Bluffs & Bayous January / February 2022

January/February 2022

Weddings Engagements Bridal Luncheon Fare

Bluffs & Bayous { January/February 2022 { Page 1

The Place That Feels Like Home.

R3 offers a variety of Simply Southern Classic Dishes giving our customers a true “Soulful Soul-Food Southern Experience.”

Our dishes are embedded with flavor, prepared with love and filled with rich generational histor y!

Sunday: 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Monday & Tuesday: Closed Wednesday & Thrusday: 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Friday & Saturday: 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

406 Main St. • Natchez, MS • 601-653-0747 Page 2 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs & Bayous

Two Venues To Choose From • Overnight Accommodations •Weekend Packages

Bluffs & Bayous { January/February 2022 { Page 3

PUBLISHER/EDITOR Cheryl Foggo Rinehart COPY EDITOR Jean Nosser Biglane

OFFICE

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Susan R. DeBusk SALES STAFF Cheryl Rinehart Kari L. Blaney

Cheryl Rinehart

Jean Biglane

Susan R. DeBusk

Kari L. Blaney

bluffsmag@gmail.com bbupandcoming@gmail.com

PHOTOGRAPHERS Bill Perkins Lisa Whittington CONTRIBUTORS Paul D. Sullivan Jean Biglane Shirley Petkovsek, et al.

225 John R. Junkin Drive Natchez, MS 39120 601-442-6847

www.bluffsbayous.com

Bill Perkins

Lisa Whittington

U

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Paul D. Sullivan

Shirley Petkovsek

Bluffs & Bayous is published monthly to promote the greater Southern area of Louisiana and Mississippi in an informative and positive manner. We welcome contributions of articles and photos; however, they will be subject to editing and availability of space and subject matter. Photographs, comments, questions, subscription requests and ad placement inquiries are invited!

Return envelopes and postage must accompany all materials submitted if a return is requested. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher.

The opinions expressed in Bluffs & Bayous are those of the authors or columnists and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products or services herein. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement.

Bluffs & Bayous strives to insure the accuracy of our magazine’s contents. However, should inaccuracies or omissions occur, we do not assume responsibility.

ndoubtedly, an engaged couple’s most special day is their wedding day. The wedding weekend is a time to celebrate the meaningful relationships they have with family and friends. After the past year and a half with COVID, the wedding celebrations, having emerged with fewer restrictions, seem even more cherished than before.

The opportunity to share the events more openly has brought additional family traditions and individual gestures along with a wider circle of wellwishers into their midst.

Blended with their tried-and-true as well as new activities, today’s couples also are embracing relaxed vibes with less formal parties, food-truck vendors, more trendy etiquette, and more casual wording on their less formal wedding invitations. With such a tapestry of choices, weddings offer a time for friends and family to gather and celebrate the couple’s future together. We at Bluffs & Bayous join in this celebration with our annual wedding issue that shares with our readers the stellar and treasured moments of many of our area’s weddings and engagements.

In addition, in this issue we pay tribute to Natchez City Cemetery’s 200th Anniversary celebration throughout 2022 and its signature event in March, A Gala under the Oaks. Tickets for this event go on sale January 1. Celebrating Valentine’s Day Jean Biglane shares an aunt’s childhood valentines, their sweet sentiments and vintage designs from a century ago. The 33rd Natchez Literary and Cinema Celebration will be held February 24-26 in Natchez, Mississippi, touting a weekend of outstanding speakers, tours, and films at various venues. Our Something Scrumptious offers a delicious and easy menu for a bridal party luncheon and a brief take on the traditional Cake Pull. As always, we have social events, now increasing in numbers as such gatherings can be planned and enjoyed for the first time in over a year.

We welcome 2022 hoping for a better year as our days and weeks begin to unfold and shape our continuing celebration of life along and beyond the Mississippi.

Page 4 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs & Bayous

Bluffs & Bayous { January/February 2022 { Page 5

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022 F E AT U R E S Southern Traditions Charmed with a Cake Pull................................................................................. 18-19

Weddings Frederick / DeRosia............................................................................................. 24-25 Scarborough / Rogillio........................................................................................ 26-27 Johnson / Miles.................................................................................................... 28-29

Johnson / Miles PAGES 28-29

McCall / Redman................................................................................................. 30-31 Jordan / Huff........................................................................................................ 32-35 Kirkwood / Brakel................................................................................................ 36-37 Swazye / Knapp.................................................................................................... 38-39 Browning / Netterville........................................................................................ 40-41 Kelly / Underwood............................................................................................... 42-43 Powell / Gregory.................................................................................................. 44-45

Engagements Upton / Foggo........................................................................................................... 46 Craig / Vaughan........................................................................................................ 47 Yates / Nix.................................................................................................................. 48

Kirkwood / Brakel PAGES 36-37

Ward / Smith............................................................................................................. 49 Watts / Shirley........................................................................................................... 50

FAVO R I T E S From The Stacks Generations of Freedom.................................................................................... 61-62 The King Falls........................................................................................................... 70

Riches & Relics Valentine Treasures of Yesteryear............................................................................. 8 Natchez City Cemetery: 200th Anniversary Celebration................................ 64-65

Something Scrumptious Powell / Gregory PAGES 44-45

ON THE COVER Mr. and Mrs. John Kyzer Huff, who married on May 15, 2021, at Dunleith in Natchez, Mississippi, enjoy the elegant cakecutting tradition at their wedding reception.

See story on pages 32-35.

Photography by Greer Gattuso of New Orleans, Louisiana

Page 6 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs & Bayous

Bridal Luncheon: Light and Lovely Fare............................................................. 9-10

The Social Scene 60th Birthday Dinner Celebration.......................................................57-58 60th Class Reunion.....................................................................................52 PGC Fall Meeting........................................................................................15 Vicksburg Sampler Antiques Club............................................................17 The President’s Tea......................................................................................56 Paint the Town with Hope ...................................................................12-13 Engagement Party for Kelly and Underwood.......................................... 21-22

Up & Coming Premier Events.............................................................................................68

Bluffs & Bayous { January/February 2022 { Page 7

RICHES & RELICS

BY

Jean Nosser Biglane

Valentine Treasures of Yesteryear

FEBRUARY . . and thoughts [and hearts] turn to LOVE . . . and to VALENTINES!

I

n visiting yet another box of my mama’s beloved and saved mementos, I found a small tissue-thin and time-worn-to-tan envelope protecting a collection of Valentines, belonging not to her but to one of her two sisters. The earliest Valentine dates to 1922 and the others to a few years thereafter—a time when her sister would have been around ten-to-twelve years old. The sweetness of these treasured keepsakes reaches through a century to open their hidden sentiments of love to all who value the Valentine’s Day tradition.

With their sprinklings of roses and posies, their doilies and doves and garlands and hearts, and their scenes and sketches of early twentieth-century boys, girls, and lovely ladies, they share a variety of expressions and emotions. One that opens fanlike into a tiny windmill of rose-colored expectations, touts a bit of intrigue: “This Valentine is sent to you, so guess who’s your lover true?”

Another, when opened, reflects rather tentatively, “I saw a pretty little bird a-sitting on a vine, He said he thought that you would like to be my Valentine.” One with a bonneted young lady on the front seems hopeful and determined with its inside message: “I’ll want a friend who’ll some day be, A great deal more than a ‘friend’ to me.

Some one whose heart is big and true, Some one as sweet, my dear, as you.”

However, one Valentine plays on the heart strings, perhaps feigning disappointment in hopes of a change of heart: the picture is of a little boy rubbing a tear from his eye; a red heart broken in two lying on the ground; and a little girl sitting in her white wicker chair, closely clutching her brown teddy bear and casting an “Oh, My” look in her sideways glance at the boy! Oh, my, indeed!

All these Valentine treasures of yesteryear my mama saved; all these heart-held secrets of love lost, love anticipated, and love celebrated continue through the centuries as the tell-tale emotions of our own hearts. I hope that your love unrequited will instead be returned, your love anticipated will be fulfilled, and all the love in your lives celebrated. Happy Valentine’s Day 2022!

Jean Nosser Biglane is the copy editor and an occasional contributing writer for Bluffs & Bayous. In addition, she continues in her profession, at varying times over the decades, as high school, junior college, and university English teacher.

Page 8 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs & Bayous

SOMETHING SCRUMPTIOUS

Bridal Luncheon Light and Lovely Fare

This super easy menu is perfect for a luncheon honoring a bride and her attendants. The setting for this luncheon was the home of Andreé and Joe Gamberi in Natchez, Mississippi, on October 1, 2021, where bridal party, family, and guests honored Joanna Frederick, who married Chris DeRosia on October 2, 2021. Greenery gathered from the home’s flower beds and surrounding property and placed in ceramic jars accented the formal table setting of the family china, silver, and linens. At each place setting, the soon-tobe bride put a personalized gift for each of her bridesmaids and her flower girl. Hostesses each contributed to the menu and provided Bloody Marys, Mimosas, and iced tea. The dessert was slices of a homemade cake made especially for the occasion’s Cake-Pull (See article on pages 18-19.) and served with champagne for toasting.

CRUSTLESS MINI QUICHE Allrecipes.com

1 pound bulk sausage 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese 1/2 cup chopped green onion 8 eggs 2/3 cup instant potato flakes 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream Salt and black pepper to taste Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Spray 36 mini muffin cups with cooking spray. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and crumble in sausage. Cook and stir until sausage is crumbly and evenly browned, about 10 minutes. Drain and discard any excess grease. Sprinkle sausage, Cheddar cheese, Swiss cheese, and green onion evenly into the prepared muffin cups. Beat eggs, potato flakes, and cream together in a bowl, season with salt and pepper. Pour egg mixture evenly over the sausage-cheese mixture in the muffin cups. Bake in the preheated oven until quiches are set in the middle and lightly browned, about 22 minutes. Cool for 5 minutes before serving.

CHICKEN SALAD

4 cups cubed, cooked chicken 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1 cup mayonnaise 1 teaspoon salt and pepper 1 cup grape halves 1 cup toasted, slivered almonds 1/2 cup chopped water chestnuts

(Add any additional seasonings per your taste.)

Buttered croissant rolls Mix chicken salad ingredients and chill.

Slice croissant rolls and fill generously, adding lettuce, sliced pickles, or any other condiment to your liking.

Bluffs & Bayous { January/February 2022 { Page 9

SOMETHING SCRUMPTIOUS BABY LETTUCES WITH FETA, STRAWBERRIES, AND ALMONDS https://www.foodandwine.com recipesbaby-lettuces feta strawberries-and almonds

CLASSIC DEVILED EGGS Food network Courtesy of Mary Nolan foodnetwork.com

6 eggs 1/4 cup mayonnaise 1 teaspoon white vinegar 1 teaspoon yellow mustard 1/8 teaspoon salt Freshly ground black pepper Smoked Spanish paprika for garnish

2 teaspoons Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon honey 1 small shallot, minced 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, preferably Banyuls 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil Salt Freshly ground pepper 12 cups packed assorted baby lettuce (about 6 ounces) 1 quart strawberries, hulled small berries halved, large ones quartered 4 ounces feta (preferably French), crumbled (1 cup) 1 cup smoked almonds or pecans, chopped In a small bowl, stir together the mustard, honey, shallot, and vinegar.

Stir in olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Put the lettuces in a large bowl. Add strawberries, feta, and almonds or salted pecans.

Drizzle the dressing over salad, toss, and serve.

Place eggs in a single layer in a saucepan and cover with water that comes to 1 and 1/2 inches above the eggs. Heat on high until water begins to boil; then cover, turn the heat down to low, and cook for 1 minute. Remove from the heat and leave covered for 14 minutes; then rinse under cold water continuously for 1 minute.

Crack the eggshells and carefully peel them under some cool, running water. Gently dry with paper towels.

Slice the eggs in half lengthwise, removing yolks to a medium bowl, and placing the whites on a serving platter.

Mash the yolks into a fine crumble using a fork. Add mayonnaise, vinegar, mustard, salt, and pepper; and mix well. Evenly disperse heaping teaspoons of the yolk mixture into the egg whites. Sprinkle with paprika and serve.

Page 10 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs & Bayous

FRESH FRUIT SALAD

Grapes,

Blackberries, Blueberries, Cantaloupe, Honey Dew, Watermelon, Pineapple, and Mango

Select fruits that are in season.

Slice, and mix gently in bowl and serve.

BRIDAL LUNCHEON for Joanna Frederick

®

W. Jarrod Gregg, DDS & Anna R. Womack, DDS

318-336-5711

1148 Logan Sewell Drive, Vidalia, LA 71373

Bluffs & Bayous { January/February 2022 { Page 11

THE social SCENE BROOKHAVEN, MISSISSIPPI

Visit www.bluffsbayous.com for all social scenes.

Paint the Town with Hope Benefit O

n Thursday, November 4, 2021, the American Cancer Society hosted its second annual formal fundraising event for southwest Mississippi. The first, held in November 2020 as “Belles & Beaus,” was a huge success as it raised over $120,000. This year’s event, titled “Paint the Town with Hope,” included local and regional executives, physicians, business professionals, and other members of the community willing to work together to support the ACS. The twenty-four ambassadors were nominated by the community for their prominent character and desire to improve our quality of life in the region. Funds raised at the event are used to provide critical patient services, fund cancer research, educate the general public, and promote advocacy. Guest speaker for the event was Jennifer Whittier, a cancer survivor.

Photography by Bill Perkins 1 Jade Bulecza and Jacob Lanier 2 Dr. Ted Dear, Renate Huntington, Betty Ann Perkins, Fred Swartz, Kara Whittington, and Shane Whittington 3 Mike and Jennifer Hutson 4 Constance Clark, Frederick Clark, Fred Clark, and Whitney Clark 5 Dr. Jay Ballard and Bethany Ballard 6 Taylor Hart 7 Anacia Leyland, Alex Moon, Annelise Bell, Alana Dear-Delamora, Kylie Robinson, Jada McNairy, Jane Claire Newman, Madison Moore, and Makayla Martin 8 Nathan Berry, Stacie Cross, and Brandi Starbuck 9 Whitney Clark, Constance Clark, and Orionna Colman 10 Sherri Mathis, Davis Wisner, and Jillian Ricceri

1

2

3

4

2

5

6

8

9

Page 12 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs & Bayous

7

10

11 Nick Bridge 12 Brittany Teaster and Sherry Welch 13 Scott Shaw, Dr. Shellie Smith, Ron Donegan, Tyler Bridge, and Nick Bridge 14 Becky Doty with Stacy and Wanda Robinson 15 Betty Ann Perkins with Greg and Jennifer Whittier

11

12 13

14 12

15

Pay with your phone. Good call!

Ask us how we can help add your Concordia Bank & Trust Co. debit card to your mobile wallet today!

Bluffs & Bayous { January/February 2022 { Page 13

BROOKHAVEN, MISSISSIPPI

Page 14 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs & Bayous

THE social SCENE NATCHEZ, MISSISSIPPI

Visit www.bluffsbayous.com for all social scenes.

PGC Fall Meeting

T

he Pilgrimage Garden Club in Natchez, Mississippi, held its fall meeting and fashion show on November 12, 2021, at historic Lansdowne, home of PGC President Marsha Colson. The fashion show was presented by Katie’s Ladies of Natchez with members modeling the latest styles. A seated luncheon followed the event.

1 Mary Ruth Caldwell, Kathleen Mackey King, and Wanda Smith 2 Betsy Daughdrill, Lizzie Martin, Paula Estes, and Denise Geter 3 Front—Ariana Smith, Shannon Jex, Katie Tillman, Tracy McCartney, Katie McCarstle, and Angela Gibson / Back—Courtney Taylor, Brynna Burnsed, Sarah Carter Smith, Julianna Wallace, Sandy Taylor, and Lou Ellen Stout 4 Shannon Jex 5 Katie Tillman 6 Sandy Taylor and Oleta Forse 7 Micki Hartley, Linda Ogden, and Jackie Wild 8 Rebecca Alexandre, Tammy Pack, and Judy Mize 9 Melody Thayer and Del Noble 10 Lacey Blessitt 11 Heather Cunningham 12 Tracy McCartney 13 Julianna Wallace 14 Courtney Taylor 15 Brynna Burnsed 16 Sarah Carter Smith

1

2

3

4

5

6

8

11

12

13

14

7

9

10

15

16

Bluffs & Bayous { January/February 2022 { Page 15

New Year,

Same Great Care.

Our team is dedicated to helping you “Feel Better. Faster!” this cold and flu season. In addition to our cold and flu treatments, we now offer a COVID-19/Flu test to determine which illness you may have in one swab. Together, we can slow the spread!

We are LOUISIANA OWNED AND OPERATED. Vidalia

4014 Carter Street • (318) 414-1800 M–F 8am–8pm • S–S 8am–5pm Give us a follow:

Check-In Online

Walk-In

Schedule a Virtual Visit

MyTotalUrgentCare.com

LIVE MUSIC & DJ SERVICES WEDDINGS, REHEARSAL DINNERS ENGAGEMENT ANNOUNCEMENTS AND MORE!

• GUITAR • PIANO • INSTRUMENTAL • VOCALS All REQUESTS ARE WELCOME!

Greg Smith 601-788-4939 dtmusicacademy@gmail.com dtmusicacademy.com

Page 16 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs & Bayous

THE social SCENE VICKSBURG, MISSISSIPPI

Visit www.bluffsbayous.com for all social scenes.

Vicksburg’s Sampler Antiques Club Welcomes Elee Reeves, Mississippi’s First Lady

3

2

M

embers of the Sampler Antiques Club of Vicksburg, Mississippi, held their fall meeting at Belle of the Bends, the home of Dr. Steven and Kendra Reed. Members and guests enjoyed refreshments as they welcomed the meeting’s guest speaker, Mississippi First Lady Elee Reeves, who spoke on the historic Governor’s Mansion. In attendance to greet Mrs. Reeves was Vicksburg’s Mayor George Flaggs. The object of the Sampler Antiques Club is to promote knowledge about, interest in, and appreciation of antiques and related subjects.

1 Vicksburg Mayor George Flaggs and First Lady of Mississippi Elee Reeves 2 Lori Fagan, Kendra Reed, and Mani Prudhomme 3 Josephine Peterman, Lynn Gerhardt, and Ragan Pope 4 Peggy Gouras, Ann Haden, Jeannie McDonald, First Lady of Mississippi Elee Reeves, Mayor George Flaggs, Lori Fagan, Catherine Hadaway, and Harley Caldwell 5 Peggy May, Carol McMullen, and Harley Caldwell 6 Brooke Coffeilt, Lenore Barkley, Barbara Cashman, and Susan Hampton 7 Lee Waring, Cindy Windham, and Sally Green 8 Margaret Hicks, Norma Habeeb, Ann Vessell, Hazel Milner, and Ann Sherlock 9 Brooke Coffeit, Anna Guizerix, and Christine Guizerix 10 Anna Kate Doiron and Catherine Hadaway 11 Fay Wilkinson, Jane Flowers, and Mani Prudhomme 12 Lee Waring, Pat Pierce, Carole Campbell and Patti Cappert 13 Mayor George Flaggs, Joy Brabston, and Barbara Bagley

1 4

5

6

8

7

9

10

11

12

13 Bluffs & Bayous { January/February 2022 { Page 17

SOUTHERN TRADITIONS

Charmed with a Cake Pull

T

raditions in the South abound throughout its varying locales, events, and families. One of these traditions, for example, regards the follow-up to receiving a gift or other act of kindness; this traditional response is to send the giver a hand-written note of appreciation, often penned on attractive stationery personalized with initials or a name, and tucked into a textured and lined envelope with its embossed return address. Long fallen by the wayside, though, are such traditions as tea-time visits and visits with neighbors outside on the porch near a day’s end.

Primary among Southern traditions are those associated with weddings: having a unity candle at the ceremony, orchestrating the first dances, cutting the bride’s and groom’s cakes, toasting, tossing the bride’s bouquet and the groom’s garter, and celebrating the couple’s departure with a sendoff of well-wishes for their good fortune by tossing rose petals or waving sparklers, flags, or glowing batons. Also, as Southerners know, is the wedding tradition of the Cake Pull.

The source of the Cake Pull dates to England’s Victorian custom of “ribbon pulling.” Traditionally, silver charms of luck and good fortune, chosen by the bride for her single bridesmaids, were placed inside the wedding cake; and before the cutting of this cake, these ladies, each holding a ribbon attached to a charm, in unison pulled the ribbons to discover their symbolic charms and future fortunes.

Today, this tradition is customary during the Bridal Luncheon honoring the bride and her attendants the day of or day before the wedding. Following the luncheon meal, the bride and bridesmaids (single and married) gather around a dessert cake under which the ribboned silver charms have been placed. Other traditions observe the Cake Pull during the wedding reception with the ribboned charms having been placed in the wedding cake for the bride’s single friends to pull for predictions of their future good fortune.

All the individual ribbons and charms have a special card attached that gives the meaning of the charm, or the host may read the meanings from a master card. Cake Pull packets are available in most bridal shops and bakeries or online.

Page 18 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs & Bayous

SOUTHERN TRADITIONS THESE ARE A FEW MOST POPULAR CHARMS AND THEIR OFTEN CHARMING MEANINGS.

Symbolic Cake Pull Charms

Airplane, Hot Air Balloon, or Eiffel Tower – Life full of adventure and travel Highchair – Next to have a baby Telephone – Good news coming Cinderella’s Carriage – Happily ever after Clover/Shamrock or Horseshoe – Good luck Star – Deepest wish coming true Ring – Next to get married Crown – Queen for a lifetime Wishbone – Success Flower – Blossoming love Heart – New love Key – A happy home Riverboat – A life full of nostalgic memories Telephone – Good news coming your way Treasure Chest – Hopes and dreams coming true Cross – A blessed life Anchor – Adventure around the corner Camera – A picture-perfect life Butterfly – Eternal beauty

Give them the love they deserve!

FEBRUARY National Pet Dental Health Month

GREGG VETERINARY HOSPITAL 1150 Logan Sewell Road, Vidalia, LA 318-336-1700 | FAX 318-336-1702 www.greggvethospital.com Bluffs & Bayous { January/February 2022 { Page 19

Downtown and All Around Our City...Vicksburg

Vicksburg

Destination & Hometown Weddings!

Let us make all your dreams come true! www.visitvicksburg.com www.vicksburgchamber.org www.vicksburg.org

Page 20 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs & Bayous

Make 2022 the best for your business by adverting with Bluffs and Bayous!

Contact: Kari Blaney

for more information karibluffsmag@gmail.com

(601)276-7575 RSVP@THEMALLARDMS.COM THE social SCENE BROOKHAVEN, MISSISSIPPI

Visit www.bluffsbayous.com for all social scenes.

Engagement Party for Kelly and Underwood

T

he engagement announcement of Devon Kelly of Montville, New Jersey, and Stone Underwood of Brookhaven, Mississippi, was celebrated at The Homestead in Brookhaven, Mississippi, on July 24, 2021. The couple met while attending the University of West Virginia.

1 Ellen and Jack Gratwick 2 Stephen Dotz, Meghan Kelly, Don Underwood, Sarah Underwood, Stone Underwood, Devon Kelly, and Tim and Connie Kelly 3 Ashley Reymundo, Heather Foley, Polly Gill, Sarah Underwood, and Trudy Price 4 Connie Kelly, Meghan Kelly, and Mike and Melinda Said 5 Doug Sicks and Pat Lowery 6 Jillian Ricceri, Dewey Stailey, Blair Benton, and Marsha Stailey 7 Connie Kelly and Meghan Kelly

1

2

3

5

4

6

7 Bluffs & Bayous { January/February 2022 { Page 21

9

8

10

12

11

14

15

16 Page 22 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs & Bayous

13 8 Chuck and Janie Keyes, Mark and Pam Lingle, Sarah and Don Underwood, Tyler Batton, Richard Batton, Steve Lingle, and Larry Berry 9 Tim Kelly and Betty Ann Perkins 10 Hunter Harrison, Caroline Dristell Harrison, Alexis Pitman, Josh Cheramie, Blaise Braden, Gray Holland, Devon Kelly, Stone Underwood, Dewey Stailey, Blair Benton, Ruffin Oberschmidt, Reagan Pepper, Drew Jones, Gabe Wilson, Nic Ricceri, and Jillian Ricceri 11 Alexis Pittman, Josh Cheramie, Stone Underwood, and Devon Kelly 12 Devon Kelly, Stone Underwood, Michael Kavitz, and Amanda Paris 13 Sherri Mathis, Bailey Nicole Kelly, and Kara Whittington 14 Devon Kelly and Jillian Ricceri 15 Sherrie Welch, Betty Ann Perkins, and Sheila McFadden 16 Meghan Kelly, Betty Ann Perkins, Devon Kelly, and Bill Perkins

HISTORIC INN

TYING THE KNOT FOR OVER 100 YEARS!

84 Homochitto St. Natchez, Mississippi 601-897-6300

DUNLEITHHISTORICINN.COM

Bluffs & Bayous { January/February 2022 { Page 23

J

JOANNA MARIE FREDERICK & CHRISTOPHER LEE DEROSIA OCTOBER 2, 2021 ~ NATCHEZ, MISSISSIPPI ~ PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID FROST

oanna Marie Frederick and Christopher Lee DeRosia both of Denver, Colorado, were married on October 2, 2021, at Saint Mary Basilica in Natchez, Mississippi, with Reverend Mark Shoffner as Mass Celebrant.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Stan Burkley of Natchez and Mr. Paul Frederick of Vidalia, Louisiana. She is the granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Joseph A. Gamberi of Natchez and the late Mr. and Mrs. Warren Frederick of Vidalia.

The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Bruce DeRosia of Charlevoix, Michigan, and the grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. Lester Gallagher of Charlevoix and the late Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth DeRosia of Lansing, Michigan.

During the ceremony, Robin Titone Branton was the scripture reader; and Dr. Franco Gurman, organist and pianist, and violinist Monquez Ford provided the music.

Vocalist Stacey Trenteseaux sang “Ave Maria” as the mothers were seated and “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” during the processional of the wedding party. The bride processed to the strains of “Trumpet Voluntary”; and Stacey Trenteseaux sang “O Divine Redeemer” and “I Have Loved You” along with other mass selections. “Hornpipe” from Water Music Suite was the recessional.

The beautiful dried boho flowers on the main and side altars along with plants and lanterns used in the back of church and foyer were designed by Sharman Hart of The Flower Station in Natchez. Program attendant was Emery Kathylynn DeRosia, niece of the groom. Wedding coordinators were Carolyn Eidt and Cheryl Rinehart while the photographer was David Frost from Alabama.

Given in marriage by her step-father, the bride wore a Georgia Young Couture ivory and truffle gown handmade in Australia.

The gown was of embroidered lace paired with unique architectural paneling with wide silk binding detail over the bodice. It had an open square neckline and square backline with a fitted silhouette and a natural flare at the hem and soft train. An ivory Allure bridal cathedral cape veil was attached at the shoulders; and attached underneath

the gown was a small white memory bag holding items belonging to her greatgrandmother, mother, and brother. The bride carried a boho bouquet of dried ivory and truffle colored flowers designed by John Grady Burns of Nest in Natchez. She complemented this with a blue-and-white handkerchief, attached to the front of which was an angel pin that belonged to her late grandmother, Mrs. Joseph A. Gamberi.

Serving as maid of honor was Susan Henry Harris of Ferriday, Louisiana.

Bridesmaids were Sarah Powers Aldridge of Natchez; Kathryn Elizabeth Barlow of New Orleans, Louisiana; Julie Nelson Bidenbaugh of Greenville, South Carolina; Elizabeth Burns Calloway of Little Rock, Arkansas; Ana Alicia Gamberi Payne of Muenster, Texas; Mary Elizabeth McDavid of Starkville, Mississippi; and Julia Frederick Novarini of Houston, Texas.

These attendants wore gowns of their own selection in taupe satin, mauve chiffon, or dusty purple velvet. Each carried dried boho bouquets designed by John Grady Burns with ivory flowers and touches of purple that he and the bride had selected.

Page 24 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs & Bayous

The flower girl was Eliza Kate Harris, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Cameron Harris of Ferriday. She wore a white satin and tulle gown with butterfly inlays on the top bodice and ivory satin ribbon. A train with butterfly inlays was attached at the waist. She wore a white flower crown and carried a basket with flowers. Chasity Leigh Boling of Memphis, Tennessee, served as proxy bride.

Attending the groom as best man was his father. Groomsmen were Joshua Christos Markou of Western Springs, Illinois; Andrew Lee DeRosia of Caledonia, Michigan; John Carrell Arcello of Mesa, Arizona; Bryan James Stewart of New Hudson, Michigan; Chad James Stewart of Novi, Michigan; and Joseph Robert Gamberi of Natchez.

Ushers were Andrew Jorge Novarini of Houston, Texas, and Noah Andrew DeRosia of Caledonia, Michigan. The ring bearer was Wade Ryan Provance, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ryan Provance of Folsom, Louisiana.

He carried a bird’s nest with rings in the center of the blue eggs. All wore black tuxedos with white shirts and boho boutonnieres of dried ivory flowers.

After the wedding, a Southern reception with a boho flair was held at Linden Bed and Breakfast in Natchez. Guests were taken by shuttle from the church to the reception if needed. A trolley provided transportation for the wedding party and parents. The bride and groom arrived at their reception in a limousine, and a shuttle provided transportation during the reception; Oscar Davis was amazing at arranging this!

Music by The Rouge Krewe of Lafayette, Louisiana, welcomed all to the reception with its beautiful decorations by John Grady Burns under lighted tents furnished by Box K Events. Rene Adams with her amazing team along with Christi, Allen, and Mark at Linden created an amazing reception. Photographer for the occasion was David Frost from Alabama, and events coordinator Cheryl Rinehart directed all the magical memories.

As the bride and groom arrived, they were led to the dance floor for their first dance as newlyweds. However, they chose a nontraditional dance they choreographed with a combination of fun moves. Molly Manning

created the most beautiful wedding cake, a vanilla cake with almond buttercream icing and pressed flowers to complement the boho theme. She prepared cookies with magnolia flowers for Mississippi, columbine flowers for Colorado, wild flowers, and monograms. Chasity Rogers created assorted macaroons to display on a table in the bride’s room. Chasity Boling fashioned the rich chocolate groom’s cake with a soccer ball on top since the groom is an avid soccer player. She also created chocolate chip cookies displayed along with chocolate mints.

The bride and groom enjoyed cutting the cakes with the wedding knife the groom’s parents used on their wedding day; and the couple made their traditional toast with champagne chilled in the bride’s late maternal grandmother’s silver container.

The bride created a display stand of family photographs titled “Love Actually is All Around” from her favorite movie, Love Actually. It showcased family pictures from the weddings of great-grandparents, grandparents, parents, and siblings. A basket with wildflower seeds invited guests to take a sampling as they departed the reception, a favor to take home and plant as a memento of the occasion.

As the reception was ending, guests waving glo-sticks and light-up wands lined the passageway to celebrate the couple’s

send-off. The bride and groom were greatly surprised to see a decorated hippie van waiting to whisk them away—an exciting and fun exit!!!

On the day before the wedding, the bride and her attendants were honored with a bridal luncheon at the home of her aunt, Mrs. Andreé Gamberi. Here, they enjoyed a lovely luncheon hosted by Mrs. Cheryl Rinehart, Mrs. Amelia McDonald, Ms. Patty Barlow, and Mrs. Andreé Gamberi. They then observed the charm cake tradition; and thereafter, the bride presented gifts to her wedding party.

The night before the wedding, the groom’s parents hosted a cocktail hour and rehearsal dinner at Epyx in Natchez where guests enjoyed music by Drew and Bubba.

On the previous evening, the soon-to-be-wed couple hosted a “Let’s Taco about Marriage” meet-and-greet at 100 Main where guests were treated to a tantalizing taco bar.

Bluffs & Bayous { January/February 2022 { Page 25

VIRGINIA GRACE SCARBOROUGH & MARK HUNTER ROGILLIO FEBRUARY 27, 20211 ~ NATCHEZ, MISSISSIPPI ~ PHOTOGRAPHY BY STACY LANDERS

V

irginia Grace Scarborough and Mark Hunter Rogillio, both of Natchez, Mississippi, were married on February 27, 2021, at Trinity Episcopal Church in Natchez with Reverend Ken Ritter officiating the ceremony.

The bride is the daughter of Dr. Bruce M. Scarborough and Jan Davis Scarborough, both of Natchez, and the granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Charles E. Estess (Virginia) of Jackson, Mississippi, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Joe M. Scarborough (Grace) of Byram, Mississippi.

Parents of the groom are Mr. Mark Rogillio and Mrs. Kathleen Smith Rogillio, both of Natchez. His grandparents are the late Mr. Herbert Rogillio and Mrs. Patsy Rogillio of Vidalia, Louisiana, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Smith (Joan Moberly) of Natchez.

Page 26 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs & Bayous

Escorted by her father, the bride wore a modern, silk dupion ball gown designed by Justin Alexander from Magnolia Mariée Bridal Boutique, featuring a plunging v-neckline piped with silk dupion that flowed into dainty spaghetti straps and continued into a v-back that was complemented with a detachable silk bow and fabric buttons.

The elegant chapel length train flowed effortlessly from behind with a gorgeous clean finish. The bride accessorized with a two-tiered cathedral length veil of tulle encrusted with scattered pearls. Wesley Anderson of C’est Jolie Salon styled the bride’s hair and make-up.

Serving as man of honor was the bride’s brother, Steven B. Scarborough, of Greensboro, North Carolina. Flower attendant was the bride’s cousin, Kellie E. Martin, of Jackson, Mississippi.

The groom’s best man was his uncle, David Earl Smith, of Brandon, Mississippi; and his ring bearer was his cousin, H. Lyle Herring, of Vidalia. The groom and male attendants wore blue suits from Magnolia Mariée Bridal Boutique.

During the ceremony, readings were given by Mark J. Weeden of Natchez, Brian L. Scarborough of Vicksburg, Mississippi, and Kathleen M. Smith of Brandon, Mississippi. Music was provided by Brother Vincent Ignatius, OSB, organist.

Following the ceremony, a reception was held at Linden Bed & Breakfast in Natchez. Mark Weeden, Christy Williams, and John Grady Burns of Nest transformed the courtyard of Linden into a midcentury-modern wonderland. Colorful flowers in

mid-century containers and equally colorful linens adorned each table. The three-tiered terrazzo wedding cake was created by Molly Manning of Natchez, and the evening’s fare was prepared by Wayne Bryant of the Continental Cook in Natchez.

During the reception, DJ Matt-rimony (Matt Woods) of Vidalia provided the music; and Stacy Landers Photography and Kaelin Daye of Oakwood Media captured the event’s many memoryfilled moments.

The rehearsal dinner was hosted by the groom’s uncle and aunt, David and Kathleen Smith and also was held at Linden and was catered by Wayne Bryant of the Continental Cook.

The couple now reside in Natchez.

Bluffs & Bayous { January/February 2022 { Page 27

C

CAITLIN PAIGE JOHNSON & JACOB ARLEN MILES FEBRUARY 27, 2021 ~ BILOXI, MISSISSIPPI ~ PHOTOGRAPHY BY MAC PHOTO COMPANY

aitlin Paige Johnson of Natchez, Mississippi, and Jacob Arlen Miles of O’Neil, Nebraska, were married on February 27, 2021, at six o’clock in the evening in Biloxi, Mississippi, at the Cathedral of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary with Father Dennis Carver and Deacon Tomasz Powroznik presiding. The bride is the daughter of Ms. Dzifa Takyi Johnson of Austin, Texas, and Dr. and Mrs. Alton Johnson of Stuttgart, Arkansas. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Terry Miles of O’Neil, Nebraska.

At the beginning of the ceremony, “Ave Maria” was sung for the procession of the mothers into the cathedral. The wedding party processed to “Jesu, Joy of a Man’s Desiring,” and the bride’s procession was to “Trumpet Voluntary.” A unity candle ceremony was performed to the song “One Hand, One Heart,” and the wedding recessional at the end of the ceremony was to the infamous “Wedding March.” Ceremony music was provided by Mr. Terry Maddox of Biloxi, Mississippi.

Giving the readings were the groom’s sisters, Marisa and Caleigh Miles of O’Neil, Nebraska, and the bride’s aunt Dr. Dolores Cottrell of Albany, New York. Bringing the gifts to the altar were the bride’s godparents, Mr. and Mrs. Bennie Jones of West Point, Mississippi, and Dr. and Mrs. Bob Howland of Columbus, Mississippi.

Page 28 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs & Bayous

The bride’s wedding gown was a Martina Liana creation with a honey undertone, a plunging neckline, off-the-shoulder sleeves, a sheer bodice, and Chantilly appliquéd lace. Her cathedral length veil was of the same Chantilly appliquéd lace. She accented her ensemble with custom jewelry and a hair clip by designer Lovebird.

To complete her ensemble, she carried a bouquet of white anemones, playa blanca roses, lisianthus, and genestra, accented with pampas grass, salal, and Italian ruscus adorned with a rosary blessed by the Pope, a locket holding a picture of her late maternal grandparents, and an Africa pendent from her late maternal grandmother.

Attending the bride were her matron of honor Emily Moon of Vidalia, Louisiana. Bridesmaids were Jessica Andry of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Christi Manshack of Natchez, Mississippi; Brittany Taylor of Madison, Mississippi; Nikki Dolan of Hattiesburg, Mississippi; Whitney Butter of Pineville, Louisiana; Sarah Whiteside and Lauren Whiteside, both of Biloxi, Mississippi; Dori Murphy of Thibodaux, Louisiana; and Madison Farmer of Natchez, Mississippi. Serving as junior bridesmaid was Kylee Miles, daughter of the groom; and the flower girl was Kate Whiteside, daughter of Cameron and Sarah Whiteside of Biloxi, Mississippi. The bridal party wore black, floorlength chiffon gowns by designer Hayley Paige from Bridal and Formal Boutique in Gulfport, Mississippi. The bridal party and mothers of the bride and groom carried bouquets similar to the bride’s bouquet.

Attending as best men were John Neatherlin of Gulfport, Mississippi, and Shalen Philips of Houston, Texas.

Groomsmen were Marcus Lupkin of San Diego, California; Griffin Bossingham of Virginia Beach, Virginia; Ed Roseman of Long Beach, Mississippi; Caleb Johnson of Monroe, Louisiana; and Alex Miles of O’Neil, Nebraska. Serving as junior groomsman and ring bearer, respectively, were Emmett Miles and Jenson Miles, both sons of Alex and Jennifer Miles of O’Neil, Nebraska. The groom wore a classic modern-fit tuxedo while the best men and groomsmen wore black-onblack modern-fit tuxedos, all from House of Tux in Gulfport, Mississippi. Boutonnières were of the same florals and foliage as the bouquets.

Following the ceremony, a cocktail hour and reception were held at Nativity Sacred Heart Center on the church grounds.

Here, guests enjoyed an open bar and heavy hors d’oeuvres by Southern Flavor Catering of Gulfport, Mississippi. Prior to

the first dances, the bride’s uncle, Dr. Frank Takyi of Okemos, Michigan, performed a “pouring of libations” ceremony with gin to call on the bride and groom’s ancestors to watch over them throughout their marriage. them throughout their marriage.

Music for the reception was provided by P&I Productions of Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. In the reception hall, the ceiling was hung with strands of bistro lights, foyer draped with ivory linens, and tables adorned with black linens accented with arrangements of lush greenery and white flowers. The bride’s cake was a four-tier, semi-naked almond cake by Cakes by Tina of Biloxi, Mississippi, with alternating layers of strawberry and Bavarian creme filling. The cake was iced with buttercream frosting and adorned with flowers that matched the bridal bouquet. The groom opted out of a traditional groom’s cake and settled on a s’mores/coffee/hot chocolate bar.

At the end of the evening the bride and groom shared a last dance to “I Won’t Give Up” by Jason Mraz. Thereafter, the couple were given a sparkler farewell by family and friends and then were whisked away in a 1960s Jaguar adorned with bells and ribbons.

Other vendors for the wedding were as follows: (ceremony coordinators) Paul and Karen Arguelles, (planners) Magnolia Bride, (photography) MAC Photo Co, (videography) John Reyes Networks, (florals) Shindig Floral Design, (drapery/lighting/ rentals) Southern Event Productions, and (selfie station) Photo2-Go Photo Booth.

On the eve of the wedding, the bride and her attendants enjoyed a Bridesmaids Brunch at Chimneys in Gulfport, Mississippi. That evening, the wedding party enjoyed a rehearsal dinner at The Dock Venue on Gulfport Lake in Gulfport, Mississippi. The bridesmaids were gifted with robes, earrings, shawls, champagne flutes, and personalized ballet flats. The groomsmen received gifts that included personalized flasks, cigars, and whiskey shooters.

The morning of the wedding, the bride and bridal party were treated to a brunch while getting ready at The White House Hotel in Biloxi, Mississippi. Hair designs were furnished by Jessica Jones Salon of Biloxi, Mississippi; and makeup was by Mallory Fitzgerald of Bettendorf, Iowa.

Before the ceremony, the bride and groom exchanged gifts and letters to each other. Caitlin gifted Jacob with a bottle of whiskey that was aged at sea, paying homage to his naval background. Jacob gifted Caitlin with a heartshaped diamond necklace that resembled the necklace he gave her after their first deployment as a couple.

Soon after the wedding, the bride and groom honeymooned in the 30A area of Florida and now reside in their home in Biloxi, Mississippi.

Bluffs & Bayous { January/February 2022 { Page 29

CHARLIE KAE MCCALL & JOSHUA IAN REDMAN NOVEMBER 6, 2021 ~ NATCHEZ, MISSISSIPPI ~ PHOTOGRAPHY BY TAYLOR COOLEY PHOTOGRAPHY

C

harlie Kae McCall of Monterey, Louisiana, and Joshua Ian Redman of Alexandria, Louisiana, exchanged their wedding vows on November 6, 2021, in Natchez, Mississippi, at the lovely historic Natchez Memorial Park with the Reverend Steve Purvis of Natchez officiating.

The bride is the daughter of Terry and Loree Avants and the late James E. McCall of Natchez, and the granddaughter of the late Ted Harris and Scharlene Morace Whitehead of Monterey and the late Noland and Mayfred McCall of Natchez.

The groom is the grandson of Nanette Redman and the late Michael Redman of Alexandria.

Before the ceremony, the bride enjoyed a bridal brunch with her bridesmaids. She later shared a special moment with her groom as they exchanged wedding gifts with one another.

The bride received a handwritten love letter from her soon-to-be husband and a pearl necklace set to wear for their wedding. The groom received a photo album loaded with pictures of them from the beginning of their relationship.

After arriving at her wedding site with her brother, Creighton McCall of Natchez, in a white horse-drawn buggy provided by Southern Carriage Tours of Natchez, the bride was escorted by her brother down the aisle for the wedding ceremony. She wore a designer gown of ivory gold silhouette tulle over satin with lace cap sleeves, a beaded bodice with a key-hole designed back, and a trumpet skirt. As her “something old,” the bride wore her late grandmother’s gold-and-diamond tennis bracelet. In place of her late grandmother, the bride’s great aunt, Connie Stamatelos of Jay, Florida, was escorted down the aisle.

Hair and makeup were provided

by Allye Braley MUAH from Vidalia, Louisiana. The bride designed and made all the wedding flower arrangements as well as

Louisiana; Boudreaux Johnson of Natchez; Connor Cascio and John Connella of Alexandria; Curt Gillot of Boyce, Louisiana; and Jon Summers of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The groom and his groomsmen all wore black sports jackets with jeans and boots. Tucker Johnson, son of Boudreaux and Sarah Johnson, served as ring bearer.

Flower “guys” were Jon Summers and John Connella, who strutted down the aisle and tossed flower petals to the song “Strut.” Ushers were Roy Avants from Walker, Louisiana, and Matthew Felter of Natchez.

Aubree Avants, daughter of Roy and Leighanne Avants of Walker, Louisiana, assisted in passing out wedding programs for the ceremony.

Event planner was Tammy Hodnett, cousin of the bride, from Dry Prong, Louisiana.

During the ceremony the bride and groom choose a wooden cross with three ropes to braid; it represented the two of them joining with Christ as they all

her bouquet; the designs were made of wood accented by little gem foliage of eucalyptus and baby’s breath with burlap ribbons.

Special attendants were Hailey Redman and Carson Redman, children of the groom, and Shannon Wilson and Natalie Lyles of Natchez.

Attending the bride were Sarah Johnson, matron of honor, from Natchez; Leah Guidry of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Amanda Mathis of Brookhaven, Mississippi; Kristan Cascio of Alexandria, Louisiana; Aaron Charpentier of Monterey; Ximena Guillot of Boyce, Louisiana; and Brittney Moreland of Monterey.

All wore black chiffon dresses of their choice and carried a wooden bouquet designed by the bride.

The groom’s attendants were Steve White, best man, of Pineville,

Page 30 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs & Bayous

become one while the song “Hallelujah” was softly playing. Music for the ceremony was provided by Megan Goodman, cousin of the bride, from Jena, Louisiana.

Following the ceremony, the wedding party, family, and friends attended a reception at the Natchez Community Center where the bride and groom arrived in style in a horsedrawn buggy. The reception decorations were designed by Natalie Lyles of Natchez.

Music throughout the evening was provided

by Beats2Geaux of Alexandria, Louisiana. During the reception, all enjoyed the bride and groom’s traditional cutting of their cakes, champagne toast, first dance, and the mother-of-the-bride’s dance with her daughter as they showed their guests fancy moves to the tune of Guns & Roses’ “Sweet Child of Mine.”

The bride’s cake was provided by Angel Wings Catering owned by Cherie Lipsey of Monterey. For the groom’s table, Angel Wings Catering displayed an “All American” themed cookie table. Photography was provided by Taylor Cooley Photography from Plaucheville, Louisiana.

After their honeymoon to Manitou Springs, Colorado, the couple is at home in Dry Prong, Louisiana.

Pre-wedding events included a rehearsal dinner hosted by the groom’s family; it featured a fried catfish meal catered by Glen and Melinda Kelly of Natchez at the Natchez Community Center. Two weeks before the wedding, the bride was honored with a champagne brunch at the home of Holly Sandifer in Natchez. Hostesses were Holly Sandifer, Sherry Kiser, Frances Cothern, Betsy Pitchford, Shirley Hogget, Donna Sessions, Janet Bruce, Donna Lindley, Kim Arnold, and Agnes Holloway.

Bluffs & Bayous { January/February 2022 { Page 31

T

MARY ELIZABETH JORDAN & JOHN KYZAR HUFF MAY 15, 2021 ~ NATCHEZ, MISSISSIPPI ~ PHOTOGRAPHY BY GREER GATTUSO

he marriage of Mary Elizabeth Jordan and John Kyzar Huff took place on the gorgeous steps of Dunleith Historic Inn in Natchez, Mississippi, on May 15, 2021. The double-ring ceremony was performed by the Reverend Bo Swilley.

Parents of the couple are Mr. and Mrs. Keith H. Jordan, residing at Lisburn Hall on Lake Concordia in Louisiana, and Mr. Benjamin Wayne Huff and Ms. Kay Kyzar residing in Ferriday, Louisiana. The bride’s paternal grandparents are Mrs. Peggy Marie June and the late Mr. Charles Kenneth Jordan. Her maternal grandparents are Mrs. Elizabeth P. Smith and the late Mr. Autry Donnie Smith. The groom’s paternal grandparents are the late Mr. and Mrs. Charles H. Kyzar, and his maternal grandparents are the late Mr. and Mrs. Jim Huff.

The bride, escorted by her father, walked down the aisle wearing an ivory gown with a delicately embroidered and hand-beaded design gown from the design house of Martina Liana, which the bride had customized to include an extensive lengthened train. She is the first bride ever to adorn this brand-new Luxe collection gown. The custom designed veil by Toni Federici with beads and sequins expertly hand sewn to the edge cascaded gracefully past the end of the gown. She carried a textured bouquet filled with white blooms of peonies, stock roses, ranunculus, and spray roses.

The bride’s attendants wore a sophisticated, one shoulder, long gown in champagne colored, satin-backed crepe by Jenny Yoo. Their flowers were petite versions of the bridal bouquet. The attendants to the bride were Ms. Victoria Page Jordan, the bride’s sister and maid of honor of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Ms. Lauren Elizabeth Rymer of Natchez, Mississippi; Ms. Zakhiah Carroll of Dallas, Texas; Ms. Katherine Ryan of Houston, Texas; Ms. Caitlin Marie Pulk of Fair Lawn, New Jersey; Ms. Laura Lancaster of Covington, Louisiana; Ms. Alyssa Montoya of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Miss Stevee Kate Dixon of Hattiesburg, Mississippi; and Mrs. Alexis Dichiara, honorary bridesmaid.

Mr. Jason Grantham of Ferriday, Louisiana, served as best man. Groomsmen were Mr. Jeffery Ross and Mr. Jacob Martin, both of Ferriday, Louisiana; Mr. Paul Manning and Mr. Will Manning, both of Waterproof, Louisiana, Mr. Mason Ozburn of Vidalia, Louisiana; Mr. Trey Havard of Ferriday, Louisiana; and Mr. Will Mabry IV of Saint Joseph, Louisiana.

Mr. and Mrs. Huff

Page 32 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs & Bayous

The flower girls were Scarlett Thompson, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Donnie Thompson of Nashville, Tennessee, and Everly Smith, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Nick Smith of Brookhaven, Mississippi. The ring bearer was Campbell Newman, son of Mr. and Mrs. Taylor Newman of Brookhaven, Mississippi.

Guests were seated by Mr. Brandon Wainwright of Slaughter, Louisiana; Mr. Kresten Brown of Ponchatoula, Louisiana; Mr. Dawson Parker of Ferriday, Louisiana; and Mr. Wherley Kuhn of Folsom, Louisiana. Wedding music was masterfully performed by The Original Magnolia String Quartet of Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

After the ceremony, the guests were invited to the courtyard of Dunleith for a reception with live music performed by the vivacious ten-piece band Three Thirty-Seven of Lafayette, Louisiana. For the fun of the reception and the couple’s exit, the bride changed to a white, chic, and playful Bronx and Banco “Mademoiselle” sequined dress with ostrich feathers.

After all the festivity of the reception, the couple exited the home by the very steps on which they took their vows. A beautiful white 1963 Austin Princess Rolls Royce provided by Classic Cars of Baton Rouge whisked the couple away while their guests waved bye with wands of ivory and toffee satin ribbons accented with gold fringe and bells.

On the eve of the wedding, the couple was honored by the groom’s father with a beautiful seated Maternal grandmother rehearsal dinner at The Castle on the grounds of Dunleith. sewing monogram The family would also like to recognize all the vendors that helped to bring the bride’s vision into dress to fruition. Starting with the gorgeous backdrop of floral designs inside and outside of the venue, the exquisite floral arrangements and embellishments staged from the custom-designed iron gate on the front lawn to the courtyard of Dunleith were created by a team effort of top floral designers from multiple florists—Bertha’s Flower Shop of Brookhaven, Mississippi; John Grady Burns of Natchez, Mississippi; and Nichole Lefebvre of Plaquemine, Louisiana.

The artistic confectioner that the bride and groom chose was Rose Hawley Atwater of Rose Bakes. Rose artistically and perfectly crafted the bride’s vision into reality. The bride’s tall, elegant, luxurious wedding cake was nine tiers with beautiful sugar flowers cascading Father of the Bride, Keith Jordan, from top to bottom, an enhancement inspired by another confectioner Everly Smith and Campbell Newman and Mary Elizabeth Jordan artist Sylvia Weinstock. Atwater also shocked guests by crafting the groom’s cake as a perfect lifesize replica of a shotgun lying on top of its case.

Last, but not least, was the captured memory of the day by the photographer and videographer.

The ceremony and rehearsal were artistically captured by Greer Gattuso, the South’s leading fine art photographer as seen in Vogue, Martha Stewart Weddings, and InStyle. Ms. Gattuso is based out of New Orleans, Louisiana. The couple’s beautiful day from pre-ceremony to final Kraesten Brown, Amanda Brown, Victoria Jordan, Peggy June, Keith H. Jordan, exit was captured on video by David Warren of Mary Elizabeth Jordan Huff, John Kyzar Huff, Mary Elizabeth Jordan Huff, John Kyzar Huff, Benny Wayne Huff, and Samantha Banks holding Philip Banks Page Smith Jordan, Lib Smith Stella Maris Weddings from Covington, Louisiana.

The couple now resides at their home in the Panola Cove neighborhood on beautiful Lake Concordia outside of Ferriday, Louisiana.

The Wedding Party

Bluffs & Bayous { January/February 2022 { Page 33

Lib Smith and Page Smith Jordan

Charles Jordan, Peggy June, Keith Jordan, and Doug Jordan

Caitlin Pulk, Mia Smith, Katherine Ryan, Lexi Dichiara, Blake Dichiara, Blaine Goitia, Victoria Jordan, and Keith Jordan

John Cowan, John Kyzar Huff, and Mary Elizabeth Jordan Huff

Beverly and George Hude

Betty Ann Perkins and Page Smith Jordan

John Kyzar Huff, Victor Nguyen, and Tran Nguyen Jordan Cook, Laura Lancaster, Mary Elizabeth Jordan Huff, James Traugott

Benny Wayne Huff

Kelly Pugh, Deana Mabry, Page Smith Jordan, and Katie Dixon

Lib Smith and Angie Warren

First Dance

Deborah Dowe and Guest

Invitations

Wherley Kuhn, Alyssa Montoya, Brandon Wainwright, and Kaitlin Pulk

1963 Austin Princess Rolls Royce by Classic Cars of Baton Rouge

Christy Rawles Farmer and Keith Jordan

Groom’s Cake

Page 34 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs & Bayous

Tony and Debbie Guillory

Amanda and Kresten Brown

Jeff and Heather Curtis

Natali Grantham, John Kyzar Huff, Jason Grantham, and Mary Elizabeth Jordan Huff

Kristin Jordan, Anna Leigh Jordan, and Deana Mabry

Mary Catherine Rawles and Peggy June

Lib Smith and Mary Elizabeth Jordan Huff

Reception area

Deana Mabry and Will Mabry II

Katherine Ryan

John Kyzar Huff and Mary Elizabeth Jordan Huff

Mary Elizabeth Jordan Huff and Victoria Jordan

Mary Elizabeth Jordan Huff and John Kyzar Huff

Bluffs & Bayous { January/February 2022 { Page 35

T

MADALYN MARIE KIRKWOOD & BEN BRAKEL OCTOBER 30, 2021 ~ NATCHEZ, MISSISSIPPI ~ PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANNE MCDANIEL

he wedding of Madalyn Marie Kirkwood of Natchez, Mississippi, and Ben Brakel of Slidell, Louisiana, was held on October 30, 2021, on the elegant front steps and lowerlevel veranda of Dunleith Historic Inn in Natchez, Mississippi, at 6:00 in the evening with the Honorable Judge Lisa Jordan Dale presiding.

The bride is the daughter of Jan and Jeff Kirkwood of Natchez and the granddaughter of Ann and Don Marion of Natchez and Billy Faye and Sidney Kirkwood of Madisonville, Kentucky. The groom is the son of Karen and Rob Brakel of Slidell and the grandson of Gene and Catherine Barouse and John and Evelyn Brakel, all of New Orleans, Louisiana.

Escorted by her father, the bride wore an off-the-shoulder, long sleeved, ivory illusion fit-and-flare gown with beaded lace by Justin Alexander. She wore her mother’s wedding veil of ivory illusion and lace and carried a bouquet of white and light rust roses and eucalyptus.

Comprising the bridal party were matron of honor Kalin Kirkwood Hamil of New Orleans, Louisiana, who having just had her daughter, Annie, nine days earlier was on hand to attend her sister; Maria Murphy Darnal and Logan Leighann Talbert, both of Baton

Page 36 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs & Bayous

Rouge, Louisiana; Emily Dixon Hall of Natchez; Adrian LeJeune Fremaux, Kristen Elizabeth Seaux, and Taylor Trache Atkinson, all of Lafayette, Louisiana; Kaitlin Ellen Martin and Maria Louise Moss, both of New Orleans, Louisiana; Haley Brooke Stockton of Pineville, Louisiana; and Eleanor Wesley-Anne Turner of Houston, Texas. The bridesmaids wore topaz full-length gowns and carried smaller versions of the bride’s bouquet.

The groom’s best man was Jason Brad Brakel of Sanford, Florida.

Groomsmen were Christopher Blake Thompson and Shane Matthew Riedie, both of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Sean Robert William Nelson of Port Allen, Louisiana; James Keith Vining II, Corey Michael Meaux, and Samuel Woods Atkinson, all of Lafayette, Louisiana; Lee Wilcox Shelton of Welches, Oregon; Jeffrey Paul Farmer of Metairie, Louisiana; Geoffrey James Rhodes of Belle Chase, Louisiana; Andrew Joseph Pasch of Katy, Texas; Michael Keefe Atkinson of Lacombe, Louisiana; and Braden Tyler Eddy of Houston, Texas.

Serving as ushers were Vincent Joseph Calamari of Slidell, Louisiana; Harris Charles Pantlik of Charleston, South Carolina; Hunter James Falcon of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; and Richard Warren Broussard III of New Orleans, Louisiana. The groom, groomsmen, and ushers wore Italian-cut navy tuxedos with ties that coordinated with the bridesmaids’ dresses.

Flower girl for the occasion was Lily Grace Atkinson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Michael Atkinson of Lacombe, Louisiana; and ring bearer was John Ross Burgos, son of Adrian LeJeune Fremaux of Lafayette, Louisiana.

Ana Andrea Brakel, daughter of Jason Brakel of Sanford, Florida, served as program attendant. Readers during the ceremony were Alison Laine Neuliep and Gabriela Emilia Andonie, both of New Orleans, Louisiana. Event planners for both the wedding and reception were Lyn Jenkins, Becky Fortenberry, and Jan Kirkwood, mother of the bride.

A string quartet under the direction of Soyeon Rachel Seo of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, provided the music for the ceremony: “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” for the seating of the mothers and “Canon in D” for the processional of the bridesmaids and groomsmen. Once the bride arrived by horse and white wedding carriage provided by Southern Carriage Tours, she was escorted by her father to “Trumpet Voluntary.” During the ceremony, keyboardist Alvin Shelby played and sang “Unforgettable.”

For both the ceremony and the reception the flowers were furnished by Brenda and Bethany Zerby of Moreton’s Flowerland of Natchez; and the food was catered by the amazing chef, Doug Hosford, and his staff at Dunleith. Capturing the event’s most memorable moments was photographer Anne McDaniel of Natchez and videographer Megan Elizabeth Films of Hattiesburg, Mississippi.

The bride’s cake was a three-tiered combination of almond cake with vanilla buttercream filling, vanilla cake with almond buttercream and raspberry jam filling, and buttercream pecan cake with bourbon buttercream filling, all of which were accented with flowing white flowers and greenery.

The groom’s cake was a combination of butter pecan cake with buttercream filling and chocolate cake with caramel buttercream filling. Being an avid sportsman, the groom chose a hunting related theme for his cake with a display of special pieces from his hunting adventures. The base of the cake was provided by the bride’s brother, Jordan Kirkwood, from a tree at the family’s home.

Reception entertainment by the tenpiece band Fly by Radio, headed by Wes Goode of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, and further comprised of musicians from Birmingham and Mobile, brought even more flair to the festivities, including the music and songs for the evening’s traditional dances: the couple’s first dance to “Beyond” by Leon Bridges, the father-daughter dance to “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell, and the mother-son dance to “I called Mama”

by Tim McGraw.

Being Halloween’s Eve, the couple departed the reception by black limousine to the tune of Michael Jackson’s “Thriller,” the bride wearing a black high-low dress and the groom wearing a white tuxedo and sporting his grandfather’s white cowboy boots.

To begin the wedding weekend’s celebration, the bride and her bridesmaids were honored with a Friday bridal luncheon at the home of Andreé Gamberi in Natchez. On the eve of the wedding, the groom’s parents hosted a rehearsal dinner at The Castle on the grounds of Dunleith. On the day of the wedding, friends of the family gathered for a bridal toast while the bride and bridesmaids prepared for the wedding ceremony.

The couple now resides in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where Ben is the safety and inspection manager with Guice Offshore Operations and Maddie is the Critical Care Trauma Pharmacist at Our Lady of the Lake hospital.

Bluffs & Bayous { January/February 2022 { Page 37

M

MOLLY ELIZABETH SWAYZE & NATHAN ANDREW KNAPP MARCH 6, 2021 ~ CALHOUN, LOUISIANA ~ PHOTOGRAPHY BY KENNEDY ALLEN

olly Elizabeth Swayze of Jonesville, Louisiana, and Nathan Andrew Knapp of Vidalia, Louisiana, exchanged their wedding vows on March 6, 2021, at the Molto Bella wedding venue in Calhoun, Louisiana. Officiating the service was the groom’s great uncle, Pastor Jack Knapp.

The bride is the daughter of Robert Lee and Susie Swayze of Jonesville, and the granddaughter of the late Robert and Ilene Swayze and Cicero and Johanna Smith of Jonesville. The groom is

Page 38 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs & Bayous

the son of David and Charla Knapp of Vidalia, and the grandson of Jimmy and Mary Knapp of Ferriday, Louisiana, and the late Charles and Verna Lou Wurster of Jonesville.

The bride was escorted by her father and wore a radiant ivory satin gown. The fitted bodice featured an off-the-shoulder neckline that tapered to a full ballgown skirt and chapel-length train. For her bouquet, she chose an arrangement of classic white roses wrapped in satin with the ring of her late grandmother Ilene Swayze attached as her “something old and something borrowed.”

Attending the bride were matrons of honor Abbey Sandifer and Katie Little, both of Jonesville; and bridesmaids Caroline Mophett of Harrisonburg, Louisiana; Caroline Flournoy of Tega Cay, South Carolina; Alison Smith of Jonesville; and Briane Lofton, Sydney Johnson, and Bethany Braddock, all of Monroe, Louisiana. The bridesmaids were dressed in black floor-length gowns from Azazie.

Flower girls were the bride’s nieces: Aimee, Anna Catherine, and Alyce Swayze of Luling, Louisiana.

Ushering the bride’s mother was the bride’s eldest nephew, Andrew Taylor of Pineville, Louisiana. Ring bearers were the bride’s and groom’s nephews which included Knox and Jack Little of Jena, Louisiana; Roman and Hart Knapp of Vidalia, and Lucas and Beckham McMillen of Jackson, Mississippi.

The groom’s attendants included his best man, Tyler Sandifer of Vidalia; Darren Knapp, Chandler Grayson, Cole Cupit, Kendrick Kunkle, and Jacob Wilkinson all of Vidalia; and Stewart Mallory and Brian Duong, both of Natchez, Mississippi.

During the ceremony, passages of scripture were read by the bride’s sister, Becky Taylor of Pineville, Louisiana, and the groom’s sister, Chelsey McMillen of Jackson, Mississippi. The floral designer was Janie Bader of Bastrop, Louisiana; and the wedding director was Michelle Coody of Pollock, Louisiana. Jada Grayson of Vidalia provided the bridal photography. Kennedy Allen of Monroe was the photographer for both the wedding and reception.

Fly Bye LLC of Pineville, Louisiana, captured the day with videography.

Following the ceremony, family and friends of the bride and groom enjoyed a reception at the Molto Bella wedding venue. Delicious southern catering was prepared

by Carmen LaCroix of Jonesvile. The bride’s and groom’s cakes were made by Debbie Hudson of Jonesville while music and entertainment were provided by The Groove Factor Band of Memphis, Tennessee. The Molto Bella Venue crew and Something Borrowed of Monroe furnished the decorations, and the Messy Armadillo of Monroe furnished the ceremony and reception artwork. Following the reception, the bride and groom drove off in the groom’s father’s vintage 1981 Camaro Z28.

After the wedding, the newlywed Knapps enjoyed a warm, sunny honeymoon in Los Cabos, Mexico, and are currently enjoying married life at home in Monroe with their two pet dogs, Patches and Winston Knapp.

Bluffs & Bayous { January/February 2022 { Page 39

ANDREA HART BROWNING & DOUGLAS WAYNE NETTERVILLE, JR. OCTOBER 9, 2021 ~ FERRIDAY, LOUISIANA ~ PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRANDI PRICE

A

ndrea Hart Browning and Douglas Wayne Netterville, Jr., both of Natchez, Mississippi, exchanged their wedding vows on October 9, 2021, at 5:30 in the afternoon at Rifle Point in Ferriday, Louisiana, with Charlie Vess, former judge in Natchez, officiating. The bride is the daughter of Lester Layne Browning III of Natchez and Sharon Parker Browning of Lake St. John in Ferriday. The bride’s paternal grandparents are the late Lester Layne Browning, Jr., and Clara Holland Browning of Natchez. Her maternal grandparents are the late Ernest Parker and Mayoda Parker of Natchez.

The groom is the son of Douglas Wayne Netterville, Sr., of Natchez and Shannon McMahon Gilligan of Cartersville, Georgia.

The groom is the grandson of Patricia Smith and her husband, Lester Smith, of Natchez, as well as the late Lafayette Netterville, Jr., of Woodville, Mississippi. The groom’s maternal grandparents are the late Nancy Irene June and John Taylor McMahon of Natchez.

40 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs & Bayous Page 22

Escorted by both her father and brother, the bride wore a selec-tion from Bridal Boutique of Baton Rouge, Louisiana—a Maggie Sottero Tuscany Royale fit-and-flare gown with a plunging illusion V-neckline. The gown was graced with beaded lace motifs over sequined Chantilly lace and a scalloped illusion lace train.

She wore a single pearl with a diamond halo pendant borrowed from the groom’s sister, Shay Gay. Similar pearl and diamond earrings and bracelet were purchased from Magnolia Marieé Bridal Boutique in Natchez. Bridesmaid dresses and alterations also were provided by Magnolia Marieé Bridal Boutique. The bride wore white cowgirl boots for both the ceremony and reception. Suits for the groom, groomsmen, and ushers were rented from King of Hearts in Natchez.

Members of the wedding party included Amy Catherine (Kate) Ellard, maid of honor, of Lindale, Texas, and bridesmaids Anne Alexandra (Allie) Wilson, Caroline Rhodes, Madison Newman, and Mallory Martin, all of Natchez. Groomsmen included Douglas Wayne Netterville, Sr., best man and father of the groom; Adrian Netterville, brother of the groom; Gage Myers; and Matthew Vines, all of Natchez. Unable to attend was groomsman William Rouse.

Lester Layne (Les) Browning IV joined the groomsmen after escorting his sister down the aisle.

Ring bearers included Lester Layne (Quinn) Browning V, nephew of the bride, from Natchez and Avery Netterville, nephew of the groom, from Jackson, Mississippi. Flower girl was Channing Parker, the daughter of Blair Parker and Megan Parker. Blair Parker, cousin of the bride, escorted the mother-of-the-bride. Christopher Fair of Vidalia, Louisiana, was an honorary usher.

For the ceremony, the floral designs were by Moreton’s Flowerland of Natchez. The arbor was built by the bride’s father and Cracky McDaniel, who also ushered the mother of the groom, Shannon McMahon Gilligan. The bride’s engagement and wedding rings were designed

by Virginia Netterville Conn of Netterville’s Jewelry in Natchez. The bride’s engagement ring holds sentimental value as both the bride’s and groom’s grandparents’ diamonds are included in the one-of-a-kind, custom setting.

For both the ceremony and reception following at Rifle Point, the photographer was Creek and Stone Fine Art by Brandi Price; and the videographer was Christopher Ryan Farmer of Youngsville, Louisiana. Music was provided by Andrew Pates of Jackson, Mississippi. For the reception, Rose Atwater of Rose Bakes from McCall Creek, Mississippi, designed both the bride’s and groom’s cakes; and Beth Blackmond furnished the catering services. Caroline Edit coordinated and assisted with the wedding day’s itinerary.

During the reception, all enjoyed the bride and groom’s traditional cutting of their cakes, champagne toast, first dance, and the bride and father-of-the-bride’s dance as well as the groom and mother-of-the-groom’s dance. The couple opted out of using a traditional guest book and instead had guests sign blocks used in the game of Jenga, which was played on the couple’s first date together on August 2, 2017. The newlyweds took a quick reception break, leaving on a Polaris Ranger ATV to drive to Mud Lake and join each other in prayer and a moment of reflection on their special wedding day. Upon their return, the honorees enjoyed a night of dancing and fellowship with friends and family.

The day following the ceremony and reception, the bride and groom departed to honeymoon in Destin, Florida, at the Silver Shells Beach Resort and Spa. It provided the perfect atmosphere for beautiful weather, scenery, and a number of exciting excursions such as deep-sea fishing, parasailing, and boating in the Destin Harbor Boardwalk; and they also ventured out to Crab Island where they rooted on their favorite SEC football teams: Louisiana State University and Mississippi State University from which the bride graduated with her undergraduate degree in psychology and master’s degree in counseling.

Events prior to the wedding included a bridal shower hosted by Mary Catherine Rawles, Christy Rawles Farmer, Ellen Hart Depta, Jerika Browning, and Megan Parker at the home of family members Mike and Ellen Depta. Special thanks go to their daughters Casie, Amy, and Marcie for assisting with flowers, food, and décor. The wedding rehearsal at Rifle Point was provided by Paul and Susan Meng.

The rehearsal dinner was hosted by Shannon McMahon Gilligan and held at 100 Main in downtown Natchez.

The newlyweds would like to express their deepest appreciation to their family, friends, and vendors who assisted with wedding preparations and to all of those who showered the couple with prayers and well-wishes as they began their new lives as one.

23 Bluffs & Bayous { January/February 2022 { Page 41

DEVON KELLY & STONE UNDERWOOD NOVEMBER 21, 2021 ~ NEW HOPE, PENNSYLVANIA ~ PHOTOGRAPHY BY HALEY RICHTER

D

evon Kelly of Montville, New Jersey, and Stone Underwood of Brookhaven, Mississippi, were married on November 21, 2021, at the Hotel de Village in New Hope, Pennsylvania, with the Reverend Jennifer Van Zandt officiating. The bride is the daughter of Tim and Connie Kelly of Southport, North Carolina.

The groom is the son of Don and Sarah Underwood of Brookhaven.

The bride wore a classic, elegant Pronovias gown with lace details and buttons tracing down the back of the dress. The veil was a creation of bridesmaid Alexi Corham, who converted the lace from the bride’s mother’s dress into a veil the family can share as an heirloom. The jewel-tone flowers were created to bring together the colors of the Northeast autumn.

Attending the bride were her sister and maid of honor Meghan Kelly of Jersey City, New Jersey. Bridesmaids included Rachel Dolezal of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Stephanie Rosenthal, Jacqueline Dipiazza, Meredith Giuliani, and Alexi Corham, all of New York, New York; Kaleigh Ganter of Freehold, New Jersey; and Stephanie Geiman of Shepherdstown, West Virginia.

Page 42 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs & Bayous

Serving as the groom’s best man was Nicholas O’Toole of Corona, California. Groomsmen were Joshua Cheramie of Hattiesburg, Mississippi; Elijah Wellman of Huntington, West Virginia; Daniel Davis of Nashville, Tennessee; Brendan Kelly of Leland, North Carolina; Stephen Dotz of Jersey City, New Jersey; and Austin Said of Brookhaven, Mississippi.

During the ceremony, piano music for the Bride’s processional was “Dancing Queen” by ABBA and for the couple’s recessional was “This Will Be” by Natalie Cole. For the wedding events, the floral designs were provided by The Bloomery Flower Studio; the photography, by Haley Richter Photography; and the videography, by Trevor Barnes Media.

Following the ceremony, the wedding party and guests enjoyed a reception at Hotel du Village with entertainment by Edgars Music Group and confectionery by Palermo’s Bakery.

Attending the wedding weekend’s various occasions were the bride’s and groom’s dearest friends and family from all over the country; and the bride had family friends visiting from Bristol, England, as well.

The newlyweds honeymooned the week of Thanksgiving in Playa del Carmen, Mexico, soaking up the sun and relaxing after a wonderful day with family and friends; and they are now at home in Montclair, New Jersey.

On the night before the wedding, the groom’s parents hosted a rehearsal dinner for the bridal party at The Logan Inn in the heart of New Hope, Pennsylvania. Also that evening, the bride and groom hosted a welcome party for out-of-town guests.

Bluffs & Bayous { January/February 2022 { Page 43

JOY ELIZABETH POWELL & JOHN CHANDLER GREGORY NOVEMBER 13, 2021 ~ BROOKHAVEN, MISSISSIPPI ~ PHOTOGRAPHY BY TAYLOR COOLEY PHOTOGRAPHY

J

oy Elizabeth Powell and John Chandler Gregory were united in marriage at 6:30 p.m. on November 13, 2021, at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church in Brookhaven, Mississippi, with the Reverend Greg Warnock officiating.

The bride is the daughter of Colonel Kenneth W. and Sherry Byrd Powell, who were married in the same chapel along with the bride’s maternal grandparents. She is the granddaughter of Jerry and Betty Byrd and Ann Powell and the late James Doyle Powell.

The groom is the son of William Timothy and Necci Rollins Gregory. He is the grandson of Donald Gregory and the late Mary Katherine Gregory and Jimmie Ray Cureington and the late Eloise Blount Cureington.

The bride’s dress featured gorgeous off-the-shoulder straps, masterfully placed for a folded effect on the neckline and back of the gown. The plunging V-neckline and sheer details in the bodice showed off the ornate graphic lace effortlessly cascading down the skirt to the cathedral length train. Layers and layers of tulle created a frothy full skirt made for a dreamy walk down the aisle. The bride paired her gown with a royal length veil of matching lace, creating the ultimate regal look for her big day.

Her bouquet in traditional fall colors featured white hydrangeas adorned with seeded eucalyptus, ruscus, and solidago. The cherry brandy and orange crush roses were made especially for a Mississippi woman and a Louisiana man. The flowers selected also were used throughout the church.

Page 44 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs & Bayous

Matrons of honor were Katherine Barkett Byrd, Shelby Sherman Powell, and Brittany Berry Spiers. The bridesmaids were Callie Burkett, Meagan Chapman, Missy Clanton, Amanda Carraway Hanks, Rebecca Lewis Lee, Anna Moak, Cassie Long, Brittany Martin Myers, Claire Pride, and Jacqueline Mullen Russell. The bridesmaids wore black with each choosing her preferred style. Mary Catherine Franklin served as the bride’s proxy.

Flower girls were Caroline Elizabeth Hyde, Olivia Lynn Hyde, and Swayze L’Wren Marciel; and the ring bearers were Landon Bentley Byrd and Liam Larue Byrd.

Best man was William Walker Gregory, brother of the groom. Serving as groomsmen were John Hunter Gregory, son of the groom, along with Richard Adam Borsch, William Randall Borsch, Walter Ryan Borsch, Adam Donathan Byrd, Corey Benjamin Hill, Tucker Lee Kifer, William Bryant Killen, Sr., Chad Hunter Meyers, James Larue Powell, Gary Allen Strong, and Russell Y. Ratcliff III. Serving as ushers were James Powell McGhee, Jerrod Mitchell Rayhorn, Robert All McGhee, and William Byrd.

Nancy Fisher served as the pianist, and the Babcock String Quartet also provided music. Vocalists were Vonda Smith, Marty Stevens, Katherine Byrd, and Cassie Long.

Melinda Said, owner of Melinda’s Fabrics and Interiors, decorated the church and created the bride’s bouquet and all the other bouquets.

A reception was held immediately following the ceremony at the home of the bride’s parents in Brookhaven. Mitchell’s Special Events and Catering provided catering for the reception.

Bertha Cartwright, owner of Bertha’s Flower Shop, provided all the reception flowers and decorating along with Kim Carter, Cathy McDonnieal, Kristi Lambert, and Cathy Pigott.

Entertainment was provided by an Elvis impersonator and the DMP Band which played Mo Town and today’s hits.

The wedding cake, designed by Rose Atwater of Rose Bakes in McCall Creek, Mississippi, was six tiers of varying heights of white almond sour cream cake with vanilla buttercream and alternating tiers of lemon curd and vanilla bean filling. The outside was covered in vanilla buttercream decorated with sugar flowers that had gold highlights and a dusting of edible 24-carat gold leaf cascading around the cake. The cake’s top tier was covered by stunning sugar flowers that included roses, peonies, tulips, cherry blossoms, berries, and a variety of leaves.

The groom’s cake was shaped as the State of Louisiana and decorated with fondant pieces to reflect all of his loves: LSU, golf, guitar, Mardi Gras, deer hunting, Lake Bruin, cotton, and the swamps with cypress trees, alligators, crawfish, and more. The butter pecan cake, filled and frosted with caramel buttercream, was also designed by Atwater.

Following the wedding, the couple honeymooned in St. Lucia and are now at home in Hewitt, Texas.

Parties prior to the wedding included an engagement party hosted by family and friends on September 11, 2021, in Brookhaven. On November 12, 2021, the parents of the groom hosted a rehearsal dinner. Tables were decorated with centerpieces that matched the wedding flowers, and guests enjoyed a video of the bride and groom as well as many toasts of well-wishes and stories.

On the day of the wedding, Mr. and Mrs. Will Phillips hosted a brunch for out-of-town guests; and Mr. and Mrs. Keith Franklin hosted the luncheon for the bridesmaids at their beautiful home. Groomsmen’s activities that day included gathering for lunch, visiting, taking pictures, and enjoying the outdoors at the Byrds’ lodge.

Bluffs & Bayous { January/February 2022 { Page 45

UPTON & FOGGO ENGAGEMENT

NUPTIALS JUNE 18, 2022 • NATCHEZ, MISSISSIPPI PHOTOGRAPH BY STACY LANDERS PHOTOGRAPHY

M

r. and Mrs. Charles Jeffrey Upton of Natchez, Mississippi, announce the engagement and approaching marriage of their daughter Caitlyn Celeste Upton to Walker James Foggo, the son of Mr. and Mrs. John Terral Foggo of Brandon, Mississippi.

The bride elect is the granddaughter of Reverend and Mrs. Thomas Wayne Spencer of Natchez and the late Mr. and Mrs. Carl Marshall Upton, Sr., of Vicksburg, Mississippi. She is a 2014 graduate of Cathedral High School in Natchez; and she received an associate’s degree in biology from CopiahLincoln Community College in Wesson, Mississippi, where she was a Colette for two years. She received a bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Sciences from Mississippi College, as well as a master’s degree in Biomedical Sciences from the University of Mississippi Medical Center. She currently is employed at Pediatric Dentistry in Jackson, Mississippi, and will be attending the University of Mississippi School of Dentistry in the fall of 2022.

The prospective groom is the grandson of Mrs. Mary Ann Eidt, the late Mr. Francis Joseph Eidt, and the late Mr. Henry James Foggo, Jr., all of Natchez, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Oliver Edwin Walker of Crystal Springs, Mississippi. He is a 2013 graduate of St. Joseph Catholic High School in Madison, Mississippi, and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology from Mississippi State University in 2017. He currently is employed with Buckner’s Prosthetics and Orthotics in Jackson, Mississippi, and will be attending the Feinberg School of Medicine at Northwestern University in 2022 to pursue a master’s degree in prosthetics and orthotics.

The couple will exchange vows in Natchez, Mississippi, on June 18, 2022.

Indoor / Outdoor Options for Any Event, Catering Options, 3500 sq ft Event Center

BOOK YOUR WEDDING TODAY! CALL 601-748-4706

946 HWY 51 South - Brookhaven, MS 39601 Page 46 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs & Bayous

CRAIG & VAUGHAN ENGAGEMENT

NUPTIALS NOVEMBER 5, 2022 •MEDINA, TENNESSEE

M

PHOTOGRAPH BY REBECCA JEX

r. and Mrs. Donald Friddle of Jackson, Tennessee, and the late Mr. John Craig of Ripley, Tennessee, along with Ms. Melissa Vaughan of Natchez, Mississippi, and Mr. Hays Vaughan of Ocean Springs, Mississippi, announce the engagement of their children, Anna Kate Craig of Jackson, Tennessee, and Nolan Vaughan of Natchez, Mississippi.

The bride-to-be is the granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Floyd Roberts of Jackson, Tennessee, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Clifford Craig of Ripley, Tennessee. She is a graduate of University School of Jackson and received her undergraduate degree in Integrated Marketing Communications from the University of Mississippi in Oxford, Mississippi. Currently, she is employed as a Community Risk Reduction Coordinator for the Madison County Fire Department in Jackson, Tennessee.

The groom-to-be is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Marlin John Stubblefield of Benton, Mississippi, and the late Mr. and Mrs. James Anderson Vaughan of Prairieville, Louisiana. He is a graduate of Cathedral Catholic School in Natchez, Mississippi, and received a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Mississippi in Oxford, Mississippi. Currently, he is employed as a Design Engineer with Pratt Industries in Memphis, Tennessee.

The couple will exchange vows on Saturday, November 5, 2022, at White Oak Farms in Medina, Tennessee, with a reception to follow. Formal invitations will be sent.

Bluffs & Bayous { January/February 2022 { Page 47

YATES & NIX ENGAGEMENT

NUPTIALS FEBRUARY 12, 2022 • NATCHEZ, MISSISSIPPI

M

PHOTOGRAPH BY STACY LANDERS PHOTOGRAPHY

r. and Mrs. Paul Douglas Yates of Vidalia, Louisiana, announce the engagement of their daughter, Taylor Brooke Yates, to John Parker Nix, son of Mr. Jayson Nix and the late Karen Nix of Natchez, Mississippi.

A graduate of Vidalia High School and the University of Louisiana at Monroe, the bride-to-be currently is employed as a registered dental hygienist at Miss-Lou Family Dentistry in Natchez. She is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Boles and Mr. and Mrs. David Yates, Sr. The prospective groom is a graduate of Adams County Christian School in Natchez and of Jones County Junior College with an associate’s degree in Forestry. He currently is employed with Yates Farms, farming with his soon-to-be in-laws. He is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Huey Martin and Mrs. Ruth Nix and the late Mr. John Nix, all of Natchez.

The couple will exchange vows on February 12, 2022, at First Baptist Church in Natchez with a reception to follow at the Natchez Community Center. Formal invitations will be sent.

Page 48 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs & Bayous

WARD & SMITH ENGAGEMENT

NUPTIALS FEBRUARY 26, 2022 •BROOKHAVEN, MISSISSIPPI

M

PHOTOGRAPH BY HANNAH HUTSON

r. and Mrs. Joey Ward of Smackover, Arkansas, announce the engagement and upcoming marriage of their daughter, Laney Kaye Ward of Brookhaven, Mississippi, to Mason Landon Smith of Brookhaven, the son of Ms. Renae Crosby Smith of Brookhaven and of the late Michael Lee Smith of Brookhaven.

The bride-to-be is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Larry Ward of Smackover and Mr. and Mrs. Darwin May of Camden, Arkansas. She graduated from Smackover High School; received her BBA in accounting from Central Baptist College in Conway, Arkansas; and received her MBA from Southern Arkansas University in Magnolia, Arkansas. She currently works for Insurance and Risk Managers in Brookhaven.

The prospective groom is the grandson of Ms. Violet Crosby and the late Mr. James “Ed” Crosby of Brookhaven, Mississippi, and Ms. Glyndale Thrasher Smith of Brookhaven and the late Mr. Winfred Pete Smith of Brookhaven. A graduate of Bellville High School in Bellville, Texas, and of Mississippi State University with a BS in Agriculture and Life Sciences, he is approaching ten years of public service in Brookhaven with the Lincoln County Tax Assessor’s Office under the title of Real Property Appraiser.

The wedding will take place on February 26, 2022, at The Hideaway at Reed’s Estates in Brookhaven.

Bluffs & Bayous { January/February 2022 { Page 49

WATTS & SHIRLEY ENGAGEMENT

NUPTIALS MARCH 5, 2022 •NATCHEZ, MISSISSIPPI PHOTOGRAPH BY LAUREN POWELL

M

r. and Mrs. Henry Watts of Natchez, Mississippi, announce the engagement of their daughter, Mackenzie Amelia Watts of Natchez to Christopher Pate Shirley of Vidalia, Louisiana, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Claude Rabb and Mrs. And Mrs. Whest Shirley, all of Vidalia.

Grandparents of the bride-to-be are the late Kirby and Edith Dillingham and the late Emma Dillard and Mack Watts. The prospective groom’s grandparents are Mr. and Mrs. Paul Arnold of Meadville, Mississippi; Ms. Linda Shirley and the late Robert Shirley of Vidalia; and Mr. and Mrs. Tommy Probst of Vidalia.

The wedding will be held at Stanton Hall in Natchez on March 5, 2022.

Southwest Mississippi’s Newest Event Venue

Page 50 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs & Bayous

ole

’br

ook

Parties, Dances, Weddings … Any Special Occasion! music • lights • photo booths

Mo

bil

’S

A GRE

TM

C USI

MA

KES

EV

TH E RY

ING

e

T BET

ER!

djpoole@olebrook.com - 601-748-1989 • jrnewman3@olebrook.com - 601-754-0809

601.754.1444 donnacalcote@gmail.com

Specializing in Large Events, Fundraising and Catering!

A full line of furniture, mattresses, and accessories for all your decorating needs. shopnationalhomestore.com

285 Sgt. Prentiss Dr. - Natchez, MS 601-445-5601 Bluffs & Bayous { January/February 2022 { Page 51

THE social SCENE NATCHEZ, MISSISSIPPI

Visit www.bluffsbayous.com for all social scenes.

Natchez High School Class of 1961 60th Reunion

T

he Natchez High School Class of 1961 held its 60th Class Reunion on the evenings October 8 and 9, 2021, in Natchez, Mississippi, on the grounds of Kenilworth, home of classmate Caroline Doughty. This was the last graduating class under the name of Natchez High School.

1

Photographs by Mark LaFrancis

1 Seated—Rut Horne, Don Estes, Lewis Powell, Walter Beasley, Nicky Myers, Preston Roland, Neumie Roberts, James and Barbara Clary, and Butch Brown / Standing—Kitty Poole Nowell, Judy Jones Mize, Linda Reese Shirley, Nancy Marion McCollum, Stuart Hudnall, Susan Meason Edgar, Carol McDaniel Chavis, Corrine Randazzo (librarian), Duncan McFarlane, Barbara Stacy Rodriguez, Becky Edens Littig, Katharine Warren Garner, Agatha McKinney Weeks, Linda Wheeler McFarlane, Molly Jones Echols, Jeanette Hutchinson Warren, Carol Williamson Beach, Caroline Doughty, Cheryl Jean Fortenberry Petermann, Patsy Brewer Ridge, Jessie Shell Harrell, Ann Barnes Smith, Mary Thweatt Wise (just barely), Louis Valentine, Janet Kinnison Sewell, and Elizabeth Cross Calhoun.

2 Ann and Jim Barnes 3 Barbara and James Clary 4 Kent Algood and Carol McDaniel Chavis 5 Carol and Jerry Beach 6 Caroline Doughty and Sing Song Banner 7 Caroline Doughty and Barbara Stacy Rodriguez 8 Cheryl Jean Fortenberry Petermann and Barbara Stacy Rodriguez, and Diane Elvestion 9 Corinne Randazzo

2

3

8

7

12

5

4

6

11

10

9

15

13

16

17

START THE NEW YEAR RIGHT START THE YEAR RIGHT

BY TAKING

BY NEW TAKING CARE OF YOUR EYES. CARE OF

SCHEDULE AN EXAMINATION TODAY AN TO HELP YOU SEE A BETTER TOMORROW. YOUR EYES. SCHEDULE EXAMINATION TODAY TO HELP YOU SEE A BETTER TOMORROW.

19

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

Page 52 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs & Bayous

18

20

Donald and Cathy Estes Elizabeth Cross Calhoun and Becky Edens Littig Will and Jeanette Hutchinson Warren Jessie Shell Harrell, Linda Reese Shirley, and Agatha McKinney Weeks Jimmy Hodges and Louis Valentine Judy Jones Mize and Richard Mize Katharine Warren Garner, Susan Meason Edgar ,Mike Edgar, and Neumie and Marsha Roberts Katharine Warren Garner, Linda Wheeler McFarland, and Susan Meason Edgar Kitty Poole Nowell and Agatha McKinney Weeks Lewis and Melissa Powell Linda and Duncan McFarlane

NATCHEZ k On the River k NATCHEZ k On the River

a boutique catering company located in Natchez Mississippi that specializes in creating artfully arranged grazing tables & boards for any gathering big or small.

CREATING THE WOW FACTOR FOR YOUR SPECIAL DAY! natchezgrazingco@gmail.com Facebook @natchezgrazingco Instagram @natchezgrazing

Classic Styles for all your Special Occasions!

“Smile Big, Shine Bright, Enjoy The Journey”

Jewelry For Every Journey FINE AND HANDMADE Ask us about our 10 For The Win commitment

415 MAIN STREET - DOWNTOWN NATCHEZ

@risenshinestudio

140 Liberty Rd Natchez, MS 601-446-8664 Across from Monmouth

Mon-Fri: 10 am - 5 pm Sat: 10 am - 4 pm We Ship Out Daily

NATCHEZ k On the River k NATCHEZ k On the River Bluffs & Bayous { January/February 2022 { Page 53

NATCHEZ k On the River k NATCHEZ k On the River

WISHING YOUR FAMILY SAFE AND HEALTHY HOLIDAYS FROM YOUR HOMETOWN STATE FARM FAMILY Here’s the deal, our Home and Auto rates are already great. But when you combine with State Farm. You can save even more. Call me to discover your supprisingly great rates on Home and Auto today. LET TALK! SERVICING ALL OF MISSISSIPPI & LOUISIANA

627 SOUTH CANAL STREET NATCHEZ, MS 39120

601.446.6770

601-653-0072

denny@natchezinns.com Denny Singleterry, Agent

35 Sgt. Prentiss Dr., Natchez, MS 39120

NATCHEZ k On the River k NATCHEZ k On the River Page 54 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs & Bayous

NATCHEZ k On the River k NATCHEZ k On the River

Quality Service Since

1937

NEW SHIPMENT OF PLANTS, TREES AND BEDDING PLANTS WEEKLY

Landscaping & Tree Service

Construction Services

Heavy Equipment & Operations

­

Two Locations to Better Serve You! 169 Homochitto Street • Natchez, MS 601-445-8203 and 5056 Hwy. 84 West • Vidalia, LA 318-336-5307

DELIVERIES FOR ALL OCCASIONS BLOOMING PLANTS THAT LIVE ON Orchids • Hydrangea • Seasonal Blooming Items • Ferns & Ivy • Topiaries • Compositions

Floral Designs For Weddings, Parties & Events (601) 446-3011

Open Mon. - Sat. 9 am - 5 pm, 505 Franklin St. - Natchez, MS 39120

NATCHEZ k On the River k NATCHEZ k On the River Bluffs & Bayous { January/February 2022 { Page 55

THE social SCENE WESSON, MISSISSIPPI

Visit www.bluffsbayous.com for all social scenes.

The President’s Tea ancy a cup of tea? Pre-schoolers from CoLin’s Early Childhood Education Center F had quite an exciting time at a special Tea Party hosted for them by Copiah-Lincoln Community College President Dr. Jane Hulon Sims at the college president’s home on the Wesson Campus in Wesson, Mississippi.

1 2 3 4 5 6

Hayes Howard Annslea Hogan and Nora Hart Nora Hart Evelyn Brister Emmerie Lowery Jackson Roberts, Hayes Howard, Presley McDonald, and Emmerie Lowery 7 Nova Beard, Jonah Britt, and Dr. Jane Hulon Sims 8 Ray Hall, Anderson Snowden, and Jonah Britt 9 Dr. Jane Hulon Sims

1

4

7

2

3

6

5

8

9

CELEBRATE THE ARRIVAL OF 2022!

We would like to take this opportunity to thank our loyal customers for their business during 2021. We wish you a happy, healthy and successful 2022 and look forward to serving you in the New Year.

Page 42 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs & Bayous

Page 56 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs & Bayous

844-862-4862

THE social SCENE SUMMIT, MISSISSIPPI

Visit www.bluffsbayous.com for all social scenes.

60th Birthday Dinner Celebration

A

60th birthday party celebration honoring Carla Stringer of Tylertown, Mississippi, was held at The Mallard at beautiful Lake Dixie Springs in Pike County, Mississippi, earlier this year. The decorations of blue-and-white chinoiserie were adorned with fresh limelight hydrangeas and gold sequined runners. The elegant two-tiered cake was made

by Meredith Talbot of Fancy Cakes in McComb, Mississippi; and the buffet dinner featuring prime rib was prepared by Chef Gary Jones. The birthday party was hosted by close friends and family.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

Carla Stringer Morgan Mason and Taylor Stringer Bernice Johnson, Scott Morris, and Carla Stringer Taylor, Mary Elizabeth, Carla, and Tony Stringer Melissa Stringer and Carla Stringer Richard LaVoie and Mary Elizabeth Stringer Nancy Smith and Carla Stringer Carla Stringer with Darrell and Donna Smith Mark and Kathy Henry with Suzanne Cutrer Jack Ryan and Ed Funchess Carla Stringer, Madison Stringer, Janet Stewart, and Mary Elizabeth Stringer 12 Justin McDaniel, Karinlee Brister, and Taylor Stringer 13 Lisa Hughes, Brande Moak, and Nancy Smith

1

2

4

5

8

11

9

3

7

6

10

12

13

Coming soon.....The Old Koke Plant!

• Hot Food Service • Grab and Go Healthy Food Choices • Self Check-Out Available • Drive Thru Pick-up Window • Inside and outside dining • A Cup-of-Joe Coffee Bar

LOCATION! LOCATION! LOCATION! 620 Hwy 51 South - Brookhaven, MS

Looking Forward To Seeing You At The Old Koke Plant!

Open 7 days a week! 5 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Bluffs & Bayous { January/February 2022 { Page 57

14

18

23

16

15

19

17

21

20

25

24

22

26

14 Tammy Gillihan and Elise Parker 15 Patrick and Sara Hemphill, Carla Stringer, and Brande Moak 16 Randall Robbins, Hal Stricklin, Tony Greer, and Jim Turcotte 17 Jenny Turcotte, Carla Stringer, Patty Stricklin, and Karen Metz 18 Carol Funchess, Carla Stringer, and Karen Henderson 19 Ruthanna and Mickey McDaniel 20 Jeff and Robin Daughdrill with Angie and Don Ward 21 Sara Hemphill and Marla Hinckley 22 Sam Aldridge and Calvin Morris 23 Sharon Greer, Carla Stringer, and Melanie Greer 24 Carolyn Stephens, Carla Stringer, and Marty Stephens 25 Mary Elizabeth Stringer and Melanie Greer 26 Nancy Smith and Nancy Addison

SUNHEAT ZERO GRAVITY MASSAGE CHAIR!

Page 58 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs & Bayous

Create Your Magic with Properties of NGC Weddings, Rehearsal Dinners, Bridesmaids Luncheons

215 South Pearl Street | Natchez, MS 601.443.9065 natchezgardenclub.org

LET OUR EXPERIENCED TEAM WORK FOR YOU Robison Holmes Van Norman PLLC Attorneys at Law Mark R. Holmes and Michelle Wroten Van Norman

Wills & Estates | Personal Injury | Divorce & Custody | Car Wrecks Real Estate Closings | Title Insur ance | Litigation | Mediation

TWO OFFICES TO SERVE YOU 112 Commerce Street • McComb, MS 39648 • 601.249.3112 932 East Main Street • Liberty, MS 39645 • 601.980.5080

Email: contact@rhvnlaw.com Best Practices Certified

Bluffs & Bayous { January/February 2022 { Page 59

MISSISSIPPI A Tapestry of American Life

List of Speakers/Presenters for the 33rd NLCC:

Richard Blackett Virginia Postrel Laura VanHuss Michael Gorra Nik Ribianszky

Mike Bunn Max Grivno Sarah Duggan Cory James Young Rita Williams-Garcia

Chris Barton Tim Tingle R. J. Lee Susan Cushman Ty Seidule

Christian Pinnen Brian Duong Ben Powell Caleb McDaniel

Margaret McMullan Josh Foreman & Ryan Starrett Maurice Carlos Ruffin Patrick O’Connor

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:

The NLCC at Copiah-Lincoln Community College, Natchez Campus: 11 Co-Lin Circle, Natchez, MS, 39120 Telephone 601-446-1104 / Email: nlcc@colin.edu / Website: www.colin.edu/nlcc GET UPDATES FROM THE NLCC ON: Facebook: Natchez Literary and Cinema Celebration Twitter @NatchezLiterary, Instagram natchezliterary, Spotify NLCC’22

Page 60 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs & Bayous

FROM THE STACKS

REVIEW BY Paul

D. Sullivan

GENERATIONS OF FREEDOM: Gender, Movement and Violence in Natchez, 1779-1865

By Nik Ribianszky

I

n Generations of Freedom: Gender, Movement and Violence in Natchez, 17791865, Nik Ribianszky turns crumbling legal documents into a detailed analysis of the movement of certain people of color in antebellum Natchez, Mississippi, from the status of enslaved person to freed person, and all too often, back into slavery again.

Enslavement was a legal status in Natchez during the Spanish, English, French and American eras. It was easy to obtain the legal status of “slave” prior to the Civil War; one merely had to be born to an enslaved woman.

The father’s status was irrelevant. If the mother was a slave, so was the child. If the mother was free, then so were her children.

Natchez was home to perhaps the most famous “free man of color” in America, the diarist William Johnson. Johnson’s mother was enslaved, and Johnson was enslaved until he was eight years old. His father was his mother’s owner and set them free after she had given birth to two of his children. As a free black man, Johnson was a member of a small yet distinct group of African Americans in pre-Civil War Natchez who were not enslaved. A person could move from the legal status of “slave” into the legal status of “free person of color” only through the legal system. There were various routes to freedom built into the legal system. The state legislature could pass a special law freeing an individual slave and sometimes did so at

the request of the slaveowner. Without an act of the legislature, an enslaved person needed the legal judgment of a court to be declared free.

Ribianszky details how a set of attorneys in Natchez specialized in freedom suits, often prevailing and obtaining court judgments declaring a person to be free.

Other court decrees of freedom included probate orders. Will contests decided by probate courts issued decrees freeing families according to their deceased owner’s will while other probate decisions set aside manumissions by will in some cases. Other freedom suits were based upon petitioners’ claims for a decree that they had been born free or manumitted elsewhere. Some suits claimed that the plaintiffs were white people and, therefore, not liable to slavery at all.

Ribianszky apparently read all of the extant court files of freedom suits in Natchez from 1779-1865. She found detailed records of forty-eight different freedom suits seeking freedom for a total of 80 people. In many of these lawsuits, the petitioners claimed to be descended from a free mother. In proving their claims, petitioners obtained written depositions from witnesses. Ribianszky offers profuse thanks and praise to Natchez Historical Foundation personnel for their work in preserving the legal archives upon which her book is based. She describes the centuries-old files she reviewed as having been lingering in cardboard boxes in basements around Natchez before the Natchez Historical Foundation took custody of them, organized them, and made them available to researchers.

Ribianszky argues that the first person in a family to move from slavery to freedom established the “foundational’ generation.

Although this generation necessarily had a court decree establishing their right to freedom, this freedom proved tenuous to maintain for emancipated men and woman; and it was often harder to maintain for their descendants. Ribianszky researched court records for suits involving free people of color and found a depressing litany of ways in which they were cheated out of property, money and even their hard-won freedom.

She refers to children of the foundational generation as the “conditional generation” because their status as free was so tenuous.

Ribianszky found that eighty-five percent of the free people of color in Natchez were

of mixed black and white ancestry. She makes the reasonable assumption that almost any sexual relationship between an enslaved woman and her owner or a member of his household was a form of violence and coercion. Her research shows that children of white men made up the vast majority of successful freedom suit petitioners in Natchez.

While Ribianszky’s research pool of eighty court cases at first seems too thin to support her broad conclusions, closer thought reveals that she analyzed virtually every court case resulting in freedom for a former slave in Natchez. Her statistical analysis of these court cases is a useful tool for understanding the interchange between the worlds of the free and the enslaved in the river country before the end of slavery. She combines this rigorous academic research with straight-forward, unsentimental, yet gripping tales of humanity from right here in Natchez, Mississippi. Seemingly miraculous occurrences brought freedom to some people. In one case, an African American born to free parents in Maryland was kidnapped and sold into slavery and wound up in Natchez. His freedom suit had stalled for lack of witnesses to support his claim until by happenstance someone he knew from Maryland walked down the street in Natchez, recognized him, and gave testimony in support of the man’s legal claim to freedom.

Other tales related by Ribianszky are heartbreaking stories of people cheated of their freedom and condemned to slave labor in the cotton fields when they lost a freedom suit. Ribianszky’s research demonstrates how violence shaped the lives of free people of color. Sexual violence back then was endemic against women of color, free and enslaved. Free men of color likewise received lesser forms of protection by law.

William Johnson was murdered by another freedman. Ribiankszky details a number of cases of men forcibly kidnapped and forced into slavery.

As white people grew fearful of rumored slave uprisings, freedom suits became harder to win; and legal avenues to freedom in Mississippi virtually disappeared after the 1840s. This is one surprising reason that so many freedmen and women were slave owners themselves. Ribianszky’s research

Bluffs & Bayous { January/February 2022 { Page 61

revealed that in many of the slave-holding households of freed slaves, the slaves they owned were actually their own family members. With legal manumission difficult or impossible to obtain in later years, free people of color who could afford to “buy” their relatives did so, in order to protect their family members.

Generations of Freedom is an important scholarly work and should also be of interest to the general reader from the Bluffs & Bayous area. In many ways, our area was the epicenter of American slavery and cotton culture; and Generations of Freedom is a must-read for those who wish to understand our region. Ribianszky will be speaking at the Natchez Literary and Cinema Celebration at nine a.m. on February 26, 2022.

For more information on the Natchez Literary and Cinema Celebration (NLCC), please visit our website https://www.colin.edu/community/ natchez-literary-and-cinema-celebration/.

Paul D. Sullivan is an Assistant District Attorney and co-founder of Mississippi School of Folk Art in Natchez. Generations of Freedom, Gender, Movement and Violence in Natchez, 17791865 was published in 2021 by the University of Georgia Press.

Vidalia Vidalia, ,Louisiana Vidalia,Louisiana

natchez, natchez, Mississippi

ANITA MURRAY, BRENT SMITH AND DANA TANNER

483 John R. Junkin Dr. • Natchez, MS 39120 • 601.442.0247

Page 62 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs & Bayous

Frank L. “Lee” Smith, IV

Emily Plauché Maxwell

Russell Butts, Jr.

Stephanie Smith

John C. Bergeron

Our team at Bergeron & Plauche strives to help you navigate your financial future Call us today for a consultation.

507 Franklin Street • Natchez, Mississippi 601-442-0088 • 800-308-5388 • bergeronandplauchellc.com Securities offered through National Securities Corp, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through National Asset Management, Inc, an SEC Registered Investment Advisor. B&P is not affiliated with NSC or NAM.

Bluffs & Bayous { January/February 2022 { Page 63

NATCHEZ CITY CEMETERY 200thAnniversary Celebration BY

N

PHOTOGRAPHY BY

Shirley Petkovsek, et al.

Becky Jex

atchez, Mississippi, boasts many exquisite jewels from its unique historic structures to its imposing bluffs, to its three-hundred years of vibrant, eclectic culture; but the Crown Jewel for many is the Natchez City Cemetery.

Throughout 2022, this jewel celebrates its 200th Anniversary with exciting events.

The Natchez City Cemetery is located in the Cemetery Bluff District and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The original cemetery, though, was founded during the Spanish rule from 1779-1789 at the current location of the town’s Memorial Park.

By 1821 this cemetery had become neglected and overcrowded, forcing the city fathers in 1822 to purchase a ten-acre tract near the city for a new cemetery. Most remains from the old burial grounds were moved to this site.

In the late 1800s and early1900s, when neglect again victimized the cemetery, twelve concerned, determined women assumed governance of the cemetery in1907 with the city incorporating the Natchez City Cemetery Preservation and Improvement Association.

With little money from the city, these twelve raised the funds needed for cemetery restoration by using their own money, selling eggs, soliciting donations, and enlisting locals for cemetery work.

Their contribution to the cemetery and city remains monumental as they set the stage for continuing their vision of the Natchez City Cemetery as a haven of reverence and inspiration.

Renamed the Natchez City Cemetery Association in 1925, this group continues to safeguard this jewel that attracts people from across the nation and beyond. In 2004 the cemetery received the Blue Ribbon Award from Turner South Network as the most interesting cemetery in the South.

Those who enter the cemetery’s main gate are awed by its over one-hundredacre expanse. Directly in front of them, towering live oaks frame the entrance avenue inspiring respect and reflection from those entering beneath their watch. Slightly to the left and near the stone wall that borders Cemetery Road, stands the fabled Turning Angel. Multitudes come to the cemetery especially to drive slowly by her to watch her eyes as they seem to follow.

Ahead and to the left of the avenue is the Shelter House, built in 1914 by renowned architect Samuel Abraham Marx, a Natchez native and MIT graduate.

This structure, which serves as the office and setting for association meetings, is a notable academic expression of the Arts and Craftsman movement of the early twentieth century.

Page 64 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs & Bayous

Also unique to the cemetery are four Cistern Houses, possibly the only such cemetery structures in existence with their open-air octagonal shapes and pyramidal roofs. Inside, are built-in benches surrounding a cistern, meant in times past as a respite from inclement weather. The cemetery is home as well to creatively designed fences, benches, mausoleum doors, tombstones, and monuments that rival similar works across the nation.

In its park-like setting, the cemetery provides horticultural intrigue with its ubiquitous cedar trees, majestic oaks dotting the landscape, four-hundred-plus

crepe myrtles tended by the Natchez Master Gardeners, and antique roses cared for by The Garden Lovers of Natchez.

My friend, Mimi Miller, Executive Director Emerita of the Historic Natchez Foundation, tells me that this cemetery is her favorite Natchez destination since it offers history, art, architecture, and landscape in one venue overlooking the Mississippi River. Local resident and novelist Greg Isles commented, “For me, the most curious thing about the Natchez City Cemetery is how alive and vital it feels. It may be the most peaceful place I have ever known, yet despite its function, it does not seem an abode of death, but of life.” Indeed, it welcomes families, joggers, dog-walkers, photographers, genealogists, historians, and anyone curious about what lies within its gates.

Over 50,000 stories rest with those who lie in this cemetery’s hallowed grounds. In 2000 some of these tales began to be told through the annual staging of Angels on the Bluff. In these November productions, actors in period clothing share the sagas of select cemetery residents, drawing living audiences nearer to those who have gone before.

Throughout 2022, the Natchez Cemetery Association will showcase the cemetery’s 200th Anniversary in a myriad of ways.

Beginning in January, weekly “Did You Know?” segments will educate social media visitors about some of the interesting cemetery residents.

On March 26, the anniversary’s signature event, A Gala under the Oaks, will entertain guests in Memorial Park as they “Dine and Dance where it all began.” On hand will be live music with vocalists, scrumptious fare from popular chefs, encounters with past Angels on the Bluff characters, and comfortable seating at festively decorated tables for ten.

Tickets ($100 donation half of which is deductible) for this event go on sale January 1; and sponsorships for this event are available as well, all to benefit restoration of the Shelter House. Commemorative 200th Anniversary T-shirts will be for sale at the Gala and currently are available at Threads in Natchez.

Chairing the anniversary activities, Terry Stutzman explained additional projects: “Plans are being made to offer scavengerhunt activities to highlight many of the gravesites and structures. Also, a photography contest will be open to both amateurs and professionals.” In addition, the year’s Angels on the Bluff is scheduled for November 10, 11, and 12 and will include some previous favorites and one of the residents moved from Memorial Park in 1822.

Finally, as Stutzman added, “To tie a lovely Christmas bow around the year’s celebration, Christmas wreaths will be sold with proceeds going to the Shelter House restoration.

Through the generosity of faithful supporters of the Natchez City Cemetery, on-going preservation and improvements can be made to all areas of the cemetery.

Help to launch the Natchez City Cemetery into its third century as the guardian of precious memories of lives well lived and reallife stories that should be remembered and passed on to future generations.”

Elise Rushing, President of the Natchez Cemetery Association commented, “We invite everyone to be part of the 200th Anniversary Celebration of the Natchez City Cemetery.

We are most fortunate that our community has always supported efforts to keep the cemetery a place all can be proud of. Please support this year’s venture as sponsors or through ticket purchases. You make all this possible.”

For Gala information, contact Annette Holder at holdersantiques@bellsouth.net; for Gala tickets visit natchez/ms/us/150/ Cemetery. Other contacts include P.O. Box 1738, Natchez, MS 39121; 601-445-5051; and FB/Natchez City Cemetery.

Historical background for this article was provided by Shirley Petkovsek, former president and board member of the Natchez City Cemetery Association, with details of the 2022 events furnished by various current board members.

Bluffs & Bayous { January/February 2022 { Page 65

Anthony Short, Realtor Travis Murray, Appraiser/ Realtor Edna J. Murray, Principal Broker Lynn James, Realtor Courtney Covey, Office Manager (not pictured) Cane Lanehart, Realtor

NATCHEZ CITY CEMETERY CELEBRATES ITS 200 th ANNIVERSARY. 1822 - 2022

A GALA UNDER THE OAKS Saturday, March 26, 2022 7:00 - 9:00 PM Memorial Park

EDNA J. MURRAY, BROKER

MURRAY

LAND & HOMES REALTY 328 Main Street Natchez, MS 39120 Cell-601-807-2245 Office-601-888-0990 email-ednajmurray@yahoo.com www.murraylandandhomes.com

Come Dine and Dance where it all began.

A limited number of tickets will be available on January 1, 2022.

Tickets will be sold on-line at: Visit Natchez.org and natchez.ms.us/150/cemetery

Page 66 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs & Bayous

Bluffs & Bayous { January/February 2022 { Page 67

Up & Coming!

Premier Events Natchez, Mississippi February 14 Valentine’s Day

February 24-26 Natchez Literary and Cinema Celebration For schedule and ticket information: colin.edu/nlcc Email: nlcc@colin.edu 601.446.1104 or 601.446.1101 March 1 Mardi Gras

For Area Celebrations Visit: alexandriapinevillela.com visitbatonrouge.com Monroe-westmonroe.org Explorewestfeliciana.com/events mardigrasneworleans.com visitnatchez.org pikeinfo.com visitjackson.com visitvicksburg.com

James Brown

Wade Heatherly

Bubba McCabe

Sammy Porter

You are not just a customer to us, you are family!

Thank you for trusting us with your banking needs.

We look forward to the opportunity to continue to serve you.

deltabk.com VIDALIA | FERRIDAY | LAKE PROVIDENCE | TALLULAH | NATCHEZ #25596505 DB NatchezLendersJanFeb22_BB7.625x4.875.indd Page 68 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs1 & Bayous

11/19/21 11:44 AM

­

­ ­ ­

­

Thank you to our 2021 Open Your Heart Donors: , Steve Golding, Sidney & Gregg Harper, Presley & John Jennings, Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry, Debbie & Doug Minor, Kay & John Taylor, Shannon & James Warnock Mary Jane & Gerald Dahlander, Olivia & Jerry Host, Bill Hough, Jennifer & Peter Johnson, Missy & Mike McMullan, Sara & Shawn Sanders, Cortney & Clay Wagner Mr. & Mrs. Patrick Biglane, Concordia Bank & Trust Company, Chris G. Gouras, Steve Guyton, Sara & Bryan Jones, Eden Lacoste, Holly & Alan Lange, Mississippi Land Bank, Natchez Salvage Parts, Elena & Tommy Mize, Amanda & Robert Taylor, Daniel Thibodeaux, Gerald Waddell Paige Biglane, Ginger Bland, Clifton Lefroy Bradley, Julie & Chuck Caldwell, Ann & Kinney Carlton, Jill & David Clodfelter, Michael Curran, Bill Deline, Margaret Guido, Suzanne & Paul Guido, Nancy & John Guion, Jackie & Doug Gunn, Nancy & Bruce Kuehnle, Gene Laird, Judy & Claude Marchesini, Megan McKinnie, Jennifer & Gene Phillips, Dr. & Mrs. John Pieklik, William Ray, Jr., Karen & Kenneth Stubbs, Sarah & Hunter Taylor, Susan & William Thompson, Marilyn & Jim Tipton Del Baucom, Rebecca Briggs, Katherine & Adam Byrd, John Byrne, Karen Callon, Scott Christian, Jeanne & Gary Edwards, Paula & Duke Edwards, William H. Ernst, Alan Gary, Jennifer Grey, Blake Hutto, John Junkin, Gwen & Jay Massey, Robert Neely, Wiliam Ray, Pepper Self, William K. Smith, Dawn & Abby Taylor, Thomas Taylor, Randy Williams, Mary Lees Wilson, Linda Wright, Lacie & Phil Young Jean & Freddie Biglane, James Biglane, Patrick Biglane, Walt & Lashon Brown, Teresa & Emmett Burns, Diane & Peter Burns, Nancy & Spike Crawford, Mr. & Mrs. Edward Eidt, Paul Hoffman, Carol & Joseph Frank, Peyton Gordon, Laura Gottula, Catherine Jones, Joanna & Jason McNeel, Lauren & Wes Middleton, Cheryl & Mike Rinehart, Freddie Voss

Darby’s, Natchez Garden Club, One of a Kind Gift Shop, Pilgrimage Garden Club, Restaurant 1818 at Monmouth, Rolling “N” The Dough, Roux 61 Seafood & Grill, The Camp Restaurant, The River Walk Inn, The Natchez Democrat, Bluffs & Bayous Magazine

Bluffs & Bayous { January/February 2022 { Page 69

FROM THE STACKS

REVIEW BY Jean

THE KING FALLS: A Bridge to Death Mystery

S

et to be released in April 2022 is R. J. Lee’s The King Falls, the fourth in his popular Bridge to Death Mystery series. The “bridge,” as his avid mystery followers know, is the card game so popular with generations in the South; and this game and what’s in the cards, either literally, figuratively, or both, is what sparks the suspense of this tale.

As with the series’ previous novels, the tale unfolds in the Deep South, the original Spanish-land-grant South of Rosalie, Mississippi, a mirror image of Natchez, Mississippi. Familiar characters await the plot’s eager readers—Wendy Winchester Rierson, investigative reporter for the local newspaper, sleuth and solver of the murders in the three previous novels, and president of Rosalie Country Club’s Bridge Bunch; her husband and town’s police department detective, Ross Rierson; and her long-time and well-respected chief-of-police father, Bax Winchester, the one from whom the novel’s main character gets her crimesolving genes.

In this novel’s first thirty pages, the suspense builds around the fated victim and real estate scion Campbell King Kohl, “King” to all who knew him, and the multiple persons of interest in solving his murder mystery—“Murder in a house of cards” as the novel’s cover bills it. King has harbored a profound and explosive secret and has planned a big reveal at his next bridge party, always an exclusive gathering. However, the day before, he cancels the event and texts only a select few of the major players, each to come promptly to his home the next day at

a specific time for an individual, one-on-one reveal. His being brutally murdered thwarts this plan—but who in this house of cards is the culprit?

His professionally ruthless and manipulative father? His doting but demanding mother with early onset Alzheimer’s? A thwarted business rival? One or two former paramours?

A trusted and knowing priest? His valued young, single, savvy, and comely part-time cook and housekeeper? Or perhaps others on the original or select invitation list—or excluded from it?

Author R. J. Lee, of course, is Natchez native Rob Kuehnle, currently of Oxford, Mississippi. He will be one of the noted authors on tap for the 33rd Natchez Literary and Cinema Celebration scheduled for February 24-26, 2022. He and two other authors will be featured during the Literature at Lunch session and panel discussion on Saturday, February 25, at the Carriage House restaurant beginning at 11:30 a.m.

About the book’s Natchez connection, Lee explains, “This novel continues to mention and involve actual Natchez (Rosalie)

Page 70 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs & Bayous

Nosser Biglane

By R. J. Lee

places of business and churches. St. Mary Basilica plays a significant role in this plot.

Under-the-Hill, Silver Street Gifts and the forthcoming Viking Cruise Line docks are also worked in.”

Lee also will be in Natchez during the first week of April 2022, the scheduled time for Kensington Publishing Corp.’s release of The King Falls, for a book-signing fundraiser at the George W. Armstrong Library. All proceeds will go to the library as they have with the book signings for his previous Bridge to Death Mystery novels.

For more information on the Natchez Literary and Cinema Celebration (NLCC), please visit its website https://www.colin.edu/community/ natchez-literary-and-cinema-celebration/.

Jean Nosser Biglane is the copy editor and an occasional contributing writer for Bluffs & Bayous.

In addition, she continues in her profession, at varying times over the decades, as high school, junior college, and university English teacher.

Bluffs & Bayous { January/February 2022 { Page 71

740 Jolimar Trail SE • Summit, MS 39666 • 601.276.3410 • www.jolimarsummit.com Photography by Sarah Wells Photography Page 72 { January/February 2022 { Bluffs & Bayous