ALT Bride's Magazine Spring/Summer 2012

Resource Guide

Find the vendors you need to make your wedding dreams come true!

On The Cover Andi Hinton and Hamish Roberts

The Story of You Engagement Photos With Personality

Real Weddings!

Celebrating couples who were recently married and those who married years ago...

Spring/Summer 2012

SPRING/SUMMER 2012 /contents

k / COVER

Engagements

REAL WEDDINGS 38

Leslie Smith to Daniel Howland II

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Jessica Sleeth to Chie Bryan

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Katie Bartholomew to Christopher Spicer

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H o p e S c h u l t z t o D u s t i n “ Ta t e r ” H y d e

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Seth and Jordon Moore

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Julie Nunez to Grant Davis

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Julie Johnson to Nicholas Walker

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Lifestyle portraiture for your engagements?

Why not? Check out these tips!

On the cover: Andi Hinton and Hamish Roberts plan to be married on July 21, 2012, at Ramage Farms.

HELPFUL INFO 48 Uncorked 64

T h e S t o r y o f Yo u

Kelsey and Brandi Bobo

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Wedding Contest Winners Married O v e r 2 0 Ye a r s

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Jessica Groves to Casey Harrison

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Wedding Planner

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Austin and Kelsey Elkins

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Resource Guide

ENGAGEMENTS 61

Publisher and Editor / Debbie Brower

Kristin Kennedy to Matthew Breashears

Associate Editors / Jaclyn Gooding, Miranda Johnson Photography / Image Forward Photography, Debbie Brower, Jaclyn Gooding, Miranda Johnson, Rozana Page Sales & Marketing Manager / Charlie McMurphy Feature Writers / Jane Bouterse, Anne Fruge

Contest Winners!

Dennis Woodruff and Norma (Johnston) Woodruff.

Married June 16th, 1982. They were high school sweethearts. They would be celebrating 30 years this year!!!

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w w w. a l t - m a g . c o m

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info@alt-mag.com 200 Heather Dr., Texarkana, TX 75501 (903) 334-9605

©2012 ALT Magazine

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Leslie & Daniel Leslie Smith to Daniel Howland II

March 9, 2012 Beech Street Baptist Church Texarkana, AR How They Met...

Leslie and Daniel originally met four years ago when they enrolled in the same English class at Texarkana college. They began dating in May of 2011 shortly after Leslie graduated nursing school.

The Proposal...

On December 4, 2011, Daniel and Leslie traveled to Dallas, Texas to celebrate Leslie’s 23rd birthday. After a day of ice skating at the galleria and dinner, Daniel proposed at midnight, December 5, 2011 while the two shared a slice of birthday cheesecake and viewed the beautiful Christmas lights on display at the Galleria.

Wedding Party...

Reverend: Richard Williams Maid of Honor: Caroline Smith, sister of bride Bridesmaids: Julie Reavis Chelsea Williams Flower girl: Maggie Thomas Best Man: Treaux Davis Groomsmen: Blake Harris Brock Brewer Ring bearer: Roman Seefeldt Ushers: D.J. Stewart Lance Scott Photography: Image Forward Photography www.imageforwardweddings.com Florist: Chateau Fleur- Marshall, TX Cakes: Becky Risinger- Reception Arts Wedding Favors: Taste & See Candies- Ashdown, AR Musicians: The Colore Ensemble- Tyler, TX 38

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For information on advertising in Texarkana’s Premiere Magazine, Call Charlie McMurphy Today! 903-908-5797

Jessica & Chie

Jessica Lynn Sleeth to Chie Anthony Bryan

June 25, 2011 New Life Christian Fellowship Church How They Met...

It all started in Coach C’s history class, sophmore year of high school. Jessica was the girl who knew all the sports trivia and Chie was the star on the basketball team.

Chie was Jessica’s high school crush, but it wasn’t until two years later that the two reconnected through a social networking site.

Jessica says, “We texted and talked for almost a year before our first official date. We both have a passion for sports, and on many of our dates, we went to sporting events. We traveled to one of our favorite vacation spots, New York City, twice to see our favorite team, The Yankees, play. We also enjoy traveling to Cleveland, Ohio to watch The Cavaliers play against The Orlando Magic and The San Antonio Spurs. We will always enjoy watching and discussing sports with each other!”

The Proposal...

During their one-and-a-half year courtship, they fell in love. The proposal wasn’t the typical down-on-one-knee-proposal, but instead, Chie was laying in a hospital bed.

During his week long stay in the hospital, fighting off a kidney infection, Jessica never left Chie’s side. It was then that he asked her to marry him. Jessica says, “Our wedding took place nine months later, with just under two-hundred of our close friends and family in attendance. It was a beautiful day that neither of us will forget. We both come from big families and hope to start one of our own in the near future. Family is very important to both of us.”

Wedding Party...

Maid of Honor: Abbey McCave Bridesmaids: Sherele Vossen, Sister of the Groom Devon Sleeth Emily Sleeth Katie Arensberg Samantha Van Lanen Best Man: Brian Vossen II, Brother of the Groom Groomsmen: Randall Sleeth, Brother of the Bride Jaron Snyder Ryan Robertson Aung Hlaing Spencer Teufel May 2012

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Photography: Joel McGlumphyJMACC Photography Cakes: Iced Over Caterer: “That’s Italian” Specialty Foods DJ: Brian OliverOliver Entertainment LLC Hair/Makeup: Morgan Flynn May 2012

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Katie & Christopher Katie Bartholomew to Christopher Spicer

June 18, 2011 Ace of Clubs House Texarkana, TX How They Met...

Chris and Katie were both born and raised in Texarkana, TX and have known each other for about 19 years!

The two met in 6th grade at Pine Street Middle School. Chris was the football player and Katie was the cheerleader.

Katie remembers, “We were always friends, but that changed our 8th grade year. Chris had asked me to be his girlfriend and our middle school relationship lasted all of two weeks!

We continued on to Texas High where we always stayed in each other’s view but we always were in relationships.

Our senior year, I was nominated to our homecoming court and we had to have a football player escort us at the homecoming pep-rally. Of course, I went to Chris to ask him if he would escort me and he accepted!”

The two always had an interest in one another but the right time to date just did not come during high school.

“After graduation we went our separate ways. And then one night about 9 years after high school, I had been out with my girlfriends. That next morning, I received an email from Chris saying he had seen me out. From that point on, we rekindled our friendship, and it soon turned into a very serious relationship!

The day I knew I was going to marry this man was when he said he had a surprise for me. Chris said he wanted to take me somewhere from our past. He took me to those steps outside of the 8th grade building at Pine Street and told me he had wanted to kiss me since we dated in 8th grade. He finally got his kiss!”

The Proposal...

Chris and Katie got engaged June 6, 2010. Katie remembers, “We went to Austin to celebrate my sister’s birthday and stayed at Lakeway Resort & Spa on Lake Travis. We had been to dinner earlier in the evening and decided to just hang out at the resort with my sister, her husband, Orion, and my parents. We finally got back to our room, with a balcony and a 46

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breathtaking view of Lake Travis, late and all I could think about was how fast I could get ready for bed and go to sleep!

“As I was talking, Chris walked away and went to the bathroom. I remember thinking that was strange because he never just walks away from me while I’m talking. He soon returned with a small black box and quickly got down on one knee! As he started opening the box I started crying and he asked me to marry him! Of course I said yes!!

“Unbeknownst to me, Chris had been trying to speak with my dad all evening to ask his permission to marry me, but he never got the chance, so AFTER he proposed, he told me I could not tell my parents just yet!

Needless to say, he was up bright and early that morning to ask my father’s permission!

“At last, I had my prince charming; my soul mate; my best friend; the one I was going to grow old with. I find myself growing more in love with him every day! The wedding banner that Beth and Ethan carried to announce me during our ceremony read ‘At Last.’ ‘At Last’ time was on our side and had finally brought Chris and I back to each other.”

Wedding Party...

Matron of Honor: Allison Ondriska, sister of bride

Best Man: Randall Spicer, brother of groom

Groomsman: Landon Bartholomew, son of bride Announcers of the the bride: Beth Spicer, niece of groom Ethan Bartholomew, son of bride Pastor: Danny Wayman

Photography: Engagement PicturesGreg Richards Photography Wedding PicturesClint Smith Photography Wedding Video: John Burris Cakes: Silver Spoon Florist: Twisted Vines DJ: Wes Spicher Wedding Dress & Tuxes: Bridal Castle Tuxedo Palace Wedding Rings: Gordon’s Jeweler’s Hair/Makeup: Mathew Kinser Alcohol: Vincent Fine Wines Wedding Koozies: Sports Magic May 2012

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by Vincent Senatore

Celebrate With A Sparkle...

I

’m not sure when the Champagne toast tradition began. However, it’s hard to imagine any event that honors someone or something without a Champagne Toast.

Champagne and sparkling wine is not only festive and elegant, but fun. In my other life, I had the great fortune to represent a Champagne firm from Epernay, France.

The time that I spent with Perrier Joűet was magical. There is nothing like ringing in the New Year or saluting friends that have just joined together in marriage.

The Champagne Toast makes the tribute something special.

So, why do we utilize Champagne or sparkling wine to celebrate? Legend tells us that the famous Monk Dom Perignon invented the super sparkle in wine. However, the oldest recorded sparkling wine is

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Blanquette de Limoux, which was invented

by Benedictine Monks in the Abbey of Saint Hilaire near Carcassonne in 1531; a century before Dom Perignon. In fact, the coronation of French kings was held in the Champagne region of Reims and Champagne was only served to royalty. Needless to say, royalty from throughout Europe spread the message of the unique sparkling wine from Champagne and its association with luxury and power in the 17th, 18th and 19th century. The leading manufacturers devoted considerable energy to creating a history and identity for their wine, associating it and themselves with nobility and royalty.

Today, we associate Champagne with luxury, festivities, and weddings. Where would 007 James Bond be without Bollinger RD 1969?

So, what is Champagne?

Basically, Champagne or sparkling wine is produced by adding sugar and yeast (“Liqueur di tirage” and “dosage”) to a wine that creates a secondary fermentation that does not allow the carbon dioxide gas to escape.

The bottle is sealed and the bubbles are kept in. Remember, Champagne refers to the sparkling wines of the Champagne region of France. Since the repeal of Prohibition, we referred to all forms of sparkling wine (generically) as Champagne.

Anything else should be referred to as Sparkling Wine.

There are three different methods that are utilized in the making of sparkling wine: First and most importantly, is the Méthode Champenoise. This process allows the

secondary fermentation to take place in the bottle. After aging, the bottle is manipulated, either manually or mechanically, in a process called “remuage,” so that the lees settle in the neck of the bottle. After chilling the bottles, the neck is frozen, and the cap removed. The pressure in the bottle forces out the ice containing the lees (sediment), and the bottle is quickly corked to maintain the carbon dioxide in solution. Some syrup (le dosage) is added to maintain the level within the bottle. The wine is then left to age and settle into a fine sparkling wine.

The second is the Methode Charmat, created by a French vine grower, in which the wine undergoes a secondary fermentation in bulk tanks, and is bottled under pressure. This method is used for Prosecco and Asti in particular, and produces smaller, longer-lasting bubbles. Charmat wines are value driven very popular in the production of Bellinis and Mimosas.

Finally, the last method is a simple injection of carbon dioxide (CO2), the process used in soft drinks, but this produces big bubbles that dissipate quickly in the glass.

I am very partial to the Italian sparkling wines from Prosecco. The sparklers are really fragrant and have a very clean finish.

They’re wonderful with orange juice or peach nectar. Furthermore, if you decant a Prosecco (removing about half the bubbles), the wine is perfect with fresh fish like trout or cod and grilled vegetables. I really just love the freshness and the crisp finish.

Lastly, the Charmat method might be at its best through the wines of Asti. The clean, fruit-filled richness of the Moscato grape is amplified many times over because of the cold-fermented fermentation associated with Charmat. Remember to consume your sparkling wine in tall, fluted stemware and hold it by the stem. The heat from your hand will change the flavor and crispness of the chilled wine and force the carbonation out of the wine.

With all of that said, there’s still nothing better than toasting the Bride and Groom with a Champagne Flute glass filled with their favorite bubbly. Champagne or sparkling wine is no longer just for royalty. We all deserve to be treated like a king or queen… I say “Fuggetaboudit”!!!

Remember to consume all of your adult beverages in moderation

Hope & Dustin

Hope Schultz to Dustin “Tater” Hyde

How They Met...

Hope and Dustin were introduced and came to know each other through mutual friends.

Hope says they “fell in love instantly!”

The Proposal...

Hope says, “Dustin proposed to me in the pits at the races, right before his heat race!

Before he popped the question, he asked me if I would promise to never make him stop racing! I laughed and, off course, I said yes!”

Dustin went on to win his feature that night.

The couple got married July 10, 2011 at Hope’s grandmother’s house. It was a small, Sunday ceremony. Hope explains, “We had to get married on a Sunday because Dustin had to race every Saturday, and we planned the wedding around his racing, which I had no problem with! We took our honeymoon about 3 weeks later to Destin, Florida, and my mom, dad, sister, her husband and Avery and Emersyn went too!”

Wedding Party...

Parents of the Bride: Densia and Bobby Schultz Parents of the Groom: Billie and Robert Hyde Maid of Honor: Heather Schultz-Barron Best Man: Jamie Hyde Flower Girls: Avery Barron Emersyn Barron Makayla Hyde Laikyn Hyde

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July 10, 2011 Family Home of Bride

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Julie & Grant Julie Nunez to Grant Davis

June 11, 2011 Home of Bride’s Sister How They Met...

Julie explains, “Grant and I had known each other since we were kids, probably since I was about 15 and he was 19. We had never been more than friends. He got married, moved away with the military, and we lost touch for a number of years.”

“We just so happened to reconnect on MySpace one day in 2009. We were both going through some hard times, and we were basically just there for each other, strictly as friends. We helped each other out, encouraging one another that everything would be ok. Somewhere along the way, we became more than friends and eventually fell in love. He is truly my best friend, and with all our kids, we have become “The Brady Bunch,” haha!”

The Proposal...

Grant proposed on March 12, 2011. The couple had discussed marriage, but neither of them was really in a hurry to rush into things. Julie remembers, “One weekend, we just went looking around for rings, and we happened to find one that I fell in love with!

We bought it, and that day he took me to the lake at sunset and got down on one knee and asked me to be his wife. I of course said yes, and we were married on June 11, 2011, in my sisters backyard, with all of our closest friends and family present.”

Wedding Party...

Children of the Bride: Noah Perkins Hannah Perkins Children of the Groom: Christian Andrew Guage

Photography: Jim Davis Photography Reception DJ: Ken AdamsSpecial Events Dallas,TX 54

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ATTENTION:

Important Women's Health Issue Women face many issues today regarding their health. Unfortunately, one such issue is dangerous side-effects of prescription medications. Below are commonly prescribed medications that have been associated with serious adverse health problems in women or their unborn babies. If you or someone you know has suffered from such an injury while taking one of these medications, call now for a free legal consultation.

Birth control pills: Yaz® Yasmin® Ocella® Gianvi®

SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) drugs: widely prescribed for treatment of depression, anxiety, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and social phobia

Celexa® (citalopram)

Prozac® (fluoxetine)

Lexapro® (escitalopram)

Symbyax® (olanzapine/fluoxetine)

Birth control device:

Luvox® (fluvoxamine)

Zoloft® (sertraline)

NuvaRing®

Paxil® (paroxetine)

The above products have been associated with heart attack, blood clot, stroke, and gallbladder disease

The use of SSRIs during pregnancy has been linked to babies born with birth defects, including heart defects, lung defects, genitourinary defects, physical deformities, and gastrointestinal defects

Allyson Perkins DeCanio • Tyler, Texas • (903) 469-3307 Attorney at Law

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Relax and enjoy!

May Sales!

Help us celebrate this May with huge sales!

May 5-12:

Oak Creek’s 8 Year Anniversary & Mother’s Day Sale!

Want to meet the makers of our fine, handcrafted furniture? Here’s your chance! Meet the Amish crafters May 11-12! They will be in the store making deals and to meet and greet with customers. So come make your deal with them! We’ll also be making homemade, Amish ice cream!

Why is Oak Creek Furniture Different?

We have chosen Amish furniture craftsmen who are recognized leaders in the solid wood furniture industry.

Amish furniture is made by hand in small Amish wood shops so every piece of furniture receives the same attention to detail. Our Amish handcrafted furniture is built to last.

Warranty...

Our promise...

All of our standard sized heirloom furniture comes with a manufacturers limited lifetime warranty against any defects in materials and workmanship. If anything should happen to your furniture we can carry it back to the very craftsman who made it and have it repaired to as good as new!

We work very hard to keep our overhead very low and therefore we are able to offer you the very best prices found anywhere, EVEN THE INTERNET!! If you do find a better price just bring us proof and we will either meet or beat it if possible!

Almost perfect...

Six days a week, Oak Creek Furniture craftsmen make some of the most beautiful handmade furniture known to man. And seven days a week, they struggle to refrain from unseemly pride, which isn’t easy when you’re constantly raising the bar.

With beautiful works of art painstakingly shaped from select kiln-dried woods, gently finished in a three-step sanding process and carefully sealed with a varnish that’s practically impervious to water, nail polish remover and alcohol. NEVER will you find a piece of particle board or fiber board on any of our fine furniture.

What Mo REALLY m wa this Mot nts her ’s Day!

Julie & Nicholas Julie Johnson to Nicholas Walker

June 16, 2011 Lookout Point- Lake Hamilton Hot Springs, AR

How They Met...

Julie and Nicholas met in early 2010 through mutual friends but did not start dating until June 2010, after running into each other again. After that initial night in June, they spent a lot of time getting to know one another and discovered they had a lot in common and knew a lot of the same people.

“We couldn’t figure out how we hadn’t met sooner,” Julie says, “but we know that God put us in each other’s lives at just the right time, and it couldnt have worked out any better. We became almost inseperable and we truly enjoyed being around one another.

We just clicked. It was an amazing feeling and we both knew we had fallen head over heels for one another pretty soon into our relationship. Everyone around us could feel it as well and knew that we were a perfect match. We have to admit it scared us a bit because it was all moving so fast, but we knew that we did not want to be apart. We had found the amazing feeling we had both been looking for and we did not want to let it go. We felt it was a once in a lifetime feeling!”

The Proposal...

The couple had started talking about marriage pretty heavily in early 2011, and the proposal came on April 9th. Julie and Nicholas decided to go on a jeep ride with the top down to the lake late one night, and little did Julie know that a Nicholas was preparing to propose! She remembers, “We made a stop and sat under the stars for the longest time. It was wonderful and so 58

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beautiful, and it was then that he asked me to be his wife. It was so sweet and romantic and couldn’t have been any more perfect!

It was an amazing night, and neither of us will ever forget! We knew we did not want a long engagement or a large wedding so the planning began. We were very blessed and lucky to have everything fall into place so quickly and go so smoothly. Our wedding day was absolutely perfect and amazing.

We were surrounded by our closest family and friends and we couldnt have asked for anything more. We fall in love with each other more and more with each passing day and we are truly blessed that God led us to one another. We thank God every day for leading us to our soulmate and best friend.”

Wedding Party...

Parents of the Bride: Lee and Eileen Johnson Parents of the Groom: Rick and Carolyn Walker Officiant: Tommy Rider

Photography: Infocus Photography/Stephanie Ryan Florist: Flower Concepts Wedding Cake: Beth and Jamie Smith Groom’s Cake: Bakerman, Jeremy Gentry Rings: Parks Jewelers Wedding Dress: Reeds Bridal Groom’s Attire: Men’s Dillards Reception Venue: Home of Janie Pumphrey

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Jessica & Casey Jessica Groves to Casey Harrison

September 23, 2011 Bride’s Family Ranch

How They Met...

Casey and Jessica first met in 2003, when Jessica attended Eastern Oklahoma State College in Wilburton, OK. For the next two years, they hung out as friends and talked off and on but nothing serious. When Jessica graduated, she moved to Tyler to finish nursing school, and Casey was in Abilene.

The two went separate ways and lost touch over the next few years. In March of 2010, Jessica was at a concert in Texarkana with some mutual friends that she and Casey both attended college with. It was that night that she ran into Casey! Jessica remembers, “I was at a point in my life where I was not looking for anything serious, but after that night we began making several trips to see one another, and our feelings were getting strong quickly. Casey has always had a way of making me laugh and just feel at ease. We had so much in common, and soon into our relationship, we knew we were meant to be together. We had run into each other again for a reason!”

The Proposal...

After a little over a year of dating, Casey proposed in July of 2011, and Jessica gladly said yes. Jessica says, “I wanted our wedding to be small and true to our country roots; It turned out to be everything I have ever dreamed of! The wedding took place at my parents’ farm in the pecan orchard, surrounded by our families. Some of our friends from Eastern always said that we would end up married, and I’m so glad that we finally got to prove them right!”

Wedding Party...

Parents of the Bride: Steve and Peggy Groves Parents of the Groom: Rick and Deanna Harrison Flower Girls: Keely Plyler and Kalen Groves Ring Bearers: Cooper Plyler and Reid Groves Photography: Infocus Photography/Stephanie Ryan Flowers and Wedding Coordinators: Suzanne Plyler and Krystal Groves Wedding Cake: Bakerman, Jeremy Gentry Reception Coordinators: Lanora Thomas and Sharon Burt 62

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The Story of You...

Engagement Photos With Personality.

You’re engaged! What an exciting time for you and your spouse-to-be!

What better way to celebrate your love and share the news and excitement with your friends than starring in an engagement photo session?

Some people may shudder at the thought of sitting, still and stiff, on an awkward stool, with big lights blind them. People tend to get nervous, even to the point of nausea, when it comes to posing for a camera, especially when coached to display public affection!

Negative feelings or thoughts are totally inappropriate when it comes to an engagement session! These photos are meant to be an expression of love and celebration, and the couple should be able to look back on that time with fondness for years to come. For this reason, it is a good idea to take a few deep breaths, and work together as a couple to dream up some creative ideas to make your engagement not only enjoyable, but most importantly a reflection of your love.

Achieving engagement photos that tell the story of you is not as hard as you think. It all starts with what you love.

What do you and your fiance enjoy doing together? Is it watching sports?

Maybe your favorite thing to do together is walk a beloved dog or go out to eat at that little cafe that has become “Your Place.” It is these types of things that you should include in your session!

Be in close communication with your photographer about your desires for the style of engagement shoot you want. Ask for a location shoot, rather than a studio shoot. With the talents of your professional photographer, and the uniqueness that you bring to the shoot from “just being you,” everyone will be able to relax, laugh and have a wonderful time creating beautiful images! Don’t worry about looking natural. Just have fun, and let your photographer simply capture the story of you!

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*Photos provided by Image Forward Photography

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by Anne Fruge

Winners-

F

Norma & Dennis Woodruff

or high school sweethearts Dennis and Norma Woodruff 2012 would have marked a celebration of thirty years together. Though they both passed away in 2005, their relationship was honored when their daughter, Charla Woodruff, posted their picture on ALT’s website for their photo competition. Over three hundred and eighty people were touched by the picture and the short paragraph Charla wrote about their story, and this photo of a simple backyard wedding won the contest.

“What my mom and dad shared was love and respect in its truest form,” Charla says. “Because of what I learned from them, I will never settle for less than marrying my very best friend.”

Norma and Dennis Woodruff were both in the band at Arkansas High School in the late 70’s, and one of them got on the wrong bus for the band trip to Ireland.

“It was probably my dad being silly,” Charla says. “He was a real prankster and always making the people around him laugh, especially my mom.”

Once they got to Ireland, they spent the whole trip together talking and getting to know each other. Norma had sworn off men for at least six months at the end of her last relationship, but she had already caught Dennis’ eye. Six months of asking her out, flowers, good conversation, and becoming inseparable, she agreed to “go steady.”

“I have asked several people recently about how my dad proposed to my mom, not only can no one remember, they can’t even remember exactly when,” Charla says. “The consistent statement was ‘when you saw one, you saw the other.’ While details of the proposal were lost, I smile to learn how deep their bond was even from the very beginning.”

“My parents were really opposites,” Charla says. “Mom was really outdoorsy and loved horses and sports and being outside.

My dad grew up in town. He was the son of Dale and Bonnie Woodruff who owned Dale’s Furniture on Broad Street, and my dad worked at the family store in his later teen years. He loved music and concerts and more than anything, Dolly Parton!”

Despite their differences, Dennis and Norma shared a spark that was undeniable.

When Dennis graduated from Arkansas

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High in 1980 and went away to Centenary College in Shreveport, Louisiana, he wrote Norma letters. Norma saved every one, and this has helped Charla gain a deeper picture into her parent’s relationship and their love for each other.

“I was only 20 when they died, so anything that helps me understand them better is precious,” Charla says. “I still have mom’s wedding dress that is in the picture and their rings. In fact, two weeks before the photo contest, I was at my grandmother’s house and I told her I was considering submitting the photo. My grandmother pulled out the wedding video and we watched it together. You could hear the dog barking, and the neighbor’s horses neighing, but everyone was focused on mom and dad.

After hearing them say the traditional vows, I found myself crying only to look over and my grandma was too. It was simply beautiful.”

Only one year after Norma graduated from Arkansas High, the two were married with a simple ceremony in Norma’s parents, Ben and Opal Johnston’s front yard. Dennis put extra effort into choosing Norma’s ring,

Married June 16, 1982

a small diamond because Norma was so active. However, because he chose a smaller diamond, he made sure it was “perfect” and wouldn’t settle for anything less than “flawless.”

“At the wedding, their colors were lime green and brown, and I used to give Mom a hard time about that,” Charla says. “I used to tell her that their wedding was not very ‘in style.’ However, I’m so glad ALT did the photo contest because I got to see that their décor was really in step with everyone else’s from the 1980s!”

The wedding party was small with four bridesmaids and four groomsmen who were high school friends and a simple backdrop of brown lattice work and candles.

“One of my favorite parts of the video was seeing Mom laugh while they were lighting their unity candle,” Charla says.

“Mom was solemn through the whole ceremony, and then started laughing. There is no telling what dad was mumbling or saying to her. He kept mom laughing, and she kept him grounded.”

After a honeymoon in Branson, Dennis and Norma went back to college at SAU where they both played in the band. They had their children, Charla, in 1985 and Brandon in 1986. Then, in 1987, they moved to Rockwall, Texas where Norma worked as a CPA and Dennis as a quality control engineer.

“One thing I will always remember about my childhood is that my dad always found my mom attractive,” Charla says. “As a kid you don’t want to hear or see your parents’ love for each other, but he used to ask me, ‘Did you see your mom today?’ and compliment how pretty she was. At the time I would say ‘Yuck!’ but now, I see how little that actually happens. My mom wasn’t frilly.

She didn’t wear makeup or jewelry, but my dad always thought she was beautiful.”

One thing that Charla is grateful for is the constant show of support from her parents in pursing activities and interests in her childhood. Charla took dance, rode horses, and played on a softball team that her mom coached.

“My mom loved showing horses, and she taught me how to ride,” Charla says.

“I got my first horse when I was in the third

grade and got my second horse when I was in high school. I ended up taking her to college with me!”

Not only did they encourage their children, but they complimented each other.

Instead of being alienated by dissimilar interests, Dennis and Norma appreciated their differences. In fact, Dennis took riding lessons for six months so that he and Norma could ride horses together.

“My mom and dad had a true respect for each other,” Charla says. “They valued each other’s thoughts and you could tell from being around them that they loved each other and wanted to make each other happy. Dad wasn’t a huge sports fan, but he would take mom to see the Texas Rangers.

He also didn’t really enjoy animals the way the rest of us did, but rarely said no when we asked for another pet or show animal.

Then my mom supported dad’s interest in music. He loved Cher, Tina Turner, Bette Milder, but more than anything Dolly Parton.

He collected memorabilia since age 14, and we would often travel to Dollywood. They would also go to concerts together.”

Norma and Dennis also switched normal chores. Charla can remember her 6’ dad stooped over the stove cooking all the meals and her 5’ 4’’ mom outside mowing the yard.

“Dad was a really good cook and loved doing it,” Charla says. “I also remember us getting mom a power drill for Mother’s Day one year. I learned from them that true love really isn’t selfish and it’s not the same for everyone. It would be easy to say that a high school relationship wouldn’t work out, but my parents were perfect for each other. It would be easy to say that people who are opposites won’t get along, but my parents had a great balance. I’ve seen from looking at them that in a marriage you really have to love and respect your spouse for who they are.”

She remembers the first time she went home and told her parents that she thought she was in love. She remembers her mom sitting her down and saying, “You have to know, some people come into your life for a while, but that doesn’t mean they will be there forever.”

“I was feeling so in love, and I was extremely upset by their reaction,” Charla says. “However, this helped me get over future heartbreaks. I know that they are always with me because of the legacy they have left. Ironically, their advice really helped me deal with the heartbreak of losing them.”

Besides her love of horses, her appreciation for Dolly Parton and her daughter’s name, Nora, after Norma, Charla has received a life-long example of love from her parent’s story.

“I won’t marry anyone short of my best friend because it’s that partnership and that love that is going to carry you through everything. I’ve seen it,” Charla says.

“Things weren’t always ‘happy-go-lucky,’ but my parents were a team. No matter what came, they were going to get through it together.”

2nd Place Richard and Cindy Hodde Married January 18,1980

3rd Place

4th Place John and Zelle Moore Married September 8, 1950

5th Place Buddy and Delois Sirmans Married February 13, 1955 May 2012

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Patricia & Brian Goesl October 8, 1988

Tony & Belinda Pettit October 14, 1978

Kenneth & Pamela Byrd June 14th, 1986

Ray & Lisa Nelson February 17, 1984

Paul & Michelle Burks May 24, 1984

Jim & Trashay Morden February 17, 1984

Donald & Barbara Henderson- March 14, ‘69

Duma & Evelyn Sims December 28, 1981

Tom & Julie Middlebrooks December 20, 1986

Kathy & James Bramlett August 25, 1977

Kevin & Nancy Lambert September 21, 1985

James & Harriet Hopkins June 10, 1972

Roger & Frankie Rader April 1, 1972

Terry & Judi Tarter Jones August 29, 1969

Stan & Pat Brummal June 20, 1970

George & Julia Carpenter October 18, 1980

Julie & Owen Moreland November 16,1991

Darren & Deana Washington December 17, 1988

Kim & Dennis Lolies April 9, 1983

Malise & Dennis O’Banion July 27, 1974

Eddie & Pam Wood June 28, 1975

Kaye & Tom Ellison September 8, 1972

Holly & Brian Burleson March 30, 1990

Larry & Jennifer Ward July 19, 1974

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Billy & Sherry Stone May 5, 1972

Billy & Kelly Jewell January 2, 1988

Rex & Judy Duncan August 5, 1967

Michael & Cheri Corley August 27, 1983

Bill & Earlene Elkins March 6, 1949

Bill & Vicky Elkins October 3, 1987

Richard & Julienne Hall June 28, 1941

Chuck & Karen Guilbert June 14, 1975

Robert & Carrie Savage August 29, 1981

Michael & Karen Dukes October 2, 1982

Mark & Beth Boyd July 16, 1988

John and Andy Schwartz July 17, 1982

Eddie & Cyd Collins January 9, 1985

Mark & Connie Long January 2, 1980

Dennis & Teri Fowler June 6, 1981

Brad & Kim Garner March 21, 1987

Johnny & Shurl Rounsavall- March 4, ‘89

Thank you to everyone who participated in our Facebook Photo Contests this month! Make sure you go “Like” our page so that you can keep up with what’s happening!

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Dennis & Monica Sartin May 10, 1986

Rick & Vicki Tarter October 9, 1982

Jim & Mary Moore December 8, 1961

E.J. & Sherry Chiartano February 14, 1970

Bob & Cathy Long August 16, 1980

Debbie & Mike Gilliam June 5, 1982

Bubba & Melinda Allen October 1, 1982

Chris & Robbi Bevington November 12, 1977

Steve & Karen Davis May 6, 1972

Billy & Sherrie Hewitt March 10, 1978

Billy & Karen Lansdell September 22, 1979

Buddy & Edna Potts April 1, 1956

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Ark-La-Tex Resource Guide Air and Heating Central Air 450 S. Kings Highway Texarkana, TX 75501 903.832.1212

Legacy at Pleasant Grove 5911 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 888.763.2676

Alterations Bea’s Alterations 2917 N. Stateline Ave. Texarkana, TX 903-792-2955

Richmond Oaks Apartments 2815 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.832.6150

Apartments Arista Apartments 3515 Arista Blvd.

Texarkana, TX 903.255.7869

Summerhill Woods Apartments 4501 Summerhill Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.793.7888

Westwood Apartments 101 Redwater Rd. Wake Village, TX 903.832.8446 Attire Abby Gayle’s 4012 Summerhill Square Texarkana, TX 903.792.0088 Gayle’s 4059 Summerhill Square Texarkana, TX 903.792.0056 Attorneys Allyson Perkins DeCanio, Attorney Tyler, TX 903.469.3307 Banks Guaranty Bond Bank 2202 St. Michael Dr. Texarkana, TX 903.792.8600 MilWay Credit Union 5001 West 7th Street Texarkana, TX 75501 903.832.2004 Peoples State Bank 5600 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.838.2300 Red River Federal Credit Union 2700A University Ave. Texarkana, TX 75503 903-735-3000 800-822-3317 Texar Federal Credit Union Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.223.5626 Texarkana First Bank 3601 East 9th St. Texarkana, AR 870.772.0222 615 Sam Houston Dr. New Boston, TX 3625 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.793.6955

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Business Services Pride Enterprises James & Cynthia Pride Texarkana, TX 903.832.5550 Cakes Coldstone Creamery 4228 St. Michael Dr. Texarkana, TX 903.838.2653 Julie’s Deli 4055 Summerhill Sq. Texarkana, TX 903.792.3354 Reception Arts Becky Risinger Ashdown, AR 870.898.5273 Caterers/Private Chef Chef on the Run Jeff Loving 903.276.8081 Culinary Creations Pam Elliott 903.831.4674 Julie’s Deli 4055 Summerhill Sq. Texarkana, TX 903.792.3354 Sugar & Spice Catering Shari Frachiseur 903.276.4389 Twisted Vines Florist and Cafe 218 W. Broad St. Texarkana, TX 903-792-2700 Wendy’s 4201 Stateline Avenue Texarkana, TX 2902 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 3737 New Boston Road Texarkana, TX 1615 N. Hervey Hope, AR 124 N. Loop Highway 59 Atlanta, TX

Wingstop 2700 Richmond Road, Suite 14A1 Texarkana, TX 903.255.0090 4501 N. State Line, No. 106 Texarkana, TX 903.792.9464 Church Highland Park Baptist Church 2401 Hazel St. Texarkana, TX 903.792.6996 Clothing Abby Gayle’s 4012 Summerhill Square Texarkana, TX 903.792.0088 Gayle’s 4059 Summerhill Square Texarkana, TX 903.792.0056 OMG Lulu 3211 Kennedy Lane Texarkana, TX 903.223.8135 116 Polk St. Jefferson, TX 903.665.8855 Dry Cleaning Holiday Cleaners Locations throughout Texarkana Area 870.773.4072 Entertainment Oaklawn Opry 124 Oaklawn Village Texarkana, TX 903.838.3333 Legendary Shooting Sports 925 Brower Lane Texarkana, TX 903.334.9605

Event Locations Garrison Gardens Texarkana, AR 71854 870.773.0275 Regional Arts Center Cabe Hall 321 W. 4th Street Texarkana, TX 75501 903.792.8681 Silvermoon on Broad West Broad at Texas Blvd.

Texarkana, TX Twin Oaks Mansion 903.244.7070 Event Planner/Producer Elite Event Production & Rentals 200 Heather Dr. Texarkana, TX 75501 903.334.9605 www. eliteeventproduction.com Financial Planner Dustin Stringer Stringer Wealth Management 1620 N. Kings Highway Nash, TX 903.223.0011 Fitness Centers Anytime Fitness Richmond Road 3415 Richmond Road.

Texarkana, TX 75503 903.794.5348 Zumba with Lyndsay Central Mall (Next to Sears) 903.293.3647 Florists Ruth’s Flowers 3501 Texas Bllvd.

Texarkana, TX 903.793.6711 www.ruthsflowers.net Twisted Vines Florist and Cafe 218 W. Broad St. Texarkana, TX 903-792-2700 Unique Flowers 4801 Loop 245 Texarkana, AR 870-774.1300 Furniture Oak Creek Furniture 8024 West 7th St. Texarkana, TX 903.832.0793 Gifts Dot’s Ace Hardware 3411 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.838.0059

Pleasant Grove Pharmacy Baits and Blades 3302 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 903.832.4545 Hair Care Style Studio Lisa Harris 3201 Kennedy Lane Texarkana, TX 903.223.1719 Hospice Dierksen Hospice 6500 N. Summerhill Road, Suite 2B Texarkana, TX 903.793.6350 Hospitals Christus St. Michael Health System 2600 St. Michael Dr. Texarkana, TX 903.614.1000 Health South Rehabilitation 515 West 12th St. Texarkana, TX 903.793.0088 Wadley Regional Medical Center 1000 Pine St. Texarkana, TX 903.798.8000 Hotels Best Western Texarkana Inn & Suites 5219 Crossroads Parkway Texarkana, AR 870.774.1534 Clarion Lacross Hotel 5100 N. Stateline Ave. Texarkana, AR 870.774.3521 www.lacrosse-hotel.com

Insurance Farm Bureau Insurance 4413 Morris Lane Texarkana, TX 903.838.8707 911 W. US Highway 82 New Boston, TX 903.628.3451

Physicians Carmony Oral, Facial and Implant Center 5305 Cowhorn Creek Road Texarkana, TX 75503 903.791.8405

Express Care 5483 Summerhill Road Greg Cockerell State Farm Texarkana, TX 75503 Insurance 903.223.5931 4807 Texas Blvd.

Texarkana, TX 75503 Northfield Accupunture 903.793.7502 619 E. 6th St. Texarkana, AR Kelli Ashbrook State Farm 870.772.8622 Insurance 3410 Moores Lane Vision Source Texarkana, TX 75503 4401 Morris Lane 903.223.8100 Texarkana, TX www.kelliashbrook.com 903.838.9063 Ron Morrow State Farm Insurance 3306 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 75503 903.832.5505

Plumbing Central Air/Roto Rooter 450 S. Kings Highway Texarkana, TX 75501 903.832.1212

Invitations I Do Wedding Favors Debra Jones 903.826.9879

Real Estate Crown Leasing 6500 Summerhill Road Texarkana, TX 903.792.6000

Jewelers Alexander’s Jewelers 3701 Mall Drive Texarkana, TX 903.832.3557 Micah’s Jewelers 2812 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 903.735.2336

Gerald Haire Realty Kaci Bennett 3725 Mall Dr. Texarkana, TX 870.903.3049

Gerald Haire Realty Janet Willis 3725 Mall Dr. Texarkana, TX 903.748.5385 Impact Realty Bill and Tracy Spradlin 1200 N. Kings Hwy., Ste 104 Nash, TX 903.748.3186 903.748.2477 Impact Realty Cody Sandone 1200 N. Kings Hwy., Ste 104 Nash, TX 903.276.7565 Satterfield Construction, LLC 903.832.4591 www.satterfieldservices. com Teresa Liepman Remax 5120 Summerhill Rd. Texarkana, TX 75503 903.276.9464 Refreshments Bolls Distributing 700 E. Broad St. Texarkana, AR 870.774.9283

Make-up Gayle’s 4059 Summerhill Square Texarkana, TX 903.792.0056

Salon Visage Esthetique Mary Ann Robbins 4506 Summerhill Rd. Courtyard by Marriott Texarkana, TX 5001 North Cowhorn Creek 903.794.4007 Texarkana, TX 903.334.7400 Sanctuary Kimberly Parham, M.D. Fairfield Inn and Suites 3502 Richmond Road

by Marriott Texarkana, TX 75503 4209 Mall Dr. 903.334.8661 Texarkana, TX 903.838.1000 Photographer Carla Snyder Photography Holiday Inn Express & Texarkana, USA Suites 903.244.3553 4545 Cowhorn Creek Road Texarkana, TX Pet Grooming 903.223.0008 Georgia’s Pet Salon & Boutique TownePlace Suites by 101 Slaton Marriott Nash, Texas 5020 North Cowhorn Creek 903.223.8223 Texarkana, TX 903.334.8800 Image Forward Photography 200 Heather Dr. Texarkana, TX 75501 903.334.9605 www.imageforwardtxk.com May 2012

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Vincent’s Fine Wines 6900 N. Stateline Texarkana, AR 870.774.7217

Coldstone Creamery 4228 St. Michael Dr. Texarkana, TX 903.838.2653

Rentals Dot’s Rentals 814 N. Robison Road Texarkana, TX 75501 903.792.7011 3413 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.838.0551

Daddy Dougaloo’s 905 New Boston Road Texarkana, TX 75503 903.791.0172

Elite Event Production & Rentals 200 Heather Dr. Texarkana, TX 75501 903.334.9605 www.eliteeventproduction. com

Ironwood Grill 4312 Moores Lane Texarkana, TX 903.223.4644

Dairy Queen Locations throughout Ark-La-Tex

Julie’s Deli 4055 Summerhill Sq. Texarkana, TX Twisted Vines Florist and 903.792.3354 Cafe 218 W. Broad St. Shorty’s Donuts Texarkana, TX 2729 New Boston Road 903.792.2700 Texarkana, TX 75501 903.832.6686 Restaurants Amigo Juan Mexican Tasty Donuts Cafe 1443 N. Kings Highway 4301 Morris Lane Nash, TX Texarkana, TX 903.838.0422 903.334.6971 1200 N. Hervey Twisted Vines Cafe Hope, AR 218 W. Broad St. 870.777.0006 Texarkana, TX 611 Loop 59 903.792.2700 Atlanta, TX 903.796.2400

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Wendy’s 4201 Stateline Avenue Texarkana, TX 2902 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 3737 New Boston Road Texarkana, TX 1615 N. Hervey Hope, AR 124 N. Loop Highway 59 Atlanta, TX Wingstop 2700 Richmond Road, Suite 14A1 Texarkana, TX 903.255.0090 4501 N. State Line, No. 106 Texarkana, TX 903.792.9464 Retirement/Assisted Living Home Edgewood Manor 4925 Elizabeth St. Texarkana, TX 903.793.4645 Heritage Plaza 600 W. 52nd St. Texarkana, TX 75501 903.792.6700

Roofing Aqua Roofing Anthony Jewell 3523 Locust Texarkana, AR 903.244.5706 Spas/Salons Salon Visage Esthetique Mary Ann Robbins 4506 Summerhill Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.794.4007

The Sanctuary Kimberly Parham, M.D. 3502 Richmond Road Texarkana, TX 75503 903.334.8661 Sporting Goods Baits and Blades 3302 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.832.4545 Wedding Attire Bridal Castle 3209 Kennedy Lane Texarkana, TX 903.838.3886

Wedding Coordinators Abracadabra Wedding The Magnolia and Event Planning 4205 Richmond Meadows Debra Mason, Event Texarkana, TX 75503 Coordinator 903.838.7319 903.748.4838 damason@cableone.net

Wedding Favors Pop Pop Shoppe 2011 Mall Drive, Suite B Texarkana, TX 903.793.0209 Wedding Planners Abracadabra Wedding and Event Planning Debra Mason, Event Coordinator 903.748.4838 damason@cableone.net Wedding Rehearsal Dinner Locations Julie’s Deli 4055 Summerhill Sq. Texarkana, TX 903.792.3354 Silvermoon on Broad West Broad at Texas Blvd.

Texarkana, TX Ironwood Grill 4312 Moores Lane Texarkana, TX 903.223.4644

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WE D DING PL ANNER Use this checklist to help you keep everything organized and ready for your big day! All the details make the difference!

Nine to Twelve Months Before • Announce your engagement.

• Set an initial budget.

• Select a wedding date and time.

• Select and book your ceremony and reception locations.

• Book photographer and videographer.

• Book caterer.

• Book florist.

• Determine who will officiate at the ceremony.

• Set aside blocks of hotel/motel rooms for out-of-town guests.

• Book band or DJ. • Sign up for your church’s premarriage counseling, if required.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------Six to Nine Months Before • Start compiling the guest list.

• Select the attendants for your wedding party.

• Purchase the bride’s gown.

• Purchase the groom’s tuxedo.

• Purchase bridesmaids’ dresses.

• Arrange for transportation for the wedding. Limousines, Horse & Carriage, vans, etc.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------Four to Six Months Before • Check requirements for blood test and marriage license in your state.

• Select and order the invitations and stationery.

• Make sure all the men’s attire has been ordered.

• Complete the guest lists.

• Send your engagement announcement to the newspaper.

• Finalize honeymoon details.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------Two to Four Months Before • Confirm the menu and catering details with the caterer.

• Prepare all maps and directions for the ceremony and reception.

• Select your wedding rings.

• Buy a wedding guest book.

• Set the dates and times with the officiant for the rehearsal.

• Plan the bridesmaids’ luncheon and any other parties.

• Determine your resources for designing and printing the program for the ceremony.

• Arrange the necessary accommodations for out-of-town guests.

• Plan a rehearsal dinner, time and place.

• Confirm the wedding cake details with the baker.

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Six to Eight Weeks Before • Mail invitations and announcements.

• Set appointment with photographer for your formal bridal portrait.

• Select gifts for all your attendants.

• Set appointments with any hairdressers and/or makeup artists.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------Four to Six Weeks Before • Decide what your menu is going to be for the reception.

• Buy a gift for the groom.

• Purchase (borrow) all wedding accessories such as the ring pillow, goblets, garter belt, candles, etc.

• Choose the music for your ceremony, first dance, parent dances, and party and give information to band, dj, or other musicians.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------Two Weeks Before • Make arrangements to have your wedding gifts moved to your new home.

• Handle business and legal details such as name changes, address changes, etc.

• Get your marriage license and any blood tests which are needed.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------One Week Before • Start packing for your honeymoon.

• Give a final head count to the caterer.

• Delegate responsibilities to reliable individuals on your wedding day.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------One Day Before • Get a manicure or massage to relax yourself.

• Review and rehearse all the details of your participants.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------The Big Day • Allow yourself plenty of time to get dressed.

• Be sure to eat properly.

• Rest and relax with a good bath.

• Prepare for your hairdresser and makeup appointments.

• Enjoy your wonderful wedding and cherish each and every moment!