Hoover's Magazine, Spring 2025

PHOTO BY KATIE & CINDY PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO BY KELSEA SCHAFER

contributors

EDITORIAL

Michaela Bankston

Dave Domescik

Anna Grace Moore

Tyler Raley

Andrew Simonson

Noah Wortham

CONTRIBUTORS

AL Weddings

Elizabeth Black Photography

Erica Dortch Photography

Lauren Dowdle

Emmanuel Elkins

Eric & Jamie Photography

Katie & Cindy Photography

Hannah Obremskey Photography

Blair Ramsey

Christiana Roussel

Kelsea Schafer

ShadShotIt

Eleanor Stenner Photography

DESIGN

Sydney Allen

Jamie Dawkins

Rowan Futrell

Connor Martin-Lively

MARKETING

Kelsey Alexander

Noah Brakefield

Evann Campbell

Octavia Campbell

Rachel Henderson

Rhett McCreight

Viridiana Romero

ADMINISTRATION

Mary Jo Eskridge

Alec Etheredge

Stacey Meadows

Lauren Morris

Kayla Reeves

Leslie Reeves

Brittany Schofield

Lauren Dowdle, Writer

An award-winning writer, Lauren lives in Hoover with her husband, daughter and four fur-babies. She writes for a variety of local, national and international publications. A graduate from the University of Alabama, Lauren played the tuba in the Million Dollar Band, which is how she met her husband. When she isn’t writing or chasing around a toddler, she loves to bake for friends and family.

Blair Ramsey, Photographer

Blair is a Vestavia Hills-based photographer whose company, Southern Intrigue Photography, specializes in sports action, portrait and commercial images. Blair has two sons, Cooper and Cameron, who have both had the privilege of being Auburn cheerleaders. Blair’s work can be found at southernintriguephotography.com, on Instagram @southernintriguephotography and Facebook @southernintrigue.

Christiana Roussel, Writer

Christiana Roussel is a Birmingham-based, award-winning food, travel and lifestyle writer. Naturally curious, she relishes any opportunity to meet new people and explore new places. She is a proud member of the Birmingham chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier as well as the Industry Advisory Board of Auburn University’s Horst Schulze School of Hospitality Management. Her other interests include bourbon, bacon, a great wardrobe capsule, upland hunting, pork rinds, pilates and power walks that include four-leaf clovers and feathers. Follow her online at @christiana.roussel.

Kelsea Schafer, Photographer

Kelsea is a student at Hoover High School. She lives in Hoover with her family and two dogs, Fendi and Riley. When not in class, she is behind the camera, shooting sports, events or senior portraits wherever possible while running Kelsea Schafer Photography. During her free time, she is often at Lewis Smith Lake, enjoying all things sun, boating and wake surfing with her family and friends.

Hoover’s Magazine is published quarterly by Shelby County Newsmedia Inc., P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051. Hoover’s Magazine is a registered trademark. All contents herein are the sole property of Shelby County Newsmedia Inc. [the Publisher]. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without written permission from the Publisher. Please address all correspondence (including but not limited to letters, story ideas and requests to reprint materials) to: Editor, Hoover’s Magazine, P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051.

Hoover’s Magazine is mailed to select households throughout Hoover, and a limited number of free copies are available at local businesses. Please visit HooversMagazine.com for a list of those locations. Subscriptions are available at a rate of $14.95 plus tax for one year by visiting HooversMagazine.com or calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 532.

Advertising inquiries may be made by emailing advertise@hooversmagazine.com, or by calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 536.

ON THE COVER

Shelby and Spencer's love story blossomed at Birmingham-Southern College, where they first met and played collegiate sports.

Photo

II was no more than 6, when my posse of American Girl dolls lined the corridor in my grandfather’s home, decked out in toilet paper streamers. Dear Robert, my cousin, best man, officiant, florist and wedding planner, wore every hat in the industry, including the badge of security.

I quickly chose an old Easter dress and a somewhat white pillowslip for my gown and veil before fashioning together a bouquet of dandelions. Suddenly, I was behind that closed door–the one that would open into “my forever” with Prince Charming. Balling on a budget, I improvised “The Wedding March,” humming, “ba-da, dadum,” right before processing down the hallway.

This was it. This was my moment. Then, my father so rudely interrupted the happiest moment of my life by tripping over some guests. My life? In shambles. My wedding? The laughing stock of the century. My security guard? Apparently on break.

My poor father unsuccessfully attempted to console his elementary bridezilla, promising anything from ice cream to even providing the music for my real wedding one day. Curiously, I blinked my eyes and nearly 20 years had passed.

This time, however, I stood gazing at the ornately carved French doors just seconds from giving way into the congregation. The only problem was my father wasn’t there. I couldn’t even tell him how much I missed him.

Just as beads of sweat started to drizzle down my furrowed brow, I felt a soft embrace on my shoulder–Robert, like the gentleman he was, offered his affections, telling me my dad loved me and would be here in spirit.

Truthfully, the events that followed are a bit of a merry blur. Robert walked me down the aisle, giving me away in place of my father. We all laughed and danced, and at the reception, I looked over at the band and realized Robert was right.

Every single musician performing was a longtime friend of my father. They all took time out of their schedules, and some drove for hours just to play at my wedding. Because of them, my father fulfilled his promise to me from all those years ago. They even had a guitar adorned with my father’s face on display.

It was at this moment I learned that only in fairytales do weddings go as planned. However, weddings were never supposed to be about perfection, were they? In this issue, you all will read about eight Hoover weddings. Each couple’s story is proof that love is enough, and the best weddings are the ones that hold space for those we hold dear.

Wishful for happy endings, Shelby & Spencer

by

Katie & Cindy Photography

Design

by

Rowan Futrell

“THE QUESTION

”

What is the best piece of marriage advice you have ever received?

It is not about how many mistakes you make; it is about what you do after the mistakes. Do you learn, move forward? Do you help someone else move through what God gave you?

-Rhonda Love

Always make time for date nights and vacations just the two of you.

-Megan Manley

Find someone who is kind, honest and makes you laugh. My parents’ 64-year marriage provided me a very clear example of a genuine, inseparable partnership.

-Dennis Pillion

Put God first at the top of your relationship. The closer you get to God, the closer you get to each other.

-Linda Ponder

Don’t allow the parents/ in-laws to run your marriage.

-Shelley Blackburn

Love is a choice, not just a feeling. Feelings come and go, but choosing to love your spouse every day through the good and the bad is what makes a marriage strong.

-Elizabeth Black

Choose your battles–is something worth having an argument over, or are you both actually tired?

-Ashley Guthery

Never go to bed angry is one that comes to mind most. Never share a bathroom or a closet if you can help it!

-Tricia Friddle

@hooversmag

Tag us in your Hoover photos on Instagram, and we’ll pick our favorites to regram and publish on this page in each issue.

A night of jazz with @hoover.first.edition at @theclubbham! Always a pleasure to photograph this talented group of musicians at such an incredible venue! Swipe to see a few of my favorite photos!

@shelbycountyreporter

@hooveryearbook

Did you commit to a college or university to play at the next level this past Wednesday? Send us photos from the ceremony, celebration, and with friends to be on the signing day spread! Upload them to our PhotoShare or send them to us via email, hhsyearbook@hcs-students.net!

Spain Park High School hosted the 2025 Girls Engaged in Math and Science (GEMS) Expo on Saturday, Feb. 1, with an address given by 19-year-old inventor, author and keynote speaker Gitanjali Rao. Students got the opportunity to hear about her story and learn about making a difference in math and science.

SEC BASEBALL TOURNAMENT

MAY 20-25

The Hoover Metropolitan Complex

The Hoover Met will host the 2025 SEC Baseball Tournament, which for the first time features all 16 SEC teams playing in a singleelimination tournament. The first round begins on Tuesday before seeds 5-8 join on Wednesday, and the top four seeds enter the quarterfinals on Thursday and Friday. The semifinals will take place on Saturday and the SEC Championship on Sunday. For more information, visit secticketoffice.com, and click on 2025 SEC Baseball Tournament.

THE GUIDE

MARCH 14

Taste of Teal Gala

6 P.M. Vestavia Country Club

Benefiting the Laura Crandall Brown Foundation, the annual Taste of Teal

Gala will honor four new honorees who have gone above and beyond to bring hope and inspire strength in GYN-cancer patients and survivors. This year’s gala

will feature music, dinner, both a live and silent auction, casino games and more. Tickets are $200 per person. Find more details at thinkoflaura.org/tasteofteal.

MARCH 15

Judy M. Merritt Memorial 5K & Family Fun Day

9 A.M. Veterans Park 4800 Valleydale Road

Back and benefiting Jefferson State Community College (JSCC) scholarships, the Judy M. Merritt Memorial 5K and Family Fun Day will feature inflatables, food vendors, a DJ, face painting and more. The race is held in honor of JSCC’s former president Dr. Judy

M. Merritt, who served as the college’s president for 35 years and was also the first female president of an Alabama college. For more information and to register, visit jeffersonstate.edu/5k.

MARCH 8

Publix Village2Village 10K/7.5K

The Grand Bohemian Hotel Mountain Brook 2525 Lane Park Road

MARCH 8

Backyard Book Fest Presented by The Parnell Library Orr Park

MARCH 8

Oak Mountain Color Run Oak Mountain State Park

MARCH 9

Sean of the South & Friends Presented by the Shelby County Arts Council

MARCH 13

Taste of Homewood SoHo Square Plaza

MARCH 14

An Evening with Taylor Hicks Presented by the Shelby County Arts Council

MARCH 15

The Bell Center 5K 1700 29th Court South

MARCH 15

Tour de Brewers XXII – St. Patrick’s Day Edition

Tin Roof Birmingham 2709 7th Avenue South

MARCH 15

Boots & Black Tie Gala Windwood Equestrian

MARCH 21-23, 26-30

Oak Mountain State Fair 1000 Amphitheater Road

MARCH 22

The Rumpshaker 5K Regions Field 1401 1st Avenue South

Celebrate Hoover Day

11 A.M.-3 P.M.

Veterans Park 4800 Valleydale Road

This annual event draws more than 10,000 residents each year and is expected to grow this year! Celebrate Hoover Day will feature live music, a kids’ zone, familyfriendly games and activities, vendor booths, a car show, inflatables and more.

Children can even look forward to a petting zoo and pony rides! Find more details at hooveral.org/366/Celebrate-Hoover-Day.

MAY 2

Derby and Dining

6-10 P.M.

Oris & Oak 613 Sanders Road

Save the date for the Hoover City Schools Foundation’s Derby and Dining

fundraiser! This event features live music, both live and silent auctions and a catered dinner, too. Proceeds benefit Hoover’s 17 schools and nearly 14,000 students. For more information, visit hoovercsf.org.

ARTS CULTURE&

PAINTING PASSION

Hoover-based artist Fran Bostick turns her childhood hobby into vibrant abstract paintings.

BY LAUREN H. DOWDLE

KELSEA SCHAFER

PHOTOS BY

LLike many little girls, Fran Bostick enjoyed drawing pictures of horses, dresses and the people around her. But unlike most, she revived that childhood passion and transformed her talent into something much larger and more colorful.

An Andalusia native, Fran has lived in Hoover since she graduated from college. She says she’s always loved creating art, but after going to college, getting a job and having children, there was no time left for hobbies.

“I had a 40-plus-year career in human resources. It was based around compliance and rules,” Fran says. “I loved my career and met a lot of wonderful people, but it didn’t lend itself toward creativity.”

After retiring eight years ago, she read a book that suggested she think about activities she enjoyed as a child to see if she still liked them. Art came to mind, so she began taking classes and giving her family and friends the pieces she would create. Eventually, she began selling her pieces and has since participated in art shows and had her pieces featured in places like Alabama Goods, Urban Home Market and the Homewood Public Library.

“It’s what I call an unexpected journey. I feel called by the Lord to do this,” Fran says. “I’m just blown away by the opportunity I’ve been given.”

Fran now creates artwork that is large, colorful, vibrant and abstract—not so different from her own personality.

“I like to paint big with lots of color,” Fran says. “I’m kind of loud, so my art is loud and busy.”

People often think that creating abstract art is easy since the artist isn’t painting something specific. However, the challenges are finding the right balance with the composition and color, Fran says.

“With abstract art, you have to know how to juxtapose different colors, values and shapes,” she says.

She finds artistic inspiration from the colors, sights and shapes all around her—like the natural beauty she sees on her hikes. From the colors to the movement of nature, Fran looks for ways to incorporate those elements into her pieces. If she finds something she likes, she’ll take photos to see if she can match the colors.

“The shapes and colors of nature are beautiful, like the curve of a leaf or petal,” Fran says. “I’ll look up at the sky while I’m driving and wonder what

color blue I’d use to paint that.”

She paints with brushes and palette knives to add color and texture to her pieces. On one of her recent pieces, she poured coffee on the canvas to create light, transparent layers. She’s also poured acrylics on pieces for a unique design.

“I like to try new things,” Fran says. “Art is just about experimenting.”

If she creates something she doesn’t love at first, she keeps working on it until she likes what she sees. Often times, those pieces end up being some of her most memorable.

“Some of my favorite pieces are ones that I’ve painted over two or three times using acrylic paint,” she says. “If you don’t like it, you can paint over it, and it gives you lots of layers.”

Fran gets up each morning around 4 or 5 to work on her artwork because that’s when she says she feels the most creative. She currently paints in the bonus room in her home, but she’s quickly running out of space for all of her materials. While she says that part of the process is lonely, she also attends art

classes to be around others.

Participating in art shows is another way she interacts with people, and she says she enjoys seeing their reactions to her pieces.

“I want to evoke a positive emotion, whether it’s laughter or a smile or a memory that was happy,” Fran says.

Her artwork has also helped her connect with people from grade school and college she never would have otherwise.

“I’ve rekindled so many old friendships over my art, and that’s very unexpected,” she says.

In addition to the pieces she creates from her own inspiration, Fran also accepts commissioned work. For those, patrons can share their ideas and stories with her, and Fran tries to find a way to capture that in a painting. She’ll talk with the client about what they want in the piece, which could be a specific emotion or colors they want to be incorporated.

One commissioned piece that especially stands out to her was for a friend whose mother recently passed away. Her friend’s mother was on her

“What comes out of you is unique to the world.

Art is in your head and heart.”

- Fran Bostick

deathbed with her family gathered around and sat up to say, “I’m so sorry I’m not sad. I’m in awe of what’s about to happen to me.” Her friend wanted Fran to paint something that would represent that moment and emotion.

The painting she created depicts each person’s individual pathway to the cross, heaven’s streets of gold and the mansions that await them, she says. Talking about the painting still makes Fran emotional.

“I had to pray over that one,” Fran recalls. “I finally put something on the canvas, and when I showed my friend, she cried. It was such a moment.”

While many are drawn to the images and emotions her artwork evokes, others choose pieces based on the title Fran gives each one. For example, a child psychologist bought one of her pieces titled,

“Positive Adversity.” She also lists the artwork titles on her Instagram pictures to make it easier for people to ask her about specific ones.

When she first got started, Fran often tried to replicate the designs of other artists until she found her own style. She encourages those who create art to be themselves and let their individual styles shine through with their work.

“What comes out of you is unique to the world. Art is in your head and heart,” Fran says. “Even if you think it’s ugly, there’s always one person who likes it. Everybody should paint what comes out of them and not try to imitate others.”

To see more of Fran Bostick’s artwork or reach out to commission a piece, visit her Instagram account at @Franbostickart.

Magic City Art Connection

Fran Bostick will be showcasing her artwork at the Magic City Art Connection festival at Sloss Furnaces April 26-28. She says the three-day event is her best show of the year, and she’s looking forward to it.

“I love seeing the same people who have been my clients, meeting new people and just selling my work,” Fran says.

The art festival will feature a variety of art forms including 2D and 3D mixed media, clay, digital, drawing, fiber, glass, jewelry, metalwork, photography, painting, sculpture and watercolor pieces.

Aldridge Gardens

Looking for a dreamy outdoor wedding venue any time of year? Aldridge Gardens is a charming botanical garden filled with beautiful azaleas and snowflake hydrangeas among other pretty flowers perfect for an outdoor wedding ceremony and reception under the sky. The snowflake hydrangeas are unique to the gardens,

which were patented by Eddie Aldridge, former owner of Aldridge Gardens.

To learn more about Aldridge Gardens, or to book your wedding, social event, corporate meeting or Christmas dinner, visit the website at aldridgegardens.com or call 205-739-6554. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Plant Sale

Last year, our annual plant sale was a wonderful success with incredible plants filling the cars of enthusiasts from all over the state! This year’s sale is scheduled for April 3-5. The hours on April 3-4 are from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., and Saturday, April 5, we will be open from 8:30 a.m.-noon.

As always, the early birds get the best deals, so plan to come early! We will have native azaleas, a large variety of hydrangeas, bonsai and some old favorites. Remember, 100 percent of profits help Aldridge Gardens continue to improve our grounds, and members get a 10 percent discount on their purchases.

Summer Camps

June will be a full month of excitement and education at Aldridge Gardens. Camps are available for boys and girls entering kindergarten through third grade. Whether your little campers like American Girl Dolls, Art or S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math), we have

something they are sure to enjoy.

Each camp is held Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m.-noon. Midmorning snacks and water will be provided daily, or feel free to bring your own. The cost of each camp is $130 for Aldridge Gardens members and $150 for non-members. Purchasing an

annual membership for $50 could save you money if registering for multiple camps or multiple campers, and a membership includes many other benefits.

3530 Lorna Road | Hoover 205.682.8019 | aldridgegardens.com

June 2–27 | 5K-Third Grade

Hoover-Randle Home and Gardens

The Hoover-Randle Home and Gardens is excited to be open after many renovations in 2024! Spring and summer are some of our favorite times of the year with azaleas, hydrangeas and so many beautiful plants and flowers in bloom. The Hoover-Randle Home and Gardens is a perfect backdrop for smaller wedding ceremonies and receptions with up to 100 guests. The

bride and bridesmaids will enjoy a beautiful bridal suite upstairs, and the groom and groomsmen will enjoy a great space downstairs.

The historical Hoover-Randle Home and Gardens is an incredible, picturesque, one-of-a-kind event venue space for people to gather inside and outside. We look forward to you scheduling your wedding, Christmas

and holiday parties, corporate dayretreats and all other social events such as baby showers, bridal teas, anniversaries, birthday parties and more. To learn more about HooverRandle Home and Gardens, or to book an event, visit the website at hooverrandlehome.com or call 205-7396556. We look forward to seeing you soon!

NATIONAL LIBRARY WEEK 2025

The Hoover Public Library is gearing up for National Library Week with activities to engage the public.

BY AUBRIE DRECHSEL PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

Aubrie Drechsel is a library specialist in the Public Services Department at the Hoover Public Library. She enjoys planning library programs and managing the “Library of Things.” Aubrie is a proud owner of a Jefferson County library card.

This spring, the Hoover Public Library will celebrate its 41st National Library Week, “Drawn to the Library!” National Library Week 2025 will begin on Sunday, April 6 and will end on Saturday, April 12.

National Library Week is a time to honor the vital role libraries play in our lives. Whether it’s a public library, academic library, school library or special library, each contributes to the growth and connection of its community.

This tradition of celebrating libraries dates back to the mid-1900s, when there was a significant decrease in spending on books. A 1957 survey revealed only 17 percent of Americans were reading a book. To reignite a love for reading, the American Library Association and the American Book Publishers formed the National Book Committee, which launched the first countrywide National Library Week. The slogan, “Wake Up and Read,” encouraged Americans to rediscover the joy of reading while highlighting the importance of libraries in making books accessible to all.

Libraries today are more than just places to borrow books—they have transformed into dynamic community hubs that serve a wide variety of needs. At the Hoover Public Library, we offer something for everyone. For children, we provide engaging

story times and STEM workshops that spark curiosity and inspire young minds. Adults can enjoy live theatre performances, concerts featuring talented musicians and thought-provoking book clubs that provide opportunities to connect over shared interests. For anyone looking to explore something new, we offer unique services like borrowing board games or kitchen appliances and swapping puzzles at our popular puzzle exchange. You can also simply stop by, explore our spaces and say, “Hello!”

Of course, books remain at the heart of what we do. While we continue to house a wealth of physical reading materials, we also embrace the digital age with services like Libby, the library app by OverDrive®. Whether you love turning the pages of a physical book, reading on your phone or listening to an audiobook on the go, we’re here to help you find your perfect match.

In a world where people often connect less with their neighbors, libraries have become “third spaces”—welcoming places outside of home and work where people can meet, hang out and build relationships. Whether you’re making new friends, catching up with old ones or simply enjoying the presence of others in a shared environment, the Hoover Public Library offers a place for everyone to belong.

As we celebrate National Library Week 2025, we invite you to experience all the Hoover Public Library has to offer. Join us for a program or performance, find the perfect book (or audiobook) and connect with your community in meaningful ways.

THIS BOOK

ThoughtProvoking Reads

Recommendations from Hoover Public Library Staff

The Midnight Library

By Matt Haig | Fiction

Founded in 1983, the Hoover Public Library has been serving patrons for more than 40 years through its library and research capacities, theatre productions, community events and more. A staple in the city of Hoover, the library has become a hub of socialization, and such is never more evident than in the interactions between staff and local citizens. Here, staff members recommend their favorite reads that will have one swoon, shed some tears and stay on his toes this season.

Somewhere out beyond the edge of the universe, there is a library that contains an infinite number of books–each one the story of another reality. One tells the story of a person’s life as it is, along with another book for the other life he could have lived if he had made a different choice at any point in his life. While everyone wonders how their lives might have been, what if they had the chance to go to the library and see for themself?

The Woman in the Library

By Sulari Gentill | Fiction

The ornate reading room at the Boston Public Library is quiet until the tranquility is shattered by a woman’s terrified scream. Security guards take charge immediately, instructing everyone inside to stay put until the threat is identified and contained. While they wait for the all-clear, four strangers, who happened to sit at the same table, pass the time in conversation. Each has his own reasons for being in the reading room that morning, and it just so happens that one is a murderer. This unexpectedly twisty literary adventure examines the complicated nature of friendship and shows us that words can be the most treacherous weapons of all.

The Library at Mount Char

By Scott Hawkins | Fiction

After she and a dozen other children found them being raised by “Father,” a cruel man with mysterious powers, Carolyn and her “siblings” begin to think he might be God; so when he dies, they square off against each other to determine who will inherit his library, which they believe holds the power to all creation.

The Paris Library

By Janet Skeslien Charles | Fiction

Paris, 1939. Odile Souchet has it all: Paul, her handsome police officer beau; Margaret, her best friend from England; her adored twin brother Remy; and a dream job at the American Library in Paris, working alongside the library’s legendary director, Dorothy Reeder. When WWII breaks out, Odile stands to lose everything she holds dear, including her beloved library. After the invasion, as the Nazis declare a war on words, darkness falls over the City of Light. Odile and her fellow librarians join the Resistance with the best weapons they have: books. They risk their lives to help their fellow Jewish readers. When the war finally ends, instead of freedom, Odile tastes the bitter sting of betrayal. Based on the true story of the American Library in Paris, “The Paris Library” explores the geography of resentment, the consequences of terrible choices and the heroism that can be found in the quietest of places.

The Librarian of Auschwitz

By Antonio Iturbe | Fiction

Based on the experience of real-life Auschwitz prisoner Dita Kraus, “The Librarian of Auschwitz” is the incredible story of a girl who risked her life to keep the magic of books alive during the Holocaust. Written with touching sensitivity by Antonio Iturbe, and translated by Lilit Thwaites, this book provokes every emotional response and will not be forgotten.

after Helene Hope

Three Hoover High School students spend their vacation time helping a survivor of Tropical Storm Helene.

BY ANNA GRACE MOORE

PHOTOS BY KELSEA SCHAFER & CONTRIBUTED

TThe only thing more powerful than desperation is hope. Thanks to three Hoover High School sophomores, Logan and William Morrow, along with Pierce Read, a survivor of Tropical Storm Helene in North Carolina is feeling hope for the first time after a hard time.

According to the nesdis.noaa.gov, Helene made landfall as a Category 4 hurricane outside of Perry, Florida, on Sept. 26, 2024. The storm’s windspeeds reached 140 miles per hour, making this one of the most powerful storms to touch down in the United States.

Traversing through Georgia, Helene downgraded to a Category 2 hurricane, and upon entering the Appalachian Mountains became a tropical storm with no less devastating rainfalls. On Friday, Sept. 27, the storm struck North Carolina, setting a record of 30 inches of rain throughout the state, flooding numerous bodies of water, causing mudslides and washing away entire settlements.

On osbm.nc.gov/hurricane-helene-dna/open, the North Carolina Office of State Budget and Management (NCOSBM) and former North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper reported its revised assessment of the storm’s damage on Dec. 13, 2024, stating Helene is considered one of the deadliest storms in the U.S. Death tolls have now risen past 100 in the state alone.

The assessment also reports that FEMA was designated to provide 39 counties with federal disaster assistance. Of those counties, it is estimated that 4.6 million people, who make up 40 percent of North Carolina’s population, live in those areas.

Not only did Helene leave tens of thousands of residents without power, running water or accessible roadways, but the storm also left a severe financial impact. The NCOSBM assessment states that as of Friday, Dec. 13, damage estimates reached $59.6 billion.

Nearly 450 miles away, Logan, William and Pierce felt called to serve those affected.

“Our original intent was just to go find somebody to help,” Logan says.

Having grown up together in church and school, Logan, William and Pierce share a special bond. The three thrill seekers love anything outdoors–hiking, fishing, kayaking or even whitewater rafting.

During their fall break, they planned to take a kayaking trip down the Nantahala River in North Carolina. When Helene caused them to shift gears, they realized just how badly so many good people needed help.

Logan and William’s father, Andrew Morrow, originally called his friend to check on him as he lived in one of the worst affected areas. After learning his friend’s house had been severely impacted, Andrew started making arrangements to turn their fall break into a building restoration project.

“We were able to raise $3,500 for materials,” William says. “We started filling up our trailer, and we left on Thursday, Oct. 10. We came back on Monday, the 14th.”

The Morrows are no stranger to a little elbow grease. Andrew, who is a Samford University graduate, founded his construction company UrbanScapes, LLC in 2001. He received degrees in

biology and geographic information systems and capitalized on his dream to mesh science with his love of nature, design and architecture.

The brainchild of his hard work, UrbanScapes has built or restored many residential and commercial spaces in Alabama from gardens in Mountain Brook to lofts on 1st Avenue North to a former 1914 Masonic Lodge in Birmingham. William says he and Logan have been shadowing Andrew on jobs, learning the trade since they were in the third grade.

Pierce, on the other hand, says this experience was all new to him.

“I hadn’t ever done anything like this. I thought, ‘Oh yeah, we’ll knock this out today! This is easy stuff,’” he says, chuckling.

A week before the trip, they realized their family friend had received assistance, but there were still so many others who had not. After enlisting the help of a family friend, Christian Drake, the Hoover heroes set off on a 12-hour-long venture, hauling a trailer full of building supplies up to North Carolina.

“No one would ever have thought there was going to be a flood up there,” Logan says, later adding, “we saw this tiny, little creek. You would never think it could get that full. It was probably four or five feet of water. It just pulled whole RVs, houses, trees and

Tropical Storm Helene Survivor Support Fund

Organized by Andrew Morrow, a GoFundMe has been created to fundraise for Linda’s housing restoration project. Patrons can visit gofundme.com/f/support-mrs-lindas-hurricane-recovery to learn more about Linda’s story and donate as they are able.

piled it all up against bridges.”

The team instead partnered with another friend, Aaron Miller, and Gideon Rescue Company, where they were connected with Linda, a 78-year-old woman who had lost nearly everything in the floods. A Creston resident, Linda’s 100-year-old farmhouse had been in her family for generations.

Then after only a day, it sat sagging, sliding off its foundation and nearly collapsing from the 14 inches of standing water flooding the home.

“In the middle of [the storm], she had her own horse and another horse that were just staying there in her barn,” Logan says. “When the water was waist high, she went out there as it was storming and pulled the horses out of the barn and walked them up the road to higher ground.”

Pierce agrees that Linda’s strength was quite formidable. While the team worked to restore her home, she drove her tractor around, picking up fallen tree limbs and clearing paths.

Linda’s sons, Tim and Anthony, who are both U.S. Air Force veterans, were a big part of the restoration efforts.

“They did just as many hours as we did,” William says. “They helped out the whole time, and they kept going once we left.”

To start the restoration project, volunteers began by tearing out all of the old supports and leveling out the crawl space. They also cleared away the debris and all of the house’s rotten wood.

The boys even helped jack up the house about six inches in the living room and about eight inches in the master bedroom to level out the foundation. Adding floor supports, the team finished the foundation and flooring by the time they had to

In the little moments and major milestones of childhood, we are here for our patients and their families – helping, healing, teaching and discovering.

head home.

Pierce says he suffered a sports injury prior to the trip and was unable to do any heavy lifting; yet, he still wanted to be useful. He was put in charge of mixing mortar, which involves pouring substances in a wheelbarrow with water, churning the concoction until its desired consistency.

Laughing, he says while he may have been limited, he felt proud to have played a part in such a vital project. Even though they spent close to 10 or 12 hours a day working, the boys still found enjoyment in the little details along the way.

They bathed in a nearby creek each day and slept in a pasture underneath the stars each night.

“There was no light pollution, so I could just see every single star,” Logan says, smiling.

While their trip was quite memorable, they all say their favorite part was helping make a difference in Linda’s life. Linda drove 45 minutes one way to the nearest, functioning fast food restaurant and brought back a hot meal for all of the volunteers.

She wept as she brought them food, feeling astonished yet grateful that five strangers from 400 miles away had come to help rebuild her home.

According to Logan, William and Pierce, a little elbow grease goes a long way in renewing hope for those who need it most. While not everyone can do the things they did, each person, they believe, will have opportunities in their own lives to be the hands and feet of Jesus.

After all, the greatest change is ignited when two or more are rallied around one cause.

To learn more about Tropical Storm Helene and how to help survivors in North Carolina, visit fema.gov/disaster/4827.

weddings

PHOTO BY HANNAH OBREMSKEY PHOTOGRAPHY

TRIED & TRUE

Saying, “I do?”

Bromberg’s Diamond Buyer Brian Hood offers his guidance on choosing the right rings for you.

By Brian Hood & Anna Grace Moore

Photos by Elizabeth Black Photography & Blair Ramsey

THE RIGHT CHOICE

Discussing getting engaged? Fabulous! Engagement rings have long been a symbol of love and unity, announcing to all your commitment for the long haul. Be sure to follow these steps as you and your beloved navigate this exciting, new journey:

1. Set a Budget

Determine a comfortable budget before you start shopping. This will help narrow down options.

2. Research and Educate Yourself

Learn about different types of stones, cuts, settings and band materials. Understanding the 4Cs of diamonds (cut, clarity, color and carat weight) can help you make informed decisions.

3. Choose the Right Metal

Consider different metal options, such as white gold, yellow gold, rose gold or platinum. Each metal has its own look and durability, so choose one that suits your lifestyle.

THE BROMBERG’S BRIDE

John and Amanda Bullen chose Bromberg’s for their forever rings. Amanda’s engagement ring is a solitaire oval diamond set in an 18-karat yellow gold mounting with pavé diamonds. As per her family’s tradition, Amanda wore her engagement ring on her right hand and switched it over to her left hand after the wedding ceremony.

TAKE YOUR SIDE ON TRADITION

Once you nail down your budget and have a general idea of your dream ring, start thinking about which style—timeless or trendy—you envision it to be. Here are a few things to consider:

Timeless Rings

Often associated with class and elegance, these style rings usually consist of the following:

SOLITAIRE RINGS: These feature a single diamond or gemstone set on a simple band. They are classic and will never go out of style.

TIFFANY SETTING: A variation of the solitaire, this setting lifts the diamond to maximize sparkle. This type setting usually has a thinner band to maximize the

presentation of the diamond.

ROUND BRILLIANT CUT: Known for its exceptional sparkle, this cut is a perennial favorite.

THREE-STONE RINGS: Symbolizing the past, present and future, these rings offer a classic look with sentimental meaning.

EXCEPTIONAL, NOT OPTIONAL

If your dream ring’s price is a little too steep, Brian recommends these alternatives, in order to prioritize quality:

MINIMALIST SETTINGS: Lower cost on the setting will maximize the budget for the center stone. The setting can always be enhanced or changed at a later date such as for a future anniversary gift.

HIGHER COLOR: At times to fit a customer’s budget, diamond experts will sacrifice color to hit a certain budget.

By focusing on Exceptional-cut grades, you can alter the appearance of color as much as two-color grades.

FOCUS ON MILLIMETER SIZE, NOT JUST CARAT WEIGHT:

This is especially important with fancy-shaped diamonds.

A 1.8-carat stone can sometimes appear as large as a 2-carat stone but at a significantly lower cost. When shopping, pay close attention to the millimeter size to ensure you’re getting the best value. Choosing a diamond based solely on carat weight doesn’t always guarantee the size or look for which you’re aiming.

Oval Hidden Halo Solitaire Ring

Cushion Cut Ring

On Trend Rings

On the other hand, “on trend” engagement ring styles tend to reflect contemporary tastes and may vary significantly based on current fashion. Some examples of trendy designs include:

COLORED GEMSTONES: Sapphires, emeralds and other colored stones are often chosen over traditional diamonds for a unique twist.

HALO SETTINGS: A ring where a central stone is surrounded by smaller accent stones for added brilliance. Halo rings can help maximize appearance when working on a budget.

Kwiat Sapphire Diamond Ring

On Trend Rings cont.

STACKABLE RINGS: Multiple bands worn together can create a modern, personalized look.

GEOMETRIC SHAPES: Rings featuring unique shapes and designs, such as hexagons or asymmetrical styles, appeal to those seeking something different.

Rahaminov Moval Halo Ring

Wedding Parties and Showers

Wedding Reception

Groom’s Dessert

Rehearsal Dinner Dessert

Late Night Snacks

Take-away Gifts

Hospitality Boxes

Thank You Gifts

Theme on

By Anna Grace Moore

by ShadShotIt, Erica Dortch Photography & Emmanuel Elkins

Three different bridal parties, three different styles. Take a look at how these brides utilized seasonal color palettes to elevate their wedding day themes.

Photos

kineshia + archie

Kineshia Smith opted for a vivid color palette rich in hues of maroon, rouge, pink and ivory.

Styled by David’s Bridal, the bridal party wore an all-black, one-shoulder, stretch satin dress by Galina Signature. The offset in color allowed for the bride to shine, and the pops of color in the florals and decor tied the theme together well for such beautiful nuptials.

Bridesmaid Dresses: David’s Bridal

Photos by ShadShotIt

To complement her chic, minimalist gown, Kelsey Shepherd selected a more maximalist bridesmaid dress for her bridal party. The bridesmaids wore a floral, bow-shoulder, satin maxi dress with an asymmetrical tiered skirt in “Cottage Rose Larkspur,” compliments of Bella Bridesmaids. These lively, whimsical gowns are not only gorgeous, but they also helped set the tone for a perfect summer wedding.

Bridesmaid Dresses: Bella Bridesmaids

kelsey + mark

Photos by Erica Dortch Photography

ja'tavia + cristopher

Ja’Tavia Pettway wore an emerald green, mermaid-style wedding gown, reminiscent of the Great Gatsby era. For her bridesmaids, she chose a deep saffron, off-the-shoulder jersey dress from Gabriel’s Bridal & Formal that was opposite to hers on the color wheel. These hues, paired with the groomsmen’s ivory-colored suits, made for an alluring, bohemian theme.

Dresses:

Bridesmaid

Gabriel’s Bridal & Formal

Photos by Emmanuel Elkins

YOUR FAIRYTALE BEGINS HERE.

Tips & Tricks

from Wedding Vendors

Symone Shaw, Alex and Sara Lucas and Becky Baker–all veterans in the wedding industry–detail their do’s and don’ts to ensure success on the “big day.”

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

Occasions with Symone Shaw

Symone Shaw, Wedding Planner

Photos by Eleanor Stenner Photography & Contributed

What “wedding day” items should a bride never go without on her big day?

We always make sure to have toupee tape in our wedding day kit! It is 20 times stronger than generic clothing tape and can be used for everything.

What is the number-one mistake you see brides make on their wedding day?

The main mistake we see brides make on their wedding day is forgetting to be truly present in the moment. Do not get wrapped up in trends and making sure everything is “social media ready!” We always make sure that the day has plenty of cushion time in order for the couple to bask in the day.

What are some of the best ways to calm nerves/ alleviate anxiety before a bride walks down the aisle?

If a bride is feeling anxious before the procession, we always give her a few minutes alone to take a few deep breaths. Refocusing on why we are here is key, and those nerves always turn back into excitement.

To make the most of one’s wedding day, what do you advise a bride to prioritize?

We advise her to do a first look! Getting all of the photos done ahead of the ceremony allows the couple to spend more time with their family and friends. Time, specifically not feeling rushed, is our number-one priority.

What wedding trends do you think will become timeless, and which do you think will “date” a wedding, looking back?

In regards to wedding planning, I believe that short engagements will eventually date a wedding due to the couple being unable to truly focus on the highly curated elements that mean the most to them. For this same reason, longer engagements will always be classic and lead to timeless designs.

AL weddings

Alex & Sara Lucas, Wedding Photographers

Photos by AL Weddings

What “wedding day” items should a bride never go without on her big day?

We love when we see a wedding day kit that’s usually brought by the wedding planner that includes needed items such as bobby pins, medicines, feminine products, safety pins, stain sticks, white chalk, towelettes, tissues and other “emergency” use items.

What is the number-one mistake you see brides make on their wedding day?

Not planning enough time for hair and makeup in the morning comes to mind. It’s the first part of the day, and as the morning progresses, things can fall behind. We love when our clients remember to place themselves (and whoever is helping them in their dress) in the middle of the bunch to ensure they are ready when they need to start getting dressed.

What are some of the best ways to calm nerves/ alleviate anxiety before a bride walks down the aisle?

We really believe having an hour of down time before the ceremony helps alleviate anxiety. You are able to relax with your friends and family, knowing we’ve captured all the important moments up until this time of the day. We find many couples are so thankful to rest and re-energize without worrying about cameras or moments. It’s truly a “living in the moment” time period.

To make the most of one’s wedding day, what do you advise a bride to prioritize?

We believe most couples should look at prioritizing a photographer and a wedding planner. These are two vendors that truly ensure your entire day will flow seamlessly without stress. In our experience, our clients who select a planner that knows their other priorities (having a stress-free day, a flawless ceremony, a fun-filled reception, spending intentional time with friends and family) helps create a timeline that can be executed seamlessly.

What wedding trends do you think will become timeless, and which do you think will “date” a wedding, looking back?

We think photographs that are overly edited are going to be what “dates” the look of a wedding. The photos, to us, usually appear too far from what you see with your eyes–too warm, too dark, too bright or too many changes to the deepness and saturation of the colors. We believe a timeless look will represent the day as it naturally was. On the other hand, couples having a first look is a “trend” that we feel has come to light strongly within the past decade, and we don’t see it going anywhere. We don’t see a single emotional difference with our couples who do a first look versus our couples who choose to see each other at the aisle.

Becky's Brides

Becky Baker, Wedding Planner

by Eric & Jamie Photography & Contributed

What “wedding day” items should a bride never go without on her big day?

Water is crucial! One’s wedding day is such a long day, and she’ll be on her feet a lot. Staying hydrated is key to feeling one’s best.

What is the number-one mistake you see brides make on their wedding day?

Not living in the moment and not soaking it all in is

the number-one mistake. So many brides feel so much pressure to have a perfect day because they have invested so much into such a monumental day in their lives. However, the best thing to do is trust those they’ve hired for their wedding day, and focus on marrying their spouse.

What are some of the best ways to calm nerves/alleviate anxiety before a bride walks down the aisle?

This really starts before the wedding day with who she surrounds herself with the morning of and the day of the wedding. We advise her to make sure that her bridal party is made up of the people she feels the most relaxed, at ease and comfortable around. Being around her absolute closest friends will keep the day feeling celebratory and stress-free.

To make the most of one’s wedding day, what do you advise a bride to prioritize?

Every bride needs a good wedding planner. It could even be just a coordinator if a full-service planner isn’t in the budget. Every bride needs a point person for their wedding day, so she can relax and celebrate!

Photos

What wedding trends do you think will become timeless, and which do you think will “date” a wedding, looking back?

Anything that is very trendy is going to date a wedding: disco balls, full-on Babies Breath. While they are so fun, in 20 years, one will definitely be able to date the wedding from those trends. To me, a timeless wedding can be anything that reflects the couples’ personalities, styles and love story. We encourage our couples to think about those things when making decisions, so their wedding will always be timeless to them.

Terrific

TRESSES

Maven Hair Company Owner Megan Manley features five wedding-day hairstyles bridal parties will love this season.

Photos by Kelsea Schafer Styled by Maven Hair Company

A Elegance TIMELESS

vintage look, this low, sleek bun is a traditional style that’s great for more formal settings. Its clean lines and simple design make it a popular choice among bridal parties, especially those wearing more minimalist gowns.

Hair: Haley Draper Makeup & Model: Taylor Yongue

This voluminous up-do is great for brides and bridesmaids with long, luxuriant hair. This trending style is both a fun and effortless look and keeps one’s hair off of her face while she’s dancing during the reception.

Hair: Sydney Kelson

Makeup & Model: Maggie Burnett

a Twist WITH T

his half-up halfdown look is great for bridal parties wanting to wear a consistent hairstyle as it is convenient for every hair type. The simple twists and beachy waves make this a more upscale look without taking away from the wearer’s natural beauty.

Hair: Haley Draper

Makeup & Model: Marley Bob Pezant

Retro HOLLYWOOD

Very Marilyn Monroe-esque, Hollywood Curls are a traditional yet on-trend style that amplifies a wedding-day look. This hairstyle complements any wearer and her gown.

Hair: Megan Manley

Makeup & Model: Monica Buckner

& CLASSY CHIC

AA unique blend between timeless and trendy, this hairstyle is perfect for all hair types. Its half-up ponytail and side braid add a bit of whimsical to this fun look.

Hair: Sydney Kelson Makeup & Model: Bernise Hernandez

PHOTOS

the details

Ceremony & Reception Venue: Soiree Event Gallery Wedding Planner/Day of Coordinator: Plan It Weddings Florist: B. Dent Wedding and Event Design Caterer : The Happy Catering Co. Wedding Cake: Margaret’s Bakery Wedding Dress: Imperial Formal Wear Bridal Hair: Jessica Falls Bridal

Makeup: Coco Moore Makeup Bridesmaid Dresses: David’s Bridal Groom’s Attire: Arzel’s & Tres’ Fine Clothing Wedding Stationery/Invitations: Minted DJ/ Wedding Band: Megan and Leatrice Ford & DJ CJ “Tha Sticman” Wedding Night Accommodations: Hyatt Regency Birmingham - The Wynfrey Hotel

HOW DID YOU TWO MEET?

Our love story began at Minor High School in 2011, when we met in the ninth grade. After becoming friends, we became high school sweethearts in the 10th grade.

THE PROPOSAL

We got engaged on a vacation to the mountains in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, on Christmas Day in 2021 with family and friends present.

PREPARING FOR MARRIAGE

We worked closely with our parents and wedding planner, Cassandra Harlequin with Plan It Weddings, to ensure that the day was fun and memorable. We enjoyed planning our wedding and experiencing the different phases of planning such as the catering and cake tastings with our moms. We also enjoyed having wedding party meetings with Cassandra and our wedding party, as well as all of the different celebratory events leading up to our wedding day. We had lots of fun and made lots of lifelong memories.

WEDDING MOMENTS

Interacting with our friends and family during our wedding reception was one of our favorite wedding memories. The dance floor was packed throughout the night, and at the end of the reception after we exited the building, we stayed outside for an hour or so, enjoying the company of our loved ones. It was an amazing evening full of love.

Anna Lea Travis

DECEMBER 9, 2023 +

PHOTOS BY ERIC & JAMIE PHOTOGRAPHY

the details

Ceremony Venue: Highlands United Methodist Church

Reception Venue: The Theodore Wedding Planner/ Day of Coordinator: Blush & Bashful Events Florist: Forever Wild Floral Company Caterer: Beyond Details

Catering Wedding Cake: Pen and Pastry Wedding Dress: Carriage House Weddings Bridal Hair/ Makeup: Danielle Ivy Chip Groom’s Attire: Jos. A. Bank Wedding Stationery/Invitations: Nikki Stanford Artistry DJ/Wedding Band: Az IzZ Band Videographer: Resolute Wedding Films Wedding Transportation: Rare Transportation Wedding Night Accommodations: The Redmont Hotel Birmingham

HOW DID YOU TWO MEET?

We met at Auburn University, when we both attended college there. We were also neighbors in our college neighborhood, Creekside, and met through mutual friends.

THE PROPOSAL

He proposed in the mountains of Colorado! He also surprised me and flew both of our families out to be there after the big moment happened because he knew as beautiful as a destination proposal was, it was so important to me that our families be present.

PREPARING FOR MARRIAGE

We attended premarital counseling with Rev. Mikah Hudson, the pastor at Highlands United Methodist Church, as well as several counseling sessions with my uncle, Rev. Patrick Friday who is the pastor at The Church at Cahaba Bend.

WEDDING MOMENTS

Walking down the aisle with my dad, I knew this was a moment that was going to feel like time stood still. Hearing the bells chime in the bell tower to the Westminster Peal as the doors opened, standing arm-in-arm with my father and seeing all the people Travis and I both love in one room for the first time was surreal. That was also the moment I got to see Travis at the end of the aisle, and immediately, I felt an overwhelming sense of peace.

DECEMBER 9, 2023 +

PHOTOS BY KATIE & CINDY PHOTOGRAPHY

Shelby Spencer

the details

Ceremony & Reception Venue: Windwood Equestrian Wedding Planner/Day of Coordinator: Lyndsey

Golden Florist: Vera Flora Design Caterer: The Happy Catering Co. Wedding Cake: Edgar’s Bakery & Olexa’s Catering, Cafe and Cakes Wedding Dress: Low’s Bridal Bridal Hair/Makeup: Irrelephant x Mae Bridal Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie Groom’s Attire: Jos. A. Bank Wedding Stationery/Invitations: Fine Paperwork

DJ/Wedding Band: The Blue Denim Band Wedding Night Accommodations: Renaissance Birmingham Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa

HOW DID YOU TWO MEET?

We both attended BirminghamSouthern College. I played softball, and Spencer played football.

THE PROPOSAL

My best friend tricked me into thinking we were doing a photo shoot with our dogs. After Spencer proposed, he had another surprise–he gathered our families and closest friends to celebrate afterwards.

PREPARING FOR MARRIAGE

We attended premarital counseling with our minister. We also did a lot of traveling and Face-Timing because we were living in different places at the time, Memphis and Hoover.

WEDDING MOMENTS

The moment that stood out the most to me was after the ceremony. We had a private dinner to just be by ourselves for a few minutes and take it all in. We got to sit down and process the fact that we were finally married! Also, before we started getting ready, I was able to walk around the venue and see everything set up before people started showing up. It was seriously perfect!

PHOTOS BY KATIE & CINDY PHOTOGRAPHY

the details

Ceremony & Reception Venue: Aldridge Gardens

Wedding Planner/Day of Coordinator: Julia Holmes

Florist: Nesting Place Design Caterer: The Happy Catering Co. Wedding Cake: Bec’s Cakes Wedding

Dress: Bella’s Bridal & Formal Groom’s Attire: Jos. A. Bank DJ/Wedding Band: The Good Times Company Videographer: Dylane Hurd

HOW DID YOU TWO MEET?

John and I met in undergrad in 2019 at Samford University. For the next several years, we hung out off and on in group settings. In my junior year of college, I worked at Samford’s gym, and John would come by and talk to me for up to an hour at times. One day for a party, John had been cooking for more than 50 people and made a separate salad with chicken for me, knowing about my allergies. John saw how excited my friends and I were and realized there might be a chance he’d be able to ask me on a date. He later texted me, asking to get dinner. I was in India at the time, so while I said yes, we had to wait a month before going on our first date.

THE PROPOSAL

In fall 2023, I knew a proposal was coming, but I did not know when. To throw off suspicion, John scheduled a nice dinner for every Saturday night that month. I noticed we had taken a detour to this particular dinner, and he parked our car at our favorite lookout spot over Birmingham, where 10 months earlier we had officially started our relationship. As we walked up to the lookout, John expressed his affection and admiration for me. At the spot we regularly sat for hours enjoying each other’s company and the view, John got down on one knee and asked me to marry him.

PREPARING FOR MARRIAGE

We received marriage counseling from our pastor and his wife in the months leading up to our wedding day. We were lovingly challenged and encouraged through our counseling sessions as we grew in our relationship.

WEDDING MOMENTS

There were many details that made our wedding day so special. My favorite was the eclectic teacups I collected with my mom.

THE CATERER'S COLLECTIVE

Baba Java Coffee & Popbar

Any event can be a hit with Baba Java Catering! We have several catering options available, which are customizable to fit your budget and needs. We serve coffee, iced coffee, Turkish coffee, lattes and house-made gelato pops at events and weddings. Our Airstream trailer and coffee/pop carts also look great in any space. We would be honored to provide the same excellent coffee and customer service from our cafes to help make your next event great.

Bertolone’s Make your next event unforgettable with Bertolone’s Italian Catering! From delicious appetizers to classic Italian favorites like lasagna and chicken parmigiana, every dish is crafted with authentic flavors and love. Don’t forget their famous cakes—perfect for adding a sweet touch to any celebration. Whether it’s a small gathering or a large event, Bertolone’s caters to your needs with exceptional service and mouthwatering dishes. Bring the taste of Italy to your table!

SoHo Standard offers elevated Southern catering with a decadent and fresh twist. Every menu is unique to the couple. Let us create your ideal menu and wow your loved ones on your special day.

SoHo Social On the most important day of your life, the last thing you want to worry about is whether the food is good. That’s where SoHo Social comes in. Let us provide elevated American food that’s sure to impress. Head to our website to get in touch!

Social Taco For the laid-back or foodie bride and groom, we’ve got just what you need. Bring a fresh, authentic Mexican flavor to your special day with an aroma your guests won’t forget. Choose from delicious Mexican cuisine like tacos, burritos and more. Give us a call today to see how we can help bring your big day to life.

Finch Fine Wines Every celebration deserves the perfect wine. At Finch Fine Wines, our commitment to exceptional service and incredible wine is unparalleled. Elevate your weddings, private events and parties without the hassle by trusting us, your local wine experts! No occasion is too large or too small, and we cater to a wide range of budgets while offering free consultations and quotes. Don’t wait; let us start working on your event today!

Biscuit Belly Got a big shindig coming up? We know just the right way to celebrate. Score some serious points with your friends, impress your coworkers or kick brunch up a notch with Biscuit Belly’s catering services. Make sure everyone gets exactly what they want with several veggie-lover options, or keep it classic with our Basic Breakfast Bar. Too busy party planning to make an extra stop? We offer delivery, too. All aboard the gravy train!

+

Shaina Christopher

JUNE 1, 2024

PHOTOS BY KATIE & CINDY PHOTOGRAPHY

the details

Ceremony & Reception Venue: Alcove Birmingham Wedding Planner/Day of Coordinator: Jennifer Speer Caterer: Chef Timothy McNear Wedding Cake: Publix Midtown Wedding Dress: SuPrettyBridal Bridal Hair: Quick Experience LLC Bridal Makeup: Ashli B. Beauty Bridesmaid Dresses: Show Me Your Mumu Groom’s Attire: Mr. Burch Formal Wear DJ/ Wedding Band: Montgomery Bad Boyz Wedding Night Accommodations: Elyton Hotel

HOW DID YOU TWO MEET?

We actually met the modern way—on a dating app! I always joke with my husband Chris that we barely made it out of the app because I was so uninterested in dating at the time. With the push of some friends, I kept my profile up, and one night, I matched with Chris. The rest is history!

THE PROPOSAL

He proposed in front of family on Thanksgiving Day! He told me to go to the back room and tell my brother-in-law that dinner was about to be served. When I came back, he was down on one knee. I’m usually great at picking up on when he’s planning something, so he knew he’d have to wait until I was not expecting a thing. Several times before, I felt like it was going to be “the day,” but I was wrong! He knew I was trying to guess when it’d happen, so he was throwing “hints” in the wrong direction to keep me on my toes. The best part of our proposal is that I truly had no idea!

PREPARING FOR MARRIAGE

We believe in doing things for God’s glory. We prayed often as we prepared for our future together and asked God to lead us into marriage. We also did premarital counseling based on the Word, and we recommend it to any couples seeking marriage.

WEDDING MOMENTS

This may sound cliche, but looking into the crowds throughout the day and night, and seeing all of the people we loved in one room, was a highlight of our day. Our wedding day was so special to us because of all the love radiating in the room. Another favorite moment of mine would be spending the day with our amazing photographers! I joke that we are fourth-generation Katie and Cindy wedding clients because they also shot three of my best friends’ weddings of which I was a bridesmaid! It was only right they shot our wedding, too. They made our day that much more special!

PHOTOS

Helen Paul

the details

Ceremony & Reception Venue: Park Crest Event Facility Wedding Planner/Day of Coordinator: Raven Graham and Kate Schneider Florist: Hoover Florist and Flower Moxie Caterer: Park Crest Event Facility Wedding Cake: Publix Wedding Dress: Bridal Bliss Homewood Bridal Hair: Lydia Davis with GLOW Bridesmaid Dresses: Show Me Your Mumu Groom’s Attire: Men’s Wearhouse Wedding Stationery/ Invitations: Zola & Minted DJ/Wedding Band: Marisha Cruz Videographer: Joshua Jackson and Elle Marie Roberts

HOW DID YOU TWO MEET?

We met in 2020 while working on a project together for an organization. During that time, we developed a good friendship, but it was hindered by quarantine. Through mutual friends, we found out that we lived near each other and decided to hang out by going on walks at Railroad Park (social distancing, of course). We walked almost three miles everyday for three months, developing a close connection before we popped the question of “What are we?” At that moment, we knew that we were more than just friends.

THE PROPOSAL

He proposed to me on the bridge at the Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago on July 1, 2023. We were surrounded by family, and my friends flew out to surprise me!

PREPARING FOR MARRIAGE

We went through premarital counseling and moved in together for a few months before the wedding. We were both still in school and worked through our wedding planning together.

WEDDING MOMENTS

The first look down the aisle was my favorite moment of the entire day. We didn’t do a first look before the ceremony, so it was extra special seeing him for the first time and him seeing me for the first time.

AUGUST 3, 2024

PHOTOS BY ERIC & JAMIE PHOTOGRAPHY

the details

Ceremony & Reception Venue: Renaissance Birmingham Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa Wedding Planner/Day of Coordinator: Engaged Wedding Library Florist: Susan Milner Design Caterer: Renaissance Birmingham Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa

Wedding Cake: Pen and Pastry

Wedding Dress: Bella’s

Bridal & Formal Bridal Hair/Makeup: Makeup Mel

Bridesmaid Dresses: Bella’s Bridal & Formal Groom’s

Attire: Mr. Burch Formal Wear

Wedding Stationery/ Invitations: Wildflower Creative Studio DJ/Wedding Band: Emerald Empire Band

Videographer: Films by Eric & Jamie Wedding Night Accommodations: Renaissance Birmingham Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa

HOW DID YOU TWO MEET?

We grew up in the same small hometown, Arab. We always knew of each other, but we didn’t run in the same circles. One day, I randomly got a text that said, “Hey, Aly, this is Cody Minter! How are you?” After that, we became good friends and hung out several times during my senior year.

THE PROPOSAL

On Sept. 9, 2023, Cody told me we were going to dinner at The Club for his dad’s birthday. Once we arrived, he told me his parents were running late. After a drink at the bar, he asked me if I wanted to go outside to look at the view of the city. Once we went outside, we chatted for a minute, and he then turned and looked at me, grabbed my hands and said, “I’m sure you have probably figured this out by now, but we aren’t meeting my parents for dinner.” He then went into the sweetest speech about how we had found our way back to each other and how he never wanted to be without me now. He asked me to marry him with the most beautiful ring I had ever seen, which made our proposal even more special because it was custom made to fit a family diamond that was passed down to me.

PREPARING FOR MARRIAGE

We attended the “Together for Life” class at our church, Dawson Memorial Baptist Church. We enjoyed getting to know so many other couples who were walking through the same season of life as us. It truly helped us talk through many important conversations, and we continue to use what we learned in the class as we navigate the early stages of our marriage.

WEDDING MOMENTS

Seeing the joy on Cody’s face when he first saw me in my dress is definitely my favorite memory. Eric and Jamie captured this moment so beautifully, and I am so thankful I am able to look back on it now.

+

Sydney Claire Patrick Chace

AUGUST 3, 2024

PHOTOS BY ERICA DORTCH

PHOTOGRAPHY

the details

Ceremony Venue: Shades Mountain Baptist Church

Reception Venue: Park Crest Event Facility Wedding Planner/Day of Coordinator: Any Reason to Plan Florist: Bird Song in Bloom Caterer: Park Crest Event

Facility Wedding Cake: Pen and Pastry Wedding Dress: Carriage House Weddings Bridal Hair/Makeup: Styled x Mackenzie Bridesmaid Dresses: Show Me

Your Mumu Groom’s Attire: Jos. A. Bank Wedding Stationery/Invitations: Annabelle’s DJ/Wedding Band: Act of Congress & Kenny on the Keys Videographer: Heritage Weddings Wedding Transportation: Rare Transportation Wedding Night Accommodations: The Redmont Hotel Birmingham

HOW DID YOU TWO MEET?

We met each other through mutual friends in high school! I went to Spain Park High School, and he went to Briarwood Christian School. We were friends for about a year and started dating in 2016 and have been together ever since.

THE PROPOSAL

I was invited to go to The Club to sit in on what ended up being a fake meeting for his sister’s rehearsal dinner. We were told to walk outside to see where the pictures would be taken at the beautiful view overlooking the city. While looking at the view, he snuck up behind me and proposed in front of all of our friends and family, who were also hiding in the room behind us to watch our proposal.

PREPARING FOR MARRIAGE

We did premarital counseling throughout our 10-month-long engagement, and we also took lots of advice from our close family and friends.

WEDDING MOMENTS

We both vividly remember looking out into the audience while standing at the altar as we were pronounced husband and wife for the first time. Seeing all of our closest friends and family who came from all over the country to see us tie the knot was very special and overwhelming.

Romantic

A Guide to

Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina

Escapes

Wedding-Centric Travel

When planning your wedding journey, the destinations you choose play a pivotal role in creating lifelong memories. From dreamy engagements to bachelorette parties, intimate destination weddings and picture-perfect honeymoons, every step is an opportunity for adventure and romance. Here’s a curated guide to some of the world’s most enchanting venues and locales to make every moment of your wedding experience unforgettable.

BY CHRISTIANA ROUSSEL

Photos by Taylor Heery, Hotel Esencia, Agile LeVin/Visit Turks & Caicos, Matthew Millman, Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina, The Ansonborough & Contributed

Engagements: Perfect Backdrops for the Proposal

Hotel Esencia, Riviera Maya, Mexico hotelesencia.com

Nestled along the pristine shores of the Riviera Maya, Hotel Esencia offers a mix of lush, tropical gardens and breathtaking beachfront views. Emily West, luxury travel advisor (emilywesttravel.com) shares, “Esencia still feels like a private home oasis — exclusive and tailored to perfection. Many of the items throughout the resort’s common areas are the original art and decor from when Esencia was a private residence for a dutchess of the Ferrari family.”

Propose under the stars with a private dinner on the beach or amidst the estate’s lush greenery for an intimate moment.

Les Roches Rouges, Côte d’Azur, France beaumier.com/en/properties/les-roches-rougeshotel/

Set along the French Riviera, this boutique hotel is a slice of Mediterranean paradise. Imagine popping the question on a terrace overlooking the Azure Sea, followed by champagne at sunset.

The Madrona, Healdsburg, California themadronahotel.com

This meticulously restored Victorian mansion in Sonoma County combines wine country charm with sophisticated luxury. The gardens provide an idyllic setting for a vineyard-side proposal.

The Madrona

Hotel Esencia

Bridesmaid & Groomsmen Getaways:

Bonding Before the Big Day

Casa Rosada, Sayulita, Mexico casarosadasayulita.com

For a laid-back yet vibrant escape, Casa Rosada is perfect. With its boho-chic vibes, colorful streets and surf-town atmosphere, Sayulita is ideal for bonding over surf lessons, beach parties and margaritas. Emily adds, “It feels like a Barbie dream house meets Moroccan flair, and you can sleep up to 14. The attention to detail with 24/7 staff makes this unparalleled for morning private yoga, sailing or themed dinner parties.”

The Horse Shoe Farm, Hendersonville, North Carolina thehorseshoefarm.com

Owned and operated by the Turchin family, The Horse Shoe Farm can best be described as Southern Hospitality with a side of woo-woo. Brides and their bridesmaids can spend an afternoon in the Stable Spa getting facials and having tarot cards read. Then they can take the steps to the top of the silo for a moment of reflection (bring your Sharpie to add a great quote to the walls), or indulge in meditation or other wellness sessions.

Vermejo Reserve, New Mexico, USA

tedturnerreserves.com/vermejo/

For the adventurous group, this sprawling reserve offers activities like fly fishing, hiking and wildlife safaris. It’s a nature-lover’s paradise, with plenty of opportunities for camaraderie around a roaring fire. Emily notes, “Personally, I think one of the best parts of the resort is that it’s all-inclusive, including meals, activities, alcohol and transportation around the property. In terms of value, it exceeds expectations while remaining approachable and giving guys opportunities for quality time and activities together.”

The Ansonborough, Charleston, South Carolina

theansonborough.com

For guys’ groups looking to enjoy a bit of everything on their “mancation,” The Ansonborough is an ideal home base. Originally built in 1901 as a stationer’s warehouse in the city’s oldest neighborhood, the hotel is just a short stroll to the best restaurants, activities, historic sites and nightlife Charleston has to offer. Make sure to check out the hidden poker room as well as the Rooftop Garden overlooking the harbor.

The Horse Shoe Farm

The Ansonborough

HIT THE ROAD

Destination

Weddings: Where Dreams Become Reality

Borgo San Felice, Tuscany, Italy borgosanfelice.com

A medieval village-turned-luxury retreat, Borgo San Felice is the epitome of Tuscan romance. Exchange vows amidst vineyards and olive groves, then feast on farm-to-table Italian cuisine under the stars.

Palmetto Bluff, Bluffton, South Carolina palmettobluff.com/stay/

This sprawling, lowcountry estate offers a mix of Southern charm and upscale elegance. Choose from a waterside chapel or an oak-draped lawn

Tips for Planning

Your Wedding Journey

AStart Early

Popular destinations book quickly, especially for weddings. Reserve your venue and accommodations as soon as possible.

AHire Local Experts

Enlist local planners or concierges to help with logistics and ensure everything runs smoothly.

AThink About Accessibility

Make sure your chosen location is easy for guests to reach, especially if hosting a destination wedding.

ABlend Activities

Opt for destinations offering a mix of relaxation and adventure to cater to diverse tastes within your party.

APersonalize Your Experience

Incorporate local traditions, foods or music to make your event unique and memorable.

Whether you’re planning an elaborate destination wedding or an intimate honeymoon, these destinations promise unparalleled beauty, romance and luxury. With the right planning, your wedding journey will not only celebrate your love, but it will also leave you with memories to cherish forever.

for your ceremony, followed by a reception featuring local oysters and bourbon cocktails. And yes, this is where Justin and Hailey Bieber tied the knot.

Le Toiny, St. Barth letoiny.com

For those dreaming of a Caribbean escape, Le Toiny offers exclusivity and unparalleled beauty. Picture a cliffside ceremony overlooking turquoise waters and a private beach reception under the moonlight.

Scrub Island, British Virgin Islands scrubisland.com

Whether it is an intimate ceremony on a pristine beach, a cliff-side union with a commanding view of the turquoise waters or an elegant affair in the largest ballroom in the British Virgin Islands, Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina is the perfect setting for a stunning destination wedding. It offers a variety of settings for an exotic wedding ceremony.

Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina

Honeymoons: Starting Forever in

Style

Cap Juluca, Anguilla belmond.com/hotels/north-america/caribbean/ anguilla/belmond-cap-juluca/

With its white-sand beaches and Greco-Moorish architecture, Cap Juluca feels like stepping into a dream. Spend your days lounging by the crystal-clear waters and your nights savoring Caribbean cuisine.

Ambergris Cay, Turks & Caicos ambergriscay.com

For ultimate seclusion, Ambergris Cay offers private villas with infinity pools overlooking the ocean. Activities such as snorkeling, sailing and fine dining ensure your honeymoon is as relaxing or adventurous as you desire.

Amangiri, Canyon Point, Utah aman.com/resorts/amangiri

Situated on the Colorado Plateau, Amangiri is the essence of luxury while still featuring easy access to three national parks: Zion, Grand Canyon and Bryce Canyon. Book a hot air balloon ride or a private helicopter tour to embark on your life together, or spend your afternoons at the spa for true desert wellness.

Turks & Caicos

Spring 2025 Events

March 1

Arbor Day

Aldridge Gardens

March 4

Women’s Business Council Kick-Off

Hoover Public Library

200 Municipal Dr

March 5

Ribbon Cutting - BODYBAR Pilates

Knox Square

5856 Elsie Rd

March 11

Ribbon Cutting for Home 2 Suites

3210 Galleria Cir

March 18

Women’s Council Biz & Biscuits

Arise Knox Square 5830 Elsie Rd

March 20

Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce

Monthly Membership Luncheon & Public Service Awards

Hoover Country Club 3140 Club Dr

Follow the Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce on Facebook or visit hooverchamber.org to stay up to date on events.

Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce Staff

2025 Board of Directors

OFFICERS AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Chair – Kimberly L. Jackson, Alabama Power

First Vice Chair – Sanjay Patel, Baron Hospitality

Second Vice Chair – Johnathan Carter, PNC Financial Services

Vice Chair of Administration – Kimberly Starling, UAB St. Vincent’s

Vice Chair of Finance – Keith Barfield, BMSS Advisors & CPAs, LLC

Immediate Past Chair – Rohen Porbanderwala, Lake Crest Chevron

DIRECTORS

Vivian Mora, State Farm Insurance, Vivian Mora Agency

Tyler Lipe, Regions Financial

Kelvin Johnson, Spire Energy

Tyler Williams, BlueCross BlueShield of Alabama

Cori Perdue, PhD UAB Collat School of Business

James Robinson, Retired Executive, Spire Energy

Merrick Wilson, Hoover City Schools

EX OFFICIO

Aaron Dettling – Legal Advisor, Fortif Law Partners, LLC

Greg Knighton, City of Hoover Liaison

Derrick Murphy, Hoover City Council Liaison

Nan Baldwin, President & CEO

Lori Groce, Office Coordinator

Andy Tatum, HCC Account Executive

Celebrating Growth

Raynor Auto Glass October 15, 2024

Barge Design Solutions October 16, 2024

Galactic Employer Services October 18, 2024

Texas Roadhouse October 25, 2024

The Adoption and Foster Care Clinic November 7, 2024

Cadence Bank November 13, 2024

Yum Yai Thai January 7, 2025

MerchWrks, LLC January 22, 2025

Board in Birmingham December 17, 2024

SYNLawn Alabama November 14, 2024

Nori Hibachi December 9, 2024

New Members

uLaBella Associates

uBarnes & Barnes Law Firm, P.C.

uAlabama Professional Services

uHeather Pierce, Realtor at RealtySouth

uJowTown Dryer Vent Cleaning Company

uAdobe Acrobat

uLonghorn Steakhouse

uFirst Command Financial Services, Inc.

uLOCKE General Contractors

uJanPro of Central AL

uLambert Moving Systems

uHiller Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and

uAlfa Insurance - The Brent Smith Agency

uSYNLawn Alabama

uTasteful Touch Catering

uAQUA Systems of Alabama

uJefferson Matthews Wealth Solutions

uDigital Motion Event Services

uFloor Coverings International

uBama Burgers

uThe Boss Company

uMagic City Title, Inc.

uSpa Works and Wellness

uBirmingham Modern Photos

uSteel City Production/Professional

uHuman Interest

uLittle Red Photo Booths

uNORI Hoover

uThe Hamrick Firm LLC

uCarol Glam Spa

uBoard in Birmingham

uMerchWrks LLC

uSweet Home Spirits

uDR. SWAG

uHomeworx Birmingham

uNora Mental Health

uCool Breeze, Inc.

uKnox Square Dental, LLC.

uHendrich & Truss, CPA

uBirmingham Legion FC

uCOOlogy

uUniversity of Montevallo

uIndependent Life Insurance Provider

uOrthosports Associates

2025 Board of Trustees

uABC 33/40 Television

uAir Experts

uAK & M Cleaning Services, LLC

uAlabama Credit Union - Hoover

uAlabama Heart & Vascular, P.C.

uAlabama State Senator Jabo Waggoner

uAlaTrust Credit Union

uAmerican Family Care - Cahaba Beach Road

uAmFirst-Downtown Birmingham

uAvadian Credit Union - Corporate

uBehavioral Health Systems, Inc.

uBenton Nissan of Hoover

uBirmingham Water Works

uBrightmark Health

uBrown Heating & Cooling

uCadence Bank - Hoover

uCahaba Dermatology & Skin Health Center, LLC

uCB&S Bank

uChildren’s of Alabama

uChris Dorris State Farm Insurance

uCostco Wholesale

uCommercial Construction and Maintenance Inc.

uExpress Oil Change/Tire Engineers -Corporate Offices

uGalactic Employer Services

uGoodwyn, Mills & Cawood, Inc.

uGrandview Medical Center

uINFINITI of Birmingham

uInnovative Fertility Specialists

uLonghorn Steakhouse

uLong-Lewis of Hoover

uMedical West Hospital

uMercedes Benz of Birmingham

uMillennial Bank

uNORI Hoover

uPoseidon Spa Mountain Brook

uRenaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa

uRevere Control Systems, Inc.

uRiverchase Galleria

uShelby Printing

uSignature Homes

uSomerby at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen

uSouth Haven Health & Rehabilitation Center

uSouthlake Orthopaedics Sports Medicine & Spine Center, P.C.

uSpringHill Suites by Marriott

uBirmingham Colonnade/Grandview

uStone Age Korean BBQ & Hot Pot

uT & C Construction

uTameron Honda

uTerracon Consultants, Inc.

uThe Noles Group

uTruewood by Merrill Gardens at Riverchase

uTurtle Creek Enterprises, LLC

uUnited Community Bank

uWallace, Jordan, Ratliff & Brandt, LLC

uWalk-On’s Sports Bistreaux - Tattersall

uWBRC Fox 6 Television

uWhataburger

Find Us Online

Happy Spring 2025

MOSS ROCK FESTIVAL

PHOTOS BY

ANNA GRACE MOORE

From Saturday, Nov. 2-Sunday, Nov. 3, the Moss Rock Festival took place at the Hoover Metropolitan Complex, featuring live music, art vendors, a beer garden and more.

1. Gracelynn’s Clay Flowers

2. Yanyan Chen and Khushi Patel

3. Lorri Kelly

4. The Zaveri family

5. Allie Smith and Sloan Miles

6. Glendinning Paul

7. Nuriyah, Ash, Electra and Khaleela

8. Brandon Blankenship

9. Ashton Huffstetler

10. Bianca Gedeon

11. Jena Momenee and Jeremiah Richey

HOOVER-RANDLE RIBBON CUTTING

On Thursday, Nov. 21, the city of Hoover held a ribbon cutting for the newly renovated Hoover-Randle Home & Gardens.

1. Thomas Hoover with Barbara and Edmond Randle alongside Frank Brocato

2. Adrian King and Jason Brown

3. Lynn Frazier, Anya Hall, Helen Hoover Holmes, Elizabeth Holmes and Peggy McCleskey

4. Ken Grimes and Thomas Hoover

5. Michelle Boykins

6. Betty Shannon, Patsy Swanson and Barbara Abbey

7. Melanie Posey and Andy Tatum

8. Shaun Paperd and Zac Ragland

9. Raina Valliani, Jennifer Cornett and Ava Stefano

10. Frank Brocato with Carolyn and Robert Kolar

PHOTOS BY ANNA GRACE MOORE

THE CITY OF HOOVER’S CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING

PHOTOS BY KELSEA SCHAFER

On Tuesday, Dec. 3 outside of Hoover City Hall, the city of Hoover held its annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony, featuring performances by Hoover City Schools’ students and visits from Santa Claus.

1. The Arora family

2. The Collins family

3. The Ling family

4. The Manzo family

5. Lindsey and Ainsley Baxley with Lindsey and Caroline Luke

6. The Senn family

7. The Shiloh and Gilbert families with Clare Huddleston

8. The Austin family

9. The Singleton family

10. Will Lochamy and Kelly Peoples

11. The Church family

12. The Steele family

JINGLE JAM

On Friday, Dec. 6 at Brock’s Gap Brewing Company, Morgan Family Charities held a benefit concert featuring Steve Moakler, helping raise funds for the Hope for Autumn Foundation.

1. Lance Witschy with Will and Jaime Jones

2. Stacy Hein and Donna Oswald

3. John and Clare Huddleston with Kristin and Chris Pederson

4. Sasha Ramini and Jarrod Morgan

5. Jake Dohmen and Shannon Bourn

6. Karen, Hannah and Jenna Grahn with Ava Jones and Olivia Grace Phillips

7. Heidi Morgan, Amy Bowen and Amanda Morgan

8. Tim and Emily Pennington with Jeff and Julia Pelton alongside Tony and Bethany David

9. Rachelle Brown, Tyler Vacha and Tarium Taylor

10. Lance Witschy and Sasha Ramini

PHOTOS BY ANNA GRACE MOORE

PRE-CHANUKAH FAIR & MENORAH LIGHTING

PHOTOS BY ANNA GRACE MOORE

On Thursday, Dec. 26 at the Hoover Public Library, Chabad of Alabama held a family-friendly fair for attendees to participate in Hanukkah events and activities followed by the lighting of a giant menorah to mark the second night of Hanukkah.

1. Camp Gan Israel Winter Camp Staff

2. Kirby Henderson and Lana Neufeld

3. John Lyda, Frank Brocato, Amanda Borden, Steve McClinton and Levi Weinbaum

4. Nathan and David McDonald

5. Kristie Calvin

6. The Schaeffer and Kaplan families

7. Joshua and Lilah Kate Rutsky

8. The Coetzee family

9. The Asedo family

10. Asher, Chava and Ember Usher

HOOVER CHOIR SPIRIT NIGHT

PHOTOS BY KELSEA SCHAFER

On Tuesday, Jan. 28 at Beef ‘O’ Brady’s at The Grove, Hoover High School choir students serenaded audiences at the restaurant, fundraising for their choir programs.

1. A’Neal Sparks and Carys Chambers

2. Carys, Morgan, Riley, Jordan, Maddie, Linley and Evie

3. Ava and Piper

4. The Finner family

5. Kade Keenan

6. Linley Gray and Jordan Perry

7. A’Neal Sparks and Jordan Perry

8. Grant Patterson and Madi Faucett

9. Morgan Kimble, Grayson Thompson and Maddie Hooker

10. The Kimble family

11. Molly Vann and Evie Cagle

Marketplace

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Shelby County Schools

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University Baptist CDC

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Multiple Full-time positions for Personal Care Aides in BIRMINGHAM, AL is immediately available. Provide personalized assistance to individuals

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Now Hiring! Termite Treaters and Inspectors

Work with a great local company, in business for over 50 years. BC/ BS insurance, 401k, opportunities available. No experience required Must have a good driving record and be able to pass drug screen. Email to facsmith@charter.net or call 205-369-6250 Vulcan Termite and Pest Control

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MY HOOVER

LESLIE HOLLINGSWORTH

Founder of Leslie Hollingsworth Photography

Making Memories

The Riverchase Galleria

Even though there has been a lot of changes to the Riverchase Galleria, I will always remember taking my kids there on the day after Thanksgiving! Going there on Black Friday was always a great way to get everyone in the Christmas spirit. Even though my kids are now grown, I still go with my mom and sisters every year.

Fellowship in Community

Hoover

High School

Any event put on by Hoover High School has such a great atmosphere. Whether it’s football games, lacrosse games, homecoming parades or more, they all bring the community together with amazing school spirit and support for our kids.

Eat Local Farrelly’s & Tre Luna

One of my favorites would have to be Farrelly’s Southern Bar & Kitchen, which is owned by the wonderful George and Eileen McCluney. My favorite dish there has to be the grilled salmon, and they have the best cocktails, too. Tre Luna Bar & Kitchen is also another favorite—you have to try their smoked wings! They will literally melt in your mouth. I also love their outdoor patio, which is great for Happy Hour.

Sentimental Spots

Hunter Street Baptist Church

This congregation is a huge part of the Hoover community, and I have been going there since 1994! I have watched my kids grow up there, and I have been in my women’s small group for 18 years. This is such a welcoming place that teaches God’s word, and I’m very thankful for my church family.

Get Outdoors

Moss Rock Preserve Hoover’s best outdoor spot has to be Moss Rock preserve. I have lots of memories hiking there with my kids along with our two dogs. Also, as a photographer, it is a great place to go for a senior session or an engagement session—just be sure to bring your hiking shoes!