Bridal Journal 20130213

of Northeast Mississippi 2013

Local venues create a unique place for nuptials Choose comfort over style for your feet Pinterest makes creating your unique day easy

CHINA Anna Weatherly Bernardaud Cuthbertson Gien Herend Johnson Brothers Kate Spade Lenox Mikasa Michael Wainwright Noritake Pickard

Abigails Gorham Juliska Kate Spade Lenox Michael Wainwright Mikasa Marquis by Waterford Miller Rogaska Noritake

BRIDAL REGISTRY Beth Burnett Ellyn Burton Martha Kate Buskirk Lauren Cassilly Natalie Clanton Stephenie Elmore Stephanie Finch Mary Paige Francis Leah Hand Lacey Johnson Mauriesa Johnson Lora Claire Jones Meghan May Lauren McIntosh Martha Morgan Jennie Norman Margaret Goodwyn Phillips Susan Ashley Richburg Hannah Claire Rotolo Cathy Scheuer Emily Thompson Kellee Usher

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Bridal Journal | 3

CONTENTS 7

shoes Finding comfort for the big day is important for women and men.

13

rings Diamonds haven’t always been the stone of choice for couples.

15

style Local designer Loren James uses classic looks to inspire her dresses.

16

vows Non-traditional vows add an extra personal touch.

20

venues Some couples are choosing unique settings for nuptials.

27

dancing Brides and grooms learn special dances for their special day.

29

experience Pastors tell about their most interesting days.

31

inspiration Pinterest gives numerous ideas on how to make your day unique.

35

checklist Using a checklist will ensure the perfect day is created.

39

happily ever afters Northeast Mississippi newlyweds share the details of their special day.

36

cover contest

on the cover

Andrea Loberg and Keith Jones, above, photographed by Mabus Photography, were the second-place winners of this year’s cover contest. Ruth Ann Cooper King, seen on page 39, photographed

by Scott Burton Photography, was the third-place winner.

Wesley and Forrest Raines, photographed by Marty Pettit Photography, were this year’s cover contest winners.

The Bridal Journal of Northeast Mississippi is a publication of the Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal. To subscribe to receive the Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal, call (662) 678-1617. To advertise in this or other supplements of the Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal, call Amy Speck at (662) 678-1611. | Spring 2013 | Editor: Leslie Criss | Advertising Director: Richard Crenshaw | Special Section Advertising Project Leader: Amy Speck | Layout Design: Crissy Bland and MB Humphrey

4 | Bridal Journal

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SHOES

A unique pair

More brides opting for unusual, comfortable shoes

By Sheena Barnett | Daily Journal

Bridal Journal | 7

SHOES

P

retty make-up, perfect hair, a gorgeous white dress: From head to ankle, Alissa Barton was a glowing, traditional bride.

8 | Bridal Journal

Previous page: Many brides opt for blue shoes at their wedding as their “something blue.”

Above: Alissa Barton, left, wore comfortable glitter Converse sneakers to her wedding to Anthony Barton in 2011.

Below: If you want your guests comfortable while they dance the night away, consider offering a flip-flop basket.

PHOTO PREVIOUS PAGE: ADAM + ALLI PHOTOGRAPHY | PHOTOS THIS PAGE: TOP, CRISTEN BLAND PHOTOGRAPHY; BOTTOM, ELIZABETH WIGGS PHOTOGRAPHY

On her feet, Barton, from Pontotoc, let her personality sparkle with a pair of glittery Converse sneakers.

“I didn’t have anything old, and you’ve gotta have something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue,” Barton said of her 2011 wedding to her husband Anthony.“I actually wore them to my high school prom, too.

I’d had them for a long time.”

Barton is one of many brides who go for something a little non-traditional for wedding day footwear, said Claire Kiamie, owner of One Fine Day Events in Oxford.

“I’ve seen a lot of girls that use that as their something blue,” Kiamie said. “I’ve seen some girls do hot pink, or we do a lot of Ole Miss-themed weddings, so I’ve seen a lot of girls do red to tie in with their something blue.”

Brides are choosing comfy flats, flip-flops, sneakers over painful high heels, or, if they go for heels, they’re sporting unusual, eye-catching hues.

Flats and flip-flops help brides feel more comfortable on a busy day spent on their feet.

“I didn’t want to walk in heels, and Anthony’s not much taller than me, so it worked out,” Barton said.

Kiamie said brides can have the best of both worlds and not choose just one pair of shoes for the day.

“We’ll mix in the heel for pictures, and then walking down the aisle we’ll put her in a flat,” Kiamie said. “I definitely say go for whatever you want to do.”

Comfort isn’t just for brides.

Couples can offer flip-flop baskets full of cheap flip-flops for their guests who plan to dance the night away, so they’re not also stuck wearing painful shoes.

At Barton’s wedding, her maid of honor wore a pair of glitter Toms. So many brides are opting for the comfortable shoes – especially in glitter styles – that the brand has launched a Wedding Collection, complete with styles for brides, bridesmaids, grooms, groomsmen and kids.

As for Barton, she still loves her unique shoe choice on her wedding day.

“I still wear them all the time,” she said. “Be comfortable. Nobody’s gonna see your shoes.” ●

In step

BY M. SCOTT MORRIS DAILY JOURNAL

Men might want to think through shoe options

‘A lot of people don’t know what size they wear. They’re used to buying running shoes or casual shoes. Those sizes aren’t the same as dress shoe sizes.’

Jimmy Long

co-owner of MLM Clothiers John Rush, men’s manager at Reed’s in downtown Tupelo, agreed with Long, saying it’s important to get your feet sized when renting tuxedo shoes.

“Lots of times, those shoes fit smaller than tennis shoes or running shoes,” Rush said. “It could be a size or even a size and a half difference.”

I was guilty back in the day, but you don’t have to be. Still, having the right size might not solve the problem. Those rental shoes aren’t known for superdeluxe arch support.

ANOTHER OPTION

Joe Yarber, co-owner at MLM, has a possible solution.

“I wore my own pair of black shoes for my daughter’s wedding,” he said.

One drawback is not every man owns a pair of black dress shoes. Brown and cordovan are by far the most popular.

“That’s just the way it is,” Long said.

It could be more of a problem for a young groom and his young groomsmen.

They’re often new to the business world and owning comfortable black dress shoes might not be economically feasible.

But the solution could work, especially if every groomsmen is allowed to pick his own shoes for comfort and style.

KEEP HER HAPPY

But that’s not always going to be allowed. The groom might not care, but it’s not going to be his decision, is it?

“The bride might want everybody looking the same,” Rush said. “This is the time in her life when she wants everything just right.”

In such cases, sore feet for the groom and groomsmen won’t be the worst thing to happen, especially when everyone’s focused on getting a new marriage started off on the right foot. ●

LIBBY EZELL | DAILY JOURNAL

A man’s wedding day can be a wonderful time, but it’s not always the most comfortable affair.

It’s been a few years since I got hitched, but I remember enjoying almost all of my nuptials.

My bride was beautiful and she had no problem repeating the “Yes” she’d given me during the proposal.

Plenty of dearly loved friends and family traveled for the occasion, and the food was excellent.

The main drawback? The rented black shoes that came with my tuxedo had very little arch support, and I spent an uncomfortable day on my feet.

Jimmy Long, co-owner of MLM Clothiers in Tupelo, blamed part of that discomfort on me.

“The reason you felt bad was probably because you didn’t get the right size,” he said. “A lot of people don’t know what size they wear. They’re used to buying running shoes or casual shoes.

Those sizes aren’t the same as dress shoe sizes.”

SHOES

Bridal Journal | 9

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RINGS

Diamonds are

BY RILEY MANNING DAILY JOURNAL

When you think marriage, diamonds likely come to mind.

The finer points of a stone’s cut, quality, color and clarity are enough to send a hopeful groom’s head spinning. The stone, with its dazzling facets and hardness, in so many ways can represent a solid marriage.

“Diamonds are forever,” right?

Well, this has not always been the case.

Patti Thompson, owner and operator of Way-Fil Jewelry in Tupelo, is a bonafide diamond expert. Not only has she been around the jewelry business her whole life, she is certified as a gemologist by the Gemological Institute of America, in Carlsbad, Calif.

“Can you believe people use to think diamonds were ugly,”

forever

she said. “People didn’t want them because they were colorless, boring.”

Thompson said the first instance of a diamond as an engagement stone came in 1477, with the Archduke Maximilian’s proposal to Mary of Burgundy.

Lapis Lazuli was the stone of choice at the time, a royal blue gem with gold flecks, usually set in a gold band.

“Diamonds really rose in popularity in the 17th century with the candle-lit ball gown atmosphere. They noticed how bright light reflected off of a diamond and they became fashionable,” Thompson said.

Additionally, in these eras wedding rings were a tradition of the wealthy, especially when they contained stones. As time went on, the engagement ring became more accessible, though the diamond maintained its expense.

The next big step for the diamond came in the 1940s, when the DeBeers diamond company launched an ad campaign to revive a lull in the post-WWII market. It capitalized on returning WWII soldiers receiving their payout, setting the traditional standard of spending two months salary on an engagement ring.

“Trends pop up every now and then where people want something else, like Princess Diana’s sapphire or a ruby like Fergie’s, but the overwhelming majority is diamonds,” she said. “Different cuts and bands fall in and out of popularity, but always diamonds.

Certainly, it seems, diamonds are, and will be, forever.

“But then again, so is moissanite,” Thomson said.

Moissanite is a stone with very similar properties to the diamond, but can be man-made and priced at one tenth the cost of a diamond. ●

What to look for CLARITY – Diamonds are judged on clarity by how many “inclusions” they have, that is, flaws that include black or white spots, bubbles, cracks, scratches, chips, etc.

COLOR – Though diamonds come in many colors, white diamonds are most common in engagement rings. The color grade of a diamond is determined by the amount of color in the diamonds.

CUT – The cut, or shape, of a diamond is a matter of personal preference.

The most popular cuts are round, marquise, oval, pear, emerald (rectangle), princess (square), and heart-shaped.

CARAT – Carat weight measures the size of the diamond. Jeweler’s lingo gives each carat 100 points, so a half-carat diamond would equal 50 points. Carat weight is the most significant factor in the price of a diamond.

Bridal Journal | 13

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STYLE

Classic looks Bridal styles go back in time for inspiration

BY KERI COLLINS LEWIS

COURTESY PHOTO

MSU AG COMMUNICATIONS

Bridal fashions are breaking free of the decade-long fascination with strapless gowns and offering a new take on classic, romantic dresses.

“Some people point to Kate Middleton’s designer longsleeved gown as a turning point, one inspired by Princess Grace of Monaco,” said Charles Freeman, professor in the apparel, textiles and merchandising program at Mississippi State University. “The popularity of the British drama ‘Downton Abbey’ and major Hollywood movies such as ‘Anna Karenina’ and ‘The Great Gatsby’ are behind some of this season’s anticipated trends. Long sleeves, elegant looks and vintage details are showing up everywhere.”

Mathiston-based designer Loren James said she is inspired by vintage couture. Her company, Mamie+James, specializes in custom-designed bridesmaids’ dresses, bridal cocktail dresses and heirloom garters.

“My dresses are carefully crafted with vintage details, yet they are fashion forward,” James said. “I offer more than five fabrics so brides can get a fabulous design, but they can choose their price point based on the fabric choice. Each dress is made in Mississippi by local artisans from start to finish.”

James, who graduated from the Savannah College of Art and Design in Savannah, Ga., spent time in France where she became obsessed with the idea of the perfect cocktail dress. This led her to develop a line of bridal dresses in a wide range of bodice styles, skirt designs, fabrics and colors.

“I wanted a dress that could be worn at a cocktail party or an art show opening and then travel over to a wedding,” James said.

“My fascination with the perfect dress is evident in my Mix+Match concept on the website (www.mamieandjames.

com). Every girl has her favorite dress in mind for an event, and now she can choose her ideal skirt, pair it with an equally fabulous bodice, and voila!

“I truly want to create a classic dress that a girl can wear again after her friend gets married,” she said.

With her cust o m - m a d e dresses, James said it is easier for brides to tailor the designs to their individual bridesmaids.

“I wish every bride would remember that all of her attendants are not the same size and shape, and what works for one bridesmaid may not work for the next,” James said. “Wedding photos last forever and trends don’t, so pick dresses that complement each bridesmaid and keep it simple.”

Kayla White, a senior from Starkville in MSU’s apparel, textiles and merchandising program, is interning at M a m i e + Ja m e s .

She has been studying this year’s wedding trends, which offer brides more options than ever.

“Some brides will be hitting the aisles in a less traditional fashion with bolder looks that include colors, patterns, portrait backs and waist-defining pep-

lums,” White said. “Lace and sleeves inspired by Kate Middleton will still play a big role and bring a sense of tradition to bridal gowns.

“Functional features will be

available, such as pockets in wedding dresses, and removable skirts and trains for receptions. Dusk blue and emerald will be the hot colors for 2013,” she said. ●

Bridal Journal | 15

VOWS

Beyond

‘for better and for worse’ Aim for the personal, sweet in vows

BY SHEENA BARNETT DAILY JOURNAL

LAUGHTER AND TEARS

Phil and Serena Washington closed their vows by promising to love each other “to infinity and beyond” at their 2012 wedding.

16 | Bridal Journal

Brittany and Adam Tubbs made their audience laugh and cry with their personal vows.

“You start thinking about it when she says yes,” Adam said. “What in the world are you gonna say?”

Though the pair, who live in Saltillo, started thinking about their vows about a month before their Nov. 2011 wedding, they didn’t actually write them until the night before.

PHOTO THIS PAGE: FAITH RILEY PHOTOGRAPHY | PHOTO OPPOSITE PAGE: LAUREN LACEY

TUPELO – “I promise to be your loving and faithful husband, in plenty and in want, in joy and in sorrow, in sickness and in health – to infinity and beyond.”

When Phil Washington made those vows to his wife Serena at their wedding last summer, it earned a few chuckles from the crowd.

After all, “to infinity and beyond” is best known as Buzz Lightyear’s famous catchphrase from the “Toy Story” films, not as a part of marriage vows. But it worked for the Washingtons, so they went with it.

“We wanted to have a non-traditional wedding, so I didn’t want to have traditional vows to go along with it,” Serena said. “It was very last-minute. The day of, we wrote them out and I emailed them to our preacher that very morning.”

The Washingtons, who live in Tupelo, respected traditional vows and verses, but wanted something more in synch with their senses of humor.

They also included a quote by Dr. Seuss: “We are all a little weird and life’s a little weird, and when we find someone whose weirdness is compatible with ours, we join up with them and fall in mutual weirdness and call it love.”

“It was just silly enough without being too silly,” Phil said.

VOWS The Tubbses wrote their vows separately, but their vows complement each other.

They each started with an informal greeting – “Hi!” and “Hey!” – and thanked each other for their love. They also promised, as fans of opposing teams, to behave themselves during football season, and that she’d laugh at his jokes.

“When Ole Miss is playing, I say, ‘Remember, you promised,’” Brittany said. “When he tells a joke, he’ll say, ‘Remember, you promised,’ and I’ll go, ‘Ha ha ha.’”

Their sweet-but-humorous vows showed off the nature of their relationship.

“I’m not a serious person, but if I had to be serious about something, this needed to be it,” Adam said.

Brittany agreed.

“Everybody loved it, because it was us,” she said. “It wasn’t anybody else’s wedding.”

TIPS AND ADVICE

Mike Drewery is a Tupelo pastor who used to teach literature, so he loves it when couples write their own vows.

“You want to be original; you don’t want to be a carbon copy,” he said.

He married the Washingtons last summer and sent them a few examples of traditional and non-traditional vows, something he often does when he’s helping a couple plan their vows.

The number one rule he has for brides and grooms is to write their vows as though they are talking to their soon-to-be spouse.

“Don’t think about the crowd.

Don’t think about me. Tell the other person what you’re promising them,” he said.

When it comes time to write, think of your intended and focus on your words.

“You’re marrying this person for who they are,” Brittany said.

“I didn’t get any help; I sat in a chair, alone, and wrote.”

Drewery agreed. Take the stress out, and put feeling in.

“Sometimes I ask them, when they talk to me about their vows, why do you love that person? And the best answer is, ‘I don’t know. I don’t know how to put it in words,’” he said. “That tells me you don’t love them for a specific reason; you just love them.”

Above all else, be yourself: “You want that moment, of all moments, to be your own.” ●

Adam and Brittany Tubbs made their friends and family cry with their funny, sweet and unique wedding vows, which they wrote shortly before their wedding in 2011.

Brittany and Adam Tubbs’ wedding vows His:

“Hey! Thanks for showing up! One-thousand, one-hundred and thirty-two days ago I realized God has a sense of humor when he introduced me to a perfect Ole Miss fan. Since that day, I feel like we’ve become the best of friends and then some. From first-date hair cuts to proposing over Cap’n Crunch, I’ve enjoyed every moment with you. It’s extremely difficult to put on paper how much you love someone but I promise that I will love you for the rest of my life and even cheer on the ‘other team’ when it’s not during the Egg Bowl. Thank you for becoming my better half.”

HERS:

“Adam, hi! You are my best friend and my soul mate and I love you with everything I have.

You have taught me a lot over the past several months.You have taught me about grain filling,

you taught me about the difference between bass and guitar, and you taught me how to cut an onion without crying, but most importantly, you are teaching me to love myself. You have shown me that Brittany is one pretty cool chick and I promise to spend every day for the rest of my life making sure you feel the same. I promise to always laugh at your jokes, even if sometimes I don’t get them. I promise to cheer for State as long as they are not playing Ole Miss. I promise to believe in you and support you no matter what and to love you with everything I have for the rest of my life and I always promise to be your best friend.We have always said that we have the love that love stories are written about and I’m so excited to start chapter one.

Eight-three-one.”

What does eight-three-one mean? “It’s the way I told him I loved him: eight letters, three words, one meaning,” Brittany said.

Bridal Journal | 17

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VENUES

Off the beaten path Three unique Northeast Mississippi settings for your wedding

By Michaela Gibson Morris | Daily Journal

The story of your life together needs a special place to start.

The setting for your wedding can take inspiration from the couple’s shared history, personalities and style. The natural choice for many couples is their home church.

20 | Bridal Journal

For brides and grooms looking further afield, Northeast Mississippi has no shortage of beautiful, intriguing spaces to say “I do.”

Here’s a look at three unique places that are a bit off the beaten path.

VENUES

Bridal Journal | 21

VENUES

Oak Grove Chapel

22 | Bridal Journal

The simplicity of the church is what drew Kim and Shane Crausby, who were the first couple to marry in the chapel in November 2010.

“We wanted a small, intimate wedding,” said Kim Crausby, who had always admired the simplicity of the Carolyn Bessette-John Kennedy Jr. wedding.

“It was steeped in history and has these beautiful grounds,” Crausby said of Oak Grove Chapel. “There’s just this feeling of love and blessing.” ●

PHOTO PREVIOUS PAGE AND ABOVE: STEPHANIE RHEA PHOTOGRAPHY | BOTTOM PHOTO: COURTESY

The century-old Oak Grove Chapel, located 51⁄2 miles from downtown New Albany on Highway 178, offers a simply beautiful space to join two lives together.

“There are people who dream of getting married in little white church,” said Amy Mercier.

“That’s what it is.”

The Oak Grove Missionary Baptist Church was built in the late 1800s, and is the oldest surviving black church in Union County. The congregation moved to modern quarters in 1983. Mercier and her motherin-law, Gayle Rutledge, restored the church in 2010 with the blessings and guidance of the church deacons.

“We wanted to restore it as close to the original as we could,” Mercier said.

They had to do some structural stabilization, but the church’s original siding remains largely intact.

“We kept the same original windows and matched the others,” Mercier said.

The roof had to be replaced, they installed unobtrusive heating and cooling units to the chapel. They added a small bride’s room and a groom’s porch on the opposite side. The bricks from the old chimney make up the landing at the foot of the chapel stairs. A new outhouse offers modern facilities.

“We did put a church bell back in that you can ring,” Mercier said.

The church is surrounded by big oak trees and the church’s cemetery.

“You can’t see it from the road,” Mercier said. “It’s very private.”

Mercier and Rutledge book only one wedding a weekend, so wedding parties have the use of the chapel from Thursday to Saturday night to allow for plenty of time for decorating, rehearsals, ceremony and clean up because there’s no church hall on the property, Mercier said, and most brides and grooms opt for receptions in downtown New Albany, Mercier said.

The Oak Grove Chapel, shown before restoration below, dates from the late 1800s, and it served as the home of the Oak Grove Missionary Baptist Church until 1983. In 2010, Amy Mercier and Gayle Rutledge restored the chapel with the blessings of the church deacons.

MABUS PHOTOGRAPHY

VENUES

Amy and Cody Hickman chose to say their vows in the Tupelo Cotton Mill.

The hardwood floors, exposed bricks, pillars and original windows offer a blank slate with historic charm. “It was perfect, old and rustic,” said Amy Hickman.

Tupelo Cotton Mill If you’re looking for a bare canvas with intriguing architectural bones, the Tupelo Cotton Mill, also known as the J.J. Rogers Building, offers a turn-of-thecentury space with personality.

Built in 1901 as a cotton mill, the J.J. Rogers building had a second life as a food warehouse.

It stood unused for several years until Greg Pirkle bought it in 2008.

The architectural details of the 109,000-square-foot space – hardwood floors, pillars, original windows and exposed brick – make it a space unlike any other.

“There’s an authenticity to it,” said property manager Josh Riley.

When Amy and Cody Hickman got married in October, the desire for something different lead them to the Tupelo Cotton Mill.

“We wanted a vintage theme,” Hickman said. “We

knew we wanted an old building or barn.”

They were clued in to the building by a friend who was also searching for unusual wedding spaces.

“We saw it and we loved it,” Hickman said. “It was perfect, old and rustic.”

The couple used lights, fabric, burlap and flowers to create a wedding space and a recep-

tion place. They used fabric to create a temporary divider between the two spaces.

“We wanted to keep the integrity of the space,” Hickman said.

The space is truly a blank slate. Couples will need to arrange for whatever they need: chairs, tables, trash cans. There are no kitchen facilities available, but many caterers have the capacity to work out of mobile kitchens.

There are restroom facilities, although Riley recommends groups with more than 300 consider supplementing with portable toilets.

This summer, construction will begin on the building’s next life as a business-entertainment-restaurant-residential complex, Riley said. A special event-reception space is in the plans, but it won’t be as large as it is now. ●

Bridal Journal | 23

VENUES

Oak Hill Stables For couples looking to transport their families and friends away from it all, Oak Hill Stables Bed and Breakfast offers a beautiful destination with everything they could need.

The 500-acre retreat is just five miles from downtown Oxford in the lush North Mississippi hill country.

A gothic open-air chapel takes center stage with horsefilled pastures in the background. The main house – a large Victorian with inviting porches – also can accommodate small weddings.

“The couple and their families and friends can relax and have a really good time at Oak Hill,” said owner Laura Sale.

“They love the ease of having everything in one location and not having to travel from one place to another, the peacefulness of the country setting.”

The bed and breakfast can accommodate the wedding party and out of town guests in the main house, cabin, carriage house and bunk house. The inn’s staff also handles all of the catering details for all of the events surrounding a wedding.

The farm, which was originally built as a family retreat, opened as a bed and breakfast in 2007. The first wedding was held in April 2008.

“We love being on the farm and decided to share a little bit of heaven with the rest of the world,” Sale said.

Because the bed and breakfast is a popular choice for football weekends and University of Mississippi graduation, brides thinking of those dates will need to plan well in advance.

“Most of our weddings are in the spring, summer and fall,” Sale said. ●

Oak Hill Stables and Bed and Breakfast offers a beautiful destination for weddings and receptions. Located on more than 500 acres five miles from downtown Oxford, Oak Hill boasts an gothic open air chapel looking out over pastures dotted with horses.

COURTESY PHOTOS

24 | Bridal Journal

Local venues Oak Grove Chapel

Where: Highway 178, New Albany What: Restored, small historic church How many: 80 to 100 people Fee: Call for details What it gets you: Use of the church and brides room Thursday-Saturday.

Chairs provided.

For more information: www.oakgrovechapel.com or call (662) 231-3034.

Note: The chapel is not visible from the road and is located on private property. It is accessible by appointment only.

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Tupelo Cotton Mill

Where: Spring Street just north of downtown Tupelo What: Open space inside historic J.J. Rogers building How many people: About 400 Fee: $300, including a $100 refundable cleaning deposit What it gets you: Use of the building. Couples will need to bring in chairs, tables, trash cans, etc. Electrical system will accommodate a DJ or small band.

For more information: Call Josh Riley at (662) 255-4012 or visit them on Facebook at Tupelo Cotton Mill Note: Time is limited. After June, construction is slated to begin. Long-range plans do call for reception/meeting space in the larger complex.

Oak Hill Stables Bed & Breakfast

Making Your Wedding Day Beautiful

© JPC - ‘11

Where: Five miles from downtown Oxford What: Bed and Breakfast Inn and horse farm offers wedding, reception and lodging facilities on a beautiful 500 acres.

How many: Fee: $3,500 What it gets you: Chapel and reception area or bottom floor of the main house. Other spaces and horse draw carriage also available for additional fees.

For more information: oakhillstablesbedandbreakfast.com Note: All catering services are carried out by Oak Hill staff. Prices depend on the number of people and selected menu.

New Albany Flower & Gift Shop 208 Bankhead Street New Albany, MS 38652 (662) 534-9051

Find your place

Here are some favorite places for weddings and receptions around Northeast Mississippi: • Chapel of Memories, Mississippi State University, Starkville • Fairpark/Elkin Place, Tupelo • Elvis Presley Chapel, the Birthplace, Tupelo • Goodlett Manor, Tupelo • Mount Vernon Place, Tupelo • Paris-Yates Chapel, University of Mississippi, Oxford • Park Heights roof top, Tupelo • Powerhouse, Oxford

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Bridal Journal | 25

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DANCING

C. TODD SHERMAN | DAILY JOURNAL

Dr. Dan and Mona Warlick of Tupelo took an invitation to a wedding as a good excuse to learn how to dance.

The wedding was more than a year ago, but the dancing continues.

‘Tripping the light fantastic’ Weddings offer good reason to dance

BY M. SCOTT MORRIS DAILY JOURNAL

It’s tradition for a newly married couple to get the first dance, then everyone else is free to join them on the floor.

Sometimes, a couple decides to kick things up a notch, and that’s where lessons come in.

“They don’t necessarily want anything big and choreographed,” said Tammy Wilson, instructor and manager of The Dance Studio in Tupelo. “Most of them just want to learn how to dance. They want it to be something special for them.”

Brides and their helpers are used to getting things done in advance, including renting the venue, selecting the dress and arranging for the food.

If dance lessons are part of the plan, it’s best to allow enough time for an instructor to do her job.

“We’ve gotten calls from people who want a choreographed routine for their wedding,” Wilson said. “I say, ‘That’s fantastic.

When are you getting married?’

They say,‘Saturday.’”

Only so much can be done on short notice. But it’s also important to temper expectations, Wilson even if the couple attends classes weeks or months before the wedding.

“We have people who come for three or four lessons, and people who come for 10 to 15 lessons,” Wilson said. “The more they can dance together, the more natural they will look.”

Men aren’t always used to dancing the way many women are, so he’ll need time to adapt.

Sometimes, though, the woman is the biggest obstacle.

Though she’s in charge of most wedding details, she’ll need to follow on the dance floor.

“Partner dancing is made for the man to lead and the woman to follow. Equal responsibility, but different,”Wilson said.“The main thing I do is teach them how to

work together, so they don’t look like they’re competing out there.”

As the wedding nears, both men and women will want to practice in the shoes they’ll be wearing on the big day.The brideto-be also might want to bring the crinoline for her dress so both partners can get used to accommodating the wedding dress.

“I also teach them how to walk out on the dance floor, so they’ll know how to get started,” Wilson said, “and I’ll teach them a little dip. They usually like that.”

ONCE, MAYBE MORE

There’s a chance the first dance after the wedding could be the last. On the opposite end of the spectrum, lessons for a wedding could lead to a shared hobby.

Dr. Dan and Mona Warlick of Tupelo will celebrate their 30th anniversary in April. They didn’t have a special dance at their wedding, but an invitation to a formal wedding spurred them to action.

“I said, ‘Hey, there’s going to be a dance. We need to learn,’”

Mona Warlick said.

They started lessons more than a year ago, and spent six to eight weeks learning basic steps.

All that work showed at the wedding, and theWarlicks impressed themselves.

“He decided he was willing to continue with the lessons,” she said.

“We’re a lot further along than a year ago,” he said.

And they’re still at it.

In the Warlicks’ case, the couple that stays together eventually dances together. Maybe that could work in reverse for young couples.

The main thing is to have a good time, but it’s also a chance to impress, whether you’re the one saying “I do” or you’re there to witness the blessed event.

“A lot of our friends were at the wedding,” Dan Warlick said.

“They knew we didn’t dance, so they were surprised to see us out there.”

“It was really fun,” Mona Warlick said, “even if we’re not the best dancers.” ●

Bridal Journal | 27

Sanctuary Space • Reception Hall • Catering

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28 | Bridal Journal

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EXPERIENCE

From a pastor’s perspective Wedding officiants have seen it all

BY RILEY MANNING DAILY JOURNAL

Though the wedding ceremony may be once-in-a-lifetime for the bride and groom, it can be old hat for pastors.

They may tell you between wedding vows, flower arrangements, rings, best men and maids of honor, a perfect wedding can be hard to find.

“I probably haven’t seen it all, but I’ve seen most of it,” said Bishop Clarence Parks, of the Temple of Compassion and Deliverance in Tupelo.

His 30 years of performing marriages has shown that most weddings turn out well no matter what happens, because a wedding itself is a group of people showing support for the new couple.

That being said, sometimes there are a few surprises.

Curtis

Lalor

“I had one groom faint at the altar. I’m talking about stiff as a board,” Parks said. “A groomsman and I caught him and took him in back.”

Parks said with a cold rag and some smelling salts, the young man was revived and completed the ceremony.

“Another time a young lady forgot her vows and her wedding coordinator had to bring them up to her,” Parks said. “No one gets upset. Everyone plays it off because they are there to sup-

port, and it becomes a funny memory.”

Father Tom Lalor of St. James Catholic Church has 46 years of wedParks ding experience.

Like Parks, he too has revived a fainted member of the wedding party, but Lalor said sometimes pastors are the ones to slip up.

“When someone finds themselves speechless, I whisper the vows to them and they repeat after me out loud,” Lalor said. “Once a bride forgot, so I whispered, ‘Ok, Mary, you say the following, John be my wife.’ I corrected myself right off the bat, but the microphone still picked it up.”

Jim Curtis of First United Methodist Church in Tupelo has

learned the traditional has a way of becoming unique.

“Once I was marrying an older couple at the chapel of their home church. They were going to use the chapel’s organ to play ‘Here Comes the Bride,’ but they didn’t turn it on before the day of the wedding,” he said. “It was stuck on a pre-recorded rumba track, so the bride walked down the aisle to the rumba.”

Curtis said when glitches happens, the best thing to do is carry on. Even when fire hazards come into play.

“Once a veil caught on fire from an altar candle,” he said.

“The groom and I threw it on the ground and stomped it out. We kept going and completed the ceremony. You have to because even if she’s mad about the veil, she’s going to be really mad if you stop the wedding.” ●

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INSPIRATION

Planning with Pinterest Pinboard site helps brides convey exactly how they want their big day to go

By Ginna Parsons | Daily Journal

INSPIRATION

T

UPELO – Today’s brides have a new tool when they go to pick out their flowers, dresses, reception halls and wedding cakes.

Pinterest, launched about two years ago, is a pinboard-style photo-sharing website that allows users to create and manage theme-based image collections such as events, interests and hobbies. Users can browse other pinboards for inspiration, ‘re-pin’ images to their own collections or ‘like’ photos.

“The girls come in with their iPads and smart phones and printed pieces of paper from Pinterest,” said Rose McCoy, owner of Creative Cakes & Supplies in Tupelo. “I find it helpful because it shows you what they’re leaning toward.”

McCoy said sometimes the girls will show her a picture of a cake and say they want theirs to look exactly like it.

“But often they have several ideas of what they like,” she said.

“By looking at Pinterest pins of everything they like, you’re able to design a cake that’s personally for them and not like any other.”

McCoy said brides have been bringing Pinterest pages into her shop for more than a year now and she finds it a very useful tool.

“To me, it’s not just about picking out a cake,” she said. “It’s the whole event. Where the reception is, what her colors are, if there’s going to be dancing ... you get to see the end result of what they’re wanting. I think the girls should use all the resources available to them in the planning.”

Tracy Proctor, a floral designer and owner of Design by Tracy Proctor, said he loves it when brides send him Pinterest pages, but it doesn’t replace one-on-one conversations.

“So many of my brides live in other areas but they’re coming home to Tupelo to be married,” he said. “Seeing their Pinterest page really helps, but it has to be followed with dialogue. You can’t just go from pictures. I still really like to look at a Pinterest page with the bride in hand. I’m just not that nuanced.”

Proctor said sometimes a bride will have 50 pages, but when it comes down to it, there may be only 10 pages that are pertinent.

“I can look at a whole series of pictures and get the feeling of what is expected,” he said. “I can

32 | Bridal Journal

When first logging in to Pinterest you’ll see various ‘pins’ from the pin boards of all the users.

Each pin consists of 4 main components.

THE PHOTO/ LINK is usually a click-through styled link. These links typically take the pinner to a website, blog or page that offers instructions or guidance relating to the photo.

THE REPIN BUTTON essentially copies and pastes the photo and accompanying information onto your personal pin board for future use.

THE LIKE BUTTON will save the pin to the ‘likes’ section of your profile. It will not be on any of your pin boards, but it will be available to you for future use.

THE INFORMATION BOX includes the current pinner, who they repinned from and the board they pinned the photo/link to. This aids in finding future helpful pin boards. tell if everything needs to be elegant with silver or if maybe they’re going for Mason jars.

Sometimes, they’ll say they like a tablescape, when what they really like is one little votive.”

Proctor said if the bride isn’t someone he’s already familiar with, he tries to spend time with her so he can get to know her as well as he can. That way, he can help make her big day unique and special.

“A lot of times, I get inspiration from something other than the pictures of flowers they show me,” he said. “Sometimes, maybe the bridesmaids dress might give me ideas.”

Erin Stubbs, special events coordinator for Busylad Rent-All in

Tupelo, said she’s found that Pinterest saves a lot of time in the planning process.

“It’s more helpful because it helps me figure out what they like immediately,” she said.

“They don’t have to sit there and explain it to me like they used to.

When I ask them what they like or how they want something to look, they pull up pictures from Pinterest. I would a thousand times more prefer them to bring me a picture than for me to say, ‘Describe to me what you like.’”

Stubbs said Pinterest also helps her coordinate with other professionals participating in the wedding process.

“They show me pictures they want of reception areas, ta-

blescapes, cake ideas, outdoor ceremony sites,” she said. “If I’m coordinating with the florist, I can relay that with one picture to the florist.”

Stubbs said some pins on Pinterest are more popular than others.

“Last year, I got the same picture I don’t know how many times,” she said. “I got probably four brides who gave me the exact same picture of an entryway.”

Stubbs said she can’t imagine anything else available today that could be more helpful in her work than Pinterest.

“It is the most fabulous tool out there right now,” she said.

“They have ideas for everything.” ●

INSPIRATION

Do’s and Don’ts of planning your wedding with

DO realize that Pinterest is

DON’T have too much

a tool that can be used as inspiration to mold ideas for your ceremony or reception.

inspiration. Piece ideas together with a common thread to avoid a decoration catastrophe.

DO put your own spin on that

DON’T go on a pinning

“unique” bouquet or photo pose you found. Thousands of other brides pinned that exact idea, too.

spree without a clear budget in mind. Ice scupltures and massive bouquets add up quickly.

DO try DIY ideas for things such

DON’T make everything at

as guest favors. Even if you aren’t crafty, there are foolproof ideas available.

your wedding a DIY project. Some things are worth the splurge and will save you a headache later.

DO have something for kids to

DON’T stick only to the wed-

do at your reception. Pinterest has many activities for children to enjoy that won’t kill your budget.

ding board! Explore boards, like Food or Beauty, for even more inspiration for the big day.

Bridal Journal | 33

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WEDDING CHECKLIST

Month-by-month planner Your wedding day will be here before you know it. If you want to be ready and have your special day run smoothly, you have to be organized.

Use this checklist to help you keep all of your arrangements in order.

9 to 12 months before the wedding ❑ Announce your engagement to friends and family. ❑ Discuss the formality, size and location of the wedding/reception with both families. ❑ Set wedding date and time. ❑ Meet with clergy or judge to confirm date and time. ❑ Research, if applicable, premaritial counseling and sign up for the appropriate classes. ❑ Research locations for wedding and reception. ❑ Start a wedding file, collecting tear sheets of dresses, flowers, etc.

8 months to go ❑ Set the wedding budget. ❑ Determine the approximate number of guests. Start compiling guest list and addresses. ❑ Reserve wedding and reception sites. ❑ Select and invite attendants. ❑ Interview and select wedding coordinator, if applicable. ❑ Interview and select photographer/videographer. ❑ Select wedding and engagement rings and arrange for engraving.

7 months to go ❑ Have your engagement party. ❑ Discuss honeymoon plans.

❑ Begin shopping for wedding attire. ❑ Interview and select caterer, if necessary. ❑ Interview and select a florist.

6 months to go ❑ Begin shopping for invitations. ❑ Place final order for bridesmaids’ gowns, accessories. ❑ Have mothers coordinate and select dresses. ❑ Reserve rental equipment, such as chairs, tables, tents, linens, etc.

5 months to go ❑ Finalize budget. ❑ Confirm with church officials about music, decorations. ❑ Select readings and music for ceremony. ❑ Select music for reception. ❑ Schedule rehearsal dinner. ❑ Meet with caterer to plan reception details. ❑ Begin shopping for groom’s attire.

Send out tuxedo forms to all groomsmen. ❑ Finalize dates for showers, parties.

4 months to go ❑ Register at gift and department stores. ❑ Meet with florist, photographer, baker. ❑ Complete honeymoon details. ❑ Make doctor and dental appointments.

❑ Shop for trousseau. ❑ Finalize and order invitations.

3 months to go ❑ Confirm deliver dates for all attire and schedule fittings. ❑ Purchase wedding album and guest books. ❑ Schedule wedding portrait. ❑ Pick up engagement and wedding announcement forms from the Daily Journal. ❑ Make all appointments for make-up, hair, nails, a massage, etc. ❑ Finalize details of rehearsal dinner. ❑ Purchase wedding weekend outfits, including clothes for rehearsal dinner, post-wedding brunch and other honeymoon outfits. ❑ Make lodging arrangments for outof-town guests. ❑ Address invitations.

2 months to go ❑ Mail invitations. ❑ Submit engagement announcement to Daily Journal. ❑ Select gifts for wedding party. ❑ Have formal portraits taken. ❑ Purchase plenty of stamps and pens for thank you notes. ❑ Arrange transportation for the bridal party to and from the ceremony and reception sites. ❑ Finalize arrangements for flowers, menu, wedding cakes(s) and music. ❑ Make arrangements to change in-

surance policies, bank accounts, drivers’ license, etc. ❑ Prepare out-of-town guest information letter/maps.

1 month to go ❑ Apply for marriage license. ❑ Set up table for wedding gifts. ❑ Record all gifts and write thank-you notes as they arrive. ❑ Finalize wedding program. ❑ Finalize all details with caterer, florist, musicians. ❑ Finalize wedding day schedule. ❑ Make arrangements for bridesmaids’ luncheon. ❑ Finalize jewelry selection. ❑ Prepare photo/video shot list, naming important family and guests.

One to two weeks to go ❑ Double check all arrangements. ❑ Have final fittings for all attire. ❑ Confirm duties with wedding day participants. ❑ Give caterer final estimate of guests. ❑ Pack for honeymoon. ❑ Get hair colored and trimmed. ❑ Pick up wedding gown and veil and organize accessories.

One day before wedding ❑ Have a manicure and pedicure. ❑ Attend bridesmaids’ luncheon. ❑ Attend rehearsal and rehearsal dinner.

Bridal Journal | 35

COVER CONTEST

These photos were among the ones submitted for a chance to appear on the cover. In the end these 22 photos round out our top 25, including the cover photo, the photo shown on the table of contents and the photo opening our Happily Ever Afters chosen by the staff of the Northeast Mississippi Bridal Journal.

Angela & Adam Little Lori Cox Photography

Hannah Grace Avery Sumerford Stephanie Rhea Photography

Nicole & Carl Wilson STF Studio

Caitlyn & Rob Smedema The Image Place

Whitney & Andrew Reish Neil Ladner

Virginia & Thomas Coltharp AM Photography

Jennifer & Alex Bost Bridget Sharp Photography

Amy West Parker Marty Pettit Photography

Erica White Young STF Studio

Lacey & Jared Keen Marty Pettit Photography

BRIDAL CLEARANCE

going on

now

www.kays-kreations.net 36 | Bridal Journal

COVER CONTEST

Katelyn Sappington Grose STF Studio

Jessica Mansell Jordan The Image Place

Lianna & Matthew Reeder STF Studio

Anna & Travis Miles Chuck Sims Images

Emily & Austin Russell STF Studio

Brooke & John Mann STF Studio

Jalessa Waddle Campbell STF Studio

Cassandra Walls Hamilton Blake McCollum Photography

Brandy & Kyle Downs STF Studio

Heather & Phillip McGuire Marty Pettit Photography

Kasey Wilder Kidd Shirley Martin

Heather & Jon Gilley STF Studio

307 W. MAIN STREET | HISTORIC DOWNTOWN TUPELO | (662) 269-2108 | www.hishers307.com Bridal Journal | 37

The Magnolias. . . a quaint display of Antebellum Architecture located in the city of Aberdeen is available for weddings, receptions, bridesmaids luncheons and showers, engagement parties, birthday parties, tea parties and retirement receptions.

Exchange vows in one of the beautiful parlors or under the arbor. The choice is yours. The patio is also available for special events. Call or visit us online for more information.

The Magnolias

732 West Commerce Street Aberdeen, MS 39730 662-369-7956 www.themagnolias.org

662.840.4060 www.premierprintsfabric.com Mon., Wed., Thur. and Fri. 10-5 • Tues 10-7

38 | Bridal Journal

Ashmore & Little

A2 & A3

Johnson & Dye

A25

Avery & Sumerford

A4 & A5

Loberg & Jones

A26

Barefoot & Johnson Boerner & Harrington Cooper & King Cross & Smedema

A18

McCormick & Rhodes

A27

A6 & A7

Moore & Reeder

A28

A19

Phillips & Dahlem

A14 & A15

A8 & A9

Reed & Miles

A29

Dennis & Gray

A20

Sims & Matkins

A30

Faulkner & Hathcock

A21

Smith & Thomas

A31

Fikes & Reish

A22

Swords & Horne

A32

Tate & Ivy

A33

Galloway & Coltharp Genry & Manley Greer & Giachelli Harper & Bost

A10 & A11 A23

Walls & Hamilton

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are brought to you by

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Ruth Ann Cooper King (married Lee Henry King).

Photo taken on the campus of Ole Miss by Scott Burton Photography

Angela Jo Ashmore Adam Wayne Little

The beautiful grounds of The Concord Inn just outside of New Albany was the unique setting for the celebration and blessing of the marriage of Angela Jo Ashmore and Adam Wayne Little at half past five o'clock in the evening on October 13, 2012. The double-ring ceremony was officiated by Gregory Ashmore of Richmond, VA, cousin of the bride.

The bride is the daughter of Linda and Larry Ashmore of New Albany and is the granddaughter of Harold Russell and the late Dorothy Russell of New Albany, and Victor and Alice Ashmore of New Albany.

The groom is the son of Sandra and Van Jackson of Blue Springs, and Chuck and Lisa Little of Collierville, Tenn., and is the grandson of Opalene Dunlap and the late Sam Dunlap of Blue Springs, and Twanda Little and the late Charles Little Sr. of New Albany.

The beautiful outdoor ceremony took place aside the garden area of the 1860's Historic Coombs Home. Guests entered the imaginary chapel through a double doorway decorated with beautiful orange unique rose arrangements on each door.

Above the doorway, scripture read, "This is the day that the Lord hath made." A replica of a vintage white chapel church, built by the groom and his father, was the backdrop where the couple exchanged vows. The aisles were decorated with hanging heir-

loom vintage vases of white hydrangeas and orange unique rose bouquets.

The bride was escorted by her father to the song "Things Meant To Be" by Xavier Rudd. She wore an Essence of Australia gown in ivory. The strapless gown featured an empire waist with a Dolce Satin ruched band that flowed into a ball gown skirt with a lace appliquĂŠd overlay and chapel-length train. The bride carried a bouquet of orange unique roses, white hydrangeas, and Virginia roses accented with seeded eucalyptus.

Attending her sister-in-law as matron of honor, was Brandi Michelle Ashmore of Meridianville, Ala. Bridesmaids were Amber Henderson Jamison of Tupelo; Katherine Leigh Chism of Memphis, Tenn.; Jennifer Dillon Wallace of Memphis, Tenn.; and Jana Kendall Morrison of Oxford.

Serving as flower girl was Stella Root of Tupelo. Meghan Smith of Oxford served as an honorary attendant. Registry attendants were Lindsey Little and Shanda Wicker, sisters of the groom.

Emma Dunlap, cousin of the groom, served as program attendant.

Russell Brandon Jamison of Tupelo served as best man.

Groomsmen were John Russell Ashmore, Meridianville, Ala., brother of the bride; James Stephen Brister Jr., Englewood, Colo.; Jeffery Adam May, Pontotoc; and Brently Michael McCarter of A2

Photos by Lori Cox Photography

Music was provided for the reception by the band Free World of Memphis, Tenn., while guests enjoyed a variety of the bride and groom's favorite Southern delicacies prepared and catered by Nichols Deli of New Albany. Diane Tate of Di's Designs of New Albany directed the wedding and designed the wedding ceremony flowers while Emily Roberts Forman of MODA Designs of New Albany designed the reception flowers. Memories of the evening were captured by Lori Cox Photography of Columbus.

The weekend began with a bridesmaids' luncheon honoring the bride, given at the home of Dr. & Mrs. Jimmy Chism and hosted by Terri Chism and Karen Dillon. On the eve of the wedding, the groom's parents hosted a rehearsal dinner on the rooftop of Park Heights Restaurant for the wedding party and family.

After honeymooning in St. Lucia, the couple reside in Butner, N.C., where the groom is a travel nurse at the Central Regional Hospital.

Tupelo. Nicholas Little, cousin of the groom, served as ring bearer.

Solo music was performed by James Matthew Nolan, and also Mary Frances Massey accompanied by Paul Tate. The wedding party entered to the song "May Your Glass Be Filled" by Widespread Panic, and following the ceremony exited to "Revival"

by The Allman Brothers Band. Ushers were Corey Treadaway of Blue Springs, and Dave Wicker of Memphis, Tenn.

Following the ceremony, the reception was held on the lawn of the Estate House. The setting included many elements that conveyed the couple's musical interest. The groom's table showcased his love for music with a cake made like an antique record player. Favor tables included a table with CDs of the couples favorite love songs and the inscription "Everyone Deserves Music Sweet Music," a candy table with the inscription "Loving You Has Made My Life Sweeter," and a jelly table with the inscription "Spread The Love," all lyrics from some of their favorite songs. As a keepsake for the couple, the guests signed a guitar-shaped wooden cut-out designed and painted by Beth Swords.

The bride's table highlighted a four-tiered cake iced with ivory fondant with a peach frost glaze on the edges of the fondant petals made by the bride's aunt, Janice Cobb. The cake was topped with a family heirloom first used by the bride's parents in 1979.

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Hannah Grace Avery David Benson Sumerford

Hannah Grace Avery and David Benson Sumerford were united in a ceremony of Christian marriage at 6 o’clock in the evening on June 30, 2012, at First United Methodist Church in Amory, Miss. The double-ring ceremony was officiated by the Rev. Steven P. Keen.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Michael Avery of Amory. She is the granddaughter of Mrs. Kaye Tubb and the late Ivy Tubb of Amory, and Mr. Chester Avery and the late Jennie Avery of Smithville.

The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Wayne Sumerford of Smithville. He is the grandson of Mrs. Jean Brasfield and the late David R. Brasfield, Cleatus Sumerford and the late Lillian Sumerford, all of Smithville.

Nuptial music was provided by Mr. David East, pianist; Ms. Svetlana Kaltchenko, violinist; and Ms. Kandace Perkins, flutist.

Vocalists were Emma Kate Avery and Teresa Estes. Ms. Susan Harp of Smithville served as wedding director.

Escorted by her father and given in marriage by her parents, the bride wore a strapless Lazaro gown with an Alencon lace bodice and a sweetheart neckline. The circular ballgown skirt was accented with lace and pleated organza tiers. Her waistline was cinched by a Lazaro ribbon sash belt encrusted with gemstones

and crystals. The bride wore a cathedral-length illusion veil paired with a blusher veil. She carried a hand-tied bouquet of sahara and rovina roses, white hydrangeas, freesia, and peonies. Tied into the bride’s bouquet was an antique locket, owned by her motherin-law, honoring the memory of the bride and groom’s grandmothers.

Attending her sister as maid of honor was Emma Kate Avery of Amory. Bridesmaids were Bethany Claire Sumerford of Smithville, Mary Michelle Thompson of Macon, Ga., Paige Stanford Lochridge, Abby Camille Atkins, and Breanna Kaye Tindoll, all of Amory, Tiffany Ann Love of Houlka, Suzanna Fawn Keen Hyland of Winona, and Mallory Jane Box of Tupelo. They wore matching floor-length champagne lumina gowns. The strapless dress featured a ruched bodice and a softly pleated A-line skirt attached to a classic waistline. They carried bouquets of peonies and roses in shades of pink and ivory. Serving as flower girls were Madelyn Claire and Lilly Grace Tubb of Mesquite, Texas. They wore matching gowns of white organza with pink sashes. Wedding registry attendants were Keri Taylor Horne and Mary Margaret Miles of Amory.

Kenneth Sumerford, father of the groom, served as best man.

Groomsmen were William Kenneth Sumerford of Vicksburg, A4

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Photos by Stephanie Rhea Photography

Samuel Joseph McDuffie, Ryan Lee Sewell, and John Mark Webb of Tupelo, Joseph Clifton Williams of Nashville, Tenn., James Matthew Lenderman of Jackson, John Paul Crowell of Smithville, and Peyton Michael Avery, brother of the bride, of Amory. Ben Frederick of Amory served as ring bearer. Ushers were Adam Baird of West Point, Blake Cadden, Grant Nerren and Zack Orsborn, all of of Amory.

The ceremony was followed by a reception at the historic Park Hotel in downtown Amory. Vintage signs, pink geraniums, and an antique birdcage with turtledoves greeted guests as they entered the ballroom. The focal point of the room was the ornate four-tier bride’s cake made by Cakes by Rita and adorned with white fondant flowers. It was topped with a handmade pair of lovebirds wearing a wedding veil, top hat, and tuxedo. The groom’s table featured a towering 5-tier display of tuxedo cupcakes made by Gigi’s Cupcakes of Tupelo. Upon entering the dining room, guests were treated to a buffet of elegant Southern foods. A sideboard held Mason jars with pink gingham ribbons and matching striped straws for the sweet tea and pink lemonade.

Guests enjoyed dancing to the music of The Gents. The ballroom featured tubs of Jones Sodas customized with a picture of the bride and groom and the wedding date. Tables in each of the A5

hotel’s dining rooms were decorated with cloths of blush with champagne overlays. Centerpieces were vintage candlesticks topped with pink roses and ivory roses. Jeweled heart-shaped picture frames with pictures of the bride and groom adorned each centerpiece.

After a night of celebration, the couple departed the reception in a cream Thunderbird convertible led by the glow of sparklers and the cheers of friends and family.

On the eve of the wedding, the groom’s parents hosted a dinner at Riverbirch Golf Club in Amory catered by Carol Koutroulis of Houston, Miss. The theme of the evening was, “To our children we give two things – one is roots; the other is wings.” Tables were decorated with pairs of silver lovebirds, birds’ nests, and fresh floral arrangements.

Charlotte Hunter Boerner Phillip Zackary Harrington

Charlotte Hunter Boerner and Phillip Zackary Harrington exchanged wedding vows at six o’clock in the evening of February 25th at the First Presbyterian Church in Tupelo with the Rev. Dr. Tom Groome and the Rev. Ann Houston Kelly officiating.

Hunter is the daughter of Hank and Helen Boerner of Tupelo and the granddaughter of Lock Hunter and the late Charlotte Hunter of Vero Beach, Fla., and the late Henry and Eula Mae Boerner of Key Largo, Fla. Zack is the son of Larry and Rosie Harrington and the grandson of Larry “Doc” and Phyllis Harrington and the late Charles and Genevieve DiFatta all of Hattiesburg.

Escorted by her dad and given in marriage by her parents, Hunter wore an ivory gown with overlay beaded venise lace. The sheath gown featured a v-neckline and a deep v-back which complemented the semi chapel-length train. She wore a bird cage veil anchored with satin roses. She carried a bouquet of white camellias, Lenten roses, and mums which was wrapped with antique ribbon from her mother’s wedding bouquet and held her grandmother Charlotte’s engagement ring.

Neely Johnson was maid of honor and Lindsay Bean, Lauren Cobb, and Baleigh Davis served as bridesmaids. They wore cock-

tail-length strapless chiffon dresses in black complemented with a sweetheart neckline. Honorary bridesmaids were Megan Beasley, Whitney Denham, Carrie Hancock, Erika Ivy, Courtney Kupets, Michelle McAuley, Kristen McClellan, Dayna Perkins, Lane Poland, Rachel Rohand, Elyse Rieder, Lindsey Russell, Mary Katherine Shipp and Holly Thurmond. Christina Caride, cousin of the bride, was the flower girl and wore an ivory dress as she tossed rose petals down the aisle. Emily Corban (proxy bride) surprised everyone as she sported a real wedding dress on the night of rehearsal and was the hit of the evening!

Larry Harrington, father of the groom, served as Zack’s best man. Serving as groomsmen were Hal Boerner, John Harrington, and Grant Hogue. Honorary groomsmen and ushers were Johnny Allen, Matt Bryant, Martin Hankins, Cooper Harrington, Dylan Harrington, Mike Henig, Hunter Jackson, Ryan Jackson, Caleb Koonce, Merrick Lanaux, Kyle Sellers, Hayes Singleton, and Will Sneed. Wyatt Gilbert, cousin of the bride, completed his job as ring bearer with a strong sense of duty and determination!

After the ceremony, the couple left for the reception at Park Heights Restaurant in a yellow Model A convertible driven by Mr.

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Photos by Stephanie Rea Photography

David Allen and masterfully decorated by the bride’s dad – pink property line tape, cans, and all!!

Guests were treated to Southern Pecan beer and sweet tea as they registered and passed the entrance filled with photos of the bride and groom. Previous wedding photos of family members were scattered throughout as guests were treated to an assortment of delectable delights provided by Park Heights.

The bride’s cake made by Kelly Phipps was decorated to resemble the milk glass the bride collects, and the groom’s cake resembled the tree where Zack surprised Hunter with a proposal – the same tree where Zack’s dad proposed to his mom 30 years ago. The tree now has both couples’ initials carved with the date of the engagement.

After cutting the cakes and enjoying the great food of Park Heights, everyone moved upstairs to the second floor transformed

by Tracy Proctor to get the party started! The Blue Silk Band of Memphis set the tone for the night with the first dance “Tupelo Honey.” Hunter and Zack then delighted their guests with their get-down version of “The Wop.” The fun continued in the warehouse-themed floor of brown paper sculptures, bamboo, lights,

reboxes, white paper balls, and of course, the dance floor! It was a great space for dancin’ and/or relaxin! Not to mention the socks! Everyone was treated to a colorful pair of Converse socks for kickn’ back and feeling the floor! Blue Silk Band rocked and fun was had by all. Park Heights provided a late night treat of hot dogs to cap off the evening.

It was such a great time for family and friends to enjoy each other – no one wanted to leave. Hunter and Zack finally closed the place down at 12 and had a great time in Tambor, Costa Rica, on their honeymoon. After a great trip, they now make their home in Starkville. Hunter is an account executive with Learfield Sports and Zack is a marketing/sales representative for ServPro.

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Caitlin Anne Conner Cross Robert Jay Smedema II

Caitlin Anne Conner Cross and Robert Jay Smedema II were united in marriage at four o’clock in the afternoon on March 24, 2012, in a garden ceremony at the Pink Palace museum in Memphis, Tenn.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ancel Cross of Ripley.

She is the granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Paul Gaddis of Ripley and Mrs. Quay Hurt Cross and the late Mr. Ancel “Cub” Cross of Falkner.

The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Williams of Ringgold, Ga., and Mr. Jim Smedema of Biloxi and the late Mrs. Hilda Brown Smedema.

The Reverend Tom Young of Ripley officiated at the double-ring ceremony. The music director was Shirley Lorraine Taylor of Booneville, who also provided the nuptial music. The bride’s cousins, Georgia Kate Conner and Edie Kay Conner of Tiplersville, were the soloist and scripture reader. Cousins of the bride, Sarah Lucile Porter, San Antonio, Texas, and Elizabeth Conner Porter of Tulsa, Okla. attended the registry.

Given in marriage by her father, the bride’s vintage gown by Alfred Angelo was ivory satin overlaid with appliquéd lace accented with pearls and crystal beading. It featured a corset-tie back, capped sleeves, and a chapel-length train bordered with

pearls. Her fingertip veil, hand-fashioned by Bobbye Nunnally, was ivory appliquéd lace embellished with pearls and Swarovski crystals brought home from a trip to Austria. She wore an heirloom pearl necklace belonging to her mother and carried an Italian lace handkerchief from Assisi, a gift from her aunt. Her hand-tied bouquet of white roses by Expressions of Ripley honored her sorority, Kappa Delta, and her family with jewelry and other mementos woven into baling twine from her father’s farm.

The bridesmaids were Allie Peets Garcia of Tyler, Texas, cousin of the bride; Elizabeth Jane Smedema of Statesboro, Ga., sister of the groom; Lauren Crawford-Butts of Harker Heights, Texas and Jennifer Lynn Hitt of Memphis, sorority sisters of the bride; and Lauren Elizabeth Dempsey of Jackson and Julie Lynne Howell of Las Vegas, friends of the bride.

In the tradition of the bride’s Irish heritage, bridesmaids wore shamrock green strapless chiffon tea-length gowns by Mori Lee. The vertically-pleated bodices featured a twist knot at the empire waist and A-line flowing skirts. They carried nosegays of white roses, baby’s breath, and pheasant feathers.

Serving as flower girl was Rachel Cates Duncan of Falkner, cousin of the bride. Junior attendants were the bride’s cousins, Parker Catherine Ford and Payton Elizabeth Ford of Amory and A8

Josephine Dylan Buchanan of Tupelo, and Mary-Leise Lyndan McBride of Ripley. Program attendants were the bride’s cousin, Leigh Allison Akins of Ripley and the groom’s cousin Meghan Carrie Claybo of Charlotte, N.C. Groomsmen were William Henry Smedema of Ringgold, Ga., brother of the groom; Jacob Adam Bock of Atlanta, Ga., James Monroe Hunt of Tallahassee, Fla., and Laverne Joseph South IV of Charleston, S.C., fraternity brothers of the groom; Joshua David Black of Memphis, friend of the groom; and Brittain Ancel Paul Cross of Pearl, brother of the bride. Jesse Taylor Claybo of Charlotte, N.C., cousin of the groom, was the usher, and Jackson Edd Conner of Tiplersville, cousin of the bride, was the ring bearer.

Following the ceremony, guest were entertained with cocktail music by Shirley Taylor before enjoying a delicious buffet reception

by Heart and Soul Catering and dancing to music by Dingo Entertainment especially selected by the bride and groom. The couple left down a brightly lit sparkler pathway by Sparkle Fireworks of Ripley.

Weekend guests also enjoyed two downtown Memphis wedding events. On the eve of the wedding the groom’s parents honored the couple with a rehearsal dinner at the Center for Southern Folklore. Guests enjoyed a traditional Memphis barbecue buffet

complete with blues music by Blind Mississippi Morris. The wedding party and others took this opportunity to toast the couple and wish them well.

On the morning of the wedding, the bride, her mother, her aunts, Sarah Thompson and Paula Porter, and her special friend Ann Rutherford honored the bridesmaids and a host of out-oftown guests with a brunch in the Adler Suite of the Doubletree Hotel. The bridesmaids participated in a Victorian custom called “ribbon pulling,” in which maids pulled a ribbon tied to a small charm from a cake symbolizing wishes for each such as impending marriage, love, a contented life, a happy home, fortune, and good luck.

The couple now resides in Denver, Colo., where the groom is the western zone key account manager for Michelin North America and the bride is an occupational therapist at Monaco Parkway Health and Rehabilitation Center. They recently returned from a belated South African honeymoon safari at the Zulu Nyala Game Reserve followed by a visit to the historical city of Cape Town.

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Virginia Lynn Galloway Thomas Collins Coltharp Jr.

Attending the bride were maid of honor Elizabeth Galloway of Germantown, sister of the bride; and Mrs. Rachael Wise of Arlington, Tenn., matron of honor and longtime friend of the bride.

Bridesmaids were Mrs. Lauren Merritt Sanders of New Albany, cousin of the bride; Mrs. Bailey King of New Albany, sister of the groom; along with friends of the bride Mrs. Erica Butler of West Memphis, Ark.; Mrs. Ashley Gulina of Collierville, Tenn.; Mrs. Sarah Schildmeier of Cordova, Tenn.; and Christina Quartarone of Markham, Ontario, Canada. Flower girls were Caroline King, Lucy King, and Sara Jane King, all of New Albany, nieces of the groom.

The bridesmaids wore navy gowns by Bill Levkoff featuring a sweetheart neckline and pleated bodice with front gathers that gave the skirt fullness and swing. The flower girls were adorned with sleeveless, gorgeous chiffon dresses that were also by Bill Levkoff.

The best man was Thomas Collins Coltharp Sr. of New Albany, father of the groom. Groomsmen were Martin Coltharp, brother of the groom; Geoffrey King, brother-in-law of the groom; Bobby Coltharp, cousin of the groom, and friends of the groom Will Evans and Daniel Garrett, all of New Albany; Jack Ballard of Knoxville, Tenn.; and Steven Saul of Jackson, Miss. The ring bearer was Greg Wise of Arlington, son of the matron of honor.

Virginia Lynn Galloway of Germantown, Tenn., and Thomas Collins Coltharp Jr. of New Albany, Miss., were united in holy matrimony at 6 p.m. on the evening of September 8, 2012, at Hedge Farm in Red Banks, Miss. The ceremony was attended by numerous family and friends. The Rev. Barry Male of the First United Methodist Church of New Albany officiated the ceremony.

The bride is the daughter of Craig and Frances Galloway of Germantown and is the granddaughter of Frances Harrison Keathley of Memphis, Tenn., the late Charles Leon Galloway, and the late Sarah and Stoddard F. (Strut) Darwin of Tupelo, Miss.

The groom is the son of Tom and Kelly Coltharp of New Albany and the grandson of Robert E. Coltharp Sr. and the late Jane Coltharp of New Albany, and Bill and Phyllis Jernigan and the late Jo An Jernigan of New Albany.

The bride was given in marriage by her father. The bride wore an ivory wedding gown by Allure Bridals. The gown was strapless with a sweetheart neckline and natural waistline accented with beading, pearls, and crystals creating a sparkling belt detail. The skirt was finished with pockets, covered buttons, and a chapellength train. The bride wore a specially designed chapel-length veil.

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Photos by AM Photography

reception in a 1965 maroon Mustang convertible belonging to the groom’s grandfather, Bill Jernigan, while the guests serenaded them with the sound of small white cowbells. Amanda and Jonathan Hill of AM Photography exquisitely captured all of the moments of the wedding and reception.

The bride graduated from Houston High School, Germantown and Crichton College, and is employed with the Memphis City Schools. The groom graduated from New Albany High School and the University of Memphis and is employed with Towers-Watson.

The couple celebrated the wedding with a mini-trip to downtown Memphis with plans for a two-week trek exploring the mountains of Colorado while continuing from Montana to Washington State and Vancouver. The couple now lives in Memphis.

The ushers were cousins of the groom Ben Sutherland of Atlanta, Ga.; William and Michael Coltharp of Nashville, Tenn.; and Paul Merritt of Chicago, Ill., cousin of the bride.

Soloist was Stephen Garrett of New Albany, and the scripture was read by Joe Irby of Memphis. Program attendants were friends of the bride Michelle Steele and Erin Baker, both of Memphis; Callen Woelfel, Annabelle Wise, and Emily Wise, all of Arlington.

Reception attendants were Mary Driver of Germantown; Janet Wehner of Cordova; Donna Lee of Byhalia, Miss.; and Morgan and Tyler Fulton of Petal, Miss., cousins of the bride.

The rehearsal dinner and wedding reception celebrations were held at beautiful Hedge Farm in Red Banks. Hedge Farm is a Greek Revival home and farm that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is cared for by the owner, John Loftin, whose family has roots back to the 1840’s on the property.

John Carroll assisted Mr. Loftin with all of the details of the rehearsal dinner, wedding, and reception. D.J. Stacy provided the music and entertainment with Sugaree’s Bakery of New Albany furnishing the delicious cakes and pies. Diedre Anderson of Holly Springs, Miss., was the caterer for the event. The couple left the

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Anna Mather Greer Gregory Morris Giachelli II

Historic First United Methodist Church in Holly Springs was the setting May 19, 2012, for the morning worship service celebrating the marriage of Miss Anna Mather Greer and Mr. Gregory Morris Giachelli, II. The couple’s parents are Mrs. Diane Carver Greer of Holly Springs, and Mr. Curtis Mather Greer of Myrtle, and Mr. and Mrs. Gregory Morris Giachelli of Blue Springs. The Rev. Milton Whatley of Holly Springs and Rev. Doyle Mitchell of Ethel presided over the ceremony.

The eleven o’clock service was preceded by organ selections performed by Charles Lee Bell, Jr., of Memphis. Soloists were Katherine Kent Farese, and Mr. and Mrs. Christian Feazell. Large arrangements of white Zagora lilies in antique cut glass vases on the altar were given to the glory of God and in loving memory of the couple’s late grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Curtis Aquilla Greer, Mrs. Therrel Mack Porch, and Mr. and Mrs. Morris Giachelli. The bride is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. LeRoy Carver of Tupelo, and the groom is the grandson of Mr. Therrel Mack Porch of Blue Springs. Monogrammed pew markers in the sanctuary were of white silk satin and held white roses and fern.

Serving the bride as matrons of honor were childhood friends Cameron Strickland Rhea of Holly Springs and Paige Gholson

Brewer of Kearney, Neb. Bridesmaids were Priscilla LeAnne Giachelli of Starkville, Laura Carlisle Bray of Holly Springs, Cathryn Miller Richey of Tupelo, Emma Koon Woods of Red Banks, and Jessica Renee Ashley of Madison. The bridesmaids were stunning in French blue silk taffeta dresses.

Attending Mr. Giachelli as best man was his father, Gregory Morris Giachelli, of Blue Springs. Serving as groomsmen were Curtis Wright Greer of Bozeman, Mont., Jonathan Wesley Parrish of Starkville, John Parker Davis of Starkville, Baxter Wilson Billingsley of New York, John Christopher Simmons of New Albany, and Christopher Brian Awtrey of Amory, Ushers were Phillip Kinard Downer of Starkville, Reed Collins Storey of Marvell, Ark., Daniel Mack Porch of Blue Springs, Casen Glen Giachelli of Itta Bena, and Jarrett Thomas Giachelli of Holly Ridge.

Master Caden Lee Hawkins was the ring bearer, and Miss Dylan Annalyse Drye was the flower girl. She wore an ivory antique lace dress, made from lace belonging to the groom’s maternal grandmother, and carried an antique silver bride’s basket filled with ivory Anna rose petals.

The bride entered the sanctuary on the arm of her father as the organist played Wagner’s “Bridal Chorus from Lohengrin.” Her

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Photos by Mabus Photography

gown featured a strapless sweetheart neckline and a fitted bodice with elaborate ruching. The ravello silk gown was accented with a beaded waistline and flowed into an A-line skirt and cathedral-length train. the gown was further accentuated with a vintage, pearl-encrusted silk magnolia centered with an antique cameo pin given to her at her christening, which had belonged to the brides’ great-great-grandmother, Cordelia Morgan Greer. The bride chose to complete her look with a simple cathedral-length silk-corded veil and a double strand of pearls, one belonging to her mother, and the other a gift from her maternal grandparents.

The bridal bouquet, of Zagora lilies, hydrangeas, Arctic white roses, dendrobium orchids and orange blossoms featured another of the bride’s “something old,” an antique linen handkerchief belonging to the bride’s great-great-grandmother, also carried by the bride’s mother on her wedding day. For her “something blue,” the bride wore custom-painted Blue Willow ballet flats which had the couple’s name and wedding date inscribed on them.

The bride and groom left the church in an antique open carriage, drawn by Percheron horses, for the reception which was held on the lawn of antebellum Cuffawa, childhood home of the bride. The lavish brunch buffet was located on the tented lawn. A

large silver candelabra and antique porcelain vases held arrangements of spring flowers and fern, and centered the food tables which were overlaid with monogrammed linen runners.

The five-tiered wedding cake, decorated with sugar magnolias and fresh magnolia leaves, was placed in the dining room of the home. A sixth layer of the cake was placed on the table beside the wedding cake and was topped with an antique porcelain bride and groom that also adorned the bride’s paternal grandparents’ wedding cake 60 years ago.

The side porch of the home featured the groom’s cake, a three-layered caramel cake. The groom’s table also held handmade chocolates and memorabilia representing his alma mater, and Sigma Chi, the groom’s fraternity.

The bride and groom are at home in Tupelo.

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Courtney Elizabeth Phillips Michael Drew Dahlem

Courtney Elizabeth Phillips and Michael Drew Dahlem were united in marriage on May 19, 2012 at half past six in the evening at Manning Gardens in a sunset ceremony. The garden service was officiated by Dr. Chuck Herring, uncle of the groom, of Collierville First Baptist Church in Collierville, Tenn.

The bride is the daughter of Mike and June Phillips of Tupelo.

She is the granddaughter of Nettie Stone and the late Max Stone, the late Charles Phillips and the late Adele & Carl Huffman. The groom is the son of Harry and Pam Walton of Tremont, and Mike Dahlem of Mooreville. He is the grandson of Connie Branyan and the late Lewis Branyan, the late John D Herring Jr. and Hazel Dahlem and the late Julius Dahlem.

The guests walked the paths of the garden to a special table set up in memory of the bride and groom’s loved ones. From there they walked under an arch cascading with flowers to the ceremony site. The focal point of the ceremony was an antique mantel decorated with vases of white hydrangea and white lilies. A single chair was left empty and was reserved for the bride’s grandfather who passed away two months prior. The bride placed a single

white rose in the chair in remembrance of him. Soloist Hannah Waycaster, cousin of the bride, began the lighting of the candles with an acapella version of “Sweet, Sweet Spirit.” Escorted by her father and given in marriage by her parents, the bride wore a strapless hand-embroidered gown. The draped bodice and ball gown-style skirt were accented with a sheer overlay of organza and 3D floral accents. Her fingertip illusion veil was edged with crystals that followed the same design as her wedding gown. She carried a hand-tied bouquet of all-white hydrangeas, roses and lilies.

Attending the bride as maid of honor was DeAnna Dahlem of St. Thomas, USVI. Bridesmaids were Lauren Stanford of Jackson, Brittney Dodson of Clarksdale, Carmen Hill of Saltillo, Hannah Patterson of Starkville and Allison Wilson of Tupelo. They wore matching floor-length gowns in clover green with an empire waist.

The dresses featured a sweetheart neckline with a ruched bodice.

They carried bouquets of roses, gerbera daisies and stargazer lilies, all in various shades of pink. Serving as flower girl was Kennedy Tedford, niece of the groom. She wore an off-white dress with a

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Photos by Tuesday Ethridge Classic Photography

tulle skirt and carried a basket of fresh rose petals. Cassie Waycaster served as the registry attendant and Hannah Waycaster served as the program attendant.

Mike Dahlem served his son as best man. Groomsmen were Curt Pettigrew, Jeffery Kent, Dustin Jones, Jake Padilla of Nettleton and Harry Walton of Tremont. Adam Hill served as the usher. Reid Dahlem, son of the couple, served as ring bearer.

Nuptial music was chosen by the bride and included songs by well-known artists such as Train, Edwina Hayes and Natalie Grant.

“Grow Old with Me” was performed by the soloist after the couple recited their vows.

The ceremony was followed by a reception in and around the lake house at Manning Gardens. The guests enjoyed with a buffet of Southern favorites including fried chicken, Deep South caviar and fried green tomatoes prepared by Endville Bakery and Catering. The area was beautifully decorated with fresh flowers and soft candlelight. The wedding cake by Creative Cakes of Tupelo had three tiers decorated by hand with scrollwork and a ribbon of green with fresh flowers adorning each layer. It was

topped by a crystallized monogram “D.” The groom’s cake was a two-tier chocolate on chocolate cake with chocolate ganache, chocolate-covered strawberries and a monogrammed “D” on top.

Flowers by Connie of Verona provided all the flowers for the ceremony and reception. Many special memories were captured

by Tuesday Ethridge of Classic Photography. All of the bouquets and residual flowers were donated to Blooms of Grace, a local organization that reuses the flowers to bring joy to patients and their families who are in hospice care.

On the eve of the wedding the groom’s family held a poolside rehearsal dinner where the groom’s favorite foods were served.

Guests were also treated to the bride’s favorite of red velvet cake and the groom’s favorite of sweet potato pie.

Following a honeymoon trip to New Orleans, the couple is at home in Fulton. The bride is employed as office coordinator for Tupelo Recycling and the groom is an automotive technician at Tupelo Auto Air and Electric.

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Cassandra Rae Walls Benjamin David Hamilton

Cassandra Rae Walls and Benjamin David Hamilton were united in marriage at 2 p.m. on March 31, 2012, at the Chapel of the Pines, on the former Wood Junior College campus in Mathiston.

They discovered the beautiful site while both were on a mission project to clean up tornado damage to the campus.

Cassie is the daughter of Kevin and Sherrye Walls of Pontotoc.

She is the granddaughter of Rayburn and Thelma Saxon, and Larry and Joyce Walls, all of Pontotoc.

Ben is the son of David and Susan Hamilton of Pontotoc. He is the grandson of Mrs. Dorothy Hillhouse and the late Harvey Hillhouse of Mantee, and the late C.W. and Annie Mae Hamilton of Maben.

Dr. David Hamilton, father of the groom, officiated the doublering ceremony. The bride and groom wanted the ceremony to be a time of worship, therefore, praise and worship songs were led by by the West Heights Baptist praise team prior to and during the wedding.

Given in marriage by her father, the bride entered to a violin solo of “In Christ Alone” played by Will Simmons. She wore a modest Casablanca gown fully laced and beaded with an open-

sheered back. Her bouquet was a mixture of white hydrangeas and ranunculus. Brooches from the mothers and grandmothers of the couple were attached to the bouquet. It was tied together with a handkerchief given to the groom’s mother on her wedding day by the groom’s paternal grandmother. The bride also wrapped a handkerchief around the base that was given to her by her father minutes before the ceremony.

After the vows and rings were exchanged, the congregation, if personally appropriate, was invited to join the couple participating in the Lord’s Supper, led by the Rev. Riley Brown. Assisting with the Lord’s Supper were the honorary groomsmen and Bear Faulkner, BJ Simmons, and Lee Pearson Simmons, cousins of the bride. The recessional was “Oh Happy Day” by the West Heights praise band.

Kasey Wilder Kidd served as maid of honor. Bridesmaids were Jessica Walls Hamilton, sister of the bride, August Walls Collums, sister of the bride, Honor Faulkner Olsen, cousin of the bride, Beth Saxon, cousin of the bride, and Melissa Boyd McAnally. Honorary bridesmaids were Lacey Windham, Kelli Noland, Sarah Hibbs, and Casey Davis Peeples. They all wore knee-length black dresses. The

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Photos by Blake McCollum Photography

bridesmaids carried bouquets of white ranunculus and a few green berries. The chapel was decorated with white flower balls hanging from each column of the chapel as you walked down toward the altar area. Sadie Collums and Scout Olsen served as flower girl and boy. Jaxon Collums and Hiett Hamilton served as ring bearers.

Nathan Hamilton, brother of the groom, served as best man.

Groomsmen were Zach Matkins, Caleb Walls, brother of the bride, Caleb East, Andrew Wallace, and Keith McCarter. Honorary groomsmen were Dustin Payne, Daniel Peeples, and Grant Reynolds.

The reception was held on campus upstairs in the library. The large windows provided beautiful lighting. Table were decorated with burlap and a collection of Mason jars with fresh flowers with willow branches and lights. During the reception, the bride danced with her father to “You’ve Got a Friend” by James Taylor.

The couple danced to “To Make You Feel My Love” previously recorded by the bride.

Mrs. Mable Crawford was in charge of the decoration and flowers. Mrs. Jennifer Quarles was wedding director. Blake

McCollum Photography captured the beautiful pictures.

After a honeymoon cruise to Mexico, the couple makes their home in Pontotoc. Mrs. Hamilton is a certified occupational therapist at Baptist Hospital in Oxford. Mr. Hamilton is employed with the Pontotoc County Sheriff’s Department as a deputy and canine officer, and also as an officer with the City of Pontotoc.

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Elizabeth Katelynn Barefoot Christopher Lewis

Photos by Memory Lane Photography

The worship service celebrating the marriage uniting Katelynn Barefoot of Tupelo, Miss., and Christopher Lewis of Mooreville, Miss. took place Dec. 15, 2012. The wedding ceremony, officiated by the Rev. David Langerfeld, was held at Harrisburg Baptist Church in Tupelo.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. Alan Barefoot and Mr. and Mrs. Trice Webb. Katelynn is the granddaughter of Ms. Carlene Barefoot and the late Mr. Michael Barefoot, Mr. and Mrs. Tom Henderson, and Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Webb. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Scott Lewis. Christopher is the grandson of Mrs. Donna Lewis and the late Mr. Buddy Lewis, and Mrs. Leona Maness and the late Mr. Ralph Maness.

Given in marriage by her parents, the bride wore an exquisite Allure designer gown with a fitted, strapless sweetheart bodice, ruched asymmetrically. The A-line silhouette continued into a dropped waistline and dramatically ruffled organza skirt, adorned with rose detailing. A custom-made sash intricately embellished with crystals and floral rosettes accentuated the bodice. The bride wore a sentimental pearl necklace saved by her grandmother for her wedding day. The bridal bouquet, including red and white roses and white calla lilies, was adorned with the bride’s late great-grandmothers’ wedding ring and heirloom handkerchief.

Attending the bride as maid of honor was Miss Taylor Barefoot, sister of the bride. Bridesmaids included Ms. Mindy Dunnam and Mrs. Chelsea Lyle. Attending as junior bridesmaid was Miss Allison Webb, sister of the bride. Attendants wore floor-length, truffle brown chiffon dresses with a ruched bodice. The one-shouldered dresses were adorned with rosette applique, and each carried a

bouquet of red roses. Attending flower girls included Mia Grace Moore and Mary Leigh Williamson, cousins of the bride.

Serving in the ceremony as best man was Mr. Benjamin Franks.

Groomsmen included the groom's father, Mr. Scott Lewis; brother, Mr. Brandon Lewis and Mr. Blake Jones. Serving as ring bearer was Carter Barefoot, brother of the bride.

The wedding ceremony was coordinated by Mrs. Rita Curbow and Mrs. Melanie Hickman. The stunningly decorated sanctuary included a dozen lit Christmas trees, floral arrangements, wreaths, and a beautifully decorated archway. Nuptial music was provided by pianist, Mrs. Michelle Humphries, and trumpet player, Mr. Will Pate. Mrs. Charlotte Green served as worship soloist. The reception, also held at Harrisburg, sparkled with Christmas lights, candles, and decorated Christmas trees and was catered by Mrs. Sandra Lyons and Creative Cakes of Tupelo. After a celebratory night, guests waved sparklers as the newlyweds departed in a 1967 Mustang convertible. Cindy Grammer of Memory Lane Photography and videographer, Carlos Hopper of Chopper Creations captured each special moment.

On the eve of the wedding, Susan Webb, relative of the bride, hosted a Bridesmaids' luncheon. The groom's parents later honored the couple with a rehearsal dinner catered by Woody’s restaurant.

After honeymooning in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, the newlyweds reside in Saltillo, Miss. The bride is a registered nurse in Short Stay Surgery at NMMC-Tupelo, and the groom is an automotive technician at Midas in Tupelo.

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Ruth Ann Cooper Lee Henry King

Photos by Scott Burton Photography

Ruth Ann Cooper and Lee Henry King were united in marriage on July 21, 2012, at half after five o’clock in the afternoon at the Oxford Church of Christ in Oxford, Miss. The ceremony was officiated by Minister Chad Ramsey.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Emmett Cooper of Corinth. She is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Leonard of Corinth, and Diane Cooper and the late James Stanley Cooper of Corinth.

The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert David King of New Albany. He is the grandson of Marguarite Henry and the late Hardeman Henry of New Albany, and Mary King and the late John Robert King of Oxford.

The weekend celebration began with a bridesmaids’ luncheon hosted by Phyllis Sanders and Jane Cross. A rehearsal dinner was hosted on the eve of the wedding by the groom’s parents at the Downtown Oxford Inn. Nuptial music for the ceremony was provided by Jessica Munson, violin, Kent Overturf, viola, and Jonathan Kirkscey, cello.

Shelby Pratt and Stephen Garrett joined during the ceremony as vocalists, and Lauren Hardwick Nugent served as the wedding director.

The bride, escorted by her father, carried a cascading mix of ivory roses and lilies. She wore a full A-line gown in antique ivory with a lace neckline accompanied by a belt of satin and crystals.

Attending the bride as maid of honor was Lauren Braun.

Bridesmaids were Hope Sanders, Angela Barlow, Julianne King, Staci Kellum, Ashton Hotard, Megan Stoiber, Valerie Baggett, and

Elizabeth Flick. Ava Montgomery Cross, Lilly Kate Morelock, and Emma Glover were flower girls.

The bridegroom’s father served his son as best man.

Groomsmen were Joseph King, Robert David King Jr., Kyle Cooper, Evan Cooper, Martin Crotts, Benjamin Garrett, Stephen Garrett, and Albert Sappington. Ushers were Zachary Cooper, Daniel Cooper, Kyle Davis, and Edward Allen Maxwell III. Aidan Anderson and Tristan and Isaac Pharr were the ring and banner bearers.

Following the ceremony, the reception was held in the church fellowship hall where guests were treated to a buffet, with catering provided by Lettuce Entertain You. The bride’s cake served as the centerpiece of the reception and was created by Carla Beard. The cake was a striking five-tiered display including a cascade of roses and hydrangeas as well as the embellishment of the couple’s initials. The groom’s cake was chocolate with cream cheese filling, decorated with the University of Mississippi emblem.

Pam Lewis of Design Department created the floral decorations for the ceremony and reception. Photography was provided

by Scott Burton Photography, and videography was provided by Storytellers.

Following a honeymoon in Jamaica, the couple resides in Saltillo. The bride is a speech-language pathologist employed with Tri Vista Rehab, Inc., and the groom is a CPA at Nail McKinney Professional Association.

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Jessica Leigh Dennis Patrick Spencer Gray

Photos by Lovely Union

Jessica Leigh Dennis and Patrick Spencer Gray of Tupelo were united in marriage on May 26, 2012, at The Orchard in Tupelo. Will Rambo officiated.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Dennis of Amelia Island, Fla. She is the granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Joseph F. Dennis Jr. of Nashville, Tenn., and the late Mr. and Mrs. Norris Menhel of Greenville.

The groom is the son of Mrs. Carolyn Gray and the late Tommy Gray of Tupelo. He is the grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. Rex Blue of Grenada, and the late Mr. and Mrs. T.H. Gray Jr. of Winona.

The bride wore a beaded lace dress that was sewn onto Point d’ Espirt over silky satin with a soft sweetheart neckline with beaded trim and a full A-line skirt. The bride added a pearl and diamond satin belt and her veil was fingertip-length. A special pair of diamond earrings were worn that was given to her grandmother by her grandfather for their 50th wedding anniversary. Her bouquet was of white hydrangeas, roses and other white flowers.

Emily Forman, of Moda Designs, designed the beautiful bouquet.

Suzannah Dennis, of Birmingham, Ala., served as maid of honor.

Laura Dennis Thompson, of Atlanta, Ga., served as matron of honor. Bridesmaids were Laura Grumley of Paducah, Ky., Leah Faulkner of Lexington, Ky., Kelly Allen, Julie Hensley, Anna Polsgrove, Merissa Rambo, Lizzy Coke and Courtney Monaghan, all of Tupelo. Annabelle Thompson, niece of the bride, served as

flower girl. The bridesmaids wore knee-length plum dresses with fabulous leopard print shoes.

Jody Gray, of St. Petersburg, Fla., served as best man.

Groomsmen were Barry Gray, Toby Gray, Matthew Gray, David Gray, Mike Weeks, Dustin King, and Jamie Hays, all of Tupelo; Shane Painter, of Martinsville, Va., Daniel LoVette, of Foley Ala., and Stephen Malone, of Nashville, Tenn. Alex Gray, nephew of the groom, served as ring bearer.

A reception was held at Elkin Place with a nine-piece band called The Gents. Romie’s Grocery catered. The couple left in a 1956 Ford Thunderbird courtesy of Scott and Marlo Hendrix.

Following a honeymoon in Jamaica, the couple make their home in Tupelo.

The bride is the Minister to Children and Families at The Orchard. The groom is a conditioning specialist for Progressive Health.

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April Nicole Faulkner Dustin Michael Hathcock

Photos by Ley Elliott

Ivey of Smithville. Bridesmaids were Heather Lucius Pannell of Amory and Stephanie Staggs of Van Vleet, friends of the bride.

They wore black strapless ball gown silhouette with empire bodice featuring a ruched waist with tiered organza and carried bouquets of miniature roses.

Ben Kennedy, friend of the groom, served as best man.

Groomsmen were Derrick Hathcock, brother of the groom, and Trey Thompson, cousin of the groom, both from Smithville.

Ushers were Hunter Gore, cousin of the bride, of Houston; Brett Roebuck, J.B. Kuykendall, and Drew McCain, friends of the groom, and all from Smithville.

The bride and groom exited the ceremony hand in hand to “Walking on Sunshine”. They entered the elegant setting of the Grand Hall via the double stairway of the church, hosted by the bride’s parents. Focal point between the staircases was an iron gazebo featuring a five-tier wedding cake made and hand decorated by Cakes by Rita of Tupelo. The groom’s table featured a three-tier chocolate cake with MSU accents. An arrangement of gourmet hors d’oeuvres were prepared by Holly’s of Nettleton.

At the end of the afternoon, guests rang maroon and white cowbells as the couple made their exit in a 1957 Chevrolet baby blue convertible.

On the eve of the wedding the groom’s parents hosted a rehearsal dinner at Harvey’s in Tupelo.

Following the Las Vegas honeymoon, the couple resides in Saltillo. The bride is a registered nurse in critical care at North Mississippi Medical Center Tupelo, and the groom is employed by the Saltillo Water Department.

April Nicole Faulkner and Dustin Michael Hathcock of Smithville, Miss., were united in marriage at two o’clock on the afternoon of March 31, 2012, at Tupelo First Baptist in Tupelo, Miss. A devastating F5 tornado destroyed their hometown church in Smithville in April 2011. The double-ring ceremony was officiated by Bro. Randy Spencer, former youth pastor of the bride.

The bride is the daughter of Teddy and Judy Faulkner of Smithville. She is the granddaughter of James and Evelyn Moore of Houston, and Sue Faulkner and the late Bud Faulkner of Smithville.

The groom is the son of Mike and Tracey Hathcock of Smithville.

He is the grandson of Clinton and Dorothy Hathcock of Smithville, and Gloria Jean Thompson and the late Donald E. Thompson of Aberdeen.

Guests were greeted at the guest book by Miss Taylor Smith and program attendant Miss Brittany Franks, cousins of the groom, both from Smithville.

Mrs. Susan Harp served as the wedding director. Flowers for the church and reception were by Amory Flower Shop of Amory.

The bride, given in marriage by her father, entered the beautiful sanctuary to the “Bridal Chorus”. She wore an elegant champagne satin ballgown with appliqués and tulle underlay. The strapless bodice featured a subtle sweetheart neckline and delicately beaded lace appliqués. A soft champagne beaded trimmed veil and a pair of rhinestone earrings and a necklace were worn by the bride. She carried a hand-tied bouquet of calla lilies, enhanced with baby’s breath and accented with black feathers wrapped with black ribbon and a rhinestone brooch.

Attending the bride as matron of honor was Leah Summerford A21

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Whitney Del Ree Fikes Andrew John Reish

Photos by Gulfportraits Photography

Whitney Del Ree Fikes and Andrew John Reish were united in marriage on May 4, 2012, at the Historic Blue Rose Mansion in Pass Christian, Miss. The ceremony was officiated by Becky Bartles.

The bride is the daughter of Dale and Carol Fikes of Tupelo. She is the granddaughter of the late Joseph Cox and the late Jean Cox King, and the late Delmus Fikes and the late Sarah Fikes. The groom is the son of George Reish of Philadelphia and Kelly Reish of Ocean Springs. He is the grandson of John and Rosemary Slate of Biloxi, and the late John and the late Helen Reish.

Whitney’s gown was a beautiful rich Bordeaux taffeta silhouette, featuring cascading bustles draped asymmetrically over the embellished lace skirt. Beaded lace accented the sweetheart neckline and the lace-up back. Hand-made roses were nestled within the bustles of the skirt. A chapel-length train complimented the back of the gown. She carried a beautiful array of ivory calla lilies with a touch of mulberry in the center, lilac roses with white carnations and baby’s breath. Pictures of her late grandmothers were lovingly placed within the bouquet.

Leslie George served as the maid of honor, while the bridesmaids were Ashley Parrish and Melissa Cayson. The bridesmaids wore strapless satin, ruffled dresses adorned with hand-made roses in a beautiful mulberry color. They carried hand-tied bouquets of long-stemmed ivory calla lilies with a touch of mulberry in the center.

Best man was George Reish, father of the groom. Groomsmen were Braden Fikes, brother of the bride, and Mark Hopper, a dear friend.

Following the ceremony, the parents and guests honored the couple with a reception, also at the Historic Blue Rose Mansion.

The bride’s three-tiered ivory fondant cake was decorated with hand-made roses and topped with a ceramic, silver-lined bride and groom. Following the reception, the bride changed into her beautiful secondary dress. The strapless dress was gold in color with a champagne paisley design, and also featured a bustle and short train, and a gold satin belt with rhinestones within the buckle.

After the reception, the guests blew bubbles while sending them off in a black stretched limousine to enjoy their honeymoon at a private resort in Negril, Jamaica.

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Lara Elizabeth Gentry Blakely Wayne Manley

Photos by Amber’s Photography

Lara Elizabeth Gentry and Blakely Wayne Manley were united in marriage at six o’clock in the evening on August 4, 2012, at First Baptist Church in Baldwyn, Miss. The ceremony was officiated by the Rev. Robert McCoy. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Terry Waters Gentry of Baldwyn. She is the granddaughter of Ms. Patricia DeVaughn of Saltillo, Miss., and Mr. Freddie DeVaughn of Baldwyn, and the late Mr. and Mrs. J.P. Gentry of Baldwyn. She is the great-granddaughter of Ms. Ruby DeVaughn of Baldwyn.

The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Bobby Wayne Manley of Booneville, Miss. He is the grandson of Mrs. Ralph Martin and the late Mr. Ralph Martin of Booneville, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Bobby Jack Manley of Booneville.

Given in marriage by her father, the bride wore her mother’s wedding gown, redesigned by Sandra Ashford of Jackson, Miss.

The gown featured a Chantilly lace with a strapless sweetheart neckline. The bodice was adorned with seed pearls and silk venise lace motifs. The semi-chapel-length veil featured seed pearls to accompany the gown. The bride wore a pearl necklace and earrings given to her by her family. The bride carried a hand-tied bouquet of white and green hydrangeas, white roses, lisianthes, and green trix. Hanging from the bride’s bouquet was a hand-stitched handkerchief attached with a picture of her late grandmother.

Jenny Rae-Anne Gentry, sister to the bride, served as her maid of honor. Bridesmaids were Sydney Blake Castleberry, Molly Sims Haynes, Carrie Ann Hughes, Anna Shelton McCulloch, Carol Ann Yates Padgett, and Haley Beth Stone. They wore floor-length strapless slate-colored chiffon featuring criss-cross bodices and chiffon

skirts. The bride’s attendants carried hand-tied burlap bouquets of white hydrangeas paired with green hypericum berry. Serving as the flower girl was Jana Claire Collins. Program attendants were Chloe Paige DeVaughn and Maggie Elizabeth Miller. Kayla Lauderdale Manley served as guest registry attendant. Breanna Dawn Johnson served as the bride’s proxy.

The groom’s father, Bobby Wayne Manley, served as the best man. Groomsmen were brother of the groom, Kevin Martin Manley, John David Horn, Colby Jordan Padgett, Austin Flavious Rowland, William Burton “Trey” Ward, and David Cody Wilkerson.

Ushers were cousin of the groom, Daniel Holland Martin; cousin of the bride, Wesley Fox DeVaughn; Christopher Kyle Killough, and Matthew Joseph Putnam.

Following the ceremony, the bride’s parents hosted a reception at The Grove 370 in Baldwyn, where guests enjoyed heavy hors d’oeuvres including a build-your-own nacho bar by Endville Bakery. Guests danced to music by Night Shift. Flower arrangements of purple and white lisianthes, white hydrangea, green hydrangea, and burlap accents were created by Susan’s Flowers in Baldwyn.

On the eve of the wedding, the groom’s parents hosted a rehearsal dinner in historic downtown Baldwyn, at the Patina Building. Backyard Productions was on hand to capture every special moment of the weekend and Britanny Mortimer created the perfect Southern atmosphere for all who attended.

Following a honeymoon in St. Lucia, the couple is at home in Baldwyn, where the bride is employed with Farmers and Merchants Bank. The groom is employed with Renasant Bank in Tupelo.

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Jennifer Jane Harper David Alexander Bost

Photos by Bridgett Sharp Photography

Jennifer Jane Harper of Smithville, Miss., and David Alexander Bost of Hatley, Miss., were united in marriage on May 26, 2012, in the Pecan Orchard in Smithville. Bro. Dustin Tutor officiated.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Bobby Harper of Smithville. She is the granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Robert Harper of Smithville, and Mr. Reid Smith and the late Jane Smith of Fulton.

The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. David Bost of Tuscaloosa, Ala., and Mr. and Mrs. Brad Kennedy of Amory. He is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Jackie Bost of Tupelo, Mr. and Mrs. Billy Ray Williams of Verona, and Mr. and Mrs. Don Alexander of Hernando.

The bride’s home church was destroyed in the April 2011 tornado. She had always dreamed of a church wedding, so her father built her a church wall with a stained glass window salvaged from Smithville Baptist Church; some of the glass was still broken and missing. The ceremony took place there at six in the evening under the pecan trees. The guests sat on haybales, and for the hot May weather were given program fans the bride made from burlap fabric with a monogrammed “B.” The bride wore a beautiful A-line ivory skinny-strap gown with lace embroidery on the waist that was made from the lace of her mother’s wedding veil. It was embellished with pearls and rhinestones to enhance the flowers on the lace design.

She wore a birdcage veil, with more embellishments from her mother’s veil, that gracefully fell to her chin. She wore pearls that were a gift from her mother with matching stud pearl earrings. She carried a bouquet of white peonies and lotus pods wrapped in burlap with pearl pins. The flowers were designed by Brooke Abell

Harden, the groom’s cousin.

Nicole Benjamin of Saltillo served as the matron of honor and Megan Hamilton of Smithville served as the maid of honor.

Bridesmaids were Blair Young of Smithville; Tei Terry of Smithville; Leah Ivey of Smithville; and Taylor Kennedy, the groom’s sister, of Hatley. The bridesmaids wore cobalt blue, floor-length gowns made of chiffon. The bride’s niece, Harper Benjamin of Saltillo, was the flower girl. She wore a floor-length tutu and pearls.

The groom’s father, David Bost of Tuscaloosa, and stepfather, Brad Kennedy of Hatley, served as dual best men. Groomsmen were Austin Mitchell of Hatley; Ross Hester of Hatley; Dylan Moreland of Smithville; and Adrian Mitchell of Hatley. The ring bearers were Tripp Benjamin of Saltillo and Heitt Hamilton of Smithville, the bride’s nephews. They wore dark blue jeans with gray vests and cobalt-blue paisley ties.

The wedding cake was the bride’s favorite red velvet with cream cheese icing, and the groom’s cake was a yellow cake with chocolate ganache. The reception was held in the Pecan Orchard under a white tent with Southern food served buffet-style.

Old quilts, antique furniture, and a black and white checkered dance floor strung with lights served as a backdrop for this fairytale wedding.

The newlyweds spent a week in Cancun following the wedding and now reside in Smithville.

The bride works as a manager of operations at Tacoma Ag in Fulton. The groom is pursuing a degree in business management at the University of Mississippi.

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Allison Lorene Johnson Christopher Davis Dye

Photos by Faith Riley Photography

Allison Lorene Johnson and Christopher Davis Dye, both of Tupelo, were united in marriage on April 28, 2012, at Belden Baptist Church in Belden, Miss. Bro. Jim Holcomb officiated.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Larry Johnson of Tupelo. She is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Leroy Turner of Tupelo, Mattie Bell Bramlett and the late Jimmy Bramlett of Grenada, Rose Marie Johnson and the late Glen Johnson of Montgomery, Ala. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Floyd of Booneville, and Darian Dye of Tupelo. He is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. James Winters, Don Dye and Jean Miller, all of Tupelo, and Mr. and Mrs. Tommy Floyd of Corinth.

The bride wore a beautiful gown in diamond white featuring a strapless, sweetheart neckline. The empire chiffon dress contained a band of appliqués of sparkling rhinestones and beads. Her veil was cathedral-length, trimmed in beads that flowed to the end of the dress’ train. She borrowed a diamond pendant necklace and earring set as a gift on her big day from special friends at Van Atkins Jewelers. Attached to the bride’s bouquet of peonies and daisies designed by Boyd’s Flowers, was her great-grandmother’s brooch.

Claire Johnson, sister of the bride, served as her maid of honor.

Bridesmaids were Stephanie Owens of Fayette, Ala.; Courtney McMinn of Tupelo; Heather Long of Fayette, Ala.; and Kayla Ponds of Nettleton. Erin Mattox served as flower girl. The bridesmaids wore tea-length dresses in royal blue featuring a strapless, sweetheart neckline and empire bodice in chiffon.

The groom’s brother, Tyler Floyd, served as best man.

Groomsmen were Dustin Doyle of Amory; Bobby Simmons of Tupelo; Ricky Sweat of Tupelo; and Cole Floyd, youngest brother of the groom, of Booneville. Bryson and Justin Winters of Plantersville, cousins of the groom, served as ushers as well as the bride’s cousin, Hunter Grantham of Grenada. Ayden Hastings served as ring bearer.

A reception was held at the church following the ceremony.

Following a honeymoon in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, the couple currently resides in Hernando, Miss.

The bride is a registered nurse at Baptist Memorial HospitalDesoto in Southaven, Miss. The groom is employed as senior comanager with Kroger Inc. in Southaven, Miss.

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Andrea Jeannine Loberg Keith Anthony Jones

Photos by Mabus Photography

Andrea Jeannine Loberg and Keith Anthony Jones were united in marriage on March 10, 2012, at half past three o’clock in the afternoon in the courtyard of historic Goodlett Manor in Tupelo with the Rev. Dr. Walter Downs officiating.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Randy Loberg of Baldwyn. She is the granddaughter of the late Mrs. Emma Jeanne Deeters of Baldwyn and the late Mr. and Mrs. Carl Loberg of Aurora, Ill. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Lanis Jones of New Site. He is the grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Samples of Marietta, and the late Mr. L. C. Jones and the late Ms. Annie May Jones of New Site.

Given in marriage by her parents and escorted by her father, the bride wore a vintage-inspired off-white Chantilly lace gown by Casablanca. The gown featured delicate pearl beading, scalloped lace trim, sheer cap sleeves, and a plunging deep V-back.

The bride’s off-white fingertip-length veil was also trimmed with scalloped lace and pearls to match the dress. The bride wore a pearl necklace and matching pearl earrings, college graduation gifts from her grandmother. Complementing the bride’s ensemble was a hand-tied bouquet of periwinkle hydrangeas and off-white antique roses, wrapped with sheer periwinkle ribbon and fastened with pearl pins.

Attending the bride as maid of honor was Janna Jones, sister of the groom. Bridesmaids were Brandie Samples, Brittany Samples, Janie Jones, and Jennifer Lollar. The attendants wore floor-length periwinkle silk essence gowns featuring empire waistlines, cowl

necklines, and flutter sleeves. Elliott DeVaughn and Gracie Jones, niece of the groom, served as flower girls and wore off-white lace dresses.

Serving as best man was Kevin Jones, brother of the groom.

Groomsmen were Jonathan Loberg, brother of the bride; Austin James, Broc Hannon, Geoffrey Kennedy, and Brian DeVaughn.

The groom and groomsmen wore gray suits with satin-edged lapels. Caleb Vance served as ring bearer and wore a handsome vest suit.

Guests were registered by Emily Grace and Madison Floyd, cousins of the bride. Nuptial music was provided by the violin group, The Gunnells. Susan Phillips of Baldwyn directed the wedding and created the beautiful floral designs. Mabus Photography of Tupelo captured the wedding day and the engagement.

The bride’s parents hosted a reception inside Goodlett Manor.

Guests enjoyed the catering of Billie’s Catering of Tupelo. The bride’s five-tiered vanilla cake with apricot filling was iced in offwhite buttercream and adorned with filigree piping and fresh hydrangeas. The groom’s cake, made by Debbie Taylor, cousin of the groom, featured a guitar showing his love for playing music.

For each guest, the couple had personalized guitar picks, stamped with their special date, and custom-made Jones Sodas, with the labels featuring favorite engagement photos. After a shower of bird seed, the couple rode away in a 1932 Packard that stayed true to the vintage feel of the wedding.

Following a honeymoon cruise to the Bahamas, the couple is at home in Booneville.

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Meredith Leanna McCormick William Mark Rhodes

Photos by Phillip Crum

Dr. Meredith Leanna McCormick and Dr. William Mark Rhodes were united in marriage at four o’clock in the afternoon on December 30, 2011, at The Windows in Amory, Miss. Bro. Phillip Hathcock officiated the ceremony.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Monty McCormick of Hatley, Miss. She is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Billy Flurry of Fulton, Miss., and the late Mr. and Mrs. Ernest McCormick of Hatley.

The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Rhodes of Kossuth, Miss. He is the grandson of Mrs. Joy Dale Rhodes and the late Mr. Max Rhodes, also of Kossuth.

Given in marriage by her father, the bride wore an ivory lace gown with beaded accents and a chapel-length train. In keeping with her love for all things vintage, she carried a bouquet made of blue and silver brooches that were donated by friends and family, and accented her hair with a satin flower centered with an antique snowflake brooch. Both pieces were handcrafted by the bride.

Serving as both maid of honor and vocalist for the service was Miranda McCormick, sister of the bride. Bridesmaids were Tiffany McElroy, Mary Kathryn Wilson, Hollye Rhodes, and Chelsea Flurry.

Serving as best man was Paul Rhodes, father of the groom.

Groomsmen were Drew Rhodes, Dustin Morelock, Adam Bedwell, and Clint Spencer. Ushers were Ethan Flurry and Will Geter.

Ring bearer was Rhett Pickle and sign bearer was Zoey Duenas.

Photography for the wedding event was provided by Phillip Crum, and videography was provided by Perry Newton.

Following the ceremony, the bride’s parents hosted a winter wonderland-themed reception at Amory Church of Christ. In honor of their undergraduate alma mater, the couple left to the sound of their guests ringing cowbells in a flurry of man-made snow.

After spending their honeymoon at Disney World, the couple now resides in Kossuth, Miss. The bride is employed as an optometrist at Garrett Eye Clinic, and the groom is a physical therapist with Magnolia Regional Health Center, both in Corinth, Mississippi.

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Lianna Moore Matthew Reeder

Photos by STF Studio

In a candlelit barn-like atmosphere, the blessing and celebration of the marriage uniting Lianna Marie Moore and Matthew Glen Reeder took place at six o’clock in the evening on March 10, 2012. The ceremony was held at Covenant Life Presbyterian Church in Saltillo, Miss. The groom’s home church is First Baptist Church in Shannon. Charles Covington and Glen Reeder, father of the groom, united the couple.

The bride is the daughter of Kevin and Tracy Moore of Guntown. She is the granddaughter of Luther and Linda Moore of Guntown, Kay Glover of Saltillo, and the late Gerald Glover of Wheeler. The groom is the son of Glen and Tammie Reeder of New Albany. He is the grandson of Brenda Carr and the late Travis Carr of New Albany, and Harold Reeder and the late Ann Reeder of Ecru.

Escorted by her father, and given in marriage by her parents, the bride wore a strapless silk gown with bead accents in white.

The gown featured a detachable skirt, which was removed for ease of movement during their reception. Her hair was complemented with a fingertip veil accented with white silk flowers. The bride carried a bouquet of roses, lisianthus and hydrangea intertwined with lace accents.

Mary Kathryn Moore, sister of the bride, served as maid of honor. Bridesmaids included Christian Russell of Pontotoc; Leah

Beth Letson of Unity; Ashley Jarrett of Tupelo; and Deborah Letson of Unity. They wore strapless dresses of coral satin with large sequin accents. The bridesmaids carried mixed bouquets of white and green flowers. Chloe Beth Carr, cousin of the groom, served as the flower girl. Program attendants were Erin Wigginton and Jaclyn Carter, both of Saltillo.

Jesse Huggins of Corinth was best man. Other groomsmen were Tarver Reeder of New Albany; John Mark Jarrett of Tupelo; Jake Carr of New Albany; and Micah Gilmore of Huntsville, Ala. The sign attendant was Bryce Collier of Guntown.

Following the ceremony, a reception was held in the church fellowship hall. On the eve of the wedding, the groom’s parents hosted a rehearsal dinner at the home of Steve and Susan Yeoman in Saltillo.

After honeymooning in Jamaica, the couple makes their home in Saltillo. The bride is a first-grade teacher at Verona Elementary.

The groom is a mathematics teacher and assistant soccer coach at Saltillo High School. He is also the youth minister at Shannon Baptist Church.

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Anna Katherine Reed Travis Reed Miles

Photos by Chuck Smims Images

Anna Katherine Reed and Travis Reed Miles were united in marriage on June 16, 2012, at six o’clock in the evening on the grounds of Goodlett Manor in downtown Tupelo.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Shelby Leland Reed III of Tupelo. She is the granddaughter of Mrs. Geraldean Monaghan and the late Mr. Randall Monaghan Sr. of Tupelo, and Mr. and Mrs. Shelby Leland Reed Jr. of Tupelo. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Tony Edward Miles of Tupelo. He is the grandson of Mrs. Jo Doris Reed and the late Mr. Gueary Thomas Reed Jr. of Tupelo, and Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Brock Miles of Martin, Tenn.

The ceremony was officiated by Chad Ramsey. Music during the ceremony was provided by violinist Svetlana Kaltchenko, cellist Hamilton Lence, and harpist Cindy Mathis. After the exchanging of the vows, the harpist played the solo “Stand by Me.” Escorted by her father, the bride wore a strapless, A-line gown of embroidered beaded Alencon lace. The ivory gown featured a sweetheart neckline. The chapel-length train was accented with lace appliques. She wore her grandmother’s pearl necklace. The bride wore a fingertip-length, single-tier veil and carried a bouquet of ivory roses, orchids, and hydrangeas.

Attending the bride as matrons of honor were Brandy Downs and Mary Claire Martin. Bridesmaids were Kelly Dismuke, cousin of the bride; Nicole Hazel, Hannah Hollaway, Dena Miles, sister of the groom; Allye Neuhaus, cousin of the bride; and Katherine Riddick.

The bridesmaids wore above-the-knee chiffon dresses in black.

The dresses featured a strapless neckline and a fitted waist with a side décor of flowers.

Flower girl was Emma Grace Miles, niece of the groom.

Honorary bridesmaids were Anna Merritt Roberts and Brittany Weatherford. Tea girls were Kayce and Kennedy Reed, cousins of the groom; and Ellen Williams, cousin of the bride. Kelly Dismuke directed the wedding.

Jacob Harris and William Ray served as best men. Honorary best man was Tony Miles, father of the groom. Groomsmen were Hunter Aycock, Tommy Collins, Grant Jenkins, Saul Murguia, Bo Reed, brother of the bride; and Rudy Rumbarger. Ushers were Daniel Mabry, cousin of the groom; and Brian Monaghan, cousin of the bride.

Following the ceremony, the bride’s parents hosted a reception at the Goodlett Manor. Guests enjoyed Southern cuisine catered by Old Taylor Grocery. On the eve of the wedding, the groom’s parents hosted a rehearsal dinner at Tupelo Country Club. A bridesmaids’ luncheon was given the day of the wedding at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Troy Neuhaus.

Following a honeymoon to Kona, Hawaii, the couple is at home in New Orleans, La. The bride is a special education teacher for Plaquemines Parish Schools, and the groom is a buyer for Freeport-McMoRan Copper and Gold.

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Paula Lane Sims Zachary Howard Matkins

Photos by Trent’s Portrait Design

Paula Lane Sims and Zachary Howard Matkins were united in marriage at five o’clock in the evening on July 14, 2012, at First Baptist Church in Pontotoc.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Clifton Paul Sims of Pontotoc. She is the granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Lane Lemons of Pontotoc, and the late Rev. and Mrs. Clifton Benjamin Sims of Jasper, Ala. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Norris Matkins of Thaxton, Miss. He is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Jimmy Norris Matkins of Thaxton, Mr. and Mrs. Billy Ray Williams of Verona, and Ms. Coy Reed Williams of Tupelo.

The bride, given in marriage by her parents and escorted by her father, wore a formal gown of ivory matte satin overlaid with Alencon lace embellished with seed pearls, beading, and crystals.

The strapless gown featured a sweetheart neckline. The fitted bodice drifted into an A-line flared skirt and cascaded into a chapel-length train. A veil of single-tiered silk illusion was finished with a crystal beaded edging worn to complement the gown.

The bride carried a hand-tied bouquet of antique inocencia and princess spray roses intertwined. Tucked inside her bouquet were white linen and lace handkerchiefs belonging to her grandmothers.

The ceremony was performed by Dr. Ken Hester and Dr. David Hamilton.

Attending the bride as matron of honor was Haley Huggins Moore. Honor maid was Kristi Elizabeth Robbins. Bridesmaids were Jordan McCormick Jordan, Ragen Nicole Lambert, Leslie Carol Mahaffey and Savannah Rae Moore. Carly Grace Chennault was

junior bridesmaid. They wore strapless gowns of iris chiffon and carried hand-tied white garden roses and hydrangeas. Caroline Leighton Thacker, Saylor Michelle Payne and Ellen Kate Williams served as the flower girls.

Nuptial music was presented by Mrs. Patricia Henry, organist and Mr. Randy Wood, pianist and vocalist. Serving as wedding directors were Mrs. Felicia Pollard and Mrs. Sarah Brown. Wedding flowers were by Trish of Pontotoc Floral.

The groom’s brother, Samuel Kyle Matkins, served as best man.

Groomsmen were Benjamin David Hamilton, Austin Reid Russell, Daniel Roy Thacker, Andrew Jake Wallace and Storm Thomas Moore. Seth Cullen Gammill was junior groomsman. Ring bearer was William Dean Gammill. Candle lighters were Grayson Walker Bryant and Davis Sims Bryant.

Following the ceremony, the bride’s parents hosted a gardenthemed seated buffet dinner in the fellowship hall. Music was presented by pianist Mrs. Darlene Stockton. Guests dined on Southern and Cajun favorites of the bride and groom, catered by Steve Stockton of Amory.

The centerpiece of the celebration was a spectacular four-tiered wedding cake of ivory fondant decorated with a scroll design with pearls. The cake was topped with fresh garden roses and orchids.

The groom’s table was decorated with Ole Miss memorabilia and featured cheesecake and Colonel Rebel cookies.

The couple left in a replica Mayberry car.

Following a honeymoon to Jamaica, Cayman Islands and Mexico, the bride and groom reside in Pontotoc.

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Brittney Niccole Smith Brandon Reginald Thomas

Photos by Mabus Photography

Brittney Niccole Smith and Brandon Reginald Thomas, both of Augusta, Ga., were united in marriage on May 5, 2012, at New Zion M.B. Church in Plantersville, Miss. The Rev. Celester Davis officiated the ceremony.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Marvin Smith of Tupelo, Miss. Brittney is the granddaughter of Myrtle Seals and the late Hugh Russell Seals of Tupelo, and Clarence Smith and the late JoAnn Smith of Tupelo. The groom is the son of Ms. Deborah Thomas of North Augusta, S.C., and Mr. Otis “Reggie” Thomas of North Augusta, S.C. Brandon is the grandson of Orine Thompson and the late James Thompson of Aiken, S.C., and Arlene Thomas and the late Otis Thomas of Belvedere, S.C. Given in marriage by her parents, the bride wore a Maggie Sottero one-piece light gold with champagne accents slim A-line gown featuring elaborate floral motifs decorating an exquisite tulle lace overlay. The three-dimensional effect created a stunning neckline and accented the skirt of the gown. The back featured Maggie Sottero’s signature corset closure.

Attending the bride as maids of honor were Shamaine Pannell of Tupelo and Bronzen Smith, sister of the bride, of Tupelo.

Bridesmaids were Jeannie Adams of Tupelo; Teresa Baxter of Dallas, Texas; Ashley Collins of Washington, D.C.; Kayla Duncan of Las Vegas, Nev.; Lori Gladney of Atlanta, Ga.; Isis Henderson of Natchitoches, La.; Candace King of Tupelo; Christy Lockett of Walls, Miss.; Carmen Mosley of Jonesboro, Ark.; and De Jarnette Trice of Shannon, Miss. Leilah Cayson of Charlotte, N.C., served as flower girl.

The maids of honor wore Bari Jay one-shouldered short dresses of coral bella chiffon and matching charmeuse with fabric motif flow-

ers. Bridesmaids wore Bari Jay one-shouldered short dresses of coral bella chiffon with a crossed waistband and gathered bodice. The flower girl wore a spaghetti-strap bodice with embroidered lace detail and champagne ribbon at the waist with a tulle ball gown skirt.

Best men, brothers of the groom, were Tyrone Baskett of Graniteville, S.C., and Ricardo Thomas of North Augusta, S.C. Groomsmen were Charles Byrd Jr. of Atlanta, Ga.; Brett Hoskins of Tupelo; Robert Hough of Shreveport, La.; Roosevelt Isom III of Augusta, Ga.; Henri Perry of Atlanta, Ga.; Reggie Merriweather of North Augusta, S.C.; Lance Seals of Tupelo; Mario Thompson of Aiken, S.C.; and Charles White Jr. of Aiken, S.C. Ushers were Kadeem Riley and VanNesse Riley of Tupelo. Ring bearer was Daniel Sanders of Shannon, Miss. Banner boy was Daven Sanders of Shannon, Miss.

The groomsmen, ushers, ring bearer and banner boy all wore Stephen Geoffrey Alfresco business suits in taupe, two-button, singlebreasted styling with a non-vented back, notch lapel, double-besom pockets and bone buttons, with ivory microfiber shirts. The groomsmen, ringer bearer and banner boy wore coral paisley ties and pocket squares. The groom wore a solid ivory tie and pocket square.

The ushers wore taupe paisley ties and pocket squares.

The reception was held at Elkin Place in Tupelo.

After a honeymoon at Breezes Resorts in Nassau, Bahamas, the couple makes their home in Grovetown, Ga. The bride is employed by Morris Communications Company, LLC, in Augusta, Ga. The groom is employed by Savannah River Remediation in Jackson, S.C. A31

Lori Lynn Swords James Bryant Horne

Photos by Faith Riley Photography

Lori Lynn Swords of Sherman, Miss., and James Bryant Horne of Prattville, Ala., were united in marriage on May 12, 2012, at West Jackson Street Baptist Church in Tupelo. Bro. Chris O’Daniel officiated. Ceremony music was provided by vocalists Steven and Jennifer McMorris, and pianist Charlotte Hester.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Mike Swords of Sherman. She is the granddaughter of Mrs. Shirley Swords Armstrong and the late Mr. Jack Swords of Ingomar, and Mr. John Davis Jr. and the late Mrs. Colene Davis of Saltillo.

The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Horne of Prattville. He is the grandson of Mr. James Horne and the late Mrs. Lottie Horne of Graceville, Fla., and the late Mr. Bryant Gregory and Mrs. Xzilda Gregory Renshaw of Tupelo.

Escorted by her father, the bride wore an elegant ivory gown with a hand-beaded lace overlay and a sweep train. The gown was complimented by a fingertip veil with a beaded trim. The bride wore her mother’s opal earrings, a pearl bracelet given to her by her parents, and a gold and white agate necklace, a wedding gift from the groom.

The bride carried a hand-tied bouquet of white roses and hydrangeas. The bride’s late grandmother’s wedding ring was tied into the bouquet with a satin ribbon.

Attending the bride as maid of honor was Sonia Khiantani of Memphis, Tenn. Michelle Shepherd of Tupelo served as matron of honor. Bridesmaids were Meredith Elliott of Hattiesburg; Megan Wood of Ridgeland; Kristen Morton of Memphis, Tenn.; Stephanie

Campbell of Flowood; Lauren Franks of Leesville, La.; and Leah Horne of Prattville, Ala. Each attendant wore a strapless, floorlength gown in violet chiffon and a bird’s nest pearl necklace handcrafted by the bride.

Attending the groom as best man was his father, Jerry Horne.

Groomsmen were Kyle Parks of Spartanburg, S.C.; Reese Berry of Brandon; Matt Matthews of Waco, Texas; Kyle Crosby of Clinton; Forrest Blackbourn of Tuscaloosa, Ala.; Tyler Berch of Brandon; and Dayton Swords of Nashville, Tenn.

Program and guestbook attendants were Morgan Barron of Tupelo, Amanda Powell of Saltillo, and Emily Morgan of Oxford.

Following the ceremony, the bride’s parents hosted a reception in the church fellowship hall, where guests enjoyed acoustic guitar selections provided by the bride’s brother, Dayton Swords, accompanied by Jared Mullins. The couple departed in a 1957 pink Cadillac to the sound of kazoos blown by wedding guests, a nod to the couple’s surname. On the eve of the wedding, the groom’s parents hosted a rehearsal dinner at Mount Vernon Place. Bridesmaids were treated to a luncheon tea party at the home of Mary Durham.

After a honeymoon in Seaside, Fla., the couple is at home in Madison. The bride is an occupational therapist at Methodist Rehabilitation Center; the groom is employed as a senior accountant with Haddox, Reid, Burkes and Calhoun.

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Jourdon Renea Tate Michael Blake Ivy

Photos by Destin Wedding Photography

Jourdon Renea Tate and Michael Blake Ivy were united in marriage at six o'clock in the evening on Saturday, June 2, 2012. The intimate beach-side ceremony was held in Destin, Fla. Officiating the double ring ceremony was Bro. Robert C. Aldrich. Nuptial music was provided by Mr. and Mrs. Art Brockmeier, steel drummers.

The bride is the daughter of Robert and Stacy Tate of Shannon.

She is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Lindley of Shannon, Mary Tate of Verona, and Mr. and Mrs. Eddie Tate of Pontotoc.

The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Scott Ivy of Shannon. He is the grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. Robert Ivy of Shannon, Mr. and Mrs. Pat Hadaway of Baldwyn, the late Diane Hadaway of Baldwyn, and Mr. and Mrs. Mike Kingsley of Tupelo.

The bride, escorted by her father and given in marriage by her parents, wore a romantic A-line gossamer gown in soft white featuring a strapless neckline,dropped waistline, and adorned with floral appliques. Her chapel-length veil, pearls, and hand-tied bouquet of roses, calla lilies, and gerbera daisies completed the look.

Attending the bride as maid of honor was her sister, Bradley Tate of Shannon. Bridesmaid was Jamie Patterson of Endville. The bridesmaids wore coral reef tea-length one-shoulder organza dresses. They each carried a calla lily. Katelyn Ivy of Saltillo, niece of the groom, served as flower girl.

Father of the groom, Scott Ivy, attended the groom as best man. Groomsman was Jason Vandiver of Smithville. Aiden Patterson, friend of the bride and groom, served as ring bearer.

Following the ceremony, guests joined the couple on the beach for a small reception.

Blake and Jourdon honeymooned in Panama City Beach, Florida. Following the honeymoon, the couple is at home in Shannon. The bride is employed at Elderscript Services, where she is a registered pharmacy technician. The groom is employed at Lane Furniture, where he is a frame assembler.

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Leah Hope Whitt Eric Joseph Simmons

Photos by Lovely Union

Leah Hope Whitt and Eric Joseph Simmons, both of Pontotoc, were united in marriage May 19, 2012, at First United Methodist Church in Pontotoc. Bro. Kenneth Corley officiated.

The bride is the daughter of Paulette Whitt of Pontotoc and the late Larry Whitt of Houston. She is the granddaughter of Mary Lyles and the late George Lyles, and the late Allie and Mattie Whitt, all of Houston.

The groom is the son of Terry and Annice Simmons of Pontotoc.

He is the grandson of Shirley Houpt and the late Reece Ward of Randolph, and the late Lynn and Ann Simmons of Pontotoc.

The bride wore a beautiful La Sposa gown in white featuring a sweetheart neckline. The fit-to-flare silhouette was accented with taffeta ruching and an exposed tulle underlay. The waist was accentuated with a crystal and bead adorned belt. the gown extended into a chapel-length train that was accented by her fingertip-length, single-layer veil. The bride’s bouquet of roses, tulips, and hypericum was emphasized by cotton bolls that complemented the groom’s boutonniere.

Laura Beth Nichols of Houston served as maid of honor.

Bridesmaids were Kristen Koon of Booneville, Amy Simmons of Pontotoc, and Laurin Dixon of Germantown, Tenn. The bridesmaids wore full-length dresses in plum featuring a strapless neckline and dropped waist.

J.D. Griffin of Pontotoc and William Thompson of Blytheville, Ark. served as best men. Groomsmen were Johnathan Glover of Pontotoc, C.J. Gusmus of Mooreville, Daniel Russell of Pontotoc, and Wesley Hayes of Pontotoc.

A reception was held at the Pontotoc Community House.

Following a honeymoon in Saint Lucia, the couple resides in Pontotoc.

The bride will complete her doctor of pharmacy degree through the University of Mississippi in May. The groom is employed as an educational representative for Amro Music based in Memphis.

A34

Heather Joan Wigginton Phillip Owen McGuire Jr.

Photos by Marty Pettit Photography

Heather Joan Wigginton and Phillip Owen McGuire Jr. were united in marriage on the evening of December 15, 2012, at the Chapel of Memories at Mississippi State University in Starkville, Miss.

The bride is the daughter of Terry and Lisa Wigginton of Tupelo, Miss. She is the granddaughter of Joan Billingsley and the late Ramie Billingsley, and Jimmy and Mary Jane Wigginton, all of Blue Springs, Miss.

The groom is the son of Buz and Cyndy Cox McGuire of Macon, Miss. He is the grandson of Jack Cox and the late JoAnn Cox of Tupelo, and Phil McGuire and the late Virginia McGuire of Macon.

Kyle Wigginton, brother of the bride, pianist, played “Clair de Lune” during the seating of the mothers. Michael Battalio, also pianist, played “Bittersweet Symphony” and “Sentimental Guy.” Sophie Houin, vocalist, sang “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring.” Fran Lavelle was the scripture reader and Fr. John Bohn officiated the ceremony.

Given in marriage by her father, the bride wore a beaded ivory lace gown, lined in champagne. The V-neckline had a plunging back, extending into an elegant chapel train. Freshwater pearls and bugle beads embellished the empire waist and the ivory elbow-length veil. Heather wore her mother’s pearl necklace given by her father on their wedding day. The bride carried a hand-tied clutch of white hydrangea, vandella, eskimo and porcelana roses, white wax flower and white velvet freesia handtied with ivory satin ribbon and a braided French ribbon overlay.

Attending the bride as maid of honor was Leah Clayton.

Bridesmaids were Katie Jenkins, Anna Lunceford, Katie VanBuskirk and Ann Hamilton McGuire, sister of the groom. They wore long one-shouldered marine matte jersey gowns. Taylor Ann Robbins served as flower girl, and Chase Robbins and Eli Bell served as ring bearers, all cousins of the bride.

Serving as best man was William Cleveland. Groomsmen were Douglas Ansel, Andrew Dale, Andy Lindeman, and Ferris McGuire, brother of the groom.

A reception followed the ceremony in the Foster Ballroom in the Colvard Student Union at Mississippi State University. The guests enjoyed a sit-down dinner with entertainment by Jeff Houin and the Jam Band.

Keith Winchester, uncle of the groom, was floral designer and wedding director. Marty Pettit captured memories of the evening.

On the eve of the wedding, the groom’s parents hosted a rehearsal dinner at Burnt Oak Lodge in Crawford, Miss. Friends and family enjoyed a seated dinner, a photo slideshow, and happy toasts for the couple. El Rio Trio provided music.

A bridal luncheon was hosted on the day of the wedding by Gwyn Ray and Debbie Fancher, aunts of the bride, at Harvey’s Restaurant in Starkville.

After a honeymoon in St. Lucia, the couple resides in Starkville.

Heather is an English teacher at Louisville High School, and Owen is a communication specialist with MSU Division of Development and Alumni.

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2014 FEATURE WEDDINGS SUBMISSION FORM

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