Mountain Brook Magazine, Spring 2022

ON TYBEE ISLAND TIME • DAUGHTERS BAKING CAKE CREATIONS • WATERCOLORS BY PORTER RIVERS

2022

WEDDINGS SPRING 2022 MountainBrookMagazine.com Volume Six | Issue One $4.95

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FEATURES 64

SARAH & DANIEL 66

BRUCIE & CONNER 68

RACHEL & CHARLIE 70

LOUISE & JAKE 72

LEILA & JOSH 76

MAGGIE & CLARKSON 78

PATRICIA & MORGAN 80 82

DANI & WILL 84

MARGARET ANNE & MAJOR 4 Spring 2022

PHOTO BY HEATHER DURHAM PHOTOGRAPHY

CALLAN & ALSTON

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17

PHOTO BY REBECCA WISE

arts & culture

17 Preserving Memories: Watercolors by Porter Rivers 26 Five Questions For: Student Author Karma Kilgore

food

& drink

27 In the Circle: A Chat with the Daughters Baking Owner

travel 35 Hit the Road: On Tybee Time

weddings

in every issue 6 Contributors 9 From the Editor 10 @mountainbrookmag 12 The Question 13 The Guide 86 Chamber Connections 88 Out & About 94 Marketplace 96 My Mountain Brook

43 Forever on Your Side: A Ladies Lunch Before the Big Day 49 Destination Style: Intricate Wedding Dress Designs 56 How to Style a Shower Grazing Table: Inspiration for Celebrations 61 A Guide to Selecting Just the Right Wedding Tie 62 Pandemic-Era Trends That Are Here to Stay

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MOUNTAIN BROOK

contributors

MAGAZINE

EDITORIAL

Alec Etheredge Meg Herndon Michelle Love Madoline Markham Keith McCoy Emily Sparacino

CONTRIBUTORS

James Culver Lindsey Culver Ann Sutherland Elliott Mary C. Fehr Grace Gardner Morgan Hunt Christiana Roussel Elizabeth Sturgeon Arden Ward Rebecca Wise

DESIGN

Jamie Dawkins Connor Martin-Lively Kimberly Myers Briana Sansom

MARKETING

Octavia Campbell Evann Campbell Jessica Caudill Kari George Michaela Hancock Rachel Henderson Rhett McCreight Tori Montjoy Viridiana Romero

ADMINISTRATION Hailey Dolbare Mary Jo Eskridge Daniel Holmes Stacey Meadows Tim Prince Brittany Schofield Savana Tarwater Anna Willis

Mary Fehr, Photographer

Mary is a wedding and portrait photographer based out of Birmingham.

She studied art and art history at University of Montevallo. She likes to teach and plans on getting her MFA in order to do so. Mary also loves to travel and has a goal of photographing a wedding in every state! She enjoys reading non-fiction, going to concerts and spending time with her family.

Christiana Roussel, Writer

Where should we have dinner? Where should we go on our next family vacation or couple’s getaway? What kind of shotgun should I buy? These are all queries writer Christiana Roussel has answered in recent months.

While food writing is her original passion, she has really enjoyed expanding her repertoire to include travel and sporting activities that might involve an upland adventure. And no, it is not just because there might be a need for new clothes for the expedition.

Elizabeth Sturgeon, Writer

Elizabeth was born and raised in Birmingham and has stayed close to home ever since. A recent Samford University graduate, Elizabeth serves as the communications coordinator at Birmingham-Southern College, where she covers stories about students, alumni and campus culture. She is always down for a meal she’s never eaten before or a movie she’s never seen.

Rebecca Wise, Photographer

Rebecca is a photographer living in Mountain Brook with her husband, Chase, their three sons, Raughley, Liam and Marshall, and their two dogs.

She specializes in family and children’s photography as well as sports and movement photography such as yoga, pilates and ballet. When she doesn’t have a camera in hand, she loves to read and spend time with her family.

Mountain Brook Magazine is published quarterly by Shelby County Newspapers Inc., P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051.

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

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

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

6 Spring 2022

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8 Spring 2022

from the editor

A

ON THE COVER

Patricia & Morgan

Patricia Stutts and Morgan Harper ended up moving their wedding to Barber Motorsports Park due to COVID-19 but still took pictures in front of the country club where Patricia’s mom and grandmother had both held their wedding receptions.

Photo by Eric & Jamie Photography Design by Kimberly Myers

As a preschooler I’d hide behind my mom’s legs when I met new people—I was that shy. But not at my Aunt Betsy’s wedding. Somehow putting on a lacy peach dress and getting a basket of flowers to take down the aisle unleashed a different child on the dance floor—one who cried during the bride and groom’s first dance because she had to step away from the floor. Turn on music or, better yet, a live band, and a child can dance for hours on end without a care in the world like I did that July evening with my cousin Andrea.

Fast forward 31 years and one worldwide pandemic later, and once again I found myself at family wedding—a reception for a couple we had watched wed on Zoom a year before. It was the first large indoor gathering I’d been to in well over a year, and I entered the scene freshly vaccinated and apprehensive about all the people—almost like my childhood shyness. But before long, I found myself on the dance floor, once again with my cousin Andrea. Quickly, we tuned out all thoughts of the virus that had changed our world and danced the night away without abandon. It was freedom-filled bliss.

To me, that is one of the best markers of a wedding—to be so in the moment, so focused on celebrating two people becoming one that all the sorrows and fears of the world around us fade for a brief while for feasting, dancing, merriment and perhaps a few tears of joy.

That’s also part of why putting together this annual wedding issue is my favorite part of my work year as I get a taste of those blissful celebratory moments for couples and their guests. Each comes with a unique story, many of them this year either during or coming out of the height of pandemic times. And now I get an extra layer of editorial joy to get to share them with all of you.

In addition to our features on Mountain Brook brides and grooms, you’ll also find inspiration images from a bridesmaids’ luncheon and a shower grazing table, as well as wedding dresses by independent designers that I can’t stop staring at, a guide to selecting just the right wedding tie and a few pandemic-era wedding trends that are here to stay.

Plus, before you get to all the wedding section goodness, we introduce you to the artwork of Porter Rivers and bring you in our chat with the owner of Daughters Baking, which recently opened a storefront next to Bromberg’s in Mountain Brook Village.

Cheers to all the marriages this issue celebrates, and here’s to hoping your 2022 is marked by moments where you too can pause all thought of the hard things of this world and dance the night away like a child!

madoline.markham@mountainbrookmagazine.com MountainBrookMagazine.com 9

@mountainbrookmag

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

@mayorstuwelch We have a new DOG PARK! As part of his Eagle Scout project, Grayson Hydinger (15) conceived the idea, did the design, raised the funds for a beautiful dog park adjacent to Mountain Brook Elementary School field. Bring your dog and visit soon!

Thanks to Shanda Williams, head of Parks & Rec and many others for all their help! #xploremb #choosemb

@orchidhousevenue Orchid House Open House Dec. 17 530-730pm champagne, music and celebration!

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IT’S HERE!!! We are beyond excited to open our doors to you — come see us today from 10-5!

If you haven’t heard already, we are opening up a third location in @laneparke soon!!

10 Spring 2022

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“ ” THE QUESTION

What do friends and family who attended your wedding remember the most from it?

That it was 108 degrees and a fully outdoor event.

-Anna House Svarney

-Lindsey Martin Simpson

The flower girls ran out of rose petals halfway down the aisle and turned around and ran back to get more!

My husband kept saying he had a huge surprise. Big Al came to our reception. It made for a super fun surprise and lots of great photos and memories.

The Blizzard of ‘93!

The ball and chain with “Suzan Forever” that Sharp Gillespie put around my husband’s leg and put the key to it in my champagne glass!

All the children attendants at my wedding! 27!

The fried oysters from CCB.

-Antoinette Flowers

-Shannon Richardson Raine

- Jane Bigger Dickens

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“Oh Happy Day” being sung by an amazing choir who burst into song in the balcony as we left the sanctuary.

-Caroline Turner Ezelle

- Suzan Doidge

-Kate Littleton Gillespie

THE GUIDE

FRIENDS OF THE EMMET O’NEAL LIBRARY BOOK SALE FEB. 25-27 O’Neal Library Find some new reads for 2022 at this annual sale to benefit our favorite library. The Friends of the O’Neal Library accepts book donations throughout the year to sell at this event, and you can drop them off at the back door of the library. Find more event details at https://oneallibrary. org/support-friends-3734.

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THE GUIDE AROUND TOWN COMMUNITY

SPEECHLESS Last year’s Miss Olympian Kendall Crabtree decided to do something unique during her reign. As a part of her “Speechless” platform focused on using your voice to affect positive change, she held an essay contest for fifth and sixth graders at Mountain Brook Elementary, where she herself went. For it Kendall asked the students to write about how they had used their voice or would use their voice to affect positive change, and she selected two winners, Olivia Avery and Riley Mears, to walk with her in the Mystics of Mountain Brook Parade wearing sashes she made herself.

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FEB. 11-27 Once on this Island Red Mountain Theatre Company FEB. 11-13 Mercedes Benz Marathon Weekend FEB. 23-26 Southern Voices Festival Hoover Public Library MARCH 5 Exceptional Foundation Chili Cook-Off Brookwood Village MARCH 26 Rumpshaker 5K Homewood Central Park APRIL 2 Ellis Porch Statue to Statue 15K Starts at Vulcan Park & Museum

THE GUIDE APRIL 22-24 Magic City Art Connection Linn Park APRIL 9 Red Shoe Run Benefitting Ronald McDonald House Downtown Birmingham APRIL 9 Walk MS Homewood Central Park APRIL 29-30 Lebanese Food and Culture Festival St. Elias Maronite Church APRIL 29-MAY 1 Indy Grand Prix of Alabama Barber Motorsports Park APRIL 30 Gumbo Gala Presented by Episcopal Place Sloss Furnaces

RESTAURANTS

COMING SOON TO A VILLAGE NEAR YOU Keep your eye out this spring for two new-to-Mountain Brook eateries. The team behind Brick & Tin is opening an upscale lounge featuring craft cocktails and small plates in English Village called Key Circle Commons. Over in Crestline Village, Real and Rosemary is taking the former Ollie Irene spot at 75 Church Street—bittersweet news for that location as we say good bye to Ollie Irene. The new Real and Rosemary will offer dine-in, takeout, online ordering, family meals for four and catering, along with a full-service bar serving specialty cocktails, beer and wine.

Illustration by Mikayla Hammock

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THE GUIDE

FEB. 25-26

MARCH 12

Publix GreenWise Village 2 Village 10K You can run through your favorite villages and neighborhoods with this annual run. This year the event is sponsored by Publix GreenWise Market, and it benefits the Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce. Register at runsignup.com.

16 Spring 2022

Sweet Repeats Consignment Sale FRIDAY 9 A.M.-6 P.M., SATURDAY 9 A.M.-NOON MOUNTAIN BROOK COMMUNITY CHURCH GYM Stock up on your kids’ wardrobes for spring and summer at reasonable prices at this sale. Plus, proceeds support the church’s short-term mission trips and other missions projects. Consignors receive 75 percent of the selling price, and 25 percent goes to MBCC Missions. Many items will be half-price on Saturday. Find more information at mbcc.us/sweetrepeats/.

&CULTURE

ARTS

PRESERVING MEMORIES Porter Rivers captures vibrant landscapes and architectural details in watercolor.

BY ELIZABETH STURGEON PHOTOS BY REBECCA WISE MountainBrookMagazine.com 17

P

Porter Rivers grew up in small-town splendor at the edge of the Alabama River. The rural landscape, where he fished and hunted throughout his childhood, was also marked by bright and storied historic buildings, the ones that always stuck out to him on familiar streets.

For a kid who always had a gift for drawing, Selma became the setting for Porter’s emerging artistic spark, the one that’s forged a title that took him years to truly claim for himself. He’s pursued many vocations and held different titles throughout his young adulthood: interior architecture student, business student, Samford University SGA president, financial analyst and emerging artist.

More specifically, he’s a watercolor painter, with a focus on homes and buildings. “I grew up being fascinated by the historical homes, which is how I got started,” he says. “To me it’s a house, and to others, its where they’ve raised their family or lived for 50 years.”

Along with commissioned home paintings, Porter paints landscapes, portraits and other subjects from his Mountain Brook home as he expands his layered, vibrant watercolor style. The projects have fostered his childhood hobby into a passion and a new business, while he still works in finance during the day.

The first step towards an unexpected painting business was two-fold: one, his college courses in interior architecture during his first term at Samford, and two, meeting a Selma-based neighbor and artist who commissioned him to capture landmarks in the Queen City. In his structures and sculpture class in 2013, Porter began sculpting some of Selma’s architecture right before he was asked to paint several historic churches and buildings in his hometown during his Christmas break.

The architectural pieces came naturally to Porter.

The important details integral to the building—the small details on the homes, the scale and perspective, the colors and surrounding settings—made sense to him, and the style didn’t take long to master. His initial sketches became one of his favorite parts of the painting process, and he still makes that the first step of each piece, though he could start directly

18 Spring 2022

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After these projects, Porter continued to paint during breaks from school, which later became his sole creative outlet when he switched to his finance major. Christmas and summer breaks became his biggest opportunities to learn more about watercolor and paint more homes for family and friends in Selma. “When people come with a house they’ve lived in for years, or something they’re putting their trust in you to convey, that’s impactful for me,” he says.

Porter’s watercolors set homes and landscapes in deep colors that help develop the warmth and nostalgia people associate with a house. “I’ve been told it’s not a traditional watercolor—it’s not as translucent,” he says. “It’s heavier, and the colors are a little more dense.”

The homes are framed in greenery, and Porter’s textured technique grounds them into the paper, rather than letting watercolor make them too light and airy. That he saves for landscapes on the river banks or rural Alabama fields, flowing in blues and grays.

After Porter graduated from Samford in 2017 and began his current position at Medical Properties Trust, he continued to paint during his

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22 Spring 2022

time outside of work. Around this time, his wife, Emily—who shares the artistic eye as an interior designer at Nequette Architecture & Design and has been one of Porter’s biggest supporters— helped him put his work on social media and broaden his reach.

Over time, people have come to Porter with more than just homes and bring other stories that require different subjects. He’s painted family members, pet portraits, wedding details, and more personal moments that he’s been trusted to keep.

Porter’s official LLC launched in 2020, and his ever-growing portfolio has continued to solidify “artist” as an important title. “About a year ago, I wouldn’t have said I was an artist,” he says, “but I like to tell people now. I’m not worried about committing to that idea.”

The financial analyst and watercolor artist titles work hand in hand, and always have since Porter first left his architecture classes for business school. “The balance works well for me,” he says.

“People ask me if I would ever do art full time, but once it’s actually work, I don’t know if I would enjoy it was much as I do now. The two jobs play well together. One involves numbers and reading leases, the other is working with a paintbrush.”

Porter makes time to paint after work and on the weekends, finding calm in the painting process during busy seasons. “The busier I am and more I’m on a schedule, the better. It’s a way to step away from everything and destress,” he says. He’s currently working on creating his own studio space in his and Emily’s new home in Mountain Brook.

“The reason I keep doing it—and what I love—is interacting with people,” he says. “The slogan I’ve started saying is ‘preserving memories in watercolor.’ Once I realized I was able to capture a memory and give that to someone, that was so meaningful.”

You can find Porter’s art in ALKMY in Crestline Village and follow his work on Instagram @porterriversart.

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A TRADITION EXTENSION Porter began creating ornaments in 2021 that became a special extension of his own Christmas traditions. “I grew up loving Christmas,” he says. “My grandmother and I were very close. She lived across the street from us, and I would always help her decorate for Christmas, from the time I was 5 until I was 25. She passed away two years ago, and I’ve continued to love Christmas the way she inspired in me.”

Drawing from his grandmother’s vintage ornaments, Porter painted small nativity scenes, stockings, bells, and wreathes in sage and gold and mounted them with a clear acrylic back to hang. “I love the idea of doing small pieces because not everyone needs a large work,” he says.

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ARTS&CULTURE

5

FIVE QUESTIONS FOR

Karma Kilgore Student Author PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

Karma Kilgore’s imagination is never-ending, as is evident in both her writing and her paintings. The Brookwood Forest Elementary fifth-grader recently illustrated and published her first book, The Red Realm, after a shorter version of it took home first place at both the school and district level in the Art Expressions contest among all Mountain Brook elementary schools. We talked with her and her mom, Christina, as she was working on a new story for this year’s contest.

How did you write The Red Realm?

Karma: I got really into writing when I was bored, and I liked fantasy because it doesn’t have to be realistic. It just kind of popped into my head, and I kept writing. I had written this book about a year before a contest I entered it in. Then I heard about this contest with a kindness theme, so I tweaked it a little bit for the theme. It was double the amount of words that were allowed in the contest, so I cut out a whole bunch of it.

passed. If they don’t do all of that, they are stuck there forever.

What are you working on next?

Karma: I have started an Orange Realm book, and I think I am going to enter it in the Art Expressions contest this year. I think it will be more realistic; the other one was kind of out there. I think there will be a lot more writing techniques because I have learned them in school.

Karma to write and think creatively. They have always made up stories together, and they collaborated on this book together.

My mom has written her whole life since she grew up in a little coal mining town.

She’s 83 and she published a book when she was 80. It had been a lifelong book she had been working on, and she had to change it over the years.

Do you get inspired creatively by reading or other things in life?

Karma: I like realistic fiction and Who inspires you to write and be science fiction. I don’t like to read fantasy creative?

Can you tell us about the plot of the but I like to write it. I like Kate DiCamillo’s Karma: I went to my grandma’s house book?

Karma: It’s about these two girls, and after school every day when I was younger. writing and Andrew Clements because he’s they get lost in the woods. They get We made a whole menu of playdough and really funny.

Christina: We also travel a lot, so she transported to this different realm and it’s paper hats and got glue and glitter told me she gets ideas from some of our everywhere. all red and is really cool. But they get stuck, Christina: My mom, Louise Kilgore, is travels. She’s already been to 30 countries and they have to complete all of these kind acts to get unstuck before 24 hours has a writer, and she has always encouraged and 30 states.

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&DRINK

FOOD

IN THE CIRCLE

Mallory Mason talks about sharp edges, crunches and all that makes a cake a Daughters Baking creation.

BY MADOLINE MARKHAM PHOTOS BY MARY FEHR & CONTRIBUTED MountainBrookMagazine.com 27

Mallory Mason opened a storefront for Daughters Baking in Mountain Brook Village late last year.

28 Spring 2022

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Long ago and yet not that long ago, fresh baked cookies and breads were served up in Big Sky Bakery in the main circle of Mountain Brook Village. Fast forward through the storefront’s life as a boutique and other businesses, and now its window beckons customers in for sweet treats— naked-style cakes and individual cake cups in particular—once again as Daughters Baking. To learn more about the cake business and what all you can find in the space full of light pink and light wood hues, we chatted with the mastermind behind it all, Mallory Mason.

halfway through I started selling cakes on the side.

Someone had given me the Momofuku Milk Bar cookbook, and I love their style of cakes with the sharp edge acetate technique. I played around with my own recipes, and people really liked the cake. It grew from there, through Instagram and word of mouth, and women at my church started buying the cakes. Eventually I wanted to do it full-time, and I quit my job.

You opened a retail store in Mountain Brook Village in July. How did that come about?

For the past three and a half years we have been in a kitchen space in West Homewood where Hero How did Daughters Baking get its start?

I was working at Urban Standard as a barista Doughnuts and Big Spoon started, and we have when I was in college at Samford and started baking been able to grow the business there. It really on the side for fun. Then I started filling in for the limited the business though when you can’t have baker when she was out of town, and that ended up walk-in customers, so we wanted to have a walk-in leading me to taking over her position. I baked at place to get cakes and that’s beautiful. I liked the Urban Standard full-time for four years, and window and the lighting and the location in the MountainBrookMagazine.com 29

preorders, or people can walk in and buy from our inventory in the back. We do wedding tastings here too. The smallest amount we used to sell were mini cakes that serve two to four people, but now people Tell us more about what happens in this can walk in and get a cake cup for a craving. space.

Our interior designer, Ivy Schuster with Hatcher Where do you get ideas for cake flavors?

When I was at Urban Standard, I played around Schuster Interiors, was so fun to work with. She connected me with a muralist to paint our logo, and with different recipes, so some of the flavor Magic City Woodworks made the table and our combinations are inspired by doughnuts and shelves. We do production in West Homewood, and cupcakes I made, like lavender-honey. I was the Mountain Brook Village space is just retail. Part inspired by the baker before me and how different of the technique of the cakes is they have to freeze flavors work together like blueberry-orange. Our for 24 hours for the edges to set, so we have a stock Nutella Orange cake flavor I’m pretty sure was a of them in the back. We have a three-day notice for doughnut eight years ago at Urban Standard. main circle here. It gives us tons of visibility and has been advertising in and of itself. Our sales have dramatically increased since we have been here.

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Speaking of Urban Standard, are there any other culinary brands around town that came out of the coffee shop?

Domestique Coffee is a coffee roaster, and they have a shop in Five Points. They are in Piggly Wiggly and Whole Foods. I used to be a barista with the guys who started it. Some people who worked at Urban Standard went the culinary direction, and others went other routes like software development.

Each of your cakes have what you call a “crunch.” What is that exactly?

Milk Bar inspired them, and it’s like a sugary dry mixture tossed in butter or oil and toasted lightly. For our pretzel crunch, it’s crushed pretzels, sugar and flour tossed in butter. We repeat the crunch in each layer and put a bunch on top. Cakes that don’t have a different texture are missing something to me. I personally love salt, and the crumbs have a good amount of sweetness and salt that give a punch to the cake.

What are some of your personal favorite and your bestselling cake flavors?

One of my favorite flavors we have, not currently, is Bananas Foster. Pumpkin Brown Butter is a bestseller at Thanksgiving; it’s like a mix between pumpkin pie and pecan pie in cake form. Our other bestseller is Blueberry Lemon, and it’s our most popular wedding cake too. It has blueberry cake, cheesecake, lemon buttercream and white chocolate crumb. The Salted Caramel Pretzel is another bestseller. It has caramel cake, caramel buttercream, caramel sauce and pretzel crumb.

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25th YEAR

What will we see at the bakery this spring?

Valentine’s Day is one of our biggest times of year. We’ll release a few Valentine’s themed items in early February. We have Red Velvet every year, and we will probably do some sort of strawberry.

In March we’ll release spring flavors. We may bring back the Peach Bourbon and Carrot. We like to do limited series as well.

Why do brides choose your cakes?

I think it’s the flavor. Once people try them, that’s what sells them. A lot of people say it’s the best wedding cake they’ve had. We have a wedding cake flavor that’s a vanilla cake with vanilla buttercream, white chocolate milk crumb and vanilla custard, and the Blueberry Lemon is also a big wedding cake. For groom’s cake Reese’s Peanut MountainBrookMagazine.com 31

Butter and Salted Caramel Pretzel are popular.

You got married last year yourself. What cakes did you have at your wedding?

I had five single tier flavors: Banana, Cookies and Cream, Reese’s Peanut Butter, Pumpkin Brown Butter and Spiced Apple. It was in October, so I did our fall flavors plus Banana.

Where else can you find your cakes around town?

The month before I left Urban Standard someone served one of our cakes to the owner of Gianmarco’s, and he loved it and wanted them in his restaurant.

That was so encouraging to have that regular gig at Pizzeria GM. We have a mini cake on the menu.

Soho Social started serving mini cakes later. I would love to get the cake cups in stores somewhere.

What’s new or coming soon with the business?

We are trying to add more merchandise in the store. We sell Village Apothecary candles and Civil Stoneware cake stands, and we want to add more merchandise in here to give the space more life. We made cookie mix for the holidays, and we have

32 Spring 2022

cards. We had a wedding tasting event with our doors open after hours recently, and we want to do more events like that to build awareness for brides and give them an opportunity to taste our cakes.

We are also about to start doing kids cake baking classes, and we just started advertising that people can rent out the space for wedding showers and baby showers.

What’s a long-term goal you have for Daughters?

Part of my senior project as a sociology major was about hunger-related issues, and I have always been drawn to that. Eventually once we get to a really strong place, I would like to partner with more organizations internationally that help with hunger and thirst-related types of issues in a way that we can give back. I have this awareness in the back of my head about the things I learned about poverty. I don’t know what that looks like, but I feel like I will know eventually.

Learn more about Daughters Baking at daughtersbaking.com and follow them on Instagram @daughtersbaking. Their retail store is located at 2812 Cahaba Road.

The path to

MENDING HER

HEART

was actually through her leg.

Olivia was born with a congenital heart defect requiring open heart surgery at 3 months old. She also required a second surgery as a teen to replace her pulmonary valve – but this time they went through a vein in her leg to insert the Harmony Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve in her heart. This less-invasive path to replacement shortened her recovery time, and she went home the next day. Olivia was the first pediatric patient in the southeast to receive the Harmony valve, and it was here at Children’s of Alabama.

Olivia Tetralogy of Fallot Patient

To learn more visit ChildrensAL.org/heart

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34 Spring 2022

On Tybee Time Slow down to explore sandy beaches, marshes and historical sites on this small island off the southern coast of Georgia.

By Christiana Roussel | Photos Courtesy of Tybee Island & Local Businesses Referenced in Captions MountainBrookMagazine.com 35

HIT THE ROAD

Road trips are a funny thing.

We start out in our own driveways, surrounded by the familiar—the twists and turns of our own neighborhood streets—which gradually give way to multi-lane highways, streams of cars and trucks all rushing to their destinations.

And as we approach our own journey’s end, in this case, Tybee Island, we take a moment to notice the still-unfamiliar but highly anticipated. The highway recedes, and we find ourselves on a simple two-lane road that will ultimately end at the ocean, exactly where we wish to be.

At only three miles long and less than a mile wide, Tybee Island—one of the famed Sea Islands off the coast of southern Georgia—is a natural respite from the rigors of daily life. With sandy beaches to the east and tidal marshes to the western interior, Tybee is replete with marine activity far different from the towns dotting the northern Florida panhandle where many of us have vacationed. Life on Tybee Island is dictated by the tides, the ebb and flow of a life lived more slowly, more in tune with the native world around us, and one rich in history.

Alabama

South Carolina

Georgia Atlanta

Birmingham

20 20

75

Macon

6 hrs., 22 min.

411 Miles

Auburn

16

Columbus

16

Savannah

36 Spring 2022

Tybee Island

HISTORY

These islands have seen their fair share of Revolutionary War battles, and Fort Pulaski (nps.gov/ fopu/index.htm) is a must-visit for any history buff.

Named for Casimir Pulaski, a Polish soldier and commander who fought in the Revolutionary War, this coastal fortification played a key role in rifled cannon combat. Today the site is part of the National Park Service and available to visit year-round.

During the Industrial Revolution, Tybee Island was the southern-most stop on the Central of Georgia Railway line, making it the ideal destination for residents of densely populated cities up north who were seeking healthier climes as remedies to ailments associated with industrial pollution.

For lighthouse enthusiasts (yes, that is a thing!), Tybee Island is home to Georgia’s oldest and tallest lighthouse, the original being constructed in 1736.

The Tybee Island Historical Society oversees the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum (tybeelighthouse.org), and it is a must-visit.

WHEN (and HOW) TO GO There are those who favor beach visits only when you can don a bathing suit while others prefer to go when the wide expanse of sand is not chock-a-block with umbrellas and beach towels. Honestly, there isn’t a bad time to be on the island. The spring sees more temperate days and nights making Tybee Island ideal for a weeklong getaway, a day trip from Savannah or anything in between.

The drive to Tybee Island from Birmingham is a little over six hours. There is plenty to see along the way, and it might be nice to have your car for extended exploration. Plane travelers can fly into Savannah and make the 20-minute drive onto the island.

WEDDING DESTINATIONS

Those looking to plan their nuptials on the island should book The Reeve Cottage (thereevecottage.com) guest house, located on a prime acre of land at the Southern-most tip of the island.

With an unrivaled view of the ocean, Little Tybee Island and epic sunsets, guests will appreciate the location as much as the bride and groom themselves. The Tybee Island Wedding Chapel and Grand Ballroom is also worth checking out (tybeeweddingchapel. com). (Miley Cyrus fans might recognize the chapel from her movie, The Last Song.)

Reeve Cottage

Photo by Roland Broda

MountainBrookMagazine.com 37

HIT THE ROAD

WHAT TO DO A visit to Tybee Island should come with a commitment to adventure and to being outdoors—there is so much to explore.

Forget the Car

Many visitors bring their own bikes or rent on the island from places like Tim’s Bike & Beach Gear (timsbeachgear.com). Still others like the ease of a golf cart, renting one at Tybee Golf Carts (tybeegolfcarts.com).

Tim’s Bike & Beach Gear

Sea Treasures

Take to the marshes in a kayak or SUP with Sea Kayak Georgia. Book a Sundial Charter Tour to hunt for fossils (megalodon sharks teeth!) and lost treasures from the sea. Sundial also offers crabbing and light-tackle fishing for those looking for sport. Dolphin watching and sunset tours are always popular with anyone visiting Tybee, and there are several outfitters offering these experiences as well.

Meet the Turtles

Kids of all ages will enjoy visiting the Tybee Island Marine Science Center (tybeemarinescience.org) to learn more about the coastal marine life. Sea turtle nesting season begins around May 1; local volunteers spend time searching the local shoreline for these nests and then sit with them to protect them from scavengers. Visitors can meet Ike the sea turtle who was born September 2020 and now calls the center his home.

Tybee by Night

Evening entertainment can often be found at the Tybee Post Theater (tybeeposttheater. org), which was once a movie house for soldiers stationed at Fort Screven. Nowadays, you can not only catch a screening but also see live music or a local theater production.

Tybee Post Theater

WHERE TO STAY Life on Tybee is definitely “island time” and many hotel options lean toward casual. After all, with so much going on outdoors, you’re not likely to spend too much time in your hotel room.

The Beachview Inn and Spa (beachviewtybee.com) is minutes from the beach, with hospitality that combines the relaxed coastal atmosphere with Southern charm.

The Back River area of Tybee is less densely populated with several VRBO options, cottages for groups or family gatherings too.

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Meet Your Travel Guide Proud to call Birmingham home, Christiana Roussel loves discovering every corner of the Magic City. But the road beckons often. She’s been known to make a wrong turn into the right choice, dig in with the locals and try to talk her way out of a speeding ticket or two. Curiosity drives her and finding connection is her passion.

WHERE TO EAT Ahhh, we’ve saved the best for last—the food. As you can imagine, the menus at most Tybee Island restaurants feature seafood. It is the history and the vibe that makes them all distinct.

The Crab

Simply Seafood

Longtime visitors, larger groups and anyone looking for a bit of old-school beach schmaltz will clamor to go to The Crab Shack (thecrabshack.com), an island institution where guests arrive via car or boat.

Large holes in the center of each table give way to trash cans underneath, perfect for making a mess and tossing in shrimp shells and tails, corncobs or any other detritus from a good seafood boil. Note: the baby alligator on-site might be the other reason kids love coming here. AJ’s Dockside (ajsdocksidetybee.com) is equally casual and attached to the marina where you can spend the afternoon watching fishermen bring in their hauls.

A Step Above

Looking for something a bit more upscale?

Shack

Photo by Amy Murphy

Try Sundae Café (sundaecafe.com), where you might have to choose between sushi nachos, shrimp and grits, a Lowcountry bouillabaisse or burgers with thick-cut bacon. Over at Salt Island Fish and Beer (saltislandfb.com), you’ll be looking at the blue crab poutine, baked oysters or a whole fish, straight off the boat.

Until Whenever

Late night diners have been known to favor Huc-a-Poos (hucapoos.com), where closing time is noted as “whenever.” As popular

with the locals as it is with vacationers, this is where you can meal hard on wraps, pizzas, nachos or anything that pairs well with beer.

To Start the Day

If breakfast is more your speed, uber-laidback diner-style Breakfast Club might be just for you. Locals call this “no frills,” and that is saying something because Tybee is already pretty low-key. Omelets as well as classic fare like steak-and-eggs or hash browns are the order of the day at Sunrise Breakfast (sunrisesavannah.com) as well.

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40 Spring 2022

weddings mountain brook

A GUIDE TO ALL THINGS WHITE, BRIGHT & BEAUTIFUL PHOTO BY LESLIE HOLLINGSWORTH

MountainBrookMagazine.com 41

forever on your

side Just before the big day, it’s time to slow down and celebrate the ladies who will be standing by your side.

That’s just what this bride did with an elegant and heartfelt luncheon she won from Bromberg’s.

Photos by Arden Photography MountainBrookMagazine.com 43

The Cake Pull You can order a bridesmaids luncheon cake from Olexa’s in their signature vanilla buttercream with charm pulls already in it. According to the tradition, each bridesmaid pulls a ribbon to find a charm with its own meaning and gets to keep it. Fittingly, Hannah pulled a charm with a bride and groom cake topper.

2020 was a tough year for all things weddings. Then with the advent of 2021, Bromberg’s was not only ushering in a fresh year but also their 185th anniversary of business, so the store wanted to do something special for the Birmingham community. And that’s how they decided to give away a bridesmaid luncheon along with Juliska, their bestselling giftware line, both for the community and to highlight their wedding registry—and to bring joy coming out of a difficult season. Hannah Reeder—now Hannah Reeder Evans— was selected as the winner in August and held her luncheon at Olexa’s with a selection of vendors Bromberg’s brought on board on Nov. 19. Read on to learn more about the details of the event to help inspire your own.

Floral Party Starter The design for the luncheon started with this blue and white floral Field of Flowers Chambray linen from Juliska, and all other details, including the menu, invitations and place cards by Dogwood Hill, were based on it. The napkins fit seamlessly with Hannah’s décor theme.

The Palette The spring-like color palette of the luncheon was inspired by Hannah’s wedding itself with light blues, soft pinks and whites.

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REGISTRY TABLE TRENDS Mix and Match Often brides inherit family china, so

Mix it Up The table featured two different champagne flutes, Juliska’s Amalia and Graham patterns, to add variety, along with the Isabella acrylic goblets. All of the glassware features Juliska’s berry and thread motif that tied all of the pieces together, and the vases were also from the Graham, Amalia and Isabella lines along with the Arden— which just so happens to be the name of the event’s photographer too.

Bromberg’s bridal consultants like to work with them to select new pieces to mix in with existing ones to create a table of their own that will host memories for years to come.

Elevated Everyday The store also sees more brides only registering casual china that is dishwasher-safe

Gift Time All the guests received Juliska vases provided and wrapped by Bromberg’s. Since the vases have the same thread motif as the tablescape, they will remind the guests of this special celebration each time they fill them.

and likes to help them select lines like Juliska that “elevate your everyday” to present effortless elegance.

Register at Bromberg’s at brombergsbride.com online or in their stores in Mountain Brook Village or at The Summit. Couples who register get 20

Lunch Menu Juliska’s Berry & Thread Flared design was plated with classic ladies lunch selection of smoked almond chicken salad, spring mix salad with fresh fruit, Olexa’s signature balsamic vinaigrette dressing and a morning glory muffin.

percent off wedding bands at the store as well as 20 percent off gifts for bridesmaids, groomsmen and hostesses, and free delivery in the Birmingham area.

Soft Touches Florist Marigold Designs was especially excited to fill these vases with peonies, along with other soft pink and white florals, since Hannah really likes peonies and had them planned for her wedding flowers too.

BEHIND THE SCENES Giveaway Sponsor: Bromberg & Company Inc. Photographer: Arden Ward Upton Table Setting*: Juliska

Invitations: Dogwood Hill

Venue + Catering: Olexa’s Florist: Marigold Design

*Includes plates, napkins, flutes and glasses, silverware, vases and bridesmaid gifts.

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48 Spring 2022

destination

style

A local photographer showcases wedding dress designs as intricate as the architecture in their Chicago backdrop.

Photos by Mary Fehr MountainBrookMagazine.com 49

Dress by Ituwa Dress

Dress by Barbara Kavchok Bridal

50 Spring 2022

Last summer Birmingham photographer Mary Fehr got to see a new side of the Windy City: behind the scenes of its wedding market—and not just any part of it but a set of smaller independent wedding dress designers that an all-female agency, The Agency by GCG (Grace Consulting Group), represents. During her time there Mary modeled and photographed dresses while interacting with the designers themselves. “It was inspiring to see all of these designs and help get their names out there,” she says. “Being able to represent those smaller independent designers is important as well.” Here we share some of the images she created in that time.

Dress by Barbara Kavchok Bridal

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52 Spring 2022

Dress by Enura Bridal

Dress by Goli June

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Dress by Love Lives Here Bridal Photographer Mary Fehr, pictured on the left

Dress by Ituwa Dress

54 Spring 2022

How to Style a Shower

Grazing Table Take some inspiration for your next celebration from this grazing table created by local woman-owned businesses.

Style Board Starter Get your team of hostesses on the same page by sending a style board to keep the color scheme consistent for the party. The one for this summery table featured light greens and peaches that are especially evident in the balloon garland.

Showstopper Photos by Lindsey Culver 56 Spring 2022

Anchor the center of your table with a large colorful floral arrangement, and then arrange all the serving plates around it.

Drink Station No need to try to squeeze your beverages in on the food table. Set a bar cart or small table next to it, and add extra florals and greenery to your ice bucket to dress it up too.

Two-Toned Why pipe icing onto cupcakes with one color and texture when you can have two? These petite cakes showcase the table’s summery palette— until they are eaten.

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Candy Please For a twist on the charcuterie board idea, create a candy board for guests with a sweet tooth.

BEHIND THE SCENES Venue & Prop Rental:

WestHouse Events Florals, Prop

Rentals & Styling: Stems & Styles

Balloon Garland: Celebrate

Birmingham Charcuterie

Board: boardbox Candy Board: The Little Fox Candy Co.

Take a Stand

Cake, Macarons &

Cake plates aren’t just for cake. Style colorful macarons and other finger foods on stands of various heights, and have fun mixing and matching them.

Crumbs by Catie

58 Spring 2022

Cupcakes:

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60 Spring 2022

A Guide to Selecting Just the Right Wedding Tie Photos by Morgan Hunt | Text by Madoline Markham 2020 forever changed the way we dress. There was no need for suits on Zoom weddings and for car parades. Coming out of that extended year, though, everyone was wondering what the new normal would be. One thing is certain: nothing is as a formal as it was, as Harrison Limited owner Scott Pyburn will tell you. And when it comes to weddings, that means more are now taking place on beaches and in backyards where there’s no need for a tux for groomsmen. But once you decide the groomsmen will wear suits, what’s next? Here’s Scott’s guide to tie selection for your suit.

1. Start with color.

Most couples will bring in a bridesmaid’s dress color or swatch to match menswear to. From there Scott will pull out a book of tie fabrics from Robert Jensen, a Houston-based designer that is exclusive to his store locally, and let the customer select a fabric to correspond with it.

2. Consider the weave and pattern.

You can choose a weave like a pineapple grenadine or a satin one, both equally formal. The couple can also opt for a less formal striped tie with the bridesmaid dress color as one component of the pattern or for a bowtie.

3. Add a pocket square.

You can go with a classic white or colors or patterns to complement the tie selection.

4. Place your order.

Most stores might not have as many ties in the color and weave you select in stock as you need, so you can place an order for the number of groomsmen you have. Robert Jensen also makes a tall tie in addition to the standard size.

ABOUT HARRISON LIMITED Article Sponsor Since 1991, Harrison Limited in Mountain Brook Village has sought to present their clients and friends with clothing of a particular character.

Their focus has always been to provide a special experience for discerning men—one that emphasizes classic design and style, attention to detail, and a commitment to exceptional service.

Pandemic-Era Trends That Are Here to Stay COVID made everyone rethink how they live and how they plan weddings. Here are some aspects of plans wedding professionals see continuing on into 2022 and beyond.

Special Family Moments

At-Home Weddings

Rethinking Dinner

With the emergence of COVID-19, our

When brides get married in the home

Coupled with outside seating and tents,

couples have worked with our team to

where they grew up that holds so many

food trucks allow multiple cuisines to

curate special family moments. One

lifelong memories, it’s extra special.

be served and showcase the couples’

of our favorite moments has been

There’s nothing like the moment when

personalities. It’s a fun and creative way

with the introduction of first looks

she puts on her dress with her mom in

to have food and festivities for events.

with grandparents where they can

the same room where she played with

We are also including scented sanitizers

get a specific time to share words of

dolls and walks down the same steps as

on the tables that are reflective of

encouragement, prayers and hopes for

she did for prom. Whether it’s a tented

the event. It is something guests love

their future ahead.

-Sheriah Gibson, Posh Occasions

reception on the lawn or dinner party

and adds another layer of safety and

inside, there’s an intimacy that can’t be

cleanliness to events.

-Etricia Robinson, Gumbo to Geaux Caterer & Event Planner

Photo by White Oak Productions

replicated at a country club or venue.

-Heather Durham, Heather Durham Photography Photo by Heather Durham Photography

62 Spring 2022

Photo by Je Vois Photography

MountainBrookMagazine.com 63

sarah + daniel MARCH 20, 2021 PHOTOS BY HEATHER DURHAM PHOTOGRAPHY

64 Spring 2022

the details Ceremony Venue: Canterbury United Methodist Church Reception Venue: Bride’s Childhood Home Wedding Planner: M. Elizabeth Events Florist: Mary Donald Caterer: Kathy G Catering Cake: Barb’s Cakes Videographer: Resolute Films Invitations: Julie King Studios Wedding Dress: Carriage House Groom/ Groomsmen Attire: The Black Tux

FAVORITE MOMENTS As with most weddings in 2020 and 2021, it was distressing to have to reschedule and cancel your original wedding date and plans. We decided to go ahead and get married on the original date and postpone the large reception for a future time, so we had a 13-person wedding at my (Sarah’s) childhood home. We sent our guest list a link to live stream our wedding, and the pictures of all of our friends celebrating us from far and wide are priceless. Some of my friends were able to tune in from places like New York, Australia and California. Other friends had their own watch parties, Royal Wedding style, and they dressed up in veils and had their own wedding cakes in our honor. We surprised one of the parties with a drive-by. Having an intimate reception surrounded by the most important people in your life was so special. From doing the first dance in our living room, to cutting the cake in the parlor, to being able to change into my “reception” dress in my childhood bedroom, every memory is so treasured. Another thing I loved is that I had the opportunity to get married at the same church that my parents were married in about 31 years ago almost to the date (March 31, 1990). It was even more special when the organist, Lester Siegel, performed for both of my wedding and my parents’. Lester even performed “O, Shenandoah” during the processional, which is a nod to Washington and Lee University, where Daniel and I met.

FAVORITE DETAILS One of my favorite things about having the at-home wedding was how our neighbors all jumped in to help Steel Magnolias style! Our cake stand was from a neighbor two doors down and said “Health, Wealth, and Happiness,” our champagne flutes were borrowed from one of my mom’s closest friends, and the flowers were done by the amazing Mary Donald, who also happens to be our neighbor.

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brucie + conner JULY 24, 2021 PHOTOS BY DAVY WHITENER PHOTOGRAPHY

66 Spring 2022

HOW WE MET Conner and I (Brucie) first met our sophomore year of college when we randomly ended up getting a ride from Atlanta back to Tuscaloosa with a mutual friend. A few weeks later Conner got my phone number and asked me on a date. We dated for six years before he popped the question!

THE PROPOSAL Conner proposed to me at my family beach house on Soldier Creek in Perdido Beach, Alabama.

It was freezing cold outside, and I had already been on a walk with my sister. Conner kept trying to get me to come outside, and finally I reluctantly went down to our dock with him. He got down on one knee and proposed. We then went back up to the house and popped champagne, and both of our families were there to celebrate. I was shocked and was not expecting him to propose that weekend!

the details Ceremony Venue: St. Luke’s Episcopal Church Reception Venue: The Country Club of Birmingham Wedding Planner: Handley Breaux Designs Florist: Marigold Design Cake: Barb’s Cakes Invitations: Annabelle’s / Jan Pruitt Calligraphy Wedding Dress: Carriage House Weddings Bridesmaid Dresses: Bella Bridesmaids Hair & Makeup: Celine Russell Groom/ Groomsmen Attire: Mr. Burch Formal Wear Music: Creativity Band Transportation: Rare Transportation & Coats Classic Cars Rentals: Prophouse Lighting & Draping: On-Site Productions

THE DRESS I got my wedding dress from the store my cousin Caroline Eades owns, Carriage House Weddings. I used to work there during my summers in high school and college. I ended up finding a dress I never would have imagined wearing, but fell in love with.

FAVORITE MOMENT For the first look, I did not know what to expect, but when he turned around and saw me, it was a very special moment. Our photographer captured some of my favorite pictures from this!

FAVORITE DETAILS I wanted a unique garden party theme for the reception, and Handley Breaux Designs and Marigold Design truly made this vision come true with the antique chandeliers and greenery above the bar, custom lattice stage and bar, and beautiful green and white flowers surrounding the room. It was a magical night!

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rachel + charlie FEBRUARY 12, 2021 PHOTOS BY TIM WILLOUGHBY

68 Spring 2022

the details Ceremony Venue: Cathedral Church of the Advent Reception Venue: Bride’s Parents’ Backyard & The Ford Field & River Club Florist: Dorothy McDaniel’s Flower Market & Garden On The Square Caterer: Hot & Hot & The Ford Field & River Club Cake: Olexa’s & Minette Rushing Videographer: Jeff + Mollie Weddings Invitations: Anne Caroline Hill of Blanc et Vert Wedding Dress: Heidi Elnora

FAVORITE MOMENT As with many others, Rachel and Charlie made changes to their wedding in light of COVID-19. A large party with a band outside Savannah, Georgia, became a very intimate ceremony followed by dinner in the backyard of the bride’s parents’ home in Crestline.

The couple did not plan to share a dance this night, but their families surprised them after dinner by gathering around to sing the song they had chosen months prior, “Stars Fell on Alabama” as they danced for the first time as a married couple in the living room.

Charlie pulled out a handkerchief for them halfway through the dance. It was needed!

FAVORITE DETAILS Rachel and Charlie used the unique excuse to celebrate twice as an opportunity to incorporate elements honoring both their families. The new ceremony took place at the Cathedral Church of the Advent, where the groom’s family has a long relationship to the diocese. At dinner, china, silver and crystal from the bride’s grandmother added memorable sentiment to the table, as well as a cake knife from the groom’s grandmother that was used at her own wedding and has been used then engraved by each of her children and grandchildren since.

The Ford Field & River Club has long been a special place to the bride’s family. Instead of marrying there as planned, Rachel and Charlie honeymooned for a week then had their wedding party meet them for two events loosely based on the original rehearsal dinner and wedding reception. Friday night became The Newlyweds’ Toast, an oyster roast with personalized bottles of the groom’s father’s famous hot sauce.

Saturday night became The Pitts’ First Dinner Party, a formal dinner with music by a favorite Nashville artist and some karaoke too.

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louise + jake SEPTEMBER 4, 2021 PHOTOS BY JAKE BARR PHOTOGRAPHY

70 Spring 2022

HOW WE MET We met the way everyone seems to be meeting these days—on a dating app! I (Louise) took him home to my family very quickly to bring as my date when my sister was being presented at The Ball of Roses, and they decided for me that I could never let him go.

FAVORITE MOMENT One of our very best friends, Aaron Kronz, is an ordained minister and officiated our wedding. He made us all laugh and cry, and laugh some more. His words and blessing had everyone enthralled and allowed us to walk back down the aisle as husband and wife feeling immense love and support from everyone in the room.

the details Ceremony & Reception Venue: The Country Club of Birmingham Day of Coordinator: Nancy Skinner Florist: Mary Donald Florals Caterer: The Country Club of Birmingham Cake: Olexa’s Invitations: High Cotton Papers Wedding Dress: Carriage House Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie Hair: Bekah Boyd (Fruition Salon) Makeup: Cosmetics

by Mackenzie Groom/Groomsmen Attire: Men’s Wearhouse Band: Moxie Hotel DJ & Photo Booth: Superior Sound Entertainment with Robert Fowler Lighting & Draping: On-Site Productions

FAVORITE DETAILS My grandmother is an artist and used to be a florist, so she assisted in the planning with Mary Donald for the florals, designed the cake with Olexa’s (and even got there early to place the greenery on it herself) and brought in light-up balloons to help give the day a modern touch. She truly outdid herself, and we feel so lucky to have such a talented grandmother that loves us like she does.

We also thought of only having our siblings as the bridesmaids and groomsmen, and the idea just felt right. We both have felt so incredibly blessed to be gaining new brothers and sisters that we truly love and have become our best friends.

Another detail that was a nonnegotiable for both of us was having my brother’s band, Moxie Hotel, play. Price is actually related to me, but all of those guys are my “brothers” and we knew that they would bring the crowd together better than anyone else. They played all of our favorite covers and made the reception so personal. Their energy carried us all night long.

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leila + josh SEPTEMBER 12, 2020 PHOTOS BY LESLIE HOLLINGSWORTH

72 Spring 2022

the details Ceremony Venue: The Cathedral Church of the Advent (2020) Reception Venue: Roots & Revelry (2020) Full Wedding Celebration Weekend Venue: Pursell Farms (2021) Florist: Rachel Gaudel Caterer: Pursell Farms Cakes: Daughters Baking (2020), Pursell Farms (2021) Videographer: Holloway Productions Invitations: Empress Stationery Wedding Dress: Ivory & White Bridesmaid Dresses: Bella Bridesmaid Hair & Makeup: Celine Russell Groom/Groomsmen Attire: Jos. A. Bank Music: MusicGarden/Fountain City Players Transportation: Pursell Farms Rentals: AG Lighting & PRE Events Linens: Decor to Adore

THE PROPOSAL Josh proposed after five months of dating in the exact spot where we had met at Fiesta Ball, a fundraiser for the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, at 1:30 p.m. on a Tuesday. I had thought for well over a week that I was meeting with my silent auction co-chair to plan the next Fiesta Ball. I was shocked when Josh showed up to the “meeting” as well. The minute I walked in the door to Haven, our song was playing, and Josh came out from around the corner.

FAVORITE DETAILS I had always dreamed of having a destination wedding, while Josh had wanted a smaller ceremony with a big party later. Due to COVID, we both got our wish. We had an intimate wedding in 2020. I was able to get ready for our wedding in my childhood bedroom, and we were married at the Cathedral Church of the Advent, where I also went to elementary school. In 2021, we had our big dream wedding celebration weekend on our one-year anniversary at Pursell Farms.

Our florist, Rachel Gaudel, is a close family friend and my mother’s business partner. She came “out of retirement” just to do my wedding.

Even with a white flower shortage the month of my wedding, she made my green and white vision come so beautifully to life.

FAVORITE MOMENT While everyone left to go line up for our exit, my husband and I had a private dance to one of our very favorite songs. I loved having a few minutes to soak in the beauty of the tent, look at our flowers and Hamilton Place and just have a few moments with my husband before the night ended. One of the best surprises of the entire weekend was the fireworks show that my husband secretly pulled off the night before our wedding at our welcome party too.

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74 Spring 2022

maggie + clarkson AUGUST 14, 2021 PHOTOS BY CLARK BREWER

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FAVORITE MOMENT Our ceremony was filled with people that have been a huge part of our lives and faith journey. It was overwhelming to see them all standing with us together and worshiping with us.

Then, toward the end of the night, we passed out Auburn Toomer’s lemonades and custom trucker hats made by my (Maggie’s) company Happy Hats. Our band City Heat saved “Yeah!” by Usher—a song I love—for the last song of the night, and we surprised everyone with a giant confetti drop. Looking around at all our favorite people all dancing as confetti poured down was so much fun! Without a doubt, those last three minutes of the reception were my most favorite moment of the day.

the details Ceremony Venue: Brookwood Baptist Church Reception Venue: The Country Club of Birmingham Wedding Planner: Mariee Ami Florist: The King’s Garden Cake: Magic Muffins Videographer: Grant Watson Invitations: Mariee Ami & MG Calligraphy Wedding Dress: Heidi Elnora Bridesmaid Earrings: Adelaide Niketas Designs Hair & Makeup: Kerri Bunn & Holly Craft Music: City Heat Transportation: Rare Transportation Hats: Happy Hats Cookies: Sweet Flo’s

FAVORITE DETAILS Our overall vision and inspiration for the wedding inspiration came from Over the Moon, Slim Aarons’ photography, and the colors and patterns of Palm Beach. The vision began with the chartreuse edged invitations with a floral crest and vellum band with a chartreuse wax seal. My bridesmaids wore a collection of mismatched, colorful floral dresses that represented each of their personalities. We used several different floral linens topped with multi colored candles.

The large acrylic pressed floral panels at the entrance and behind the band along with the floral garden fresh flowers and trees completed the picture. We also had a chartreuse bar and stage front that were the perfect juxtaposition to our black and white dance floor. The most meaningful detail of the day though was the gallery wall at the entrance that displayed pictures of both my and Clarkson’s parents’ and grandparents’ wedding days. It was a nod to those who have paved the way for us and who have beautifully exemplified what Christ-centered marriages looks like.

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patricia + morgan NOVEMBER 14, 2020 PHOTOS BY ERIC & JAMIE PHOTOGRAPHY

78 Spring 2022

HOW WE MET Morgan and I (Patricia) worked for the same accounting firm after college and met at the office Christmas party in 2016. We started dating the following year.

the details Ceremony & Reception Venue: Barber Motorsports Park Wedding Planner: Jane Dickens Events & Candice Henderson (CH Collective) Florist: Buffy Hargett Flowers Caterer: Bruno Hospitality Cake: Barb’s Cakes Videographer: Main Street Productions Invitations: Kara Anne Paper Wedding Dress: Ivory & White Bridesmaid Dresses: Bella Bridesmaids Bridesmaid Earrings: Vivian Drew Hair & Makeup: Abby Moorer Groom/Groomsmen Attire: Mr. Burch Formal Wear Ceremony Music: Iron City Strings Reception Music: Big Blast Transportation: Rare Transportation Tents: PRE Events Rentals: Prophouse

THE PROPOSAL I was ready for my parents to pick me up for an early birthday lunch. I thought Morgan was deer hunting in Wilcox County, but he surprised me at my house and proposed there. My parents had a celebration at their house after with family and friends.

FAVORITE MOMENT Seeing all of our planning come together after a very difficult year and getting to celebrate our marriage with friends and family.

Also, I walked down the aisle to “Edelweiss” played by a string quartet. My grandfather had passed away a few months earlier, and it was his favorite song. I forgot to warn my family that I had chosen it, and it definitely caused some tears when they heard it.

FAVORITE DETAILS We were originally supposed to get married at the same church and country club that my mom and grandmother did. I am very sentimental and had always planned to have my wedding just like theirs. COVID ended up changing every one of our original plans, and we ended up getting married at Barber Motorsports Park. I never thought I would get married at a racetrack, but they were incredible to work with and everything turned out beautifully.

The change in plans really made us appreciate that our wedding was not about a location but about celebrating our marriage with loved ones. What did go was planned was wearing my great aunt’s antique veil that all of the women in my family have worn at their own weddings.

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callan + alston MAY 8, 2021 PHOTOS BY DU CASTEL PHOTOGRAPHY

80 Spring 2022

HOW WE MET Alston went to Auburn and I (Callan) went to Alabama, so we did not meet until we were both living in Birmingham after college.

Our mutual friends from Alabama and Auburn set us up and would tell us all the time about the other, saying we were “soulmates.” It turns out they were right, and we are so thankful to have the best friends who paired us together!

the details Ceremony Venue: Canterbury United Methodist Church Reception Venue: The Country Club of Birmingham Wedding Planner: Handley Breaux Designs Florist: Marigold Designs Caterer: Country Club of Birmingham Cake: Magic Muffins Invitations: Annabelle’s Wedding Dress: Ivory & White Boutique Bridesmaid Dresses: Bella Bridesmaids Hair & Makeup: Dearly Beloved Hair & Makeup Groom/Groomsmen Attire: Mobley & Sons Music: The Time of Your Life (Eastcoast Entertainment) Transportation: Dream Drives BHM and Rare Transportation Calligrapher: Lowry Hill Lighting & Draping: OnSite Productions Linens: Event Rentals Unlimited

FAVORITE MOMENTS Although it was stressful at times getting engaged during a pandemic, it helped to keep the meaning of the day in perspective, and we did not take for granted how happy we were to be getting married to each other. Luckily, two weeks before the wedding, mandates were lifted, and our planners and vendors stepped right up and adjusted the plan accordingly at the last minute. It all came together beautifully. Getting married on the most beautiful spring day in the church I grew up in, surrounded by love and support from family friends—who could ask for more?

FAVORITE DETAILS The diamond earrings and pearl bracelet I wore belonged to each of my grandmothers, who are no longer with us. Alston’s wedding band was given to him by his grandfather, who passed away last year. We had his grandparents’ wedding date and our wedding date engraved on the inside of the band. Other special details include my veil, which has become a family tradition as four women in my family have now worn it. We used a tablecloth at the front of the reception given to us by Alston’s grandmother, and the chinoiserie umbrella holders we used as centerpieces belong to his godmother. Alston’s sister even designed the koozies we gave out to guests, which were a fun nod to our Alabama and Auburn affiliations.

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dani + will MAY 8, 2021 PHOTOS BY MEGHAN GRAY

82 Spring 2022

HOW WE MET Will and I (Dani) met in Spanish class at MBHS, where thanks to our last names, my assigned seat was directly in front of his. Will and a friend kept tally marks each time they made me laugh, but funnily enough, Will did not win this game. He now says that he may have lost the battle but he won the war.

the details Ceremony & Reception Venue: Swann Lake Stables Wedding Planner: Handley Breaux Designs Florist: Buffy Hargett Flowers Caterer: Savoie Cake: Magic Muffins Videographer: Brady Huf Invitations: Paper

by Eliza Wedding Dress: Ivory & White Bridesmaid Dresses: Bella Bridesmaids Hair & Makeup: Abby Moorer Groom/Groomsmen Attire: Mr. Burch Formal Wear Music: Compozitionz Transportation: Rare Transportation Rentals: ERU & Prophouse

THE PROPOSAL In July 2020, Will and I escaped to Highlands, North Carolina, for a weekend in the mountains. During an early morning hike at Glenn Falls, Will set up a GoPro, walked me over to the top of the waterfall, dropped to his knee and pulled out a ring. A roaring waterfall, mountain views, blue skies and a new fiancé made it a moment to remember forever.

FAVORITE MOMENT Our first look! When I saw Will standing in his tux with his back facing me, any nerves were quickly replaced by pure excitement, happiness and peace. In this moment, we exchanged letters and rejoiced that our wedding day, the beginning of our life together as the Deers, was finally here. As Will says, this was not the best day ever, but instead, the best day yet.

FAVORITE DETAILS Buffy Hargett’s floral arrangements blew me away, and our band, Compozitionz, was so amazing that we never left the dance floor.

The red velvet Liverpool stadium groom’s cake was a hit, and since Will and I live in Texas, light-up cowboy hats made the perfect addition to the dance floor. Last but not least, Will and I shared one private last dance, which gave us a few final minutes to soak in the joy and beauty of our wedding day.

WHAT WE ARE DOING NOW Will and I are now settling into our first home together in Dallas and are excited for the adventures and memories to come.

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margaret anne + major APRIL 24, 2021 PHOTOS BY KELLEN JACOB PHOTOGRAPHY

84 Spring 2022

HOW WE MET Major and I (Margaret Anne) shared the same friends at University of Alabama. After college we began talking and dating. It was sweet to learn that my great grandfather and Major’s grandfather knew each other and had both worked as engineers with the Continental Gin Company many years earlier.

FAVORITE MOMENT The weather was turbulent the day of our wedding. We had beautiful pictures taken outside, but as soon as we all were inside, a huge storm with gusty winds approached.

Trees were blowing sideways, and leaves and debris were flying everywhere. Our wedding planner and reverend even delayed the wedding ceremony by 15 minutes because trees were down in Crestline from the strong winds, blocking some of the major roads.

While we were saying our vows, the lights in the church were blinking on and off for a few seconds, which added to the excitement!

the details Ceremony Venue: St. Luke’s Episcopal Church Reception Venue: OvenBird Wedding Planner: Anna Wynn Event Designs Florist: Mary Donald Caterer: OvenBird Cake: Pen and Pastry Invitations: The Scribbler Wedding Dress: Ivory & White Bridesmaid Dresses: Bella Bridesmaids Hair & Makeup: GLOW Groom/Groomsmen Attire: Mr. Burch Formal Wear Transportation: Rare Transportation & Coats Classic Cars

FAVORITE DETAILS I wanted mostly white flowers with touches of greenery, and Mary Donald, my florist, made my dreams come true—from the silver family pitchers filled with flowers at my bridal luncheon, to the heirloom wedding gloves passed down in my family since the mid 1800s displayed, to the orchid bridal bouquet. It was like stepping into a dream at the reception as well, with wreaths on the iron gates leading into OvenBird, hanging floral wreath with ribbons and candles under the tent canopy, and arrangements around the stage and throughout the space. The wedding cake was white with dainty white flowers spaced all around. OvenBird was the perfect spot for our reception.

We danced the night away and were whisked off in an antique Jaguar at the end of the evening.

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Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce C O N N E C T I O N S

V2V

New Member Spotlight - Rooted Ministry - Earthkeeper Yoga - The Atelier - Crestline Health and Wellness - Restore Hyper Wellness - Cox Pools Birmingham - Heather Anthony, Realtor - Dermatology & Laser of Alabama - Orchid House - Le Weekend - Guidepost Montessori - New York Life Insurance Company - EIM Personal Training - ChopNFresh Salads

On your mark, get set, it’s time to start training!

March 12, 2022 Register at Village2Village10k.com

Ribbon Cuttings

Welcome, new Gold Members, JAMM Entertainment Services and West Alabama Bank!

Tom Beckbe Grand Opening - Sept. 15th

Hufham Orthodontics 20th Anniversary - Sept. 22nd

101 HOYT LANE 86 Spring 2022

MTN. BROOK, ALABAMA 35213

F i n d U s O n l i ne

Sign up for our weekly newsletter

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Access our member directory

Ribbon Cuttings

The Atelier Grand Opening - Sept. 22nd Joanne Long, The Dande Lion Receives Key to the City for 52 years in business!

Earthkeeper Yoga Grand Opening - Oct. 11th

Brenda Meadows, The Lingerie Shoppe Receives Key to the City for 75 years!

Shalla Wista Studio Grand Opening - Nov. 18th

Restore Hyper Wellness Grand Opening - Dec. 2nd

205 - 871 - 3779

Mountain Brook Resident Tricia Kirk Receives a Key to the City for Her 20+ years of Service at the Exceptional Foundation!

WWW.MTNBROOKCHAMBER.ORG MountainBrookMagazine.com 87

OUT & ABOUT

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MISS OLYMPIAN PAGEANT

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PHOTOS BY ANN SUTHERLAND ELLIOTT & GRACE GARDNER

The 2020 Miss Olympian winner Kendall Crabtree crowned new Miss Olympian Julianne Abenoja at Mountain Brook High School on Nov. 20.

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Catherine Johnson

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Ella Cook

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Sophie Claire Dixon

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Abby Cohn

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Second Alternate Annabella Foster

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Maddie Hazelrig

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Miss Congeniality Anne Kelly

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Katie Wyatt

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Annabella Foster and Brett Wadlington

10. Miss Olympian Julianne Abenoja 11. Kendall Crabtree 12. First Alternate Lizzie Amberson 13. Katie Wyatt 14. Anne Kelly

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OUT & ABOUT

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MOUNTAIN BROOK HOLIDAY PARADE

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PHOTOS BY JAMES CULVER

Floats and more processed through Mountain Brook Village for the City of Mountain Brook’s Annual Holiday Parade on Dec. 5.

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The Tucker Family with Laura Fulton and Lucy

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The Kelly and Rodriguez families

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The Merchant Family

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The Miller and Mark families

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The Nethery Family

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The Baggett Family

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The Mintsin Family

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The Rivera Family

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Allie Cowling, Keely Kennedy and Mary Margaret Gunn

10. The James, Nail and Lehman families with Henry Millhouse 11. The Lee Family with Morgan Carter and Adele Fink 12. Mountain Brook High School Dorians 13. ARC Realty Float

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OUT & ABOUT

ROCK BAND LEAGUE BATTLE OF THE BANDS

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PHOTOS BY ELECTROMAGNETIC MARKETING

Mason Music’s Rock Band League held their fall end-of-season concert and Battle of the Bands on Nov. 21.

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Brier Hight

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Emm Spensley

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Henry Freeman and Fletcher Bush

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Jackson Ruffino

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Norah Ippolito

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Oliver Lyons

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Ruby Coleman

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Fall 2021 Rock Band League

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Xavier Perry

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WHAT WE TREAT

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MARKETPLACE

Marketplace Mountian Brook Magazine • 205.669.3131

A BIRTHDAY PLACE BAKING, PARTY SUPPLIES & GIFTS • CUSTOM PARTY DECORATIONS, INHOUSE GFX TEAM TO MAKE YOUR PARTY • SAME-DAY PICKUP 205-637-0010 QUESTIONS@ BIRTHDAYPLACE.COM 2706C PELHAM PARKWAY PELHAM, AL 35124

Associated Grocers of the South HIRING EXPERIENCED STANDUP FORKLIFT OPERATOR. $19.85/ HOUR, PLUS $$$ PRODUCTION & SAFETY INCENTIVES. 2nd shift starts at 4:00pm. Great benefits including Blue Cross Health+Dental Insurance $59/week.

Paid vacation & holidays, matching 401k. APPLY AT WWW.AGSOUTH.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)280-0002.

Pelham (205)444-9774.

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 For Utility Positions Starting pay $14.42/hour Must be able to pass background screen. Please apply at: www.bc.com

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$80,000+ Yearly Potential Sales positions available at Burton Campers. Please call Mickey Price for phone interview: 205-668-0075 Chilton and Shelby County Treatment Center Now Hiring Masters in counseling/ social work and related fields. Email resume to: donnajoiner53@ gmail.com Or call 205-755-4300 for more information.

Kelly Education • Shelby County Schools • Hiring Substitute Teachers.

Limitless opportunities for passionate people! •Free pre-hire training •Paid orientation •Ongoing professional development •Steady, yet flexible, work •Weekly pay •Your preference of schools.

Contact Anne Gamble: O: 205.682.7062 M: 205.532.1122 anne. gamble@kellyservices. com Lancaster Place Apartments. Location, community & quality living in Calera, AL. 1, 2, & 3 bedroom apartments available. Call today for specials!! 205-668-6871.

Or visit hpilancasterplace. 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, 8am4pm. Equal Opportunity Provider/Employer Oxford Healthcare in Montgomery currently hiring certified CNA’s and/or Home Health aides in the Clanton, Marbury and

MountainBrookMagazine.com

Maplesville areas. Must be able to pass complete background check, have reliable transportation and have a strong work ethic. Serious inquiries only. Call 334-409-0035 or apply on-line at www.

Oxfordhealthcare.com LAND FOR SALE 180 acres, located on Walnut Creek. Will not divide property. Call for more information: 205-369-5641 Part-Time Maintenance Manager Position Opening at Riverside Baptist Church Helena.

Good employment for qualified retired or semiretired person. Call 205-426-1910 for additional information.

Shelby Ridge Rehab & Nursing Home in Alabaster is hiring CNAs, Nurses, and Kitchen Staff. This is THE PLACE to build a solid career! We currently offer $1K SignOn Bonuses for CNAs and Nurses, and so much more... Call 205-620-8500 for an interview. Come grow with us!

South Haven Health & Rehab NOW HIRING!!!

•LPN’s & RN’s -$5,000 Sign-on Bonus for Full-Time shift •CNA’s Apply in person: 3141 Old Columbiana Rd Birmingham,AL -35266 CLOCK REPAIR SVS. * Setup * Repair * Maintenance. I can fix your Mother’s clock.

Alabaster/Pelham. Call Stephen (205)663-2822 Electrician - FT Supreme Electric, local-based company in Pelham.

Must be willing to learn & work hard. Go to: supremeelectric-al.com Print employment

application under Contact Us. Mail to: Supreme Electric 231 Commerce Pkwy Pelham, AL 35124 or call 205-453-9327.

Become a Dental Assistant in ONLY 8 WEEKS! Please visit our website capstonedental assisting.com or call (205)561-8118 and get your career started!

Vulcan Steel Products Now Hiring Machine Operator (1st & 2nd shift) Starting at $18.50 per hour. Top-notch health benefits, 401k, & company stock options Apply online: https:// apply.jobappnetwork. com/vulcan-steel-products Call: 205-620-5185 Now Hiring! Termite Treaters and Inspectors.

Work with a great local company, in business for over 50 years. BC/ BS insurance, 401k, opportunities available.

No experience required.

Must have a good driving record and be able to pass drug screen. Email to facsmith@charter.net or call 205-369-6250. Vulcan Termite and Pest Control Now hiring RN’s and LPN’s throughout Alabama! $250 community referral bonus for RN’s and LPN’s. Signon Bonuses available at select locations! For more information please contact: Paige Gandolfi Call/text: 724-691-7474 pgandolfi@wexfordhealth. com DONAVAN LAKES FISHING CLUB & INN Marion, Perry Co. AL 2131 Eagle Grove Church Rd. Marion, Alabama •8 Lakes •17 Piers •Bass, Bream, Crappie, Catfish.

•Camping, Nature Trails, Birding. Membership $1000 for 2022 Contact

Thomas Wilson 3 34-247-2101 wils5789@bellsouth.net www.donavanlakes.orgg High Expectations Cleaning 205-728-8854 highexpertcleaning.com GENERAL MANAGER: SONIC–CHELSEA. DUTIES: Responsible for operations, training and development of all employees; execution of policies, programs and systems, including Sonic Operations Manual. Creates and maintains an “Employer of Choice” environment.

REQUIREMENTS: -Highly motivated -High School diploma/GED -Two years restaurant management experience (P&L experience preferred) -Advanced studies in business, restaurant management, or related field preferred. -Proven experience managing all shifts without supervision.

-Willingness to relocate.

BENEFITS: -Competitive Pay -Bonus Plan -Health Insurance -Optional Life Insurance, IRA -Paid Vacation -Excellent training program Are you “Sonic Good”? Mail Resume: J.W. Cain 6 County Road 455 Iuka, MS 38852 Call 662-424-0706 Email: john@mfmanagementllp. com Experienced Termite Technician or someone experienced in routeservice 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

[Newbor n + Child + Family Por traiture] info@apeppermintphoto.com + 205.807.6431 w w w . a p e p p e r m i n t p h o t o . c o m MountainBrookMagazine.com 95

MY MOUNTAIN BROOK MARETTA ASHFORD

Mountain Brook Schools PTO Council President

Summer Treats

Mountain Brook Village Favorites An Ousler Cream Cheese & Olive Sandwich with a Gilchrist Limeade and a double scoop of Goldmine Ice Cream (it’s simply the best) from Mountain Brook Creamery for dessert are the perfect way to spoil my taste buds on a lazy summer day spent with my boys.

There’s No Place Like Home

The Perfect Table

Dyron’s Low Country Finding an open date on the calendar isn’t always easy, but when the stars align my husband, David, and I know the perfect spot to make a reservation.

Nestled in the back corner of Dyron’s Low Country is a booth made for two that’s perfect for reconnecting, while sipping on the perfect cocktail as we savor every delicious bite.

BWF Means Family

Brookwood Forest Elementary My husband and I both grew up in Mountain Brook and knew we wanted to give our boys the best education just as our parents had done for us. When we found our home on North Woodridge, little did we know that not only would we be blessing our boys with a wonderful education but that we were also blessing them with an amazing home away from home at Brookwood Forest Elementary. The Ashford family are forever Rangers!

Chapel of Memories

Saint Francis Xavier Catholic Church This chapel brings me peace and transforms me to times of celebrations, tears and new beginnings with a special hymn, “On Eagles Wings” always playing in my mind. When the main sanctuary burned almost 20 years ago, the connected chapel remained unharmed, standing tall as a symbol of hope among the ashes.

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Belle Meade Way From the moment I turn into the driveway on Belle Meade Way, I am home.

There is an inflatable for every occasion, decorations on the inside and out for each holiday, and most days something yummy baking in the oven. It’s the front porch where David picked me up for our first date and proposed to me seven years later on Christmas morning, and a backyard full of dollhouse memories and swing set laughter for my sisters and me that have turned into kickball games and tree swings for the grandchildren.

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