Babin

The 2nd Annual Von Brewski Beer Festival took place on January 20 in the South Hall of the Von Braun Center. Tickets included a souvenir glass that doubled as a sampling glass. The more than 1500 guests had the opportunity to sample beer not only from Huntsville brewers but from brewers across the nation, some from as far away as Iceland & Guatemala. Entertainment was provided by .45 Surprise and food was available for purchase. There was a fully stocked cash bar for non-beer drinks as well as the new addition of the Ciders & Meads section. Attendees also had the chance to built their own pretzel necklaces. Sponsors included TopGolf, Rocket Republic Brewing Company, Mix 96.9 and Free The Hops n Joshua McCalpin, Ryan Malone, Ryan Bullock

Kristen Conner, Suzanne Beckinger

Jared Ralston, Elizabeth Taylor

Justin Fulkes, Alee Pasqualotto, Bailey Box

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Colin Brooks, Brooke Izzo

Erika & Duane Violett

Jennie Northam, Amy Dupont

Shawn Fahl, Evan Joslin

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

Precision to the X degree.

Your spine is complex and delicate. So precision matters.

Huntsville Hospital is the only Alabama hospital with Mazor X, the most precise robotic technology for spine surgery.

With powerful 3D visualization and superior guidance ability, the Mazor X allows surgeons to create a custom surgery based on your anatomy. Unrivaled technology and precision.

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TREATMENT that stands up A strong back is essential to doing all the things you enjoy. Being active again can come from a balanced treatment approach designed by our rehab specialists, physicians and nurses. With a custom treatment plan you are one step closer to getting back to your life.

(256) 533-1600 | spineandneuro.com www.eventhuntsville.com

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Kate Noble Purvis, Barbie Peek

Mackie Bethay, Samantha Bentley

Ann Rivard, Josh & Beth Wise, Janet Darcy, Kate Knecht

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Grace Club Honors Outstanding Service Photos by Steve Babin The Grace Club 20th Awards Luncheon was held December 14 at The Ledges Clubhouse. The Grace Club is an organization of volunteers who have contributed to the welfare of the area for over 100 years. The prestigious Grace Award, awarded biennially, is presented to women who exhibit outstanding contributions to the City of Huntsville and Madison County. This year’s recipient was Elizabeth Machtolff Wise.

Mackie Bethay, Leslie Crosby, Shelley DeLay, Dana Averbuch, Wimberley Watts

Beth’s volunteer service spans more than 50 years and includes involvement with many organizations including: Junior League of Huntsville; Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Guild; Huntsville Botanical Garden Board; Huntsville Botanical Garden Foundation; Arts Council; Huntsville Pilgrimage Association; Randolph Parents Association; Volunteer Center Board; Huntsville Alumnae Panhellenic Association; Delta Delta Delta Alumnae; the Arts Council; Leadership Huntsville/Madison County and many more.

The ceremony was co-chaired by Mary Alice Brinkley and Margaret Anne Kelly, Alice Bentley was chair of the Awards Committee and flowers were provided by Andrea Vandervoort. n

Marilyn Hull, Shari Poteat

52

Nancy Pike, Glenna Brinkley

Carolyn Blue, Sophia Burwell, Caroline Buncick, Emily Burwell

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

Martha Priddy, Amanda Chase Berkey

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Andrea Vandervoort, Anne Conner, Kathryn Mahoney

Julie Stephens, Harvilee & Amy Harbarger

Josh & Beth Wise, Kate Noble Purvis, Kate Knecht

Julie Stephens, Shannon Smith Mary Alice Brinkley, Margaret Anne Kelly

Barbie Peek, Amy Harbarger, Amanda Chase Berkey

Lillian Butler, Katie Thompson

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

June Guynes, Rene Shrout, Sara James

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Keaitgher Y

Centerstage

Photo by Steve Babin

Keith Yager is head brewer at Yellowhammer Brewing in Huntsville. Beginning his craft as a home brewer, his extensive experience, along with tips and advice from friends in the industry, prepared him for commercial brewing. Yager was named Brewmaster of the Year in 2016 by a panel of BJCP certified judges at the inaugural Alabama State Beer Championship.

EVENT: How does one become a brew master? What does it entail?

KY: I am a self taught brewer. In 1996 my mother got me a home brewing kit for Christmas and I was hooked. I wanted to learn everything there was to know about brewing and read everything I could find on crafting beer. At one point I was home brewing much faster than the beer could be consumed. I was more interested in developing recipes and processes than I was in drinking every batch of beer, although, no worries there, plenty of beer was consumed.

In 2008 I was approached by some friends about opening a small brewery in Huntsville and I decided to make the leap. When you make the jump from home brewing to commercial brewing the difference can be daunting. As a commercial brewer you are essentially running a factory which involves learning about equipment and industrial processes. I found this new challenge to be extremely rewarding and an interesting new focus.

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EVENT: What’s your favorite Huntsville hangout?

KY: Campus 805 is a great place to hang out. You are within walking distance of three great local breweries, Yellowhammer, Salty Nut, and Straight To Ale. I'm obviously partial to Yellowhammer tap room because of our great customers, many of which I have become friends with, and of course for our award winning beer. I also love to hang out at Salty Nut beer garden since Salty Nut Brewery was our original location and we built that beer garden. Straight to Ale has a great tap room too and a good selection of food. While there are obvious friendly rivalries between the three breweries we all get along very well and enjoy visiting each other’s breweries.

EVENT: Favorite band/musician to see live?

KY: Steely Dan, but I have to admit I saw Earth, Wind and Fire at the VBC a couple years ago and was blown away at how great they were. Philip Bailey can play every musical instrument known to man, apparently, and his voice sounds as good as it did in the 70's. It was pretty incredible.

EVENT: Where would you travel if you could go anywhere?

KY: I would love to tour all the Trappist breweries in Belgium, the Netherlands, Austria and Italy. I am fascinated by Trappist brewing tradition and I love their beers and brewing techniques. n

T he championship golf course is only the beginning of the story.

THE LEDGES

theledges.com/membership

Hello Neighbor.

Rise Real Estate Good to know.

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If you need assistance in Residential, Commercial, Luxury Homes, Investments or Farm & Land, we have the resources to help you in all your Real Estate needs.

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©2017 BHH Affiliates, LLC. Real Estate Brokerage Services are offered through the network member franchisees of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Most franchisees are independently owned and operated. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Information not verified or guaranteed. If your property is currently listed with a broker, this is not intended as a solicitation. Equal Housing Opportunity.

55

Doug Seaver, Heather Baker, Tony Adair, Tess Munoz

General Michael & Victoria Carns, Anne & George Lewis

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

HMA Features Presentation on Cyber Warfare Photos by Steve Babin

The Huntsville Museum of Art presented its Voices of Our Times series on January 25, featuring General Michael P.C. Carns. His presentation, The Terrorists of Today: Cyber Warfare, touched on the issues all nations are facing in today’s online world and the military tactics that are currently being utilized and approved by the government. The presentation was followed by a question and answer segment and ended with a wine reception. Around 150 guests attended.

Voices of Our Times is an annual three-part series that brings people of note in the arts, academia, design, publishing and politics to the Huntsville Museum of Art for candid, in-depth discussions and presentations. The series began in 2012. This is one of the largest fundraisers for the Museum.

John & Kim Johnson, Allen Young, Donny Maleknia

Series Sponsors are Colonial Printing and Packaging; Davidson Technologies; Donny’s Diamond Gallery; and PNC. Lead Sponsors for General Carns were Phylis and Bob Baron; Butch and Jerry Damson; Kord Technologies; and Anne and George Lewis. n continued on page 58

Carol Ann Ellers, Dee Kowallik

Brian Trhlin, Samantha & Matthew Nielsen

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See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

General Michael Carns, Christopher Madkour

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Voices of our Times cont’d

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Nick Leone, Jackie Berg, Margaret Leone

Cheryl & Kurt Schultz

Donny Maleknia, Courtney Ellers-Conklin, Conway Ellers

Sarah Hereford, Sibyl Wilkinson, Nancy Van Valkenburgh Si & Kendra Garrett, Christopher Madkour, Patsy Haws

Julie Andrzejewski, Debbie Washburn, Kerry Doran

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Jim & Judy Link

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

Linda Nagle, Kerry Doran

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Libby Webb, Regina Burnett

Keith Matthews, Steve Metz, Jeff White

The Pineapple Awards Honors Hospitality Industry

Wiley Belew, Katherine Mosby Alison Collins, Allyson Myers, Margaret Shelley

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Photos by Steve Babin The Huntsville/Madison County Hospitality Association recognized the outstanding accomplishments of hospitality professionals in the Huntsville/Madison County community at the 21st Annual Pineapple Awards Dinner on January 23 at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Huntsville Hotel & Spa. Each year, the organization holds the Pineapple Awards Dinner to honor members who have exhibited true hospitality and professionalism in the industry.

The Hospitality Industry includes diverse market segments of hotels, restaurants, tourism, travel, attractions, allied – supporting products and services – and is one of the state’s largest employment providers. “Tonight we celebrated the wonderful field that we work in – giving exceptional service and experiences to each and every person who walks through our doors. We honored those who have excelled in their field. We also celebrated those working to achieve their educational goals through the hospitality industry. It’s very rewarding to see the impact our industry has on so many people across our community,” said Libby Webb, outgoing president of HMCHA. n

Vickie Henderson, Amber & Jason Williams, Brenda Carr, Alison Cope, Clementine DeRoode

Stephanie & Matt Mell

Mary Lynn Bishop, Laurie White

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Dave & Judy Ryals

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

Harmony Heard, Kayla Womack

Jessica Knox, Gennifer Gordon

Zack Spencer, Brooke Izzo

Tim & Paula Steigerwald, Clementine DeRoode

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Gabriel Carrillo, Regina Burkett, Jonah O'Neal

Becca Donovan, Kristen Waldrop

Kaye & Nick Mikus

Lori Dendy, Van Brown, Desiree Stewart

Ryan Stone, Carey Letson

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

Leslie Walker, Jessica Bolling

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Wedding Resource Guide 2018

Here is a partial list of some of the local shops offering services, gifts, rentals, entertainment, catering and more. There are many things to consider when planning a wedding and we at EVENT Magazine want to make your day as relaxing as possible.

EVENT PLANNERS

333 Designs 2362 Whitesburg Dr. S. Huntsville, AL 35801 256.502.9904 333design.com

Helping Hand Parties & Weddings 256.698.4048 helpinghandparties.com

Revel Events Agency 256.274.1654 reveleventsagency.com

VENUES

A.M. Booth’s Lumberyard 108 Cleveland Ave. NW. Huntsville, AL 35801 256.715.7130 amboothslumberyard.com Bullet and Barrel 3252 Leeman Ferry Rd. Huntsville, AL 35801 256.384.GUNS bulletandbarrel.com

Burritt on the Mountain 3101 Burritt Dr. SE. Huntsville, AL 35801 256.536.2882 burrittonthemountain.com

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Historic Huntsville Depot 320 Church St. NW. Huntsville, AL 35801 256.564.8100 Earlyworks.com/huntsvilledepot-museum

Huntsville Botanical Garden 4747 Bob Wallace Ave. Huntsville, AL 35805 256.830.4447 hsvbg.org Huntsville Country Club 2601 Oakwood Ave. Huntsville, AL 35810 256.859.3000 hcc1925.com

Huntsville Museum of Art 300 Church St. Huntsville, AL 35801 256.535.4350 hsvmuseum.org Jackson Center 6001 Moquin Drive Huntsville, AL 35806 256.327.7320 jacksoncenter.net

Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Hampton Cove 450 Old Highway 431 S. Owens Cross Roads, AL 35763 256.551.1818 rtjgolf.com/hamptoncove

Stone Event Rental 2620 Clinton Ave. Huntsville, AL 35805 256.652.8055 campus805.com

The Ledges 32 Castle Down Dr. Huntsville, AL 35802 256.883.0860 theledges.com

The Lodge at Monte Sano State Park 5105 Nolen Ave. SE Huntsville, AL 35801 256.534.3757 alapark.com/MonteSano The Top 100 Church St. #800 Huntsville, AL 35801 256.429.9456 thetophuntsville.com

The Weeden House 300 Gates Ave. Huntsville, AL 35801 256.536.7718 weedenhousemuseum.com

The Westin Huntsville 6800 Govenors West NW. Huntsville, AL 35806 256.428.2000 westinhuntsville.com

U.S. Space & Rocket Center One Tranquility Base Huntsville, AL 35805 256.837.3400 rocketcenter.com

Valley Hill Country Club 8300 Valley Hill Dr. SE. Huntsville, AL 35802 256.883.0850 vhcc.com Von Braun Center 700 Monroe St. Huntsville, AL 35801 256.533.1953 vonbrauncenter.com

BAKERS/CATERERS

Bubba’s Silver Spoon Catering 2620 Clinton Ave. W. Huntsville, AL 35805 256.551.0072 bubbassilverspooncatering.com Cakes, Etc. 2407 Memorial Pkwy. SW. Huntsville, AL 35801 256.533.2271 Catering by Narvell 2107 Meridian St. N. Huntsville, AL 35811 256.830.1210

Church Street Purveyor 256.419.2555 Couture Cakes 831 Regal Dr. SW. Huntsville, AL 35801 256.534.6718

Creative Catering 611 Winchester Rd. NE. Huntsville, AL 35811 256.851.1926 creativecater.com

Lyn’s Gracious Goodness 2306 Whitesburg Dr. S. Huntsville, AL 35801 256.533.2607 lynskitchen.com Peggy Ann Bakery 831 Regal Dr. SW. #A Huntsville, AL 35801 256.536.8541 peggyannbakeryhsv.com

The Chef Next Door 5732 Hwy. 431 S. Hampton Cove, AL 35741 256.683.8315 huntsvillechef.com

Washington Square Catering 256.704.5555 thebottledowntown.com

LIMOUSINES

Classy Limousine Service 256.289.5651 classylimo.biz

BEAUTY/STYLISTS

Advanced Life Clinic 4245 Balmoral Dr. #202 Huntsville, AL 35801 256.882.6555 advancedlifeclinic.com

DanTera Whitesburg SalonSpa 2310 Whitesburg Dr. Huntsville, AL 35801 256.489.0400 danterasalondayspa.com Dunagan Yates & Alison 303 Williams Ave. #1421 Huntsville, AL 35801 256.536.4448 dyaplasticsurgery.com Go With Confidence 1300 Meridian St. #A13 Huntsville, AL 35801 256.606.3415 gowithconfidence.net

Gray Salon & Blow Dry Bar 2310 Southpoint Park Circle Huntsville, AL 35801 256.489.8141 graysalon.com Nancy Finnegan MUA 256.970.9234 nancyfinnegan.com

Permanent Makeup Huntsville 2341 Whitesburg Dr. S. #5 Huntsville, AL 35801 256.683.5487

permanentmakeuphuntsville.com

Renew Medical Spa 507 Drake Ave. #E Huntsville, AL 35801 256.489.4808 renewhuntsville.com

Tallulah’s Salon 609 Ward Ave. Huntsville, AL 35801 256.536.4434

The Cosmetic Clinic 7500 Hwy. 72 W. Madison, AL 35758 256.964.8338 Go.booker.com/ thecosmeticclinic

The Masters 930 Bob Wallace Ave. #220 Huntsville, AL 35801 256.883.6270 themasterssalon.com Terramé Day Spa & Salon 2115 Cecil Ashburn Dr. SE. Huntsville, AL 35802 256.319.3003 terrame.com

GIFTS/REGISTRY

DePriest Robbins 307 Clinton Ave. W. Huntsville, AL 35801 256.539.3888 depriestrobbins.com

Donny’s Diamond Gallery 2510 Memorial Pkwy. SW Huntsville, AL 35801 256.534.2255 donnysdiamondgallery.com

Fine Things 1942 Brindlee Mountain Pkwy.

Arab, AL 35016 256.586.5685 Hartlex Antiques & Interiors 6515 University Dr. NW. Huntsville, AL 35806 256.801.9168

hartlexantiquesandinteriors.com

Lawrens 809 Madison St. Huntsville, AL 35801 256.534.4428 lawrensgifts.com

Loring & Co. Fine Jewelers 800 Airport Dr. SW. Huntsville, AL 35801 256.880.1909 loringjewelers.com

Meyer & Lee Fine Jewelry 2314 Memorial Pkwy. SW. Huntsville, AL 35801 256.536.3321 meyerandlee.com

Osborne’s Jewelers 3502 South Memorial Pkwy.

Huntsville, AL 35801 256.883.2150 osbornesjewelers.com Railroad Station Antiques & Interiors 315 Jefferson St. N. Huntsville, AL 35801 256.533.6550

railroadstationantiquesmall.com

The Little Green Store 820 Monte Sano Blvd.

Huntsville, AL 35801 256.539.9699 thelittlegreenstore.net

The Topiary Tree 1801 University Dr. NW. Huntsville, AL 35801 256.536.7800 Van Atkins Jewelers 129 W. Bankhead St. New Albany, MS 38652 662.534.5012 vanatkins.com

RENTALS

All Needz 6745 University Dr. Huntsville, AL 35806 256.837.5322 allneedzrental.com

Mullins Special Occasions 1021 Meridian St. Huntsville, AL 35801 256.534.5701 mullinsrentals.com

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Maria Moore 7105 Bailey Creek Circle SE. #C Huntsville, AL 35802 256.489.4996 mariamoorephotography.com Cindy Shaver Photographer 10099 Memorial Pkwy SW. #6 Huntsville, AL 35803 256.683.3602 cindyshaver.com

Jeff White Photography 256.651.8079 jeffplayfulwebsite.weebly.com

Steve Babin Photography 417.425.2313

DRESSES/TUXEDOS

J.Hilburn 256.527.4344 eveyrouse.jhilburn.com

Modern Brides 822 Regal Dr. SW. Huntsville, AL 35801 256.533.9333 modernbridesinc.com

Windham Entertainment 256.489.8080 windhamentertainment.com

FLORISTS

Albert’s Flowers 716 Madison St. SW. Huntsville, AL 35801 256.533.1623 albertsflowers.com

Glenn’s of Huntsville 2359 Whitesburg Dr. Huntsville, AL 35801 256.534.7872 glennsofhuntsvilleinc.com

In Bloom 601 McCullough Ave. Huntsville, AL 35801 256.519.8898 inbloomhuntsvilleal.com

Mitchell’s Florist 315 Jordan Ln. NW. Huntsville, AL 35805 256.837.1641 mitchellsflorist.com

The Something Blue Shoppe 224 Main St. W. Hartselle, AL 35640 256.773.4956 thesomethingblueshoppe.com

Thrasher Clothing 812 Regal Dr. SW. Huntsville, AL 35801 256.382.1935

ENTERTAINMENT

America’s Party Pros 256.533.5511 americaspartypros.com

Metropolitan Disc Jockey Service 256.533.6065 metropolitandiscjockey.com

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Best Dressed Guest

Fashion

Wedding bells are ringing this spring!

You’ve received the invite in the mail, now you have to pop the big question to yourself – what to wear? Wedding locales are so varied, it can be dif cult to know the costume de rigueur for such important events. Perhaps the ceremony is in a barn, or lakeside, a traditional church wedding or an extravagant event at an exclusive club.

Whatever the spot, from cocktail dresses to the fanciest pants, these out ts will have you looking picture perfect without outdoing the bride!

Daytime (on her): Off Shoulder Red Guipure Lace Dress, Gucci Bow Pearl Leather Chain Handbag- Queen Bee of Beverly Hills, Schutz Shoes block heel mule- The Carriage House, Long freshwater pearl necklace- Meyer & Lee Fine Jewelry Daytime (on him): Suit Jacket: Revenge Charcoal Solid, Tailored Fit, 2 Button, notch lapel, ap pockets with ticket, Suit Trousers: Revenge Charcoal Solid, Tailored Fit, standard waistband, at front, Shirt: White Luxury Basket weave, classic collar, single button miter cuff placket - All items from J.Hilburn

Credits: Photographer- Mark Jaeger, Stylists- Carolyn Stephenson & Melissa Rodriguez, Hair & Makeup- Gabby Keller with Gray Salon, Location courtesy of Huntsville Botanical Garden, Models- Melissa Rodriguez and Mitchell Rouse

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Daytime: Abbey Glass Quinn Top in Gold/Mist in woven jacquard fabric, AG super skinny ankle jean in pale terracotta, Schutz Shoes block heel muleThe Carriage House, Balenciaga cream white leather off sac miroir handbag satchel- Queen Bee of Beverly Hills, Mazza Grey Pearl Necklace with toggle, venetian glass pendant and venetian glass earrings- Meyer & Lee Fine Jewelry

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Fashion

Cocktail: Halston Heritage Stripe Cocktail dress- The Carriage House, Gucci Black Leather Soho Clutch- Queen Bee of Beverly Hills, Pearl and Black Spinel bracelet- Meyer & Lee Fine Jewelry

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Cocktail: Gold V-neck dress, Saint Laurent YSL Monogram Belle Du Jour Neon Blue Patent Leather Large Clutch Bag- Queen Bee of Beverly Hills, Lapis and gold bangle, Blue and gold enamel egg pendant- Meyer & Lee Fine Jewelry

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Fashion

Evening (on her): Crimson Red Off Shoulder Dress, Saint Laurent Gold YSL clutch- Queen Bee of Beverly Hills, Antique platinum, gold and diamond earrings, antique gold chain link bracelet- Meyer & Lee Fine Jewelry Evening (on him): Tuxedo Jacket: Black Revenge, Tailored Fit, 1 button, with black tonal paisley lining, Tuxedo Trousers: Black Revenge, European Fit, standard waistband, at front, no cuff, Shirt: White mini diamond, modern spread collar, French square cuff, Black grosgrain cummerbund, Self-tied black grosgrain bow tie, Classic onyx stud set- All items from J.Hilburn

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Evening: Shoshanna Daviot gown in navy crepe satin, Schutz Shoes Morianna slingback- The Carriage House, Silver YSL Clutch- Queen Bee of Beverly Hills, Antique platinum, diamond and sapphire bracelet, Antique diamond and platinum earrings- Meyer & Lee Fine Jewelry

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Getting e et ett etti ettin ready r re rea read

for f your fo y big yo you b day? bi d da day

b ready be r re rea read everyday! e ev eve ever every everyd everyda everyday

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72

Guide To Buying An

Engagement Ring So you’re going to pop the question...congratulations!

Ideally your future ancé will be thrilled with the ring that you’ve chosen and that’s where we can help! Here are some things to consider when choosing an engagement ring. You want your ancé to love the ring and you want to make sure that you will get the most value for your money!

1. Decide on a budget

This is the rst thing that you should do. Outside of buying a car or a home, this will be one of the most important purchases of your life. Before you enter a store, you should decide what your budget is so you’ll have a realistic idea of what you can afford. Be smart and buy what makes sense for your speci c situation.

2. Seek a reputable jeweler

Do your homework and read online reviews, talk with friends about their experiences and check Better Business Bureau ratings. There are two C’s to consider: credentials and certi cations. Also plan ahead, it typically takes 4 to 6 weeks to work with your jeweler to nalize your engagement ring. Even if you decide purchase online, it’s always important to develop a relationship with a brickand-mortar store for repairs, cleanings and maintenance.

3. Choosing a ring style

Selecting an engagement ring style is probably the hardest part of buying an engagement ring. Pay attention to hints, what style of jewelry does she currently wear, does she have a Pinterest board of preferences? Pay attention!

4. Selecting a shape

Diamonds are cut into 10 standard shapes, with round being by far the most common. There’s also princess cut (square,) cushion cut (between a round and a square,) emerald, marquis, pear, oval, heart, radiant and square emerald.

5. Choosing a precious metal

Platinum, white gold, yellow gold and rose gold are your main choices. White gold and platinum look similar but platinum is much more durable and the cost is about 50% more. Also consider your future ancé‘s profession.

If they are in the healthcare industry, a teacher or a chemist, the chemicals and cleaners they use can eat away at gold so platinum would be a better option.

Consider buying an antique ring if your girlfriend loves vintage jewelry. These rings are often one-of-a-kind and come with a sense of romantic history.

While there are many factors to consider when purchasing an engagement ring, it is worth educating yourself for such an important decision. I hope that these tips will help you when the time comes to pop the question!

The four C’s of diamonds: Cut - determines the brilliance of your diamond

and is directly related to its overall beauty. A nely proportioned gem can be worth up to 30% more than one of equal quality that has been poorly cut.

Color - the grading for color involves classifying

interior body color on a scale that runs from absolutely colorless to an obvious yellow.

Color Scale: DEF - colorless GHIJ - Near colorless KLM - Faint yellow NOPQR - Very light yellow STUVXYZ - Light yellow

Clarity - this references the presence of

inclusions, spots or aws in a gem. Most gemstones contain inclusions of other minerals, which were incorporated at the time of crystal growth. The quality, size, color, location, orientation and visibility of inclusions affect the nal clarity grade of a diamond. Diamonds with no or few inclusions are considered particularly rare and highly valued.

Clarity Scale: FL - Flawless VVS - Very, very slight imperfection VS - Very slight imperfection SI - Slight Imperfections I - Imperfection seen with the naked eye

Carat - this is the most visually apparent factor

when comparing diamonds and is determined by the size and weight of the diamond. A diamond that is .97 carat would have the appearance of a full carat but could be considerably less expensive.

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www.eventhuntsville.com

Huntsville Happenings Written by Judy S. Ryals, Pres./CEO Huntsville/Madison County

Convention & Visitors Bureau As we head into spring, the number of outdoor activities really increases. The longer, warmer days allow for lots of fantastic family-friendly events and activities. Panoply Arts Festival will be held April 27-29. WhistleStop Weekend will be held May 4-5.

It’s always so much fun going to the Historic Huntsville Depot with the delicious barbecue and outstanding entertainment.

The numbers are in, and once again three of the top ten most visited attractions are right here in Madison County! Congratulations to the U.S. Space & Rocket Center for bringing in the most visitors in 2017. The Huntsville Botanical Garden was the third most visited and the EarlyWorks Family of Museums came in at number ten. ALL of our local attractions do an outstanding job bringing in folks from across the country and around the world.

Be sure to take part in the free walking tours that the CVB has scheduled for April.

The first two Saturdays the Twickenham Historic District in downtown Huntsville will be presented. The final two Saturdays will feature tours of historic downtown Madison. The tours start at 10 am and are a great way to get to know the history of our community!

Whatever the season, there’s always a reason to visit Huntsville! Check our website, www.huntsville.org follow us on social media and stop in to your Visitor Center for money-saving coupons.

Here’s a partial list of events and activities here in March, April and early May.

One-time or limited engagement performances or events include: Alabama vs. Auburn Gymnastics Meet - Von Braun Center – March 9 An Evening with Jason Mraz – Von Braun Center – March 11 Wynona Judd & The Big Noise – Von Braun Center – March 15 Huntsville Havoc ice hockey – Von Braun Center – March 16, 17, 23, 24 NEACA Craft Show – Von Braun Center – March 16-18 Shamrock Shindig for Kids – Huntsville Botanical Garden – March 17 Raptor Show – Huntsville Botanical Garden – March 28 Baskets Full of Fun Easter Jubilee – Burritt on the Mountain – March 31 Snow White, A Fairy Tale Ballet – Von Braun Center Playhouse – April 6-8 Free Walking Tour of Twickenham Historic District – depart from Alabama Constitution Village – April 7 & 14 – 10 am Huntsville Ballet’s “Cinderella” – Mark C. Smith Concert Hall at the Von Braun Center - April 7-8

NASA Rover Challenge – U.S. Space & Rocket Center – April 13-14 Heads-N-Tails Crawfish Boil & Craft Beer Garden – Von Braun Center – April 14 Homeschool Adventure Day – U.S. Space & Rocket Center – April 19 Monster Jam – Von Braun Center – April 20-22 Spring Fest – Campus No. 805 – April 22 Panoply Arts Festival – Big Spring International Park – April 27-29 Free Walking Tour of Historic Downtown Madison – depart from the Little Roundhouse – April 21 & 28 – 10 am Spring Fling Special – North Alabama Railroad Museum – April 28 WhistleStop Weekend – Historic Huntsville Depot – May 4-5 The Book of Mormon – Von Braun Center – May 9-13

Enjoy these events every week: Free brewery tour – Straight to Ale Brands - Campus No. 805 – Saturdays at 2 pm Planetarium Show – Von Braun Astronomical Society – Saturdays at 7:30 pm Backyard Jams Free Sunday Concert Series – A.M. Booth’s Lumberyard – Sundays Biergarten – U.S. Space & Rocket Center (starts March 15) – Thursdays – 4:30 -7:30 Thursday Night Swing – Flying Monkey Theatre – Thursdays Food Truck Wednesdays – Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment - Wednesdays Saturday Artists Market – Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment – Saturdays Sunday Special Edition – Mezza Luna - Sundays Attend these events every other week: Jazz Jam – Amendment XXI – Sunday Paint Nite – 470 Providence Main Street - Tuesday

Look for these great events monthly: Hays Nature Preserve Guided Hikes – 1st Friday Bikes & Brews – 1st Friday – 6 pm – midnight Thursday Madness – Insanity Complex – 1st Thursday Craft Beer Trail Conversation Series – various breweries – 1st Thursday Dinner & A Movie – Cyn Shea’s Café & Catering – 3rd Friday

Be sure to catch these ongoing events: Above and Beyond - U.S. Space & Rocket Center Looking at the Collection: Recent Acquisitions and a Celebration of African American History Month (through April 6) - Huntsville Museum of Art Nature Connects Art with LEGO® Bricks (March 9 – May 20) – Huntsville Botanical Garden Huntsville Blooms (March 18 - April 30) – Huntsville Botanical Garden Duty. Honor. Country. Highlights from the West Point Museum (March 25 – July 8) – Huntsville Museum of Art Weather to Climate: Our Changing World (Starts April 2) – U.S. Space & Rocket Center The Life and Art of Mary Petty (April 22 – July 15) – Huntsville Museum of Art Lucky Duck (Downtown Huntsville) and Trains on Main (Downtown Madison) Scavenger Hunts

Activities and events are being added all the time, so visit our website and our blog iHeartHsv.com for the very latest. Remember to stop by the Visitor Center at 500 Church Street NW, and our Visitor Information Assistants will be happy to assist you! n

eventhuntsville.com It’s what’s happening! www.eventhuntsville.com

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Calendar of Events

March

Dana Anderson “Beyond Barriers” Art Exhibit March 1-Monday, April 30, 2018 Huntsville Botanical Garden Huntsville's own Dana Anderson will be the state's first-ever "most-challenged" artist, and one of only a few nationally to have her own gallery art exhibit. She has Down syndrome and autism. She cannot care for herself, read, write, or speak, but has in one year become a significant emerging artist with a national show in Philadelphia and feature in Jan/Feb issue of Alabama magazine.

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Party in the Park, benefitting Madison Hospital 6:30 - 10 p.m.

Insanity Complex Skate Park, 100 Skate Park Dr., Madison, AL 35758 Party in the Park, benefiting Madison Hospital, hosted by Huntsville Hospital Foundation, will feature an all-star food truck lineup and fabulous live music from JUICE! This year we have reduced ticket prices and are planning a casual event that will allow for more flexibility and fun for event guests.

Proceeds will provide a new operating table designed for orthopedic surgical cases for Madison Hospital’s expanding Surgery Department.

For questions or sponsorship information for Party in the Park, contact Cheryl Geiger at 256.265.8077 or cheryl.geiger@hhsys.org.

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Gala Cocktail Party & Silent Auction 7 - 10 p.m.

Huntsville Museum of Art The third and final event of the 27th Annual Gala 31 is a more relaxed and social gathering. During this cocktail party, featured artists Lois Arrechea, Katherine Arrechea Reed and Sarah Arrechea Robertson will mingle with the guests and be available to answer any questions they may have about the artwork.

Cocktails and live music will be provided during the silent auction. Gala proceeds benefit the Huntsville Museum of Art. For more information, visit www.hsvmuseum.org.

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UCP An Irish Evening 6 - 9 p.m.

Depot Roundhouse Redstone Federal Credit Union presents the 20th annual An Irish Evening event to benefit United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) of Huntsville.

5 This family-friendly event features a sampling of Irish fare from local vendors, live entertainment

by Black Market Haggis and the Fitness Arts Center Irish step dancers, festive games for all ages with the Irish Society of North Alabama, visits with Irish wolfhounds, St. Patrick’s Day photo booth fun with Your Perfect Party, dance tunes with Metropolitan DJ, an exciting silent auction, and more!

Tickets can be purchased online at ucphuntsville.org using PayPal, at UCP Huntsville Centers, by phone at 256.859.4900, and at the door the night of the event.

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raised over $16,000. At their second event in 2017 they raised just over $40,000!

All money raised thus far has been donated 100% to St. Baldrick’s Foundation.

April

Black Tie Dinner & Live Auction 6 - 10 p.m.

Huntsville Museum of Art

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2018 Victorian Cotillion Dinner Dance 6 - 11 p.m.

Von Braun Center North Hall

AshaKiran Cultural Competency Conference 2018 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

The University of Alabama in Huntsville (CTC) 301 Sparkman Dr NW, Huntsville, Alabama 35899 Join AshaKiran, the University of Alabama in Huntsville Office of Diversity and Multicultural Affairs and Office of Womens & Gender Studies, Alabama Dept. of Rehabilitation Services (ADRS) and the Alabama Institute for Deaf & Blind (AIDB) for the annual AshaKiran Cultural Competency Conference 2018 with this years’ focus on Improving Outcomes for Individuals with Disabilities Experiencing Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and Human Trafficking.

For more information, contact Gloria Batts ccat@ashakiranonline.org or 256.509.1882

Live Bald 2 - 6 p.m.

Straight To Ale Campus 805 2610 Clinton Ave. NW Live Bald is an annual charity “head-shaving event” held in Huntsville, Alabama, featuring food, drink, live music, a chance raffle, and, of course, volunteers getting their heads shaved.

Live Bald is presented by the Father Trecy Division of the Ancient Order of Hibernians.

At their inaugural event in 2016 Live Bald

Submit your event at www.eventhuntsville.com

Voices of Our Times: Carolyne Roehm 11:15 a.m. - 1:15 p.m.

Huntsville Museum of Art Style icon and lifestyle maven Carolyne Roehm has been part of the American design culture for over four decades. With a career spanning the fashion, gardening, entertaining, publishing and decorative arts worlds, Carolyne’s energy in seeking out the next challenge knows no bounds.

This event will include a welcome cocktail and canapes, lunch, talk and book signing.

Members $100 / Non-members $130 Heads-N-Tails Crawfish Boil 3 - 9 p.m.

Von Braun Center, South Hall This 8th annual event is free to attend and is family-friendly, with face painting, inflatables and other free activities to entertain the kids.

Crawfish and other yummy food will be available for purchase. We will also have craft beer tastings and your favorite beverages available for purchase! And what crawfish boil would be complete without Zydeco music?

So we are bringing Louisiana vibes to you with live zydeco music by Nathan & The Zydeco Cha Chas from 6-9! So make sure to mark your calendar for an event you don't want to miss.

For a complete listing of events and detailed information, please visit our calendar at www.eventhuntsville.com

www.eventhuntsville.com

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Taste

Hopeful

Feast

Gathering with family and friends as we celebrate Easter is one of the year’s joys.

This year, whether you’re gathering at home or out on the town; for brunch, lunch or dinner, gather inspiration from our grouping of Easter fare. Chefs from the hottest spots in town offer delectable dishes just for you!

Enjoy a TASTE!

Caprese Salad with a Southern Twist | Beauregard’s Fresh Beefsteak and green tomatoes fried and served with fresh mozzarella, house-made balsamic and fresh basil

Photo by Steve Babin

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Madagascar Barbecue Prawns Church Street Purveyor

Served over four cheese stone ground grits with chorizo and lobster creme sauce, roasted carrots and roasted poblano hollandaise foam

Photo by Steve Babin

Lobstah Grits Rollin Lobstah

Stone Ground grits smothered with smoked Gouda cheese topped with lobster, bacon and chives drizzled with blanc sauce made with butter, white wine, and shallots

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Easter Lamb Duo The Ledges Herb encrusted rack of lamb with pecorino butternut squash risotto Roulade of lamb with truffled spring pea purée Chianti demi glacé

Delectable, scratch-made chocolate, lemon icebox, coconut or pecan pies

Photo by Steve Babin

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Freshly Baked Pies | Gibson’s Bar-B-Q

Served alongside sweet potato and pineapple hash and finished with a citrus-coconut butter

Pan-roasted Chilean Sea Bass | Ruth’s Chris Steak House Minted Colorado Lamb The Bottle

Served with Keel Mountain root vegetables and roasted new potatoes, lamb jus

Photo by Steve Babin

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California Cobb Salad Drake’s

Chopped greens, sliced grape tomatoes, corn, scallions and chicken breast tossed with citrus vinaigrette then topped with bacon, avocado and blue cheese crumbles

Flourless Chocolate Torte Mezza Luna Served with hazelnut ice cream, pomegranate gastrique and glazed hazelnut

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To submit an Ad or Event to HUNTSVILLE

EVENT

MAGAZINE

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please call us 256.533.8078 or visit our website

eventhuntsville.com www.eventhuntsville.com

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Editorial

Monthly

are open to all of the possibilities as they walk January • Brides through the doorway to the rest of their lives. Just like

Marry-ment

the January garnet birthstone symbolizes consistency and stability, our recommendation for a January wedding would be the tried and true Cabernet Sauvignon.

are rare and unique. With an amethyst birthFebruary • Brides stone and a violet as its flower, this month calls for a

March April May June July August

wine as rich as its symbols. We recommend a Petite Sirah, rich purple in color with a concentrated flavor.

look to new beginnings as the season begins • Brides to shift from winter to spring. Aquamarine and

daffodil rule this month and with a flower so light in color and scent, we suggest pairing March with a crisp Chardonnay.

Brides chose the month of growth and blossoming.

• Diamonds and daisies rule this month, and what pairs better than a beautiful Sauvignon Blanc with its almost crystal clear color and crisp fruit taste notes.

Brides rule the month of transformation. May’s • emerald is the symbol of rebirth and the Lily of

the Valley represents sweetness and humility. We recommend a sweet sparkling to grasp the sweet undertone of new life and bloom.

Brides are radiant. This sunny month boasts the pure • pearl and rose of vitality and fullness of life. We

propose choosing a Rose’ for your wedding to praise the rose ruler of June.

Brides are carefree and happy-go-lucky. Just like the • ruby birthstone of July, Pinot Noir is ruby red in color

Brides celebrate Romance Awareness Month the best • way by choosing to walk down the aisle in August. The and promotes heart health and love.

month’s gladiolus reminds us of cascades of beautiful bubbles, which lead us to our recommendation of a dry brut sparkling wine for your special day.

Brides are the picture of serenity. The saying goes September • “Marry in September’s shine, your living will be rich

Ocber

and fine,” so naturally we chose a wine that is rich and timeless: Chateauneuf-du-Pape.

Brides planned their nuptials in the month of love.

• October’s marigold represents heart-felt love and

inspired us to choose a Sangiovese for this month’s wedding wine. Sangiovese is a red wine from the country of love, Italy - a perfect pairing for the love month.

Brides are trail blazers. This month inspires us to Nember • harness our uniqueness and calls for a wine that is just

as adventurous and bold as the bride. We propose the daring Zinfandel to inspire your guests to harness their own uniqueness and the spirit of love.

Brides embrace the festive season. With cold weather December • inspiring cozying up in front of a roaring fire, we

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suggest a Port wine to help warm your cheeks and your heart. Port is a sweet, bold, and fruit forward wine that demands the respect due to a December bride.

Written by Haley Loveday

Come visit us at Church Street Wine Shoppe for wedding wine for every season!

256.970.4097 churchstreetwineshoppe.com

Jeff Abbott, Sarah Green, Lynn Collyar

Sharon Doviet, Alia King, Aubrey Blake

Michael Timberlake, Mayor Tommy Battle, Aubrey Blake, Chris Russell

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Wafflepalooza’s 12th Year and Counting Photos by Steve Babin Sharon Doviet and Chris Russell host an open house each 3rd Saturday of January called Wafflepalooza as a fun community event. On January 20, about 200 guests got their day started with Belgian waffles, omelets, bacon, sausage, hash browns, mimosas and Bloody Marys. This year marked the 12th year for the event. Sharon is an attorney with her own family law practice and Chris works in Private Banking and Wealth Management with Cadence Bank. Their next-door neighbor Ralph Douglas wows attendees with a show of cooking six special order omelets at a time, often flipping them in the air from the pan. The event gathers a diverse representation of the Huntsville community. n

Sharon Doviet, Chris Russell

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Zara, Zoe & Todd Lowry

Chris Russell, Jana & Mike Moody, Leta & Mike DeMaioribus, Claraleta & Beth Monroe

Richard Hardin Jr., & Richard Hardin Sr., Kathie Clayton

Dick & Barbara Allison

Nicole & Jada Leo

Jim & Dianne Reynolds

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

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Selena & Timothy Southward

Dr. Julius & Josephine Scruggs

100 Black Men of Greater Huntsville Look to the Future

Timia Spurlock, Adrian Grant, Kortney Hale, De’Azya Blake

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Photos by Reginald Allen

The 100 Black Men of Greater Huntsville proudly presented its Annual Holiday Gala on December 16, 2017 at the Von Braun Center’s North Hall. The evening began with a red carpet entrance, followed by dinner, dancing and celebration. The purpose of the event was to raise funds to support academic scholarships and the organization’s Four for the Future cornerstone programs: Mentoring; Education; Economic Empowerment; and Health and Wellness.

Specifically, The Men of Tomorrow mentoring program provides mentors for young men from single-parent homes. The program teaches them life skills that will enhance their talents and learning, ensuring they become productive members of their families and the community. “What They See Is What They Will Be” is not only a motto, but a way of life for mentors of the global organization. n

Sylvester & Angelia Daniels, Jane & Gerald Jones

Carolyn & Eddie Williams

Kimberly Ford, Marcia Ingram

Bill Huston, Rosetta James

Cary & Katrina Hale

Earnest & Donna Starks, Deborah & Dr. Taylor Byrd Jr.

Pastor Lawrence Jackson

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Thomas Dortch Jr.

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

Lexus of Huntsville, Where You Get Much More For Much Less Than You Might Think

Model Shown: Lexus RX

OF HUNTS VI LLE Lexus of Huntsville 6580 University Drive Huntsville, AL 35806 www.lexusofhuntsville.com 256.824.8050 or 800.721.9560

Community Foundations Women’s Endowment Launch Photos by Reginald Allen

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

Jessica Hovis Smith, Cindi Ludwig, Chris Hinson, Kim Lewis, Melissa Thompson, Ginger Harper, Leta DeMaioribus, Lynn Troy

Lynne Vallely, Cindi Ludwig, Dianne Reynolds

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Beth Monroe, Maria Ramage

On Tuesday, November 14, 2017, an event was held to launch the Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville’s Women’s Endowment Fund. Several key community leaders served as event hosts. The fund is the first permanent grantmaking endowment established for women by women to leave a legacy of love – an enduring gift for generations to come. The Women’s Endowment Launch was generously sponsored by IBERIABANK. n

Beth Sippel, Paula Steigerwald, Cindi Ludwig, Lynne Vallely

Lori King-Taylor, Cynthia Streams

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

Ginger Harper, Holly McCarty, Tracy Bell

www.eventhuntsville.com

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Amanda Howard Holiday Celebration Photos by Steve Babin

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

Jada & Nicole Leo, Cindy & Bill Gifford

Amanda Howard Real Estate kicked off the season with their 8th annual holiday celebration on December 5, 2017 at the Huntsville Museum of Art. More than 300 guests attended the party catered by Purveyor Huntsville with flowers and décor by In Bloom and entertainment by musicians from Huntsville Violin. Howard said of the event, “The evening was Amanda Howard Real Estate’s unique blend of laughter and cheer mixed with friendship and holiday spirit.” n

Howard Sanderford, Rex Reynolds, Troy Trulock

Alexandra Jones, Mark Holman, Lisa Pellerin Robert & Pat Dixon Jeremy Miller, Loni Cleve

Travis & Amanda Howard

Jillian, Jill & Harper McClure

Amanda Howard, Kevin Turner

Alicia Jackson, Valerie Johnson, Beth Riggs, Adam Stults

Linda & Rob Akenhead

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Amanda Clark, Christy Rainey

Kenny Anderson, Toni Eberhart, Kevin Fernandez

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

Want to know what’s going on in Huntsville?

eventhuntsville.com It’s what’s happening in Huntsville HUNTSVILLE

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Submit YOUR event online to let Huntsville know what’s going on. www.eventhuntsville.com

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Southern States Bank Annual Holiday Party

Southern States Bank celebrated the season with a holiday party at their new branch location on December 4, 2017. CEO Steve Whatley numbered among the special guests. Fare was provided by Bubba’s Silver Spoon Catering. n

Photos by Steve Babin

Keith Mandel, Alicia Holt, Rick Lynch, April Reis

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

Darlene McMullan, Kevin & Krista Reed, Jordan Wallace, Shirley Reed, Colby Wallace

Patti Walker, Leslie Sharp

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Bill Chapman, Kevin Gray

April Reis, John McMullan, Becky Harris, Patti Walker, Richard Perdue, Rebecca Byrum, Stephen Whatley

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

LOCAL Service.

INNOVATIVE Technology.

www.southernstatesbank.net ALABAMA Anniston | Auburn | Birmingham Huntsville | Opelika | Sylacauga GEORGIA Atlanta | Carrollton | Columbus

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Southern States Bank Ribbon Cutting Photos by Steve Babin

Southern States Bank joined forces with the Huntsville Madison County Chamber of Commerce for a ribbon cutting at their new Church Street branch location on November 30, 2017. Special guests included Mayor Tommy Battle, local advisory board members and other chamber representatives. n

Richard Perdue, Patti Walker, April Reis, Rebecca Byrum, Becky Harris, John McMullan

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

John McMullan, Jami Peyton, Dr. John Wisda, Kumar Patel, Terry Roberts, Randy Schrimsher

John McMullan, Tommy Battle

Jamey Carroll, Amy Stapler

Terry Roberts, Nona Perdue

Jordan Wallace, Darlene McMullan, Nona Perdue

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Free gift wrapping and local delivery.

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Your Bridal Registry Headquarters

china • barware • crystal • silver • serving accessories • bridal registry 98

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

Soles Dance Center Company Social Photos by Isaiah Williams

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

Christine Owens, Alyssa Cutter, Laurie Howell, Lindsey Zinser

Amy Layne, Michelle Shaw, Dana Lusk, Nicole Farrell, Angela Rawls, Amy Dilocker, Shari Williams

Soles Dance Center gathered their young students, their parents, friends and supporters for their annual company social and dress rehearsal on December 3, 2017 at Merrimack Hall. Around 300 guests attended the performance. Soles owners Anna Ward and Kelly Nave were on hand, along with Emily Davis, to prepare the dancers.

Merrimack Hall was the event’s sponsor. n

Kyle & Renea Kelly

Anna Ward, Emily Davis, Kelly Nave

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WITH YOUR FEET

Huntsville, AL 35801

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See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

Amy & Carden Dilocker, Jennifer Richardson

Mercedes Benz Holiday Christmas Party

Photos by Steve Babin

The annual Mercedes Benz Christmas party is a family event. This year’s party included door prizes for the adults. The children were treated to a visit from Santa, who delivered gifts directly from their wish lists. Dinner was catered by Bubba’s with decorating by Foliage Designs. General Manager Jimmy Mullen said of the event, “We enjoy having a family event for our employees and invite spouses and children.” n

Back Tim Dyer Front Heather, Parker & Knox Williams

John Michael & Karen Totten

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

Pete McGaha, Deborah Caldwell

Renee Matthews, D.J. McCoy, Reverend James Jones Sr., Courtney Matthews

Abe Demsas, Susan & Jimmy Mullen

Loretta, Chloe & Jason Johnson

Caroline Conegatto, Adam Neal

Skye & Amir Samadani

Sylver Shorter, Jimmy Mullen, Tyree Williams

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R.J. & Shannon Oswald

Corrina & Susan Mullen, Tom Ray, Karen Totten, Jimmy Mullen

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

Once you’ve found it, you know you’re home. Banking and mortgage loans are the same way.

At ServisFirst Bank, we offer a range of banking and mortgage products that are as varied as our clients’ tastes in homes.

Each offers a competitive rate and our exceptional service. Perhaps that’s why homeowners feel so settled in once they find us.

www.servisfirstbank.com | Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender AT L A N TA • B I R M I N G H A M • C H A R L E S T O N • D O T H A N • H U N T S V I L L E • M O B I L E • M O N T G O M E RY • N A S H V I L L E • P E N S A C O L A • TA M P A B AY

Cindy LeBlanc Vice President Mortgage Lending 256.722.7821 cleblanc@servisfirstbank.com NMLS ID: 776271

Corporate Office & Downtown Banking Center 401 Meridian Street, Suite 100 Huntsville, AL 35801 256.722.7800 Research Park Banking Center 1267 Enterprise Way, Suite A Huntsville, AL 35806 256.722.7880