Hoover's Magazine, Spring 2024

A R E Y O U A B R I D E - T O - B E D R E A M I N G O F T H A T F L A W L E S S W E D D I N G D A Y G L O W ?

M A N Y B R I D E S C O N S I D E R P R E - W E D D I N G C O S M E T I C P R O C E D U R E S T O E N H A N C E T H E I R N A T U R A L

B E A U T Y A N D F E E L T H E I R B E S T A S T H E Y W A L K D O W N T H E A I S L E . H O W E V E R , P L A N N I N G A H E A D

I S K E Y T O A C H I E V I N G O P T I M A L R E S U L T S . H E R E ' S A G U I D E T O S O M E O F T H E M O S T S O U G H TA F T E R P R E - W E D D I N G C O S M E T I C P R O C E D U R E S A N D T H E R E C O M M E N D E D L E A D T I M E S F O R

B R I D E S T O C O N S I D E R

2 - 6 M O N T H S B E F O R E : C O S M E T I C F A C I A L P L A S T I C S U R G E R Y

M O D E R N A D V A N C E M E N T S I N F A C I A L P L A S T I C S U R G E R Y O F F E R B R I D E S T H E O P P O R T U N I T Y F O R

S U B T L E , N A T U R A L E N H A N C E M E N T S W I T H M I N I M A L D O W N T I M E .

R H I N O P L A S T Y , C O M M O N L Y K N O W N A S A " N O S E J O B , " A L L O W S F O R R E S H A P I N G T H E N O S E

F O R A M O R E R E F I N E D A P P E A R A N C E E X P E C T A S O C I A L D O W N T I M E O F 1 - 2 W E E K S , W I T H

F I N A L R E S U L T S B E C O M I N G A P P A R E N T I N A T L E A S T 6 M O N T H S .

B R I D E S D E S I R I N G A S L I M M E R F A C I A L P R O F I L E C A N C O N S I D E R I N - O F F I C E P R O C E D U R E S

S U C H A S B U C C A L F A T P A D R E M O V A L , C H I N A U G M E N T A T I O N , A N D N E C K L I P O S U C T I O N .

F I N A L R E S U L T S T Y P I C A L L Y M A N I F E S T W I T H I N 2 - 4 M O N T H S

F O R M O T H E R S - O F - T H E - B R I D E S :

A F A C E L I F T / N E C K L I F T O F F E R S A G O L D S T A N D A R D S O L U T I O N F O R R E S T O R I N G

Y O U T H F U L N E S S T O T H E F A C E , W I T H R E S U L T S B E C O M I N G E V I D E N T A F T E R 4 M O N T H S .

B L E P H A R O P L A S T Y ( E Y E L I D L I F T ) R E J U V E N A T E S T H E E Y E S Q U I C K L Y A N D E F F E C T I V E L Y , W H I L E

A N E N D O S C O P I C B R O W L I F T C O M P L E M E N T S T H I S P R O C E D U R E F O R C O M P R E H E N S I V E E Y E

R E J U V E N A T I O N F I N A L R E S U L T S A R E N O T I C E A B L E W I T H I N 2 M O N T H S

5 M O N T H S B E F O R E : B O T O X A N D F A C I A L F I L L E R S

I N J E C T A B L E T R E A T M E N T S L I K E B O T O X A N D D E R M A L F I L L E R S A R E P O P U L A R A M O N G B R I D E S

A N D T H E I R B R I D A L P A R T I E S F O R T H E I R A B I L I T Y T O R E S T O R E V O L U M E A N D S O F T E N W R I N K L E S

W I T H M I N I M A L D O W N T I M E U N D E R G O I N G T H E S E P R O C E D U R E S 5 M O N T H S B E F O R E Y O U R

W E D D I N G A L L O W S T I M E F O R A D J U S T M E N T S A N D E N S U R E S P R E D I C T A B I L I T Y F O R F O L L O W - U P

T R E A T M E N T S 2 M O N T H S P R I O R T O T H E B I G D A Y .

3 M O N T H S B E F O R E : S K I N R E S U R F A C I N G W I T

C O 2 L A S E R S K I N R E S U R F A C I N G I S A N E F F E C T

T O N E , A N D D I S C O L O R A T I O N P R E P A R I N G T H

W E E K S P R I O R O P T I M I Z E S R E S U L T S A N D E N H

S E E N W I T H I N 1 - 2 M O N T H S P O S T - T R E A T M E N

O V E R A L L , T H E K E Y T O L O O K I N G Y O U R B E S T I S T O G E T

S T A R T E D E A R L Y A N D M E E T W I T H A N E X P E R T W H O C A N

F O R M U L A T E A C U S T O M I Z E D T R E A T M E N T P L A N T H A T M E E T S

Y O U R N E E D S C O N G R A T U L A T I O N S O N Y O U R U P C O M I N G

W E D D I N G !

R A G G I O M D F A C I A L P L A S T I C S U R G E R Y

B I R M I N G H A M , A L

6 5 9 - 2 7 2 - 0 0 9 2

W W W . R A G G I O M D . C O M

I G : D R B L A K E R A G G I O

13

PHOTO BY DAWN HARRISON

contributors

EDITORIAL

Anna Grace Moore

Donald Mottern

Andrew Simonson

Noah Wortham

CONTRIBUTORS

Stephanie Beaver

James Culver

Rachel Culver

Lauren Dowdle

Dawn Harrison

Eric and Jamie Photography

Jana Musselwhite Photography

Katie and Alec Photography

Kayleigh Grace Photography

Kristen Pugh Photography

Red Magnolia Photography

Christiana Roussel

Kelsea Schafer

AL Weddings

DESIGN

Sydney Allen

Jamie Dawkins

Rowan Futrell

Connor Martin-Lively

MARKETING

Michaela Bankston

Octavia Campbell

Evann Campbell

Kari George

Rachel Henderson

Rhett McCreight

Lauren Morris

Viridiana Romero

Tori Montjoy Smith ADMINISTRATION

Mary Jo Eskridge

Alec Etheredge

Stacey Meadows

Kayla 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.

Kristen Pugh, Photographer

Born and raised in Birmingham, Kristen is dedicated to making a couple’s wedding day extraordinary. She takes pride in serving her brides with genuine enthusiasm and attention to detail, preserving the traditional values and sophistication of a wedding day. From the initial consultation to the final shot, her goal is to ensure they feel supported, comfortable and cherished. When not shooting weddings, she loves to spend time with her husband of five years, John, their adorable 2.5-year-old, Charlie, and two dogs. You can follow her on Instagram or Facebook @kristenpughphotography.

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.

AL Weddings, Photographers

Wedding photographers and cinematographers Alex and Sara Lucas believe memories should be captured by a warm, caring team through impeccable imagery and storied cinema. They expertly capture the essence of enduring love in each artistic representation of their clients’ relationships. They believe in honoring commitments, cherishing friendships and family, all while providing encouragement for personal growth. Learn more about AL Weddings at alweddingsllc.com.

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.

from the editor

ON THE COVER

Amber & Braylon

Amber and Braylon’s story began when they met as sixth graders in choir class. Nearly a decade later, they tied the knot.

Photo by Eric and Jamie Photography Design by Rowan Futrell

AAdventure is the path of which love blooms between two aspiring souls. No trope chronicles the bond between two soulmates more than love stories. Justin and my love story began when we met through my cousin, Bobby, at the beach and strengthened as we welcomed our sweet son, Jacob, into the world several years later.

Nine months after Jacob’s arrival, Justin and I journeyed to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, with my family to honor my late father’s memory and scatter his ashes in the city he loved so much. Ironically, this happened to be the second year in a row that my family embarked on this trip to honor my father while also having forgotten to bring my “father” along.

About two hours into our five-hour-long trip, my mother realized we left my father–again–and quickly thought of a coverup story. She asked Justin when he was planning to propose. Keep in mind, my mother is as straightforward as the stairwell to heaven. Justin, however, came prepared with the ring he secretly purchased several months earlier and took this trip as an opportunity to open a new chapter in our lives.

My mother, my sister, my Aunt Mary Catherine “MC,” Jacob, Justin and I on our trip decided to venture up to the top of Anakeesta–one of the tallest points in the city–to admire the view. Several hours of raging postpartum mood swings and hot flashes later, I decided I was done for the day and was going back to the cabin.

Without missing a beat, Aunt MC told me she was going to buy me new shoes, so that my feet wouldn’t hurt, and I would continue the hike. Before I could object, she sprinted to the nearest boutique and bought the first pair of cute flats she could find. Sheepishly, I thanked her graciously and wore my new shoes the rest of the trip.

When we finally arrived at Heart Twigloo at Vista Gardens, I actually said, “Hey, this would be a great place to propose.” Little did I know how accurate I actually was. Justin and I waited our turn to get a picture taken and right as I turned to look at the view, he dropped to one knee and asked me the question I’d dreamt of hearing most all of my life.

Saying I was shocked would have been the understatement of the decade. I was so surprised and happy that when I finally blurted out my answer, I accidentally gave my right hand instead of my left for Justin to slide my “ring by spring” onto my finger. This proposal that my family all helped pull off will forever be my second favorite surprise–only after my tiny, blond-haired little boy, who is currently singing a remix of “Old MacDonald Had a Farm” and “Jesus Loves Me” as I’m writing to you all.

In this issue, you all will read about Hoover’s Magazine’s 10 featured couples and their love stories. No matter how intricate or cliché, each story is unique, and what I hope will renew in you all a fondness for adventuring in love. Love on, readers!

@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.

@apricotlanehoover

Are you ready for Valentine’s Day? Come check out our new arrivals, with more to follow!

@kelsea.schafer.photos

Capturing the intensity and spirit of wrestling as @spainparkwrestling hosts @hewittwrestling tonight! Moments frozen in time, passion in every frame.

@jeffstatecollege

Today the 10th anniversary of the beginning of #snowmageddon. On that day, Jeff State sheltered many who were stranded. Our staff served food and helped make everyone comfortable.

@soireeeventgallery

Say “I do” at Soirée Event Gallery in Hoover, Alabama! We have two separate modern ballrooms, bridal and groom suites, built-in bars, chandeliers, and so much more. We would love to be your wedding venue!

” “THE QUESTION

How did your spouse propose?

At Six Flags with the cartoonist that draws you. When she turned it around, it said, “Will you marry me, Sassy Pants?”

-Kelli Whisenant

At our church—the aisle was covered in candles and rose petals. The stage had a photo collage of us throughout the years, and he made a playlist of our favorite songs.

-Rachel Owens Knain

2001–Valentine’s Day at Star Lake.

-Heather Jones Skaggs

He made me a book with the words, “I love you.” I knew he was about to propose because he said earlier on that the next time he tells someone he loves them, he would propose.

-Gina Brocato Harris

After only 18 days of dating, he made reservations at a restaurant at the top of Reunion Tower. After dinner, the cake was brought out with the ring on top, and he proposed!

-Karen Nettles Sager

On April 28, 1996, we drove to Stone Mountain for the day to go hiking. We finally made it to the top, and as we were admiring the view, he pulled out the ring.

-Chris Croft Lawley

He took me to my favorite garden area and gave me a football jersey with his last name on it. He said, “If you marry me, it will be your last name,” and he dropped to one knee and proposed!

-Jennifer Yun Thomas

On a bench in Linn Park–1971.

-Pam Holcombe Thompson

TASTE OF TEAL GALA MARCH

2

6 P.M.

Hyatt Regency - The Wynfrey Hotel

The Laura Crandall Brown Foundation will host the annual Taste of Teal Gala, honoring 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. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit thinkoflaura.org/tasteofteal.

THE GUIDE

APRIL 19

Denim and Dining

6-10 P.M.

Aldridge Gardens Pavilion

Save the date for the Hoover City Schools Foundation’s Denim and Dining fundraiser! This event features live music, both live and silent auctions and a catered dinner from Jim ‘N Nicks, too. Proceeds benefit Hoover’s 17 schools and nearly 14,000 students. For more information, visit hoovercsf.org.

APRIL 27

Celebrate Hoover Day

11 A.M.-3 P.M.

Veterans Park

Drawing more than 10,000 residents each year, Celebrate Hoover Day is back again this spring and will feature live music, a kids’ zone,

family-friendly games and activities, food vendors and more. Be on the lookout for a petting zoo, carnival rides and a car show, too! This event is free and open to the public. Visit hooveral.org/366/celebrate-hooverday for more information.

SATURDAYS THROUGHOUT THE SPRING

The Market at Brock’s Gap

Brock’s Gap Brewing Company

MARCH 2

The Exceptional Foundation’s 20th Annual Chili Cook-Off Brookwood Village

MARCH 9

Oak Mountain Color Run

Oak Mountain State Park

MARCH 9

Village2Village 10K/7.5K 2525 Lane Park Road

MARCH 9

Spring Farmers Market

Ross Bridge Farmers Market 2101 Grand Avenue

MARCH 13

Fall Out Boy with Jimmy Eat World

Presented by Legacy Arena

MARCH 16

The Bell Center 5K 1700 29th Court South

MARCH 16

Judy M. Merritt Memorial 5K & Family Fun Day

Veterans Park 4800 Valleydale Road

MARCH 22-23

Zach Bryan

Presented by Legacy Arena

MARCH 23

Rumpshaker 5K

Regions Field 1401 1st Avenue South

MARCH 27

Drake

Presented by Legacy Arena

APRIL 5-21

“Sister Act”

Presented by Red Mountain Theatre

APRIL 11-13

Spring Plant Sale Birmingham Botanical Gardens

APRIL 11-21

“Schoolhouse Rock Live!”

Presented by Virginia Samford Theatre

APRIL 13

Episcopal Place Gumbo Gala Ghost Train Brewing Co.

APRIL 13

Red Shoe Run: Rockin’ 5K 1700 4th Avenue South

APRIL 19-20

Gardendale Magnolia Festival Gardendale Civic Center Complex

APRIL 20

Magic City Mimosa Festival Sloss Furnaces

APRIL 20

Bob Sykes BBQ & Blues Festival DeBardeleben Park 1623 2nd Avenue North

APRIL 20

Mutt Strut 2024

Homewood Central Park

APRIL 26-28

Magic City Art Connection Sloss Furnaces

APRIL 26-28

Children’s of Alabama Indy Grand Prix Barber Motorsports Park

APRIL 27

Girls on the Run Birmingham 5K Tutu Run Patriot Park 710 Oak Grove Road

MAY 4

We Love Homewood Day 5K & Festival

Homewood Central Park

MAY 4

Art in the Lot

Trinity United Methodist Church

MAY 8-12

Regions Tradition

Greystone Golf and Country Club

Each year PGA Tour Champion players and World Golf Hall of Fame members compete not just for fame and glory, but also to raise money for the Regions Tradition’s primary

MAY 21-26

SEC Baseball Tournament

The Hoover Metropolitan Complex

The Hoover Met will host the 2024 SEC Baseball Tournament, which features 12 teams of which seeds 5-12 will play in a singleelimination format to open the tournament. Teams moving forward will then play in a doubleelimination format WednesdayFriday, semifinals on Saturday and the SEC Championship on Sunday. For more information, visit secticketoffice.com, and click on 2024 SEC Baseball Tournament.

beneficiary, Children’s of Alabama. Since the tournament’s early beginnings in 1992, this annual competition has raised more than $21 million for charity. To learn more information or to purchase tickets, visit regionstradition.com.

ARTS CULTURE&

FIRED UP

Vivid colors, designs and textures continue to be local artist Toby Klein’s signature style.

BY LAUREN H. DOWDLE

PHOTOS BY JAMES AND RACHEL CULVER

AArtist Toby Klein may have traded in her paint for a kiln, but the results remain the same: stunning artwork that stands out from the rest.

A Hoover resident for more than four decades, Toby made a name for herself as a mixed-media artist, winning awards and showcasing her pieces at art shows across town and beyond. Now, she’s creating kiln-formed glass artwork that feels both new and familiar, thanks to her distinctive artistic style that carries over to all she does.

“The thought process and stages of working between my mixed-media collage pieces and kilnformed glass are similar; although, one uses paper and paint products, and the other uses multiple colors of glass to create the piece of art,” Toby says.

Her glass pieces range from bowls and vases to wall hangings and more. While no two are exactly the same, her kiln-formed artwork highlights a beautiful range of colors and dimension.

“All of my work is an adventure, beginning with an idea and then working through each phase to completion,” Toby says. “My glass is created with a burst of colors and design captured in my kaleidoscopic world.”

While her current artwork might look very different from the ones she created in the past, it’s been a natural progression to this point in her artistic career, she says. Having always been intrigued by the natural vibrancy of glass and the beautiful reflections it creates, Toby says she originally began adding pieces of glass to her mixedmedia work before making the switch.

“I’ve loved the radiance of glass for many years and the way it glows and shines on a table in the light,” Toby says.

As she started learning about and using kilnformed glass, she incorporated the fused glass into her collage art, as well. She found herself wanting to create larger pieces of glass, and when the pandemic hit, she says it was the perfect time to change the direction of her art.

“I’m always interested in learning more, but during COVID is when I really made the change to

I want to evoke an emotional response for those viewing my glass.

-Toby Klein

glass,” Toby says. “I had taken some classes locally to get more information and began experimenting with different techniques.”

Like with any trade, there’s trial and error involved with figuring out what works best. Although, Toby says she’s never afraid to try something new—which is one of the reasons her pieces are such standouts.

“The journey begins by creating color, depth and texture by overlapping pieces of glass with abstract shapes—many times leaving spaces in between to create rich hues, design and dimension,” Toby says.

For her pieces, she uses special glass that’s made for fusing and says that incorporating dichroic glass gives her projects that special sparkle. Once she’s selected the type and color of glass to use, she cuts and works with it to prepare the piece for the kiln. She says she spends a great deal of time creating these original pieces.

“They are designed to have dimensional thickness with the way the pieces alternate in depth,” Toby says. “Special schedules and multiple firings create the smoothness of the glass, yet it retains the texture and shape of the final piece.”

Her process, like with each piece she creates, has several steps and layers involved to bring the glass closer to the desired result. One part of that is the molds she incorporates. Toby uses handmade, purchased and manipulated molds in a process called slumping to create her glass pieces. That takes place during a separate firing of the item, and the glass is slumped into or over the mold to create its shape.

“The addition of a copper or bronze wire design that’s intertwined with the glass is sometimes used to complete the overall effect as well,” Toby says. “Each piece is individually designed and handcrafted by me.”

She also follows the same process she uses on her kiln-formed glass pieces on a smaller scale to create her original jewelry designs. But no matter what it is she’s creating, it’s uniquely her work.

“Understanding color, design and technique has allowed me to experiment with glass, developing my own style in creating

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

Congratulations Greenvale Pediatrics – Hoover named Best Pediatric Practice by Hoover Magazine readers.

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different and unusual pieces,” Toby says. “My kiln-formed glass shows my love for color, depth and texture.”

Those aren’t the only things she loves, though. While she primarily focuses on her glass work these days, she says her other artwork still has a special place in her heart—and that isn’t going to change.

“Even though I enjoy the process of creating with glass, I still love my mixed-media collage work and sometimes will stop and take time to create some small pieces,” Toby says.

As both new and existing customers begin seeing and experiencing her glass pieces, she says she hopes they enjoy them as much as she does.

“It makes me feel good when they walk in and love all of the colors and sparkle of the glass,” Toby says.

Whether they stop by a booth of hers at a local art show (read more about those in the sidebar) or reach out to her about her pieces, community members are sure to be inspired when they see Toby’s kiln-formed glass artwork.

“I want to evoke an emotional response for those viewing my glass,” Toby says. “I really appreciate their excitement shown over the vibrant colors and their reflection, the style and shape of each piece, recognizing the work that has gone into creating them.”

To contact her about a piece or be added to her email list, email her at toby@tobykleinart.com.

Where to Spot

Toby’s Artwork

April 13-14

Patton Creek Art Festival at the old Christmas Tree Shop

May 4

Mountain Brook Art Association’s art show at Mountain Brook City Hall

Oct. 5

Bluff Park Art Show at Bluff Park Community Park

Nov. 9-10

Alabama Craft Guild’s fine craft show at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens

Dec. 14-15

Blue Light Special Art Show at Cahaba Clayworks and Earthborn Studios

Various dates

The Farmers Market at Pepper Place

Wellness Programming

The Hoover Board of Education is committed to a wellness initiative that takes a comprehensive approach to wellness for students and staff in the Hoover City Schools system. Aldridge Gardens is a tremendous resource of wellness programming, and we will be previewing some of that programming this spring in the way of walking

meditations and guided breathwork sessions. These programs will begin to pop up on the calendar in the spring, and all field trip and summer camp attendees will receive promotional material highlighting these kinds of programs as a means for their schools to check boxes on applications for federal funding in the future.

Summer Camps

Summer Camp registration is now open. We will host four week-long sessions spanning the month of June. Our camps will be a blend of themes that have been successful in the past and a preview of good things coming in the future.

Field Trips

It’s that time of year again! Aldridge Gardens will be hosting field trips throughout the spring for elementary schools in and around Hoover. We are quickly approaching a full calendar of field trips featuring habitat hikes, plant identification, soils, worms, bees and more! If you are a teacher or know one who might be interested in setting up a field trip for a class, contact aldridgegardens@hooveralabama.gov.

Education and Volunteer Outreach Coordinator

Parks and recreation is currently seeking applicants for the part-time position of education and volunteer outreach coordinator. This position will be based at Aldridge Gardens and will focus primarily on developing and

executing the programming outlined above, as well as recruiting and supporting the volunteers who provide the wide variety of programs available at Aldridge Gardens throughout the year.

Weddings

With multiple areas to choose from for a wedding, Aldridge Gardens is the perfect backdrop for your upcoming wedding.

LOVE IS IN THE AIR

Librarians share their reasons the Hoover Public Library has a special place in their hearts.

BY CONTRIBUTING LIBRARIANS

PHOTO BY THE HOOVER PUBLIC LIBRARY

Vishal | Circulation

My relationship with the Hoover Public Library is a cherished love affair that has grown over the years. As someone who didn’t speak English when coming to America in 1995, the library has been my sanctuary for language exploration and enhancement. It’s where I’ve delved into a diverse range of books and resources, and it has provided a nurturing environment for my growth. Furthermore, working at the library has deepened my affection. It’s allowed me to not only feed my own love for books, but also to share that passion with others, particularly ESL learners. Assisting them in their literary journeys has been immensely rewarding.

Anissa | Nonfiction

My love language is officially books. Whether through the careful selection of a gift or the shared experience of reading, books can serve as a beautiful expression of love and connection between individuals. That’s why I have the best job in the world. The only problem with library books is that you must return them. The Friends of the Hoover Library offer four book sales a year, where you can shop to your heart’s content, not putting a dent in your wallet. The absolute best part is you get to keep the books! Most items are sold for $2, and many are in like-new condition. Come and see us at the next book sale, and we will help you make a love connection with a great book (or two).

Wendy | Marketing

You may have heard about the Hoover Library’s newest employee, Libby. She is a facility dog, which is a working dog specifically trained to help more than one person in a facility like our library. Unlike assistance dogs that serve one person, professionally trained facility dogs work with a handler to serve multiple people, who need social interaction, recovery motivation, comfort and/or a feeling of safety. My job and life changed the moment Libby

came into it. I fell instantly in love with this beautiful, brown-eyed dog the moment I met her. I just hoped she’d return the affection. It was slow going and stressful at times, but we bonded in all the best ways. Now, she’s my little shadow. I love Libby’s big heart, and I am so thrilled she has come into my life. She’s not a real job. She’s a best friend on the job that I get to share with others.

Alyssa | Childrens

My biggest “love connection” at the library was definitely when my husband proposed to me while I was doing PJ storytime. But in terms of loving my work, storytime and creating theatre performances for young audiences top the list of things I love doing because they combine my two favorite things–the performing arts and getting to collaborate with my wonderful coworkers.

Steve | Childrens

I have lived in Hoover for 36 years. I have grown up here, gone to school here and worked here. Having worked with the wrestling team at Hoover High School for 20 years and the Hoover Public Library for 26 years, I can say that Hoover is a great place to experience all that life has to offer. Our schools offer a top-notch variety of programs such as athletics, education and the arts. The SEC Baseball Tournament, Celebrate Hoover Day and many more annual events are waiting for you to take part. I am proud to say that Hoover has been my home, and I look forward to what the next 50 years will bring.

READ THIS BOOK

Romantic Reads

Recommendations from Stephanie Beaver Librarian at the Hoover Public Library

Meet Me in the Margins

By Melissa Ferguson | Romance

Stephanie Beaver is a librarian who has worked in the fiction department at the Hoover Public Library for the past 10 years. While her specific collection responsibilities have earned her the title of “romance librarian” from her colleagues, she has a wide range of reading interests from historical fiction, mystery, fantasy, memoirs and narrative nonfiction. Here are five of her favorite romantic reads.

Savannah Cade has a secret. By day, she works as an editor for a publishing house that looks down on popular fiction. In her spare time, she is also an aspiring romance author. After a mishap at a staff meeting leads her to stash her manuscript in a hidden reading room, she returns, horrified, to find edits in the margins. What we know and she doesn’t is that the romance-hating CEO’s son and the company’s newest dreamboat editor is the one exchanging notes that might just lead to a happily-ever-after on and off the page.

Thank You for Listening

By Julia Whelan | Romance

Despite a successful career narrating romance audiobooks, Sewanee Chester doesn’t believe in happily-everafter, especially not for herself. A disfiguring accident ruined both her film career and her self-confidence, and apart from an uncharacteristic one-night-stand at a book convention, love is a dream long dead. Enter pseudonymous Brock McKnight, the reclusive fellow voice actor set to co-narrate her next job. As the professional relationship they build through texts turns personal, will they be willing to shed their anonymity and risk something real?

Seven Days in June

By Tia Williams | Romance

Fifteen years after a brief but intense love affair, authors Eva Mercy and Shane Hall find themselves face-toface on a panel at a literary festival, and everyone can sense the sparks flying between them. Alternating between past and present, we see their adult lives unfold as they are forever changed by the one dramatic week they spent together in their teens that ended in Shane abandoning Eva without warning or explanation. More than just a love story, the novel tackles weighty topics like addiction, abuse, single-motherhood and chronic illness that is not for the faint of heart.

The Banned Bookshop of Maggie Banks

By Shauna Robinson | Romance

Agreeing to a temporary gig running her friend’s bookstore, Maggie Banks is unprepared for the store’s one quirky rule: Only sell books written during the lifetime of the town’s literary star, Edward Bell. Unsurprisingly, the store is on shaky financial ground, and Maggie decides to ignore the rules and sell modern books through an underground book club. Hijinks ensue as she tries to keep her activities secret from the town’s austere literary society, especially Malcolm, who might not be the judgmental literary snob she originally suspected. Rounded out with a cast of lovable small-town characters, you, too, will want to visit Bell River and stay a while.

Possession

By A.S. Byatt | Romance

Academics studying the famously reclusive Victorian poets, Randolph Henry Ash and Christobel LaMotte, discover a trove of letters that suggest a heretofore unknown love affair. A parallel romance unfolds between the fictitious poets and their modern researchers that is rivaled only by the more lofty romance that exists between readers and the written word. Winner of the Booker Prize, this intensely readable, engrossing novel is one you will want to read again and again.

FOOD DRINK&

KOLOSSAL DECADENCE

Championing signature milkshakes, K&J’s Elegant Pastries leads the state in confectionery delight.

BY ANNA GRACE MOORE

PHOTOS BY KELSEA SCHAFER & DAWN HARRISON

WWhile the scorching July sun beats down on furrowed brows, moms and dads struggle to grasp their little ones’ hands, wriggling to get free from their parents’ tight holds. The two-by-two parade–a standstill only moving inches an hour–has now wrapped nearly twice around the mom-and-pop bakery, K&J’s Elegant Pastries.

Inside, co-owner and chef Kristal Bryant scrambles to prepare for the influx of hungry bellies outside her front door. Finally, the clock’s hand points to 10 a.m., and the floodgates open with swarms of customers pouring in, breathing in gusts of blissful decadence.

Delightful squeals warm the ambiance of the bakery as children catch a glimpse of the cotton candy kolossal milkshake, whose cerulean blue and bubblegum pink cotton candy puffs tower over the brim-filled mug. Hours pass like minutes at K&J’s, as Kristal works diligently to ice every cake and frost every shake.

Boasting more than 35,000 Instagram followers, K&J’s has attracted media attention from “Southern Living,” AL.com, “Birmingham Magazine,” “Shelby Living” and more, as the business sees thousands of customers a year. The signature “kolossal” shakes–some reaching more than a foot tall–have become a staple in Alabama and have even been featured on “Good Morning America,” “The Travel Channel,” “Food Network” and “Pickler and Ben.”

Kristal says she’s even had customers drive up to five hours simply to taste one of her “kolossal” shakes.

“Being a part of lifelong memories for families is one of the things that I love the most about this job,” Kristal says.

The Birmingham native says she first learned she wanted to become a chef at only 14 years old. Kristal grew up infatuated with painting, and her interest peaked when she learned how to channel her artistic endeavors into cooking.

Baker’s Choice

Red Velvet Ice Cream Shake

Red velvet cheesecake, chocolate syrup and red velvet Oreos

Ultimate Oreo Cheesecake Shake Cookies and cream ice cream, Oreos, cheesecake, whipped cream and hot fudge

Strawberry Shortcake Cookie Stack

Strawberry-flavored cookies, strawberry ice cream, strawberry shortcake, strawberries and whipped cream

Sweet Potato Cheesecake Cupcakes

Sweet potato-flavored cupcakes with brown sugar cream cheese frosting

After graduating, Kristal attended Virginia College Culinard in Birmingham, Alabama, where she studied the art of savories and flavor profiles. Her first job out of school was actually at The Cheesecake Factory, and although Kristal enjoyed working on the line, she says creating the same meals repeatedly did not yield much room for creativity.

To expand her repertoire, Kristal began baking cakes out of her home for her family and friends. She says she enjoyed being able to express herself artistically while also being a homemaker.

Unfortunately, a disgruntled customer complained, forcing Kristal to move her business into a storefront, which is how the first-ever K&J’s Elegant Pastries location opened on Kent Dairy Road in Alabaster in 2013.

“It actually ended up being a huge blessing for me because I feel like I was complacent with making cakes at home,” Kristal says. “Our first store was really small. We didn’t have any seating. It was a pickup bakery, where you could pick up cupcakes on display.”

As time progressed, Kristal toyed with the menu, adding ice cream and milkshakes. When she first started making cakes, she made standard, round cakes–usually chocolate cakes with strawberries on top.

K&J’s started gaining popularity, enabling Kristal to expand the business in 2017 to its former location on 236 First Street South in Alabaster. The business saw thousands of customers a year–sometimes hundreds a day–as people from across the Southeast came to sample the famous kolossal shakes.

“The first milkshakes that we made were the strawberry shortcake crunch,” Kristal says. “I took things I loved and created the shake. I illustrated them all on paper, and then once we got ice cream, we made them come to life.”

To create the kolossal shakes, Kristal will envision what she wants each shake to look like–from the colors to the texture to the types of candy, chocolate, cupcakes or cotton candy garnishing the top. The more color, the better.

Strawberry shortcake happened to be Kristal’s mother’s favorite popsicle flavor when she was growing up. Kristal took the flavor profiles and created a shake in honor of her mom, and now, K&J’s sports 15 different milkshake flavors.

“You eat with your eyes, so you want your food to look good and taste good, too,” Kristal says.

Just as business was picking up, March 13, 2020, happened, and K&J’s was forced to close its doors for several weeks, only to be restricted to curbside orders during the following months. While Kristal says they initially struggled to stay afloat, the generosity of the Alabaster community helped them to stay open until they eventually outgrew the space.

27th YEAR

Kristal made the tough decision to close the Alabaster location and relocate K&J’s to one of its current locations at 2260 Ninth Avenue North in downtown Birmingham in 2022. She says the hardest part about moving was that her business got its start in Alabaster.

Although, this bittersweet feeling did not last for long. When Dreamcakes Bakery closed its doors in Ross Bridge, Kristal saw the perfect opportunity to expand yet again–opening another location this time in Hoover.

On Dec. 22, 2022, K&J’s opened at 3601 Market Street Suite 101 in Ross Bridge, welcoming more than 100 customers on its first day.

“We’re so excited to serve Hoover,” Kristal says. “Everybody has been so nice. I want to thank all of our supporters over the last 10 years. We really appreciate all of them.”

Looking at the menu, both newcomers and longtime customers will be delighted to see that K&J’s now offers more than 50 different cake flavors and 100 different cupcake flavors. The bakery also sells cookies, pound cake, cinnamon rolls and readily available cakes, ready for pickup any time of day.

Ironically, Kristal says she has never taken a cake course, but using her culinary knowledge, she was able to venture into the wedding industry years ago. Now, K&J’s churns out more than 1,500 wedding and birthday cakes a year.

While the kolossal shakes may have made K&J’s famous, Kristal says her true love is baking wedding cakes. Some cakes she can spend a week or more on, drawing out the design, size and scale before combining flavor profiles to create a savory work of art.

The largest cake she ever made was for a wedding of 500 people. The 12-tier wedding cake weighed close to 50 pounds and flaunted 4,000 sugar flowers, requiring Kristal to stand on a ladder to stack the cake.

Another event Kristal loved catering was American rapper Da Brat’s baby shower in Atlanta in May 2023. Kristal designed and built a 20-by-15-foot wall of banana-based desserts and decorations, including chocolate-dipped bananas, banana pudding shooters, banana cupcakes and more for the Minions-themed baby shower.

“My mind is always thinking about what we can do next–what can be the next big thing,” Kristal says.

No matter the occasion or the dream, Kristal can bring her customers’ desires to fruition. She says she never would have thought her business would grow to the following it has today.

Because of her customers, however, she’s been able to challenge herself to grow and accomplish her dreams–ones she hopes taste just as sweet to her customers within every bite.

K&J’s Elegant Pastries is located at 3601 Market Street, Suite 101, in Hoover. K&J’s is open Tuesday-Friday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and on Saturday from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Visit kjselegantpastries.com for a full menu.

Bonita Riddle

Manager of the I Heart Mac and Cheese Hoover Franchise

PHOTO BY I HEART MAC AND CHEESE

Miami-based chef Michael Blum came up with the concept of building your own mac and cheese. The first I Heart Mac and Cheese restaurant was conceived in 2016 in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, and since then, it has become a nationwide franchise. Here, Bonita Riddle, manager of the Hoover franchise, gives an insider scoop on the “mac and cheese” business.

When choosing where to open the next location of I Heart Mac and Cheese, how did the owners decide on Hoover?

Bobby Reuse and I first attempted to open an I Heart Mac and Cheese location in my hometown of Decatur, Alabama. We shifted gears to focus on Hoover since that is where Bobby is from. I ended up moving to Hoover to manage the restaurant, and on Dec. 21, 2022, we began our relationship with the brand.

What are some fan favorites on the menu, and which do you think newcomers should try first?

The signature bowl we sell seems to be our chicken parm bowl. We sell a good bit of our best of both worlds grilled cheese,

which features our slow-cooked short rib and barbecue sauce along with white and yellow American cheeses. We also just released our new flatbreads, where you can build your own flatbread sandwich, and this has been popular, too.

What is the most unique item on the menu?

Our most unique item we sell would probably be our cheesecake bites, which are sold cold with chocolate, strawberry or caramel dipping sauces.

What about I Heart Mac and Cheese’s menu makes it stand out from other similar businesses in the area?

You can create your own meal the way you want. We have build-your-own bowls,

build-your-own grilled cheeses and buildyour-own flatbreads.

What is your favorite part of your career?

My favorite part of being in the “mac and cheese” business is meeting and greeting customers and making sure they leave full and happy. They, along with all of my wonderful employees, make working fun.

I Heart Mac and Cheese is located at 2503 John Hawkins Parkway Suite 101. It is open Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; and Sunday, noon-7 p.m. For more information, visit iheartmacandcheese.com.

May 28-August 2

AGES 4-18

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A GUIDE TO ALL THINGS WHITE, BRIGHT &

From Me to You

It is a privilege to be a guest of honor at a wedding, so, lovebirds, take pride in symbolizing such fellowship through one of the first steps in the wedding planning process: invitation suites. Originally located in the heart of Vestavia Hills, Annabelle’s has been serving brides for all of their invitations, stationery and calligraphy needs for 20 years. Here, the new owner Elizabeth Sharpton and calligrapher Jan Pruitt showcase several of their most intricate invitation suites.

Photos Contributed

Designing your Suites

To work with Elizabeth and Jan, visit annabellestoo.com or call 205-979-4444 to schedule a consultation. Annabelle’s is open Tuesday-Friday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and on Saturday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. On December 16, 2023, Annabelle’s will relocate to 2142 Tyler Road, Unit 114, Hoover, AL 35226. Contact information and days of operation will remain the same.

Timeless

Traditional &

Lucy and David Harrison wed on Sept. 23, 2023, at Independent Presbyterian Church in Birmingham, Alabama. Because of their traditional ceremony venue, they opted for a timeless suite. Jan penned the full suite. The invitations were engraved in champagne ink on a royalty-size card with double envelopes and a lace overlay.

A custom sketch of Independent Presbyterian Church was drawn by Kaylee Morgan and was flat printed for the save the dates.

Photos by Leslie Hollingsworth

Simply Cultured

Maci and Joel Mize tied the knot on Sept. 23, 2023, at Allie’s Cabin in Beaver Creek Village, Colorado.

Kaylee Morgan painted a watercolor landscape of the beautiful Rocky Mountains for the couple's destination wedding. It is used on the invitations' vellum overlay.

The Mize’s invitation suites were printed on square Arturo paper, which is an Italian, hand-torn paper.

Maci opted for moss green lettering in a besotted script for a more fluid feeling for her suite.

Photos by Nate and Jenny Weddings

Organic Originality

Mary Hunter and Healy Vise joined in joyful union on May 20, 2023, at First Presbyterian Church in Jackson, Mississippi. What is unique about this couple’s suite is their blend between traditional and contemporary design.

While Mary Hunter chose champagne lettering in scripts Prints Charming and Mozart, she modernized her suite with cohesive branding. A custom shield and duogram was designed with the couple's initials and was used on the dance floor, favors and more.

Photos by Refuge & Co. Photography

Forever Florals

Second only to the bride, the most beautiful part of any wedding is the flowers. Floral arrangements carry such a sentimentality that physically showcases the vision of any bride’s desired palette, stylistic choices and decorum. Here, Sasha Johns, managing partner of Amazing Flowers and Occasions, reveals just how her arrangements helped bring to life the wedding vision of her clients and friends, Kaitlyn and Roderick Anderson.

By Anna Grace Moore Photos by Katelyn Masters Photography

TheHappy Couple

Sasha had the thrill of any florist’s career–designing gorgeous florals for her family friend’s wedding. Sasha first met the happy couple, Kaitlyn and Roderick Anderson, through Kaitlyn’s mother, Suzanne. The two friends go back nearly 15 years, and Sasha says this has been one of her most favorite events.

The Details

Sasha utilized ivory and peach garden roses; pink, ivory and white stock; periwinkle delphinium; and yellow and peach ranunculus. She added in bits of greenery including green dragon, olive branches and both silver dollar and seeded eucalyptus into Kaitlyn’s bouquet and the ceremony’s standing arrangements.

Designing your Florals

Sasha Johns would love to design your wedding floral arrangements. To work with her, visit amazingflowers.florist or call 205-669-7061. Amazing Flowers and Occasions is located at 102 S Main Street, Columbiana, AL 35051. It is open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and on Saturday, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

TheCeremony

When Roderick’s mother passed away, the couple took time to grieve and heal before getting engaged and planning their wedding. Sasha helped the couple honor Roderick’s mother by reserving a seat adorned with flowers at the ceremony.

TheReception

The floral arch from the ceremony was moved to the reception and matched the cake table's floral arrangements.

Behind the Scenes

Wedding Date: Aug. 12, 2023

Ceremony Venue: The Church at Brook Hills

Reception Venue: Historic Federal Reserve

Caterer: Urban Cookhouse

Cake: Edgar’s Bakery

Wedding Dress: Bridals by Madison

Bridesmaid Dresses: Birdy Grey

Bridal Hair/Makeup: Allie Rose

Johnston & Heather Kissinger

Groom’s Attire: Jos. A. Bank

Stationery: Hand-painted invitations by Kaitlyn Anderson

Videographer: Webster Creative Co.

Wedding Band/DJ: Cavrae with Platinum DJ

Wedding Night Accommodations: The Redmont Hotel Birmingham

THE CATERER'S COLLECTIVE

INFO@ROXXYROCKS.COM ROXXYROCKS.COM

• 205-261-1960

Roxxy on the Rocks We are a mobile bar service that brings the spirits to you. We strive to entertain with our craft cocktails and energetic team! Our mission is to create a unique and memorable experience in every sip. Whether it’s your big day, corporate event or social gathering, we want your event to come to life. All we ask is that you sit back, relax and let us pour the memories.

633 11TH AVE SW

• ALABASTER, AL 35007 MOMOSCAJUNEATZ.COM

OURFAMILYTOYOURSCATERING@GMAIL.COM

• 205-598-1008

Momo’s Cajun Eatz at Ivy League Brew Indulge your guests in a culinary journey with event catering by Momo’s Cajun Eatz! Elevate your gathering with a symphony of flavors, expertly crafted by our chefs. From indulgent appetizers to mouthwatering cajun classics, our diverse menu caters to every palate. Experience the perfect blend of spice and sophistication when Ivy League Brew Meadery and Momo’s Cajun Eatz come together to create unforgettable experiences. Let us host your parties, showers, reunions and celebrations with taste and style.

FACEBOOK.COM/OURFAMILYTOYOURSCATERING

• 205-368-7688

Our Family to Yours Catering Our Family to Yours Catering, led by brother and sister, Richard Harvey and Sonya Bates, is committed to making your event unforgettable with fabulous food and impeccable service. They approach each event with the special attention it deserves and will work with you to customize a menu that reflects your own taste and personal touches. Whatever the event, from initial contact to final goodbye, their family is ready to help you feed yours.

SoHo

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!

Meals by Misty Meals by Misty's corporate catering offers a wide variety of high quality menu creations that are designed for ease in ordering and are attractively priced to meet all budgets. From breakfast meetings to casual office lunches to fine dining professional gatherings, we'll make your event a success. Whether a small, intimate gathering or a large and lavish affair, your wedding should exceed your expectations. We will ensure that it does. We offer an array of options from passed hors d'oeuvres to distinctive food stations. There is no limit to the possibilities.

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.

Standard Soho Standard offers elevated Southern catering with a decadent and fresh twist. Every menu is unique to the couple. Let

1830 29TH AVE 2 #160 • HOMEWOOD, AL 35209 SOHOHOMEWOOD.BAR • 205-423-8080

1831 28TH AVE S, 175 N • HOMEWOOD, AL 35209 SOCIALTACO.BAR • 205-922-0551

2900 CRESCENT AVE • HOMEWOOD, AL 35209 MEALSBYMISTY.COM • 205-490-1495

1830 29TH AVE S #175 • HOMEWOOD, AL 35209 SOHOSTANDARD.BAR • 205-423-8080

Dress to Impress

High-end menswear store, Shaia’s, has been in business in Homewood since 1922. Ken Shaia–the fourth generation of his family to run the business–prides himself on serving the community through Shaia’s impeccable style and quality of clothing and shoes. With 101 years in the business, Shaia’s has become nationally renowned for both American and international brands that showcase distinct aesthetic taste–worthy to be in a customer’s wardrobe for years. Here, international model Felipe Zarate presents Shaia’s attire for grooms in every season of engagements and weddings.

Photos by Becky Stayner Styling by Fonda Shaia

The engagement shoot

Ken recommends dressing either business casual or professional for the engagement shoot–a sports shirt, sports coat and trousers make the perfect outfit for the occasion. For months with varying temperatures, a thin sweater or shirt paired with a sports vest suits any figure nicely.

Felipe is wearing a Mauro Blasi sports coat, Current Elliott jeans, Di Bianca shoes and a Canali shirt. To accessorize, he is wearing a Meg Spivey bracelet and a Bigi pocket square.

Felipe is dressed in a Brunello Cucinelli shirt and vest with PT01 pants and a backpack from Eleventy.

Felipe paired a leather shirt jacket by Monto with a sweater from the brand, Maurizio Baldassari.

Felipe is seen wearing a hoodie and pants by Eleventy, a knit shirt by Brunello Cucinelli and a hat by Isaia.

The bachelor party

Most gentlemen tend to dress in a muted palette, accentuating their outfit’s character for events with “the guys.”

To create this look, stylist Fonda Shaia paired a coat from Isaia, tie from Zegna, pants from PT01 and a shirt from Isaia.

The rehearsal dinner

One might choose a tie, sports coat and slacks instead of matching suit pants as a versatile option that can be dressed down after the affair.

Pictured are shoes from Rubirosa.

The Wedding

With any traditional wedding, a timeless black and white tuxedo is always a wonderful choice. Felipe is wearing a peak-lapel tuxedo jacket, bow tie and flat-front shirt.

Both the tuxedo and shirt are from Isaia, and the tie is from Bigi.

Only at Olexa's

Diane Olexa’s love for beautiful pastry art grew as she did–watching her mother bake. At only age 23, Diane created her first-ever wedding cake for her college roommate in 1993. She started out creating one or two wedding cakes a week. She began creating cakes for her friends and her loved ones’ weddings, and in 1996, she extended her business to include event catering with her mother’s expertise to officially create the Olexa’s brand. Eight years later, Olexa’s following accumulated so much that Diane decided to open the business’s first brick and mortar in 2004 in quaint Mountain Brook Village.

A 30-year veteran of the wedding industry, Diane says this business is special because of the memories she’s able to help create for her customers. Olexa’s today creates upwards of 200 birthday and wedding cakes a week, all while catering events and operating its intimate dining setting for guests six days a week. Here, she gives her thoughts on one of her favorite events at Olexa’s Catering, Cafe and Cakes–a romantic rehearsal dinner for her friends, Kinsey and Anderson Gore.

PHOTOS BY SIDNEY SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY & CONTRIBUTED

Memories intoMeals

Diane and mother-of-the-groom, Abby Gore, have been family friends since college. As Abby was planning the rehearsal dinner for her son, Anderson, she mentioned to Diane that Anderson loves chicken with alfredo sauce. Diane created the menu, incorporating Anderson’s favorite meal that added to the special night before the

Pictured is Diane Olexa and Anderson Gore.

Old An Feel World

The bride-to-be, Kinsey, had a long time dream of having her rehearsal dinner at Olexa’s. She wanted her guests to have that charming, old-world dining experience that the ambiance and decor at Olexa’s offers.

Working with Olexa's

Diane and the team at Olexa’s are always happy to help a bride and groom plan the wedding cake of their dreams, cater for their event or even host their loved ones in-house.

To work with Diane, visit olexas.com or call 205871-2060 to schedule a consultation. Olexa’s is located at 2838 Culver Road. The restaurant is open Monday-Saturday from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. for lunch and on Tuesday nights for dinner from 2-8 p.m.

Rich in Flavor & History

In 2004, Diane moved her business into the former Rue de Provence restaurant space off of Culver Road because of the space’s European aspects. She redesigned the majority of the color palette, but chose to leave a lot of the interior decor to create such ambiance that helped her customers feel as though they were dining in a European courtyard.

PHOTOS

the details

Ceremony Venue: The Cabildo, Louisiana State Museum Reception Venue: Broussard’s Restaurant and Courtyard Wedding Planner/Day Of Coordinator: Coleman Lane Designs Florist: Herbivore Floral Designs

Caterer: Broussard’s Restaurant and Courtyard Cake: Bittersweet Confections Wedding Dress: Bustle Bridal Hair/Makeup: Flawless Bride and Beauty

Bridesmaid Dresses: Bella Bridesmaids Groom’s

Attire: Men’s Wearhouse Stationery: Annabelle’s Videographer: Bower Productions DJ/Wedding Band: The Tip Tops and Kinfolk Brass Band Wedding Night

Accommodations: The Place d’Armes Hotel

HOW DID YOU TWO MEET?

Mitch and I met during our last semester of our senior year at the University of Alabama. We were both out at our favorite dive bar, Gallettes, where mutual friends introduced us. We have been inseparable ever since.

THE PROPOSAL

Mitch and I were living in Mountain Brook and loved to frequent the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. We started our Saturday like any other by going for a walk. Mitch took us to one of our favorite spots in the gardens to pop the question. We spent the rest of the day celebrating with family and friends.

WEDDING DRESS DETAILS

When choosing my wedding dress, I knew I wanted something that was simple but elegant. I loved the dress that I chose because it had an option to attach a unique bow piece to the back as well as a train if I wanted. This made it perfect because we took our wedding photos prior to the ceremony, and I decided to add the train for the ceremony–it was as though Mitch was seeing me in a new dress when I walked down the aisle.

WEDDING PLANNING ADVICE

When it comes to choosing a location, find one that feels right for you. We decided to do a destination wedding because Mitch is originally from Ohio, and I’m from Alabama. Either way, one of our families was going to have to travel. We chose New Orleans because it is a city that Mitch and I loved to travel to throughout our relationship. We thought it would be a great place to share with everyone that we love.

Molly Jon

the details

Ceremony & Reception Venue: Vestavia Country Club Wedding Planner/Day Of Coordinator: Anita

Kanellis Florist: Lillie Jane Caterer: Vestavia Country

Club Cake: Barb’s Cakes Wedding Dress: Carriage House Weddings Bridal Hair/Makeup: Makeup Mel

Bridesmaid Dresses: Revelry Groom’s Attire: Black

Tux Stationery: Annabelle’s Videographer: Defining

Moments Media DJ/Wedding Band: The Great Grand

Finale Transportation: Rare Transportation and Coats

Classic Cars Wedding Night Accommodations: The Elyton Hotel Birmingham

HOW DID YOU TWO MEET?

We met on Bumble. Jon is from New York but was living in Alabama after completing his doctorate of musical arts from the University of Alabama. Funny enough, we were going to school there at the same time for a year but never actually crossed paths.

THE PROPOSAL

Jon proposed on a hike to King’s Chair Overlook in Oak Mountain State Park. This was the place of our third date, so it holds a lot of sentimental value to us. I always teased Jon for not asking me to be his girlfriend on our first hike, so when he proposed he said, “I know I didn’t ask you to be my girlfriend here, but now I’m asking you to be my wife.”

WEDDING DRESS DETAILS

I wanted an A-line or ball gown silhouette that would make me feel confident. I loved the pleating and slit in the skirt of my dress, and the material was beautiful. I also loved that I found a lace bolero to wear for our ceremony.

WEDDING PLANNING ADVICE

Try to enjoy the process. So much time goes into planning a wedding, yet the big day goes by in a flash.

PHOTOS BY JANA MUSSELWHITE

PHOTOGRAPHY

Elizabeth Paul

the details

Ceremony Venue: Ascension Episcopal Church

Reception Venue: Thomas Jefferson Tower Wedding Planner/Day Of Coordinator: Sidney Nomberg and Lexie Shelnutt with Engaged Wedding Library

Florist: Lillie Jane Caterer: Savoie Catering Cake: Magic Muffins Wedding Dress: Bella’s Bridal and Formal Bridal Hair/Makeup: Hair and Makeup by Nat Bridesmaid Dresses: Bella Bridesmaids Groom’s

Attire: Mr. Burch Formal Wear Stationery: Annabelle’s

Videographer: Jason Morales with A Morales

Production DJ/Wedding Band: Tim Tyler Music

Transportation: Rare Transportation Wedding Night

Accommodations : The Elyton Hotel Birmingham

HOW DID YOU TWO MEET?

I grew up in Hoover, and Paul grew up in Vestavia Hills. We both attended Auburn University, and somehow, over the 20 or so years of us knowing mutual people and living in the same area, we never met until we both moved to Atlanta. One of my best friends (and bridesmaids) invited me to a dinner party when I moved to Atlanta to meet some of her friends, and Paul happened to be there. The following week he asked me on a date, and we’ve been together ever since.

THE PROPOSAL

Paul and I love to travel and experience new cultures. We planned a trip to Croatia with our friends in August 2021, which is when Paul proposed on the plane with some help from the Delta flight attendants. Shortly after take-off, Paul handed me a letter. This wasn’t odd to me since I thought maybe he had booked an excursion or had a surprise planned for the trip. However, once I realized it was more than a vacation excursion, I was elated! He wanted it to be a total surprise, so he didn’t tell anyone except our parents about his plan. Our friends on the flight found out via the pilot making an announcement.

WEDDING DRESS DETAILS

Once we got back from Croatia, my mom could not wait to start planning the wedding. She went ahead and booked an appointment at Bella’s before I planned anything. I thought this was crazy since I didn’t know what time of year or where we would get married. I ended up falling in love with the second dress I tried on, and the rest of wedding planning just fell into place.

WEDDING PLANNING ADVICE

Remember to pause and soak in a day that will bring you such special memories for years to come.

Caitlin Conner

the details

Ceremony & Reception Venue: Aldridge Gardens Wedding Planner/Day Of Coordinator: Engaged Wedding Library and Angie G. Weddings Florist: Florals by Samantha and Missy Caterer: Majestic Catering Services Cake: Pen and Pastry Wedding Dress: Bustle and Something You Couture Bridal Hair/Makeup: Beauty by MP Taylor Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie Groom’s Attire: Mr. Burch Formal Wear Videographer: Fenn David with FJ Films DJ/Wedding Band: The Divines Transportation: A&W Limo Service Wedding Night Accommodations: Renaissance Birmingham Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa

HOW DID YOU TWO MEET?

Conner and I like to say that we met with the help of the “Invisible String Theory.” The theory outlines how we all are connected in some way through a string and will meet when the time feels right. We say this because as we got to know each other, we realized there were so many times that we could’ve met but didn’t. We both attended Troy University, but he graduated when I was just arriving. (We even had the same major). After I graduated, I moved back to Birmingham, which is where we are both originally from. I moved into a house with my sister, and coincidentally, Conner moved into a house on the next street. In October 2020, I was at a friend’s house of who was also a friend of Conner’s, when Conner walked through the door. Our invisible string had finally pulled us together, and the rest is history!

THE PROPOSAL

On March 19, 2022, I thought that we were just going to lunch with my parents, but little did I know what Conner had planned. When we walked into my parents’ backyard, I saw pictures of us hanging up and instantly started realizing what was happening. Conner got down on one knee and asked me the question that I had been dreaming about since I met him. After I said yes, I turned around to see both of our families watching from inside. We spent the rest of the day celebrating.

WEDDING DRESS DETAILS

I knew I wanted my dress to be simple and timeless. I ended up walking out with the most perfect dress–a satin, fitted, high-neck gown with a gorgeous open back.

WEDDING PLANNING ADVICE

Don’t wish it away! There were so many times that wedding planning got the best of me, but I would go back in a heartbeat. It was such a special and fun time in my life that went by way too fast.

PHOTOS

the details

Ceremony Venue: Shades Crest Baptist Church

Reception Venue: The Donnelly House Wedding Planner/Day Of Coordinator: Rachael Milner

Florist: The Wired Owl Caterer: The Donnelly House

Cake: Sweet Magnolia Cakes Wedding Dress: The Something Blue Shoppe Bridal Hair/Makeup: Danielle

Ivy Chiepalich Bridesmaid Dresses: JJ’s House

Groom’s Attire: Mr. Burch Formal Wear Stationery: Annabelle’s Videographer: Jason Morales with A Morales Production DJ/Wedding Band: Encore Strings

Birmingham and Blanton Reed Band Wedding Night

Accommodations: The Tutwiler Hotel

HOW DID YOU TWO MEET?

We met through mutual friends while we were both living in downtown Birmingham in 2018. I was about to start my third year at UAB School of Dentistry, while Adam was working at Motorola Solutions as a software engineer. We went on our first date at Church Street Coffee and Books and soon realized it was the best first date either of us had been on.

THE PROPOSAL

Adam planned a date night for our fourth anniversary at Automatic Seafood and Oysters, but our reservations were not until 8 p.m. on August 5, 2022. Prior to our dinner, Adam took us to Church Street Coffee and Books, where we often went to celebrate anniversaries and special occasions. After getting our coffee, he drove us to a hilltop at Redmont Park, which overlooked the sun setting on Birmingham. He dropped down on one knee and asked me to marry him. My younger sister and brother-in-law, along with their wedding photographer, Eleanor Stenner, were hiding and taking pictures. It was the most perfect, picturesque and thoughtful proposal.

WEDDING DRESS DETAILS

I fell in love with the details of my wedding dress, such as the buttons that ran the entire length of the back of the dress; the bow that was also a built-in bustle; and the way the material flowed over the bodice. The dress was originally strapless, but Leslie Salzman added the off-the-shoulder sleeves that made the already beautiful dress, uniquely mine.

WEDDING PLANNING ADVICE

I recommend working with Engaged Wedding Library to help with the wedding planning timeline. While it is important to book vendors and plan early, remember to cherish the reason for the wedding season with your fiancé.

PHOTOS

the details

Ceremony & Reception Venue: The Barn at Shady Lane Wedding Planner/Day Of Coordinator: Natalie

Davenport Florist: Suzanne Martenson Caterer: Tre

Luna Catering Cake: Finch Cakes Wedding Dress: Bella’s Bridal and Formal Bridal Hair/Makeup: Rachel Griffin and Talor Rubin Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie

Groom's Attire: Mr. Burch Formal Wear DJ/Wedding Band: Good Times Company

HOW DID YOU TWO MEET?

We met on Bumble! I asked if he was a parking ticket because he had fine written all over him.

THE PROPOSAL

He proposed outside of our family’s cabin in Gatlinburg during the week of Thanksgiving! It was magical.

WEDDING DRESS DETAILS

The dress was a perfect combination of classy and modern. I felt stunning and comfortable. The consultant at the boutique was so encouraging and made my experience wonderful. She had me try on dresses I never would have thought about trying, and I chose something completely opposite of what I expected! I had the classy lace with a stunning train and had the subtle sparkle. It was everything I could’ve imagined in a wedding dress.

WEDDING PLANNING ADVICE

Don’t let wedding planning stress you out. It's supposed to be fun! I was a full-time graduate student and was working full-time. My husband was very helpful in making this experience smooth and enjoyable. Because we helped plan the wedding together, we had a lot of fun. Also, finding photographers you get along with makes all the difference. Katie and Alec were the best part of our entire experience, and they were with us from the beginning to the end of the wedding-planning process.

Adde Josh

PHOTOS BY KAYLEIGH GRACE PHOTOGRAPHY

the details

Ceremony & Reception Venue: Windwood Equestrian

Florist: Southeastern Event Company Caterer: Just J

Catering Cake: Cakes by Aletha Wedding Dress: Bella’s Bridal and Formal Bridal Hair/Makeup: Asia Nicole

Bridesmaid Dresses: Lulus Groom's Attire: Men’s Wearhouse Stationery: Minted and Etsy Videographer: LR Media DJ/Wedding Band: DJ Sillz Wedding Night

Accommodations: Renaissance Birmingham Ross Bridge Golf Resort and Spa

HOW DID YOU TWO MEET?

Josh and I met in high school at the Hoover vs. Thompson football game in 2018. We both went to Hoover High School, but because he was a year ahead of me, we never had classes together. He walked up to me because he thought I was pretty and used the line, “You look familiar. Where do I know you from?” I fell for it, and the rest is history.

THE PROPOSAL

Josh took me back to the Hoover Metropolitan Complex’s stadium to propose–where we first met. He found a man that owned my dream car–a 1956 Chevy Bel Air in blue. We took a joy ride in it to celebrate. That was my first time riding in my dream car.

WEDDING DRESS DETAILS

I always wanted white bridesmaid dresses, but I was worried about us all looking the same. My wedding dress, however, with its silvery golden shimmer, looked perfect with the white bridesmaid dresses.

WEDDING PLANNING ADVICE

Try and take it all in, and have fun! I know there is a lot to plan, but you only get to do it once. Attend to the smaller details earlier rather than later. All the little things add up at the end. Talk to other people, and get vendor recommendations.

PHOTOS

the details

Ceremony & Reception Venue: The Theodore Wedding Planner/Day Of Coordinator: Dana Baswell with Southern Styled Events Florist: Lillie Jane Caterer: The Theodore Cake: Olexa’s Catering, Cafe and Cakes Wedding Dress: Ivory and White Bridal Boutique Bridal Hair/Makeup: Beauty from Ash Bridesmaid

Dresses: Birdy Grey Groom's Attire: Men’s Wearhouse Stationery: Weezie B. Designs Videographer: AL Weddings DJ/Wedding Band: DJ Breezy with Superior Sound Entertainment Transportation: Dream Drives BHM

HOW DID YOU TWO MEET?

We met when Jacob transferred to the same school as me in the eighth grade. We attended a small private school with only 70 people in our grade at that time, so we ended up in the same group of friends. One day, our friend group decided to go see “Ouija” one evening in October 2014. We ended up sitting next to each other during the movie and started to text each other in the following days, despite having never spoken one-on-one before. Within a week, we were dating.

THE PROPOSAL

Jacob went to the University of Alabama, while I went to Mississippi State University. During our freshman year, we made a habit of walking on the Riverwalk. In the months leading up to the engagement, Jacob kept teasing about fake proposals to make me think it was happening when it wasn’t. During one of our walks, one of our best friends and eventual officiant, Peter, followed us around the riverwalk with a camera to really “sell it.” Right as we finished our walk, Jacob got down on one knee and proposed right on the bank of the river.

WEDDING DRESS DETAILS

I tried on many dresses across two different stores, but I kept coming back to the one I eventually chose. The dress had an eight-foot train and seemed to fit me perfectly from the start. I loved the open back, and the length made me feel beautiful.

WEDDING PLANNING ADVICE

Our grandparents were interviewed for our wedding video. We wanted to remember the impact they’ve had on our lives, and our videographers perfectly captured our grandparents’ loving words that we will always cherish. We recommend preserving such sweet memories to watch for years to come.

PHOTOS

the details

Ceremony & Reception Venue: Little River Farms Wedding Planner/Day Of Coordinator: Pop + Fizz: Event Planning and Design Florist: Rhapsody in Blooms

Caterer: Endive Catering Cake: Frosted Pumpkin Wedding Cakes Wedding Dress: La Raine's Bridal Hair/Makeup: Beauty x Brielle Bridesmaid Dresses: Bella Bridesmaids Groom's Attire: The Black Tux Stationery: Paper Daisies Stationery Videographer: The Compass Films DJ/Wedding Band: Club Rett DJ and Entertainment Services Transportation: Classic Elegance Cars Wedding Night Accommodations: The Hotel at Avalon

HOW DID YOU TWO MEET?

We met on a dating app while Case was home on leave. We had our first date at TopGolf, and the rest is history. We did 20 months of long distance between Atlanta and Hawaii–proof that love can overcome so many barriers with the right person.

THE PROPOSAL

I love sunsets, and Case planned a perfect proposal on the beach at sunset in Hawaii. We were taking what I thought was just a sunset walk, but he dropped down on one knee and asked me to marry him. Afterwards, our friends came to celebrate with us.

WEDDING DRESS DETAILS

I wanted a dress that was very detailed, ornate and beautiful. There were numerous dresses I liked, but the reason I chose mine was for its intricate detailing. I loved the long train, the beaded lace and the low-cut back. I actually tried on the exact same dress in two different bridal boutiques and loved it; thus, I knew this was my dress.

WEDDING PLANNING ADVICE

If it is in your budget, hire a wedding planner. They will help remind you of timelines, keep you on track with budgeting and help you properly book vendors. You will spend months planning every single detail and wanting the smallest items to be perfect, but some things may go wrong. Wedding planners can help alleviate the stress, allowing you to experience more of the joy in wedding planning.

PHOTOS

the details

Ceremony Venue: Saint Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church Reception Venue: Events at Haven Wedding Planner/Day Of Coordinator: Sarah Tedder with Kindred Weddings Florist: AG Lighting and Events Caterer: Full Moon BBQ–Pelham Cake: Magic Muffins Wedding Dress: Carriage House Weddings Bridal Hair/Makeup: Makeup Mel Bridesmaid Dresses: Bella Bridesmaids Groom's Attire: Mr. Burch Formal Wear Stationery: Noto Promotions Videographer: Resolute Wedding Films DJ/Wedding Band: Big Night Dynamite Transportation: Rare Transportation and JLT Events Wedding Night Accommodations: The Kelly Birmingham

HOW DID YOU TWO MEET?

Braylon and I met in sixth grade at Bumpus Middle School in our choir class. We began dating after our sixth grade winter dance.

THE PROPOSAL

I went on a “last minute” family beach trip to our condo down in Florida. This trip included my sister, mom and dad, but Braylon said he could not come because he had to work. One day during our trip, my dad said he lost his AirPods, so my family and I went onto the beach to look for them. When I got to the beach, I saw this beautiful picnic set up, but no one was standing there. Then I looked out in the distance, and there was Braylon, standing in an aisle of roses in the sand. I ran to him, and he embraced me lovingly before getting down on one knee, asking me to marry him. Afterwards, both my family and Braylon’s family— who had driven down for this special occasion unbeknownst to me—came to celebrate with us.

WEDDING DRESS DETAILS

I visited Carriage House Weddings and saw the most beautiful Sareh Nouri dress. I tried it on and loved it, but something was missing. I loved both fitted and ball gown styles, but I couldn't decide between the two. I knew the only way to get the best of both worlds was to add a detachable skirt. Kelly Michelle Lewis, who is the manager of Carriage House Weddings, called Sareh Nouri immediately, and the next thing I knew, Sareh was creating a new pattern and designing the dress of my dreams just for me.

WEDDING PLANNING ADVICE

My advice for future brides would be to keep the end goal in mind–getting to marry the love of your life. Slow down, enjoy every moment and thank God for this amazing gift of marriage.

Love is in the Air

By Christiana Roussel

‘Tis the season for weddings and romance! Whether you are getting engaged, planning a bridesmaids’ getaway, celebrating your own nuptials or marking an anniversary, there is a special destination for everyone.

Photo by Chad Hoffman

HIT THE ROAD

PROPOSAL LOCATIONS

Setting the tone for an engagement might often start with where the groom proposes to the bride. It could be where the couple had their first date or some other meaningful location—like the family ranch in Montana, where a groom hung the engagement ring on a nail on a tree, where he and his beloved enjoyed picnics. Many resort destinations relish being a part of a couple’s romantic future and offer whole proposal packages:

The Lodge at Sea Island is a Forbes five-star, English-style country manor resort in Georgia that provides the perfect backdrop to any proposal (we’re thinking the rose petal bath butler service would be pretty nice)! As a special bonus, Sea Island invites previous honeymooners to save their receipts, and on the anniversary of their trip, pay the original rate on the first day of their stay. seaisland.com

Amanyara , in the heart of an 18,000-acre nature reserve in Turks and Caicos, makes for a lush tropical setting, where the staff will arrange a “WILL YOU MARRY ME” sign in LED lights as you enjoy a private dinner in a secluded cove. The resort’s pavilions are situated in coastal vegetation and overlook the beaches of Northwest Point Marine Preserve—truly memorable! aman.com

Photo courtesy of Sea Island

Photo courtesy of Sea Island

BRIDESMAID & GROOMSMEN GETAWAYS

After the proposal, the bride and groom will each secure their squad of bridesmaids and groomsmen, who will play a major part of the big day. Make plans to get away with these best friends and family for some serious memory-making.

Hilton Head Health—The bride and her attendants can take a break from the hectic planning with a trip to coastal South Carolina for one of the destination’s wellness retreats, which includes spa time, self-care workshops, yoga and more. hhhealth.com

Hollywood Farms—Gather your groomsmen and head to Hollywood Farms in Jeffersonville, Georgia, for a true sportsman’s getaway. Do a buyout of the antebellum site, or pick a weekend when Hollywood Farms is hosting a Fausti Shooting School or a bespoke quail or woodcock hunt. Chef Scottie Johnson will make every meal memorable, while the bourbon flows. hollywoodfarmsga.com

Photo by Brenda Cassabon

Photo by Christiana Roussel

Photo by Brenda Cassabon

Photo by Brenda Cassabon

Photo by Christiana Roussel

HIT THE ROAD

HONEYMOON SPOTS

Andiamo Lodge—Just a short drive North from Birmingham to Mentone, Alabama, is Andiamo Lodge, a well-curated destination for those looking for a honeymoon destination closer to home. Owner Colleen Duffley dubs this a ‘lux-lodge’ experience, where attention to detail (think Frette linens and intimate concierge service) comes standard.

andiamolodge.com

Half-Mile Farm—This sister property to the venerable Old Edwards Inn in Highlands offers a quieter respite in the Western North Carolina mountains. While there is always a lot going on in this area, the romance of this 14-acre, guests-only property means you might never stray far.

oldedwardshospitality.com

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, book a cruise on one of the most jaw-dropping hotels on the sea. ritzcarltonyachtcollection.com

Photo by Collen Duffley

Photo by Chad Hoffman

Photo by Savannah Vetrano

His & Hers—A honeymoon can be the perfect time to set the tone for how a couple likes to travel. Fork & Leaf Travel, Inc. Owner and Certified Travel Associate Jenn Nix shared a unique trip she planned for a couple who like very different things for vacation. The couple both wanted a Costa Rican honeymoon. He wanted fly-fishing in the mountains, while she craved luxe spa time on the beach. Jenn booked them in a private residence near pristine fishing for the first half of the trip and then at the adults-only Jardin del Eden Boutique Hotel in Tamarindo for the second half. Suffices to say, both the bride and groom got everything they wanted from this vacation. forkandleaftravel.com jardindeleden.com

The Blended Family Honeymoon

For those couples looking to include members of the wedding party in their honeymoon plans, Chatham Bars Inn on Cape Cod makes an ideal destination. Plan a private clambake on the 25-acre estate, or take the group whale-watching. The Inn’s Kids Crew program offers tons of activities for the younger crowd, while the adults engage in some coveted one-on-one time. chathambarsinn.com

Photo by Sophia Stewart

Photo by Chad Hoffman

Photo by Savannah Vetrano

Photo courtesy of Chatham Bars Inn

Spring 2024 Events

Saturdays throughout the Spring The Farmers Market at Brock’s Gap Brock’s Gap Brewing Company

First Tuesday of Each Month

Second Thursday of Each Month

New Year, New Look

Third Thursday of Each Month

Fourth Thursday of

Kickoff

Coffee

Feb. 8

While the Hoover Chamber is a separate entity from the city of Hoover, it does work very closely with the city, so the typestyle selected for the new logo is in the same family of typefaces used by the city, visually representing the Chamber and the city’s close association.

The new icon is multisided—just like the business environment in the city of Hoover.

When you first look at the graphic mark, you can obviously see the “H” for Hoover, but if you look closer, you can see the graphic almost has a 3-D look, representing the experience with the Chamber. When you look closer look at the Chamber, you discover it has many more dimensions to offer than first meets the eye. When put together, the entire graphic has

the shape of a key, representing how the Chamber is a key to business in the city of Hoover.

Finally, while the official name for the entity will still be the “Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce,” this application features the more commonly used name “Hoover Area Chamber.”

We hope you like our new look!

Mark Jamroz, Owner/Operator of Content Logistix

March 15

Riverchase Country Club

October 13, 2023

Clean Juice October 18, 2023

Candlewood Suites Birmingham/Inverness

December 5, 2023

A2 Pharmacy Solutions, LLC December 6, 2023

Andrews Sports Medicine

December 8, 2023

Chase Bank December 12, 2023

Alabama Goods December 20, 2023

Saw’s BBQ November 7, 2023

Shop Shun Black December 5, 2023

New Members

uTransform Real Estate: Tamara Canty

uCommunity Bank

uIdyllo

uGolden Capital Solutions, LLC

uShop Shun Black Boutique

uThe Roofing Dudes

uITAC Solutions

uGrace Point Church

uExpectCare Hospice

uNorthwestern Mutual – Ryne Taylor

uThe McClean Scene, LLC

uSaturn 5, LLC

uIron City Benefits

uBKM Law Firm, P.C.

uCEI Services

uYum Yai Thai Takeout, Asian Food Store Corp

uEllie Mental Health

– Birmingham/ Hoover

uTombrello Law Firm

uJay Pickering Law Firm

uTriad Property Management

uExit Realty Cahaba

uFourroux Prosthetics

u3D Air Services

uTotal Power Electric

uBoot Barn

Thank

you to our 2024 Board of Trustees

Eric Land, ABC 33/40 Television

Brooke Wood, Alabama Credit Union

Dr. Timothy Lee, Alabama Heart & Vascular, P.C.

Kimberly Jackson, Alabama Power Company

Jabo Waggoner, Alabama State Senator

Raven Bell, AlaTrust Credit Union

Jody Mattson, AmFirst – Downtown Birmingham

John Santamour, Aprio, LLP

Linda Cencula, Avadian Credit Union

Deborah Stephens, Behavioral Health Systems, Inc.

Ravindra Patel, Bharat LLC

Ashfaq Taufique, Birmingham Islamic Society

Jeremy Ervin, Birmingham Water Works

Keith Barfield, BMSS Advisors & CPAs, LLC

Brandon Bornstein, Brookdale Senior Living

Cathy King, Brown Heating & Cooling

Mary Resha, Cadence Bank – Hoover Will Hawkins, CB&S Bank

Lori Moler, Children’s of Alabama

Chris Dorris, Chris Dorris State Farm Insurance

Alice Alexander, Cigna Healthspring

Crystal Dixon, Costco Wholesale

Candace Rodgers, Cottages at Greystone

Jonathan Wilson, Dave and Buster’s

Jeff Bass, Diversicare of Riverchase

Nicole Self, Change/Tire Engineers –Corporate Offices

Anne Smyth, Galleria Woods Retirement Community

Keith Strickland, Goodwyn, Mills & Cawood, Inc.

Leisha Harris, Grandview Medical Center

Len Luther, Gresham, Smith and Partners

Gene Smith, Hoover Tactical Firearms

Deanna Adams, Innovative Fertility Specialists

Terry Poole, Long-Lewis of Hoover

Christina Bunn, Medical West Hospital

Luke Elder, Mercedes Benz of Birmingham

Reggie Torbor, Pylon Building Group

Rick Smith, Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa

Bob Adams, Revere Control Systems, Inc.

Thomas Richardson, Riverchase Galleria

Kate Yound, Sherwin-Williams

Dwight Sandlin, Signature Homes

Suzanne W. Bland, Sivirt LLC

Brian Skelton, Skelton’s Heating, Cooling and Refrigeration

Michelle Suggs, Somerby at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen

Lynne Butler, South Haven Health & Rehabilitation Center

Melody Jones, Southlake Orthopaedics

Sports Medicine & Spine Center, P.C.

Kelvin Johnson, Spire Energy

Vivian Mora, State Farm Insurance –Vivian Mora Agency

Gus McKenzie, Troy University

John Collier, United Community Bank

Jay Clark, Wallace, Jordan, Ratliff & Brandt, LLC

Angela Panizzi, WalMart – Hoover #1229

Richard Edwards, WalMart Super Center – Highway 280 #2111

Cody Burns, WBRC Fox 6 Television

Paul Sutton, Werkplas

Ellen Chandler, Whataburger

Lisa Autry, Your CBD Store

Hoover Chamber Officers and Board of Directors

Kimberly Starling, Ascension St. Vincent’s

Tyler Williams, Blue Cross and Blue Shield

Alan Lincoln, Coca-Cola Bottling Company United, Inc.

Brandi Ashley, Go Green Lawn

Paul Dangel, Hyatt Regency Birmingham - The Wynfrey Hotel

Van Moody, Kale Me Crazy Christy Moore, Kilwins

Henry King, King Acura

Tyler Lipe, Regions BankDowntown

Brian Ethridge, River Bank & Trust

Charlie Conklin, Sentry

Heating, Air & Plumbing

Stephen Walsh, Weinberg, Wheeler, Hudgins, Gunn & Dial

Brandon Wilson, Wilbron Inc.

Meribeth Gilbert, McLeod Software Corporation

Past Presidents & Board Chairs

Burr Weatherly

Chris Schmidt

Dan Mikos

Gene Bromberg

Greg Meineke

Jason Cobb Jerome Morgan

Jerry Cross

Jerry Johnson

Joe Thomas

Kathleen Spencer

Lori Moler

Lynn Thomas

Richard Head

Richard Rayborn

Robert Linthout

Susan Webb

Terri Williams

Terry Turner

Paul Dangel

David A. Custred

April DeLuca

Lynn Ray, Business Telephones, Inc., Director

Derrick M. Murphy, Hoover City Council, Liaison

James Robinson, Retired Executive, Director

Vivian Mora, State Farm Insurance The Vivian Mora Agency, Director

April DeLuca, Magic City Law, Immediate Past Chair

Kim Starling, Ascension St. Vincent’s, Vice Chair of Administration

Aaron Dettling, Fortif Law Partners, Legal Advisor

Greg Knighton, City of Hoover Economic Development, Liaison

Shannon Driver, Gagliano Mortgage, Director

Reggie Torbor, Pylon Building Group, Director

Tyler Williams, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama, Director

Doug Ayers PhD, MBA, UAB Collat School of Business, Director

Kimberly Jackson, Alabama Power, 1st Vice Chair

Tyler Lipe, Regions Bank, 2nd Vice Chair

Keith Barfield, BMSS Advisors & CPA, Vice Chair of Finance

Rohen Porbanderwala, Lake Crest Chevron, 2024 Board Chair

KATZTOBERFEST

On Thursday, Oct. 26 at Brock’s Gap Brewing Company, Kitty Kat Haven and Rescue held its annual “Katztoberfest” fundraiser, featuring a vendor market of 13 different vendors, raffle prizes, food trucks, games, activities and more.

2. Kelly Vernon and Shelby Lynn

Cole Dyer, Morgan Funderburk and Lynnsey Barefield

4. Noel DeShazo

5. Justin and Jacob Breedlove

6. Michelle Coulter, Angie Bell and Sarah Evans

7. Julia Banks and Natalie Nixon

8. Shannon Veitch

1. David Anderson with Butler and Ana-Cecilia Dobbins alongside Mary Carson Collins and Carson Culton

3.

9. MacKenzie Bowers, Christelle Byrd and Kari Angerhofer

10. Brenda Taylor, Rita Bowman, Kim Tyler and Natalie Nixon

11. Jeremy Irwin

PHOTOS BY ANNA GRACE MOORE

10

THE

On Sunday, Oct. 29, the Bluff Park Witches Ride took place throughout local Bluff Park neighborhoods, in efforts to raise money and awareness for a local nonprofit, The WellHouse, which serves as a safe haven for female victims of sex trafficking.

2. Chris Massengale and Laurie Primeaux

3. Anna Hart and Paula Heath

4. Joy Johnston, Jennifer Jones, Katie Dixon and Linnea Minnema

5. Katie Gunter and Lindsey Glisson

Katherine Phillips and Kimberley Respinto

7. Katie and Addy Cairo with Sherrie Roberts

Melody Al-Kahlout and Alyson Duncan

9. Barbara Kossow and Key Key

1. Andrea Sledge

6.

8.

10. Kelly Bonner, Kelly Monjoodi and Carrie League

11. Melissa Harrison and Teresa Epstein

12. Ciera Corenlison and Sara Beth Norton

13. Lisa Holmes and Peggy Palmer

BLUFF PARK WITCHES RIDE

PHOTOS BY KELSEA SCHAFER

MOSS ROCK FESTIVAL

From Saturday, Nov. 4-Sunday, Nov. 5, the Hoover Met hosted the Moss Rock Festival, featuring an artist market, live music, food trucks and more.

1. Sue Vogen

2. Yolanda Galanes

3. Grant Gannon

4. Turner Hull

5. Chelsea Schiavone

6. Jeffro Hollington

7. Bryce Bennett

8. Virginia Nelson

9. Brooke Pillars

10. Katrina Perkins, Cameron Hendon and Jaid Webb

11. Yasmeen Baumhower

12. Toby Klein

13. Danielle Tickell

PHOTOS BY ANNA GRACE MOORE

HO HO HOOVERRANDLE OPEN HOUSE

On Saturday, Dec. 2 at the HooverRandle Home and Gardens, nonprofit Hoover Helps held its annual open house, fundraising for its outreach programs. Hoover Helps partners with faith-based organizations and local businesses to meet the basic needs of children in local communities.

1. Charissa Bounds and Susan Toth

2. Aaron and Tally Dettling

3. Dee Wiley and Audrey Pannell

4. Sharley Miller with Amy and Thomas Luther

5. Frances and Frank Brocato

6. Hoover Helps

7. Beth and John Lyda

8. Jon Suttle and Patrick O’Mara

9. Tracy True Dismukes and Janet Jones

10. Margaret and Greg Knighton with Bill and Kaye Huff alongside Brian and Susan Toth

11. Michael Laney and Rickey White

12. Amy Luther

13. Frank Brocato and Jordan Hosey

PHOTOS BY ANNA GRACE MOORE

BLUFF PARK CHRISTMAS PARADE

On Saturday, Dec. 2, the Bluff Park Christmas Parade processed through Bluff Park neighborhoods with floats, performers and Santa Claus on a fire engine at the end.

1. Hoover High School Varsity Buccanettes and Frank Brocato

2. Hadley Carpenter and Emily Hughes

3. Addison, Elodie and Ava

4. Adrian and Kinsley Fitchpatrick

5. Tracy Dismukes and Britt Patterson

6. Meredith, Chris and Hadley Carpenter

7. Elijah Boyd, Kathryn Baker and Amber Ford

8. Tyma, Naya, Laine and Caitlyn

9. Olivia and Lily

10. Kensey Collins

11. Lucia Vilchez, Ava Stefano and Natalie Self

12. Adrian, Ellerey and Kinsley Fitchpatrick

13. David and Madeline Perry

16. Nadine and Mocha Bradley

14. Donna Peak, Tamara Stephens, Trudy Woods with Hong and Ping Tan

15. The Ahern family

17. Rebekah Rice and Ella Mayfield

PHOTOS BY KELSEA SCHAFER

HOOVER MENORAH LIGHTING

On Wednesday, Dec. 13 at the Hoover Public Library, Chabad of Alabama and the city of Hoover partnered together to host a celebration of Chanukah. This event marked the city of Hoover’s first joint menorah lighting with Chabad of Alabama.

1. City of Hoover

2. Esther and Ido David

3. Steve McClinton, Levi Weinbaum and Frank Brocato

4. Amanda Borden and Emma Davis

5. Mimi, Zira and Tsiviah Weinbaum

6. Joel and Kristie Calvin with Brian Willis

7. Shara, Elliott and Olivia Griffith

8. Levi Winebaum and Amanda Borden with Stephanie and Nick Derzis

9. Asher and Chava Usher

10. Marc and Jill Rice

11. Andy Sokol and Nick Price

PHOTOS BY ANNA GRACE MOORE

STATE OF THE CITY ADDRESS

On Wednesday, Jan. 24 at the HyattRegency Hotel, Mayor Frank Brocato delivered the State of the City Address.

1. Dr. Katrina Swain, Laurie Franklin and Scott Elliott

2. Frank and Frances Brocato with Gary Palmer

3. Keith Barfield, Monica Cowing and Jason Lavoy

4. Stephanie and Steve McClinton

5. Tony Johnson and Andy Hammond

6. Jay Carr, Katie Gaushell, Julie Vence and Taylor Gibson

7. Melanie Posey-Joseph

8. Hoover Fire Department

9. Elaina Burt and Kevin Maddox

10. Melissa McLemore and Pam Thompson

11. Liz Harrison, Tia Stephens and Katie Wilson

PHOTOS BY ANNA GRACE MOORE

THE NIGHT MARKET AT BROCK’S GAP

On Tuesday, Feb. 6 at Brock’s Gap Brewing Company, The Night Market at Brock’s Gap commenced, featuring more than 10 different vendors selling a variety of items from jewelry, candles, terrariums, baked goods, carpentry and more.

1. Steel City CBD

2. Ava Powell and Giselle Fox

3. Charlie Boyd

4. Bree Tucker

5. Kimberly Ford

6. Ashley and Lauren Madden

7. Ian and Amy Edgerton

8. Stephanie Farrell

9. George Elliott

10. Brian and Sarah Evans

11. Charity and Justin Jones

12. Bentley Rosser

13. Jennifer Dimbo and Pam Weaver

14. Barbara Cross

PHOTOS BY ANNA GRACE MOORE

YOUNG ARTIST RECEPTION

On Sunday, Feb. 11 at the Hoover Public Library, the library honored several Rocky Ridge Elementary School students’ artwork during the young artist reception. Students’ selected artwork will be on display throughout the month, and each month, the library features new artwork made by students of a select Hoover elementary school.

1. Brian and Lucy Phillips

2. Elijah and Ashlei Warren

3. Brice, Laura and Caroline Goree

4. The Brabson family

5. Kylie and Casuandra Robertson

6. Penelope and Julia Sue

7. The Pritchett family

8. Justin Banger

7

PHOTOS BY ANNA GRACE MOORE

HOST AN EXCHANGE

STUDENT TODAY! (for 3,5, 0r 10 months) Make a lifelong friend from abroad. Enrich your family with another culture. Select an exchange student from over 70 different countries. All families are welcome to apply. CALL PAMELA AT (205)577-9323 host.asse.com or email info@asse.com

Automation Personnel Services Hiring

IMMEDIATELY For: Automotive Assembly, General Labor, Production, Clerical, Machine Operator, Quality, Carpentry, Welder, Foundry. Positions In: Calera, Clanton, Pelham, Bessemer, McCalla. Walk-in applications accepted. Clanton (205)2800002. Pelham (205)444-9774.

B&B FARM/FLEA MARKET

$5 Set Up Fee 7am-3pm

41981 HWY 25 Vincent, AL 35178 FIRST & THIRD SATURDAY OF EACH

MONTH Animals, baked goods, food trucks, boiled peanuts, and more!! Bring whatever you want to sale and come hang out!!

Bama Concrete Now Hiring: Diesel Mechanic 4 Years Minimum Experience. CDL Preferred. Competitive Pay. Great Benefits. Apply in person: 2180 Hwy 87 Alabaster, 35007

NOW HIRING!!! BEST WESTERN PELHAM

• FRONT DESK• HOUSEKEEPERS• HANDYMAN

“RETIREES ARE WELCOME” CALL OR TEXT 205.908.1305”

BIRMINGHAM WATERWORKS CONTACT US AT (205)244-4000

Now Hiring For Utility Positions Starting pay $15.14/hour Must be able to pass background screen. Please apply at: www.bc.com

BRIAN’S TREE SERVICE•TREES CUT FROM THE TOP DOWN!•SAFE TREE REMOVAL IN CONFINED AREAS!•STUMP GRINDING!•GENERAL LIABILITY•WORKERS COMP WWW.BRIANSTREE.COM

205-281-2427

Central Alabma Wellness Mental Health Services Office locations in Calera, Clanton, Pelham, and 280! 205-651-0077 Visit our website to learn more centralalbamawellness.org

DONAVAN LAKES

FISHING CLUB & INN

Marion, Perry Co. AL 2131 Eagle Grove Church Rd. Marion, Alabama 36756

•8 Lakes •17 Piers

•Bass, Bream, Crappie, Catfish. •Camping, Nature Trails, Birding. Membership

$1000 for 2024

Contact Thomas Wilson

334-247-2101

wils5789@bellsouth.net

www.donavanlakes.org

Outstanding adventure for the entire family!

SENIOR L2/L3

AUTOMATION SPECIALIST

Danieli Taranis LLC (Chelsea, AL) to be rspnsbl for anlzng user needs & sftwr reqs. to dtrmne fsibilty of dsgn w/ in time & cost constraints, dscssng & evltng potential situations that can arise insde the plant & correlating them w/fnctnlts of the MES or flat prdct cntrl app. to produce fnctnl reqs. for each prjct, obtnng & evltng info on factors such as rprting frmts req., costs, or secrity needs to dtrmne hrdwr cnfgrtn. HS diploma w/3 yrs of prior work exp. in the pos. off. or rel. dvlpng, tstng & comsng Lvl 2 Automation Systms & Lvl 3 MES Syst. Send resumes to r.woods@danieli.com

Property Real Estate Manager (live out). Sought by commercial real estate company. Worksite: Birmingham, AL. 36 months exp. req. in same job or, Private Household Management or, any other closely related. Supervise other service workers $28.82

per. hour. 40 hrs. weekly. No walk in’s. Mail resume with cover letter to: The Founder. The Hazelrig Companies. 3535 Grandview Parkway, Suite # 315, Birmingham, AL 34243.

AUTOMATION L1 PLC

DEVELOPER

Danieli Taranis (Chelsea, AL) to be rspnsble for dvlpng sftwr prjct for autmtn sys.; intnl tstng of sftwr app on autmtn sys; drawing up ad prep. of oprtr manuals; field check, assurance that all field elctrcl eqpmnt is cnctd to autmtn sys; motor mvments accrdng to data sheet; mach. automatic mvmnts according to cycle diagram; monitor plant prdctvt. Bachelor’s in Cmptr Scnce or IT w/5 yrs of progress resp. prior wrk exp in the pstn offrd. or reltd. Mst knw (thru acad training or wrk exp) dvlpng MES autmtn sftwre using DELPHI XE2 & SQL ORACLE PL/SQL for bcknd dvlpmnt; dvlpng autmtn sftwre for steel indstry; SQL dtbse, Vsl Stdio Cde, Delphi 2005, Orcle dtbse, incl. Orcle ADF, Orcle SOA, & Orcle BPM. Resumes to r.woods@danieli. com.

Marble Valley Manor.

Affordable 1 and 2 Bedroom Apartments for Elderly & Disabled. Many on-site services! 2115 Motes Rd, Sylacauga. 256-245-6500

•TDD#s: 800-548-2547(V) •800-548-2546(T/A). Office Hours: Mon-Fri, 8am-4pm. Equal Opportunity Provider/ Employer

O-FLEX METAL FINISHING

Production Supervisor

$50,000.00-$70,000.00/ year 10hr shifts Mon-Thurs

Oversees production operations. Sets objectives, organizes workflow, prepares schedules, assigns responsibilities, trains employees, ensures safety, schedules maintenance, submits performance reports.

Skills:-Automotive Plant Experience -Experience as Production Supervisor or similar role -Experience with manufacturing machinery and tools -Advanced skills in MS Office -High School

Diploma; Degree in a technical, engineering or relevant field will be an advantage Benefits: PTO, 401k w/match, Health/ Dental/Vision insurance, employee assistance, referral program, tuition reimbursement 725 Keystone Drive Clanton, Al 35044

O-FLEX METAL FINISHING

2nd Shift Supervisor

$50,000.00-$70,000.00 2nd shift 2:30p.m.1:00a.m. Monday–Thursday

Responsibilities: •Be an effective Supervisor in a participative work environment •Ensure all Finishing Dept. goals and improvement objectives are accomplished per our commitments •Ability to optimize utilization of personnel, equipment, material, and space to meet OMF’s daily, monthly and annual targets. Will be evaluated regularly on ability to continuously improve in all areas of responsibility. 725 Keystone Drive Clanton, Al 35044

O-FLEX METAL FINISHING

Maintenance Technicians: Friday–Sunday 12 hour shifts 6:00a.m.-6:00p.m. Responsible for maintenance of O-Flex facilities & equipment across all lines & departments. Oversight of preventative maintenance programs. Coordinates continuous improvement activities with Maintenance Team Leader. Starting pay $19-$28 BOE 725 Keystone Drive Clanton, Al 35044

Quantum Logistics Hiring Class A Driver. Montgomery, AL. Full or part time. $.48-$.55 per mile. Paid weekly. BCBS Insurance. Home weekend EZ Pass and prepass. Safety & Fuel Bonus. Apply online www.qtmlog.com Call (334)2888106.

Take your anxiety out of baking Fall pies – You CAN bake them Yourself!! Join me on September 24th and learn to make a buttery, flaky delicious crust and fill it with local Apples just in time for the Holidays!! Classes are

held at Party Art Studio in Pelham and are totally hands on. September 24, 2023 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Sign up on my Facebook page @Siggi’sTable or Email siggistable@gmail.com See You Soon!!

Nursing Assistant to help care for an elderly gentleman in Jemison requiring total assistance. PT-FT. To apply, call Ms. Peoples (205)6881992 or (205)447-3005

Security Guard for Gated Community in North Shelby County Full-time or Part-time. Must have pistol permit. Call Brittany 205991-4653

Become a Dental Assistant in ONLY 8 WEEKS!

Please visit our website capstonedentalassisting.com or call (205)561-8118 and get your career started!

Hiring Experienced Driver

Must have Class A CDL, Hazmat, tanker exp. Local deliveries, so you will be home every night. We have new equipment, FT/ PT positions available with excellent hourly pay. Offering health/dental insurance, paid vacations. Send resumes to: mark@allenoil.com Call 256404-4143 or come by the Allen’s office at: 1251 Old Bham Hwy in Sylacauga

South Pointe Development 203 Shiloh Creek Drive Calera, AL 35040Updating

Waiting List:3 BDR 2 Bath Mon-Fri 8:30-5:30 MultiFamily No Pets Allowed 205-668-1196.

Experienced Termite Technician or someone experienced in route-service work and wants to learn new profession. Work-vehicle/ equipment provided. Must drive straight-shift, have clean driving record/be 21/pass background/drug test. Training provided. Insurance/401K offered. M-F 7:00-4:30 + 1 Saturday/ month. Pay $13hr. Send resume to facsmith@charter. net

MY HOOVER SALLIE VINES WHITE

Hoover High School Associate Band Director and First Edition Jazz Band Director

Get Outdoors

The Hoover Metropolitan Complex

I love seeing our band students march pregame, halftime and perform in the stands. The games are also preceded by a patio party at which our First Edition Jazz Band performs. At last count, I have been to 452 Hoover (Berry) High School football games.

Sentimental Spots

Riverchase Community Church

Noah and I met at Riverchase Community Church, where we later got married and raised our children. My mom and dad also attended church there, and as a family, being all together during services was wonderful. I am blessed to play piano there most Sundays.

Eat Local Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

One of our favorite Hoover restaurants is Firebirds. Noah and I love to split the large ribeye. It is incredible with a loaded baked potato and a BLT salad. We also love the grilled salmon there. The service at Firebirds is wonderful, too.

Making Memories

Teaching at Hoover High School

I have been blessed for 34 years to teach in Hoover. I started teaching here in 1990 at Berry High School, Simmons Middle School, Gwin Elementary School and Shades Mountain Elementary School. Since 2001, I have been at Hoover High School teaching band, jazz band and AP music theory. I have had the opportunity to teach thousands of incredible students. I am now teaching children of students I taught years ago.

Career Passions

A Love of Music

In December 2023, the First Edition Jazz Band performed in Chicago at The Midwest Clinic. This was a huge honor to be selected to play at this conference. Watching them progress in their abilities and learn to love music as I do is so rewarding, especially when they are able to share that love and learning with others, too.