SERVING 10 COUNTIES IN NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI
the issue bridal
Perfect Fit
A mother-of-the-bride adds a very special handmade touch to her daughter’s wedding day details.
A Space to Sew
Elizabeth Howorth’s sewing room is filled with personal treasures and inspiration for her work.
Blissful Brunch
These sweet and savory snacks are perfect additions to a wedding-day brunch or bridal shower.
Out of the Blue
A bespoke clothier in Oxford hits it big around the country.
OXFORD: Introducing Mr. and Mrs. Cole and Sara Katherine Yearwood! Read all about their wedding on page 34.
PHOTOGRAPHED BY SHELBY MULLINS
PHOTOGRAPHY
NORTHEAST: Congrats to newlyweds John and Kasey Foropoulos! Read more about their wedding day details on page 28.
PHOTOGRAPHED BY MISHELLE
OUR TAKE
WITH
There’s something special about new starting chapters of life. Maybe it’s a move, maybe a new job, maybe finishing college, but I think marriage is probably one of the most significant new beginnings. From daily routines to major decisions, a new chapter starts after marriage.
This month, in our wedding announcements, we celebrate newlywed couples who got married over the last year. Each of their celebrations is unique to who they are together and how they want to start their new chapter.
In this issue, we are also excited to share stories of people who have made weddings extra special for their families. On page 42, be sure to check out Elizabeth Howorth’s labor of love, now heirloom pieces of her family’s story for her children to cherish and share.
I’d like to add a special nod to my own flower girl from 2008, Sara Katherine Waller, and her husband, Cole Yearwood, who you will meet on page 34. They said “I do” in February.
Best wishes to all these amazing couples. Thank you for sharing your stories with us.
PUBLISHER
Rachel West
EDITORIAL
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
Emily Welly
EVENTS EDITOR AND SOCIAL MEDIA
COORDINATOR
Meg Kennedy
FOOD EDITOR
Sarah Godwin
COPY EDITOR
Ashley Arthur
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Eugene Stockstill
OFFICE
BUSINESS MANAGER
Hollie Dalton
DISTRIBUTION
Allen Baker
Brian Hilliard
MAIN OFFICE
662-234-4008
ART CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Bryan Nigh
SENIOR EDITORIAL
PHOTOGRAPHER
Joe Worthem
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Rebekah Clayton
Nina Fudge
Alice Keer
Miller Meisenheimer
Lisa Roberts
ADVERTISING ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS
Alise Emerson
Leigh Lowery
Lynn McElreath
Keith Rainer
Moni Simpson
Whitney Worsham
ADVERTISING DESIGNERS
Paul Gandy
Markka Bartlett
Ryan Strickland
For advertising information, contact ads@invitationoxford.com.
To subscribe to one year (10 issues) or to buy an announcement, visit invitationmag.com.
To request a photographer at your event, email invitationmag.events@gmail.com.
Invitation Magazines respects the many diverse individuals and organizations that make up north Mississippi and strives to be inclusive and representative of all members of our community.
THE TALENT
MEG KENNEDY
EVENTS EDITOR AND SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Meg Kennedy, a Jackson, Mississippi, native, spent years as a corporate consultant and recruiter before embracing her creative side and joining the Invitation Magazines team in June 2025. She and her husband, Penn, celebrated two years of marriage in May and are looking forward to spending their first summer with their 3-month-old daughter.
WHITNEY WORSHAM
ADVERTISING CONSULTANT AND PHOTOGRAPHER
Whitney Worsham has been with Invitation Magazines for over 10 years. She loves her job because she has met so many interesting people and loves learning about their businesses. The bridal issue is a favorite of hers because she loves seeing the deeply rooted family traditions so many couples in the South incorporate into their big day. It’s what makes each wedding so unique and special. She and her husband, Hayden, have four children and five precious grandchildren. She loves to needlepoint, read and play mahjong but most of all, she loves being Dodo/Bubbie to her grandchildren.
PAUL GANDY DESIGNER & PHOTOGRAPHER
Ad designer Paul Gandy has been working as a freelance photographer and designer since 2016. Paul loves to tell stories through his camera and getting to travel is a bonus. His work has taken him all over the world documenting everything from weddings in Italy and Iceland to humanitarian efforts in Puerto Rico and Matamoros, Mexico. After a long stay in the Velvet Ditch, he, his wife, Maddie, and their two cats, Heifer and Helga, have moved to Norman, Oklahoma, for the next chapter. In May, they welcomed a new addition to the family, Maeve!
JOE
WEDDING
Katherine Martin Fitzpatrick & William Francis O’Grady
Katherine “Katie” Martin Fitzpatrick of Leesburg, Virginia, and William Francis O’Grady of Glen Ellyn, Illinois, were united in marriage on Dec. 6, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Oxford. The bride is the daughter of Mr. Henry “Hank” Hampton Dunn Jr. and Mrs. Sara “Sally” Howell Fitzpatrick. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Charles O’Grady. The rehearsal dinner was enjoyed at The Sipp on South Lamar, where the bride served as a hostess during her time at Ole Miss. Following the dinner, a “second line” led the party to the post toast, held upstairs at Bouré. From there, guests could admire the Christmas lights and snow globe feel Oxford offers during this time of year. The bride wore a red sequin Rebecca Vallance dress, and the groom wore a black suit
with a red pocket square.
Saturday morning, the bridal party dressed at Isom Place before heading to the church. The ceremony was officiated by Fr. John Wynnycky, a friend of the bride’s family and the same priest who baptized Katie in the Catholic church as a baby.
Katie walked down the aisle in a one-ofa-kind, silk satin gown designed by Amsale. Her custom ballgown featured a straight-across neckline and pearl buttons cascading down her cathedral-length train.
For the ceremony, Katie added an illusion, mock neck overlay with scattered pearls. For the reception, Katie transitioned her look by removing the topper and adding a delicate, freshwater pearl sash at the waist. For the afterparty, she changed into an Amsale dress with a bubble skirt and
strapless, ruched top, completed with a diamondbeaded belt. She found her gown, party dress and all her bridal accessories at Maggie Louise Bridal in Germantown.
Attending the bride was her mom of honor, Sally Fitzpatrick. Bridesmaids were Hailey Osborne, Savannah Bonfitto, Carly Palmer, Kelly Williamson and Chloe Platte, and Lucy Barnett was her junior bridesmaid. Flower girls were Isla Barnett and Birdie Russell.
The best man was Matt Mahoney, and groomsmen were Jack and Charlie O’Grady, Jack Newall, Alec Van de Bovenkamp, Parker Widhelm and David Williamson. Ring bearers were Clarke Barnett and Cooper and Frank Willis.
Following a traditional Catholic ceremony, the party continued at The Jefferson, where guests dined with a mouthwatering plated dinner by A&N Catering. For dessert, The Flour Garden in Memphis created a wedding cake that was a remarkable replica of the U.S. Capitol, as a nod to where the couple met and, eventually, got engaged.
As the evening continued, there was endless dancing to the sounds of the band Creativity, and showstopping entertainment by Jordan Poole who put on a picture-perfect Elvis Presley impersonation throughout the evening. To continue the never-ending party, a balloon drop closed out the reception, and the original cocktail room was transformed into “Ox Vegas” with DJ King Kova keeping the party alive. The evening concluded with dessert cocktails and late-night snacks. It was a night the couple will relive and treasure forever.
WEDDING
Margaret McKenzie Tannehill & Nicholas Reed Markle
Margaret “Maggie” McKenzie Tannehill and Nicholas “Reed” Markle of Oxford were united in marriage on April 18, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. in a beautiful ceremony surrounded by close family and friends in Church Hill, Mississippi. The ceremony took place at Christ Episcopal Church and was officiated by the Rev. Curt Presley and Fr. Sam Godfrey.
The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jack Rhea Tannehill Jr. of Oxford. She is the granddaughter of Ms. Sherry McKenzie of Tupelo, the late Mr. Robert McKenzie of Florence, Alabama, Ms. Jane Tannehill of Laurel, and Mr. Jack Rhea Tannehill of Union.
The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Lee Markle of Oxford. He is the grandson of Ms. Peggy Markle and the late Mr. Donald Markle of Southaven, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Billy Dutton of Southaven.
Attending the bride as maid of honor was the bride’s sister, Molly Catherine Tannehill
of Oxford. Maggie was also blessed to have Anne Jordan Cole as her matron of honor and bridesmaids Perry Reeves, Chandler Beth Winter, Kaitlyn Kennedy, Megan Markle and JonHayden Roach. Program attendants were Helen Fulghom and Nora McKenzie, cousins of the bride.
The groom’s father served as best man, and the groom’s brothers, Dalton and Cole Markle, served as groomsmen. Groomsmen also included Jack Tannehill, the bride’s brother, Dee Fair, Preston Perkins, Brennan Walker, Carter Roach and Easton Treadway.
Following the ceremony, the celebration continued at Field & Forest where wedding guests were entertained with music, dancing and stunning scenery. The night’s memories were captured by photographer Brian Flint.
Following their honeymoon to Ocho Rios, Jamaica, the couple will reside in Oxford. Their wedding day reflected not only a joyful union, but also the deep love and support of the families and friends who gathered to celebrate.
WEDDING
Ansley Blair Byars & Caleb Richard Clark
Ansley Blair Byars of Oxford and Caleb Richard Clark of Madison celebrated their wedding weekend surrounded by family and friends at T-Lazy-7 Ranch in Aspen, Colorado, with the iconic Maroon Bells serving as the backdrop for both the ceremony and reception. Having spent years skiing in Colorado with her family, the bride always dreamed of a mountain wedding, and the ranch’s sweeping meadow views created the perfect setting for their intimate celebration.
The couple met during their first semester of dental school in August 2021 and became engaged during a weekend getaway to Highlands, North Carolina, in February 2024.
Wedding festivities began with a welcome party at Stranahan’s in downtown Aspen, where guests gathered ahead of the wedding weekend to celebrate in a relaxed mountain setting.
Inspired by the natural beauty of Aspen, the couple worked with planner and designer Calluna Events to create a celebration filled with soft florals and greenery that complemented the scenery rather than competed with it. A tented reception by Sperry Tents Colorado, live music, green lattice accents and abundant pink blooms by Alli J Floral created an atmosphere that felt elegant, warm and lively throughout the wedding weekend.
The bride wore a strapless Rita Vinieris ballgown featuring beaded, dimensional floral lace, paired with sentimental diamond earrings gifted by her father and Loeffler Randall heels. Bridesmaids wore coordinated pink dresses in varying shades and patterns, each selecting a style they genuinely loved, creating a whimsical yet cohesive aesthetic.
The groom wore a classic white dinner jacket with black trousers and a black tie alongside his groomsmen, who were dressed in traditional black tuxedos.
The ceremony featured a floral ground arch framed by the mountain views, while the reception carried the garden-inspired design into the tent with green linens, wicker chargers, layered pink and green centerpieces, floral drum shades and personalized paper details designed by Mesh by Alex woven throughout the celebration.
The couple’s two dogs, Rosie and Millie, appeared in custom illustrations featured on the invitation suite, bar menus and matchboxes.
The couple shared their first dance to “At
Last” by Etta James beneath the reception tent. Guests enjoyed signature cocktails, including Aperol Spritzes, Old Fashioneds, Yellow Hammers and Spicy Margaritas, followed by a dinner by Red Maple Catering featuring miso sea bass and bison short ribs. An oxygen bar from Summit Oxygen was a fun and unique addition to the reception.
Later in the evening, Ansley changed into a silver sequined gown with pink cowgirl boots for a fun disco-cowgirl-inspired reception look. Passed skillet cookies with ice cream, a liquid nitrogen s’mores station, late-night buffalo Philly cheesesteaks and truffle fries kept the dance floor full all evening as Taylor Pace with the Jordan Kahn Orchestra performed throughout the reception.
The couple departed under a shower of silver streamer cannons and an escort by the brass section of the band, ending the celebration that felt timeless, personal and joyful against the unforgettable Aspen landscape, all beautifully captured by photographer Bree Woolliscroft.
WEDDING
Lindsey Ellen Stout & William Tate Russell
BRIDE'S PARENTS
GROOM'S PARENTS
DRESS TUX
REHEARSAL VENUE
WEDDING VENUE FLOWERS
VIOLINIST CATERER
BAR SERVICES
BRIDE'S CAKE
GROOM'S CAKE
RECEPTION BAND
WEDDING PAINTER RENTALS
CAR HAIR
MAKEUP
WEDDING PLANNER
PHOTOGRAPHER
Lisa and Mitchell Stout
Tracie Russell and the late Tim Russell
Maggie Louise Bridal
Thomas Brothers Formal Wear
McEwen’s Oxford
The Lodge at Live Strive Farms
Bankhead Flower Shop, New Albany
Jiwon Lee
My Michelle’s
Magnolia Bar Events
Hummingbird Bakery, Water Valley (Brenda Brafford)
Sweet Life Cakes, Oxford (Kathleen Taylor)
Mustache the Band
Tiffany Wale
Magnolia Rental
Hotty Toddy Wedding Cars
Luxe Styling Studio (Anna Traylor and Robin Perkins)
Emily Clowers
Anna Purvis
Taylor Square Photography
WEDDING
Kasey Brooke McKee & John Eric Foropoulos II
DATE CITY
VENUE
BRIDE'S PARENTS
GROOM'S PARENTS
BRIDAL GOWN
GROOM'S TUX
PHOTOGRAPHER
VIDEOGRAPHER
OFFICIANT
GUITARIST & VIOLINIST
FLORAL DESIGN
RENTALS
CATERER
CAKE BAND
LIVE WEDDING PAINTER
MAKEUP
HAIR
NIGHT BEFORE RINGS
HONEYMOON
October 4, 2025
Oxford
Oak Hill
Mr. Lonnie & Mrs. Tina Mckee
Dr. Jef & Mrs. Terri Foropoulos
Maggie Louise Bridal
Thomas Brothers Formal Wear
Wildflowers Photography | Mishelle Naro
Minick and Bohannon
Dr. Ryan Reed
Ted & Victoria Rogers
Oxford Floral | Moss Creek Plants | Jen’s Florals
Magnolia Rental
My Michelle’s
Tammie Hardin
Groove Factor
The Watered Mill
Maggie Martin
Kristen Perry
Tico’s Steakhouse Oxford
Corinth Jewelers
Saint Lucia
WEDDING
Haley Elizabeth McFall & Cody Ryan Wall
DATE CITY
WEDDING VENUE
RECEPTION VENUE BAND
PHOTOGRAPHER
BRIDE'S GOWN
GROOM'S TUX MAKEUP
FLORAL DESIGN
June 21, 2025
Corinth
First Methodist Church
The Standard
Al Paris & The Heartbreakers
Love, Jules Photography
Bella’s Bridal and Formal
Harry Mayer Clothiers
Mary Shields Hunter
Jen’s Floral
WEDDING
Elizabeth Morrissey Oehmler & John Christian Lange
After a surprise proposal at the Carlyle Hotel in New York City just before Thanksgiving 2024, followed by a family celebration at Bemelmans Bar, Eliza Oehmler’s and Christian Lange’s wedding season began. The couple immediately agreed that Oxford was the preferred location for their fall 2025 wedding; but would the SEC football gods grant their wish and schedule the Rebels’ only off weekend for the same one as the bride’s law school fall break? Watching ESPN with bated breath for the announcement in mid-December, indeed, they did! And on Oct. 4, 2025, Eliza and Christian exchanged vows in perfect weather on the grounds of William Faulkner’s Rowan Oak. October 2025 marked exactly nine years since the couple had started dating. The groom is from New York City, went to Hotchkiss in Connecticut and graduated from Georgetown University. The bride is from Memphis, Tennessee,
went to St. Mary’s and graduated from Harvard. The couple met while working on the Hillary Clinton presidential campaign in 2016. Both were in college at the time, so, after the election, they had to maintain a long-distance relationship between different schools and various job opportunities. They ultimately found their way to the same city at the same time, ready to start their future together.
The couple’s main focus in planning was to ensure their guests had a wonderful experience at their chosen destination. The attendees came from all over the country and the world, some as far as London, Paris and Hong Kong! Many had never stepped foot in the South, and Oxford fully delivered on its hospitality and charm.
Eliza wore a stunning veil and gown from Monique Lhuillier and pearl earrings Christian gifted to her. The bride and groom matched the soles of their shoes in Christian Louboutins.
Judge Andy Howorth, stepfather of the bride, performed the ceremony as the two sets of sisters, Callie and Dorothy, and Nicki and Olivia, looked on. Three flower girls and a ring bearer, the nieces and nephew of the groom, and Harry, the couple’s beloved French bulldog, were also front and center.
With Faulkner’s historic home as the setting, all things literary became a driving design thematic. Antique books and reading lamps adorned the primary table. A paper unfurled from a vintage black typewriter, like Faulkner’s, describing the specialty drinks: Christian’s Manhattan and LiLi’s Lemonade. Escort cards were small “books” with bookmarks directing guests to their tables, which were set to feel like Southern dining rooms, each with its distinct China and flowers.
The Band Method, from New York, played three hours straight to a packed dance floor. An after party at the home of the bride featured cheap sunglasses, Domino’s Pizza and… a pool. Yes, most guests ended up in the water in full tuxedo and gowns. The party ended at 4 a.m., capping off an unforgettable weekend.
The Langes now reside in Brooklyn. Eliza just finished her second year of law school at Fordham. Christian is the director of operations at a tech startup.
WEDDING
Sara Katherine Waller & David Cole Yearwood
DATE
BRIDE'S PARENTS
GROOM'S PARENTS
WEDDING VENUE
WEDDING RECEPTION
OFFICIANT
PHOTOGRAPHER
VIDEOGRAPHER
WEDDING PLANNER
FLORIST
RENTALS
BRIDE'S GOWN
GROOM'S TUX
HAIR AND MAKEUP
BRIDE'S CAKE
GROOM'S CAKE
CATERING
BAND
HONEYMOON
February 21, 2026
Dr. and Mrs. Jason Marshall Waller
Ms. Beverly Rushing Yearwood and Mr. James Anthony Yearwood
The Chapel at Plein Air
The Mill at Plein Air
The Rev. Don Gann
Shelby Mullins Photography
Abundant Films
Ellen Thomas Event Design
Oxford Floral
Details Rentals
Elle James Bridal
Thomas Brothers Formal Wear
Makeup by Melissa Hill
Alice Chow
Laurie Lackey
A&N Catering
4 Barrel Funk
Ocho Rios, Jamaica
SHELBY MULLINS PHOTOGRAPHY
WEDDING
On May 24, 2025, Mary Margaret Wamble and Spencer Day’s celebration began at Oxford United Methodist Church, where soft arrangements of orchids and hydrangeas with light pink accents added a simple and elegant touch to the intimate setting. Surrounded by their closest friends and family, the couple exchanged vows in a ceremony that felt meaningful and relaxed.
The evening continued at City Grocery with a candlelit reception on the Square. The historic, charming restaurant provided a warm and inviting backdrop for a seated dinner accompanied by heartfelt toasts from friends and family. Guests gathered around a stunning seventier wedding cake that served as a centerpiece for the evening before cake and champagne were passed throughout the room. Afterward, guests made their way upstairs, where the celebration took on a livelier tone.
Donning “Best Day Ever” caps, guests
Mary Margaret Wamble & Spencer
Day
created their own dance floor and kept the energy going late into the night. Late-night favorites — Oxford’s well-known chicken-on-a-stick and grilled cheese — were served as the party continued. The evening ended with a rose petal send-off, as Mary Margaret and Spencer waved goodbye, toasting to many more “best days ever” ahead.
WEDDING
Katherine Hallene Reed & William Alvin Westbrook Jr.
DATE
CITY
BRIDE'S MOTHER
WEDDING AND RECEPTION VENUE
PHOTOGRAPHER
HAIR
BRIDE'S BOUQUET HONEYMOON
October 18, 2025
Olive Branch Lisa Reed
The Fountain South
Derrick LaBarre Jr.
The Parlor
Oxford Floral Seaside, Florida
DERRICK LABARRE JR.
WEDDING
Sarah Beth Tidwell & John Roberts
DATE
GROOM'S PARENTS
BRIDE'S GRANDPARENTS
WEDDING VENUE OFFICIANT
RECEPTION VENUE
PHOTOGRAPHER
FLORAL DESIGN
CATERER
October 25, 2025
Mr. and Mrs. Darren Allen Roberts
Mrs. Susan Dempsey and
Mr. and Mrs. Bill McCulley
First Baptist Church of Oxford
Brother David Ard
The Lyric Oxford
Brianna Montfort and Kayla Wolfe of Kayla
Wolfe Photography & Film
Breezy Blossoms
Taylor Grocery Special Events Catering
ENGAGEMENT
Mr. and Mrs. Bobby Burns of Corinth announce the engagement of their daughter, Sarah Kate Burns, to Christopher Kyle Hoppock, son of Mr. and Mrs. Jason Hoppock of Houston, Texas.
The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mr. Harold Peters and the late Mrs. June Peters of Kossuth, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Billy Burns of Corinth.
The prospective bridegroom is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Jose Gonzalez of Houston, Texas, and Mr. David Hoppock and Mrs. Jeanne Farnea of Twin Falls, Idaho.
Sarah Kate is a 2020 graduate of Corinth High School in Corinth. In 2025, she received a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Mississippi. She is currently employed as a mechanical engineer at KimberlyClark in Corinth.
Chris is a 2021 graduate of Oak Harbor High School in Oak Harbor, Washington. In 2025, he received a bachelor’s degree in integrated marketing and communications with a minor in business from the University of Mississippi. He is currently employed as a sales representative for Oracle in Nashville, Tennessee.
The couple will exchange vows at First Presbyterian Church in Corinth on June 5, 2027. Following the wedding, they plan to reside in Nashville.
Sarah Kate Burns & Christopher Kyle Hoppock
Perfect Fit
A MOTHER-OF-THE-BRIDE ADDS A VERY SPECIAL HANDMADE TOUCH TO HER DAUGHTER’S WEDDING DAY DETAILS.
WRITTEN BY EMILY WELLY | PHOTOS BY JOE WORTHEM
Acreative at her core, Elizabeth
Howorth has been sewing since her mother taught her when she was about 11 years old. Last fall, she took on one of her biggest and most personal projects yet: the flower girl dresses for her daughter Eliza’s wedding.
“I want to do something really unique and special for this event,” Elizabeth recalls thinking.
When Eliza mentioned wanting her soonto-be-husband Christian’s nieces and nephew to take part in the wedding, Elizabeth knew that was where she could put her efforts, and she set to work brainstorming flower girl dresses she could make by hand to fit the occasion.
The children involved were Christian’s nieces — Ava and Charlotte Katz and Georgia Patsalos-Fox. Nephew Luca Patsalos-Fox also played a special part in the ceremony, and while his attire was not handmade, he got to don a green-and-white seersucker suit selected to coordinate with his sister and cousins.
Once Elizabeth and Eliza agreed on the
Turn to page 50 for a peek inside Elizabeth Howorth's sewing space.
project, they began sharing ideas and inspiration.
To complement the October wedding that was to take place outdoors at Rowan Oak, Eliza planned to incorporate gold, yellow, apricot and green in her color palette. She originally envisioned the little girls in white. Also keeping the setting in mind, Elizabeth said she knew she needed to create dresses that fit the “majesty of the location.”
From there, a careful (and monthslong) process of design began.
Elizabeth first acquired some French silk from the Lace Cottage in Collierville to create a simple white bodice that would serve as the base piece for each dress. Then, she found a cheerful yellow netting with a daisy pattern embroidered in it online and ordered it to create skirt overlays.
Those fabrics and the basic bodice pattern were perfect for all three dresses, but to create more custom looks, Elizabeth decided to layer in details to make each dress different and special in its own way.
Ava’s had a peter pan collar and puff sleeves with a sage green sash around the waist. Georgia’s had sage green pleated sleeves with a matching sash at the waist, and little Charlotte’s had puff sleeves and long sage green ribbons tied near the shoulders and cascading down. The girls wore matching white ballet shoes and white bows in their hair, and they carried dried
boxwood wreaths with white bows when they walked down the aisle.
When it came to actually sewing the girls’ dresses, one of the biggest challenges was that the girls did not live in the area — Georgia and Luca live in Brooklyn and Ava and Charlotte in Denver. So, Elizabeth spent time on the phone with their mothers, getting very specific measurements that required them to follow very precise instructions (and keeping in mind small children —they were all under age 5 — grow very quickly).
In all, she spent three to four months making the dresses. And she waited with bated breath to see how they would fit once the girls arrived in town for the big day.
“They were perfect,” she said. “These dresses fit perfectly.”
Elizabeth has done a lot of sewing over the years — from home decor to costumes to clothing — but she said this was the biggest project she’s taken on in the sense of the time frame and the challenge of the girls not living nearby for measurements and potential adjustments.
“I get a great sense of accomplishment and pride out of it,” she said. “And the dresses are in the family now.”
Perhaps one day Eliza and Christian will have a daughter who will wear them, too.
A Space to Sew
WRITTEN BY EMILY WELLY | PHOTOS BY JOE WORTHEM
Elizabeth Howorth does her creative projects from a special space in her house that serves as both a practical location to sew and write and as inspiration for her projects.
“My secret empire,” Elizabeth laughed. “I call it my office. It’s certainly also my sewing room.”
The bright and cheery room, which has about 100 square feet of workspace, was previously a master bathroom (the Howorths added on a new master suite in the back of the house, leaving this space open for creativity).
The decor was completely done by Elizabeth. When she first started planning, she found a Farrow & Ball paint called “Setting Plaster” in a magazine, a soft and fleshy pink hue, and began building from there.
While the room includes practical items — a dedicated sewing table, a computer for writing, a comfortable twin-size bed and a TV — there are so many more elements that bring personality, style and inspiration.
Elizabeth’s favorite item in the room is the drapes she made from very old, very fine Brunschwig & Fils fabric that originally belonged to her great uncle who was a designer in Memphis in the 1950s. After he died, Elizabeth kept the fabric, knowing she would someday find a use for it.
“I had it forever,” she said. “And I made (the drapes). It warms my heart.”
Other elements and accessories throughout the room echo and complement the vibrant oranges, golds and yellows and the whimsical feeling found in those drapes.
“I need bright color to entertain my thoughts and vision and creativity,” Elizabeth said. “You can’t go in there and be in a bad mood.”
There are prints from Liberty London that she purchased while visiting one of her daughters in London; there’s a Japanese umbrella she picked up on a different trip; she made the fabric that covers both tables and the dust ruffle around the bed. There are bright and fun pictures of her daughters, colorful Liberty London pillows on the bed covered in gold chinoiserie fabric with teal detailing, and a “fabulous” palm tree floor lamp that was a lucky Home Goods find. There’s a beautiful painting of her daughters they had made for her after the family spent the pandemic months all living together. And a sewing mannequin or dress form that has its own fun personality with a hat and necklace completes the studio vibe of the space.
“It’s my spot to save every little thing about my life and my daughters’ lives and my travels and everything,” she said. “It’s a dream in terms of all my stuff combining. If you like fabric and color, you gravitate toward things that end up going together, you end up collecting them. It just came together.”
In addition to flower girl dresses she made for her daughter's wedding (see page 42), Elizabeth also sewed 200 tote bags for hostess gifts given to wedding guests. The bags also echoed the greens and yellows used in the wedding colors.
Blissful Brunch
THESE SWEET AND SAVORY SNACKS ARE PERFECT ADDITIONS TO A WEDDING-DAY BRUNCH OR BRIDAL SHOWER.
Make a bridal brunch special by serving a few tasty morsels you make yourself. These seasonal recipes, made with simple ingredients and bursting with bright, summery flavors are great options. Add custom cookies and petits fours from your favorite local bakery (like these from Bremma’s Bakery in Oxford) to make your spread complete.
BLUEBERRY BRIE BITES
Cooking spray
1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
2 tablespoons sugar
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
1 sheet crescent roll dough
8 ounces brie, diced
½ cup chopped pistachios
Honey, for garnish
Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray a 24-cup mini muffin pan with cooking spray. In a bowl, add blueberries, sugar and lemon zest and juice, and let sit for 5-10 minutes. Then, on a floured surface, roll out crescent dough, and cut into 24 equal squares. Add a square to each space in the muffin pan, and press into the sides. Dice brie into 24 small chunks, and add 1 chunk to each baking cup. Using a small spoon or scoop, top cheese evenly with blueberry mixture. Bake until crust is brown, about 12-15 minutes. Top baked bites evenly with chopped pistachios, and garnish with a drizzle of honey.
SMOKED
SALMON CROSTINI
1 French baguette, cut into ½-inch slices
2-3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
8 ounces cream cheese
½ cup scallions
4-6 ounces smoked salmon
Garnishes: chopped chives, “Everything But the Bagel” seasoning (or similar) and thinly sliced red onion
Preheat oven to 375°F. Brush baguette slices with 1-2 tablespoons olive oil. Bake until toasty, 6-8 minutes. While slices are baking, process cream cheese and remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a food processor until whipped, about 2 minutes. Add scallions, and pulse until incorporated, 15-20 seconds. Once crostini have cooled completely, spread cream cheese mixture evenly over slices, and top each with a salmon slice. Garnish each with chives, seasoning and red onion, and serve immediately.
ROASTED STRAWBERRIES WITH WHIPPED FETA
2 pounds fresh strawberries, tops removed and halved
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons honey
8 ounces feta cheese
½ cup whole-fat Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons olive oil
Garnishes: coarsly chopped basil or mint, freshly ground black pepper
Crackers or crusty bread, for serving
Preheat oven to 350°F, and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss berries with vinegar and honey in a bowl. Transfer berries to prepared baking sheet, and bake for about 30 minutes. While berries roast, process feta cheese, yogurt and olive oil in a food processor until whipped, about 1-2 minutes. Remove strawberries from oven; let cool slightly. Transfer whipped feta mixture to a shallow bowl, and top with cooled strawberries and juice. Garnish with herbs and black pepper. Serve with crackers or crusty bread.
Out of the Blue
A BESPOKE CLOTHIER IN OXFORD HITS IT BIG AROUND THE COUNTRY.
WRITTEN BY EUGENE STOCKSTILL | PHOTOS BY JOE WORTHEM
The burgeoning Oxford clothier Blue Thread Project wants you to know that you don’t have to settle for something off the rack when you buy your next suit.
“I love being able to make people feel confident in their clothes,” said Chandler Rios, chief executive officer of Blue Thread. “That really brings me joy to see someone who has never had a custom suit put that on, and their confidence goes through the roof.”
Since 2019, Blue Thread Project has gone from an idea forming inside the mind of the Rev. Nathaniel Rios, a Pentecostal church planter trying to put food on the table, to a worldwide phenomenon. Last year The Wall Street Journal had a story about the company.
Blue Thread has around 3,000 clients in 40 states and five countries, and, last year, it hand-delivered about 2,000 suits by way of some 300,000 traveled miles. Not bad for a business that started out of the trunk of a car.
But first things first. Why even bother with buying a bespoke suit?
“Bespoke matters,” Chandler said. “A lot of people don’t really know about custom clothing, and that’s why we started this, to make people aware of what they are missing.”
The experience of purchasing a bespoke suit from Blue Thread works like this. Interested customers get in contact with the clothier to start the process. Those who live near the company’s Oxford location at the super-swanky Edison at Colonnade Crossing on University Boulevard can just drive there. Those who don’t live nearby can book a two-night stay in Oxford that includes a custom fitting for a suit and shirt, as well as fine dining and other amenities. Blue Thread does make house calls, too.
But regardless of the scenario, some things don’t change from customer to customer. First, measurements are taken by hand, and then in consultation with a personal clothier, the look and the cut of the suit is decided. Want a fuller cut, as opposed to the skinny cuts of most contemporary styles? No problem. Feel like impressing everyone with a vest, too? Done.
The order then gets stitched together by hand in Hong Kong, Bangkok or Vietnam as if it was just for the individual customer because, well, it is.
“It’s more than a suit,” Nathaniel said. “We’re going to give you a custom experience.”
Outside of Mississippi, Blue Thread has a rowhouse in Washington D.C. near Capitol Hill called the Blue House. The business has about 400 clients in the D.C. area alone, and the Blue House also offers meeting space and other perks for members.
“We did the staff of Trump’s campaign right before he got elected and also some who work for Vance,” Chandler said.
The D.C. location offers a two-day retreat experience, as well. One customer flew all the way from Anchorage, Alaska, just for a fitting.
So how did all this get started?
Nathaniel and his family moved to Oxford in 2014 to plant the Wellspring Community Church, and he needed extra work to make ends meet. One of the jobs he took for a while was selling suits for Joseph A. Bank, while he was also working for the church.
Nathaniel, who also travels the country conducting leadership conferences, met some interesting people along the way, like former Ole Miss standout shortstop Erroll Robinson, later drafted by the Dodgers. Robinson one day asked him to fix him up with a nice jacket, not knowing that he wasn’t working anymore with Joseph A. Bank, which had a buy-one-getone-free sale at the time.
“I was like, ‘I’m just going to get this guy a jacket,’” Nathaniel said. Robinson’s reaction? He said, “Hey, you need to be my personal clothier.”
That one comment was the genesis of the Blue Thread Project, which refers to a verse in the Bible, Numbers 15:38, about decorations on ancient garments.
2019 was the inaugural year for the fledgling clothier, and 2020 during the pandemic was a big learning year. The year after that, “things started
“Even for an average body who can buy off the rack, there is still always something that is not perfect, and that’s where we come in,” Chandler said. Continued
taking off,” Nathaniel said, and by 2022, he found himself at a golf tournament in West Point, put together by Mississippi Secretary of State Michael Watson, and was arranging suit business at the state level.
Another big break happened after he met former Ole Miss head football coach Hugh Freeze, who later took a job at Liberty University, then one at Auburn. The two had exchanged cell numbers, and one day, Blue Thread went to the university campus where they took measurements to outfit the whole Auburn football team.
In February 2023, “we measured 77 guys in eight hours,” Nathaniel said, and when they delivered the clothes, only 14 pieces had to be remade due to weight fluctuations.
A combination of connections at the local, regional and international levels have helped create the Blue Thread experience. Today, in addition to its own products, Blue Thread carries clothes by other upscale designers like Zegna. Shoes, belts, shirts, ties — they’ve got it all. They’re looking into carrying women’s clothes, too, and they have connections in Italy that may bring in more new products one day soon.
The company’s claim: You can become a whole new, custom-clothed person in about a month.
The North Mississippi Symphony Orchestra luncheon took place on April 16, bringing supporters and patrons together for an afternoon celebrating the arts and the continued impact of the symphony.
Courtney Lambert, Hannah Claire McCullough, Michelle Hill and Leigh Anne Creekmoore
Ryan Claire Wuygul, Julie Russell and Jill West Jasmin Naria Gauer, Ashley Knight and Keasha Wall
Logan Garner, Kate Moore and Brooke Burleson
Brittany Wommack, Catherine Belt and Jade Neuhaus
Roxie Clayton, Amelia Foote and Anna Claire Curtis
BLUE SUEDE CRUISE
Blue Suede Cruise rolled into Cadence Bank Arena on April 30, featuring a showcase of classic cars, vintage style and live entertainment inspired by Tupelo’s rich musical heritage. Car enthusiasts and families gathered to admire restored vehicles while enjoying a lively atmosphere filled with music, food and community fun.
PHOTOS BY LISA ROBERTS
Mary Ann McCaleb and Craig Fuell
Justin and Stephanie Cook
George and Parada Sanders
Tommy and Melissa McDonald
Cindy Googe, Amy Forrest, Kim Wade and Patsy Polson
Gary Stone and Larry Thomas
BRANDON LAKE CONCERT
ontemporary Christian artist Brandon Lake performed at Cadence Bank Arena April 17, drawing fans from across the region for an evening of worship and live music.
Tiffany, Jason, Luke and Hunter Johnson with Baylon Middleton
Marleigh Cate Davis, Madison Padgett, Evelyn
Gregory, Meri Campbell and Mckee Davis
Amanda and Darcy Bridges with Finley and Lindsay Adams
Emma and Eleanor Glidewell with Stella Sikes and Avey Claire Murphy
Julie Fulton and Meredith Pritchard
Phillip and Elizabeth Chaney with Stephanie and Bo Baxter
Jinnie and Emma Coleman
PHOTOS BY LISA ROBERTS
BUD & BURGERS
ud and Burgers, presented by Mitchell Distributing, took place May 1 in downtown Tupelo, bringing local businesses and the community together for great
Bud & Burgers participants
Alex Watson, Manuela Hayden and Joy Crouch
Reed Robinson, Alex Farned, Denny Waite, Mitch Smith, Melanie Kight and Kacy Clemmons
Larry Tramel, Vanessa Turner, Lee Tramel, Anna Hill, Brady Willis and Teresa Mitchell
Lenice Word, Memori Carouthers, Margaret Patterson, Debra Carouthers and Mekel Vanderslide
Emma Gentry, Brylee Hall, Mandolyn Shurden, Patrick Regan, Tanner Newman, Troy Peck and Jake Logan
Oscar Bermudez, Luis Sosa and Tidel Cubillo Star Rutherford, Dawn Moore, Brenda Sturdivant and Susan Norris
Akeysha Grose and Tammy Rodges
KENTUCKY DERBY PARTY
Regional Rehab’s annual Kentucky Derby Party took place May 3 at Tupelo Country Club, welcoming guests for an afternoon inspired by the traditions of the famed horse race. Attendees arrived in derby attire and enjoyed food, cocktails and raceday festivities while watching the “Run for the Roses” in a lively social setting.
Anna Maldonado with Rakel and Taylor McBrayer
Gabrielle and Ricky Cooper
Ed and Courtney Hood
Leigh Ann Whitehead, Leigh Monroe, Tia Goodwin and Tina Barber
Phyllis Daniel, Janita Floyd, Louise Gambrel and Carnell Davis
Chris and Jenna Wygul with Dan and Leigh Ann Whitehead and Loren and Justin Duke
Dave and Kristen McDaniel with Nicole and Silas McDowell
Tammy and Alan Burns
Morgan and Brad Robinson with Thomas and Lindsey Groome
MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH
The Mother’s Day Brunch at the GumTree Museum of Art took place May 9, offering families a special way to celebrate the holiday together. Guests enjoyed brunch courtesy of Kitchen 107 and a live painter, Gabby Smith, as entertainment. Attendees enjoyed fellowship and the museum’s artistic setting while honoring mothers and loved ones during the festive spring gathering.
PHOTOS BY LISA ROBERTS
Sara Beth Makamson, Georgia Mae Renick and Sherry Collins
Julie and Adelaide Monts with Amanda and Willa Koonlaba
Jan and Jesse Robertson
Kim Root and Manlyn Hicks
Kadyn Arnold and Monica Hudson
Madeline Altendorf with Anna, Shields and Robin Haire and Tanya Britton
Allie and Daniel Purnell with Lucia Randle
Debbi Beasley and Marianna Sleep
he Home and Garden Expo took place in Tupelo April 17. Vendors, designers, landscapers and other home-improvement professionals were on hand while attendees explored the latest trends in home decor, outdoor living, remodeling and gardening.
Michael Greer, Amanda Alford and Savanna
Hopper
Latoya Fields, Chad Ferguson and Lashanda
Anderson
David Pritchard and Perry Bumpers
Narasha Barkley and Laura Clark
Brooke Gough and Madi Moore
Myra and Sammy Holder
Todd Barkis and Jason Hall
Paden McCullough and Joran Hodges
Trudie and Cameron Tooke
PHOTOS BY LISA ROBERTS
PHOTOS BY LISA ROBERTS
PHOTOS BY LISA ROBERTS
PHOTOS BY LISA ROBERTS
HAPPENING NOW
NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI
TUPELO FARMER'S MARKET
EVERY SATURDAY | THE DEPOT tupelomainstreet.com
TUPELO FLEA MARKET & GUN & KNIFE SHOW
June 12-14 | TUPELO FURNITURE MARKET tupelofleamarket.net
LIVE MUSIC: '80s KARAOKE WITH JASON HAYDEN
JUNE 12 | BACKLINE MUSIC HALL, TUPELO backlinemusichall.com
BONFIRE ORCHESTRA
JUNE 18 | PONTOTOC GATEWAY PAVILION pontotocchamber.com
TRIVIA NIGHT AT
THE
MEADERY
JUNE 18 | QUEEN'S REWARD MEADERY, TUPELO queensreward.com
LIVE MUSIC: BRITTANY MCGEE
JUNE 18 | DOWNUNDER, TUPELO instagram.com/downundertupelo
MAGNOLIA PICKLEBALL CLASSIC
JUNE 19-21 | DOT COOPER KELLY PICKLEBALL COMPLEX, TUPELO a2msports.com
SILVER EAGLE BAND
JUNE 25 | PONTOTOC GATEWAY PAVILION pontotocchamber.com
PIONEER DAY LIVING HISTORY AND CRAFTS
JUNE 27 | NATCHEZ TRACE PARKWAY VISITOR CENTER nps.gov
JOURNEY CONCERT
JUNE 27 | CADENCE BANK ARENA, TUPELO tupelo.net
TRACE STATE PARK AMERICA 250
JULY 3 | TRACE STATE PARK, BELDEN mdwfp.com
PICNIC IN THE PARK
JULY 4 | BALLARD PARK, TUPELO facebook.com/TupeloParkRec
PONTOTOC FOURTH OF JULY PARADE
JULY 4 | MAIN STREET PONTOTOC pontotocchamber.com
SLUGBURGER FESTIVAL
July 9-11 | DOWNTOWN CORINTH corinth.net
POST TOAST
TINA BARBER — BLOOMS OF GRACE
Interviewed by Emily Welly
Photos courtesy Tina Barber
Blooms of Grace is a Tupelo flower ministry responsible for gathering flowers leftover from weddings and other events and rearranging them into bedside bouquets for patients in hospice care. Tina Barber started the organization in 2012 with help from her children.
Q:What are some ways your ministry has changed or evolved since you started?
A:I began Blooms of Grace 14 years ago to teach my children about service and compassion. My tiny helping hands were 6 and 8 years old, now 20 and 22. I’m forever thankful for those moments. So, I deliver alone — that’s the only evolution. The process is still all the same: I pick up residual flowers, rearrange, deliver bedside bouquets. My vases and mason jars are also donated. It began with a tiny red wagon and carrying flowers down the hallways. All these years later, it’s the tiniest of a smile or a simple thank you from a patient or their family members that bring joy to my heart.
Q:How do you find the people who donate flowers to you from their events?
A:Most event planners, florists and venues have knowledge of Blooms of Grace, and I have information cards that they hand out to the perspective brides.
Q:About how many bedside bouquets can you make for hospice patients from a single wedding?
A:Depending on the wedding size and the amount of flowers, I can deliver to all of Sanctuary’s hospice beds. They have 24 capacity. North Mississippi (NMMC) Hospice has 16 beds. During wedding season, it is possible to deliver every week. I also gather residual flowers from other events and memorials. We’ve had many full-circle moments — for example a bride had a loved one in hospice, and she wanted her flowers to go back to hospice. Another example is a Sanctuary hospice patient had received some of our bouquets, and in return after their passing, their loved ones donated their memorial flowers. These examples happen often.
Q:It’s special that you congratulate and offer condolences to the people donating flowers to you. Why is that important to you?
A:My flower ministry only exists by the kindness of others and donating their residual flowers. So, I feel it’s important to acknowledge their giving. What began as a way to teach my children has honestly taught me so much more. I love hearing “oh, it’s the flower lady”— they don’t know my name, but they remember the flowers.
