Art & Culture

Dr. Cynthia Noguera

the BIG DAY:Getting Ready for SKINCARE TREATMENTS

BY DR. LINDSEY PENNINGTON BY DR. LINDSEY PENNINGTON

A

s we emerge from winter and two years of s we emerge from winter and two years of quarantine—including this most recent Omicron wave—there is a lot to look forward to cron wave—there is a lot to look forward to this spring in Louisiana, including the first this spring in Louisiana, including the first real wedding season since 2019. Whether you are a guest, the Mother of the Bride, or the Bride herself, you no doubt want to have flawless skin for that special day. The best time to start planning for any upcoming event, though, is now! Give yourself enough time to make a plan with your physician, as well as enough time to accomplish it. As women who have experienced that pressure for everything to be perfect on that special day, we know how much you want to put your best face forward!

Jordan (Sandifer) Danvers & Mother of the Bride Waynette Ballengee. Photo: John Cain Jordan (Sandifer) Danvers & Mother of the Bride Waynette Ballengee. Photo: John Cain 6-12 MONTHS BEFORE THE BIG DAY

This is the best time for Brides or Mother of the Brides (and Grooms) to set up a complimentary consultation and exam to determine your goals and develop a plan. A six to twelve month timeline gives enough time to trial new skincare products or undergo a treatment or laser that could have a little downtime while working around your busy schedule of engagement parties, bachelorette parties, bridal showers, and the Big Day. Your skin also needs enough time to regenerate the collagen needed to lift, tighten, shrink pores, and smooth out the fine lines and wrinkles. A popular non-invasive treatment to achieve those goals is the Morpheus8 device, which uses micro-needling with radio frequency. It combines three treatments into one: radiofrequency for skin tightening, micro needling for collagen production, plus laser skin resurfacing. At any age, this is an amazing treatment to do on the face, neck and chest with minimal downtime. Treatments should always be overseen by a physician who is trained and experienced with the procedure as these devices have amazing results but are very operator dependent. The settings have to be adjusted based on your age, anatomy, skin type and goals.

4-6 MONTHS BEFORE THE BIG DAY

Four to six months before a major event is the optimal time to start facial volume restoration with fillers such as Juvederm or Restylane. These can add instant subtle volume on their own, or if the goal is to stimulate your body’s own collagen, products like Radiesse or Sculptra are also options. These products are used to lift and contour the cheeks, fill the temples, smooth nasolabial folds, sculpt the jawline and plump the lips. When done by the right cosmetic physician, dermal fillers can provide a natural result that puts volume back in the areas where you have lost it over time to restore your natural beauty. It can feel very overwhelming when trying to make these decisions, so be sure to depend on the experts for guidance, whether you have a very specific concern to address, or just require a general consultation to guide you through your options. There is also a medical grade skincare routine to further reach your skin goals. Products such as SkinMedica’s TNS Advanced+ Serum is a great addition to any in-office treatment

to increase collagen and elastin production and aid in skin renewal. In a clinical study, patients using this product felt they looked up to six years younger after just twelve weeks. If your timeline gives enough time concern is acne, pigment, sun spots or facial redness, then four to six months gives tle downtime while working your physician plenty of time to get you on of engagement parties, bachelorette parties, bridal showers, a prescription treatand the Big Day. Your skin also needs enough time to regen ment and for it to work erate the collagen needed to lift, tighten, shrink pores, and before the big day. smooth out the fine lines and wrinkles. Some conditions may A popular non-invasive treatment to achieve those goals require in office laser treatments to correct, radio frequency. It combines three treatments into one: ra so you should plan diofrequency for skin tightening, micro needling for collagen for any needed downtime. With so many At any age, this is an amazing treatment to do on the face, neck and chest with minimal downtime. Treatments should always be overseen by a physician who is trained and expe options, a consultation with a board-certified cosmetic physician to tailor an individual plan for you is so important.

3-4 MONTHS BEFORE THE BIG DAY

very operator dependent. Three to four months out from your event is a great time to The settings have to be get your neuromodulator treatment with Botox or Dysport. These products take two weeks to show results, so you want to give enough time for the treatment to kick-in, while also allowing time for a touch up to ensure it looks perfect.

2-3 MONTHS BEFORE THE BIG DAY

We also recommend starting facials a couple months out from your event to make sure your skin is glowing by the big day. The DiamondGlow Deluxe dermal infusion is a non-invasive, medical 3-in-1 treatment that simultaneously exfoliates, extracts and infuses skin with condition-specific serums. It is the first and only critically timed, exfoliation-to serum treatment technology with optimal-depth delivery for immediate and long-lasting results on all skin types-with no downtime! Depending on your skin goals this facial can be tailored to provide hydration, brighten skin, fight acne or improve collagen production. “I personally did DiamondGlow Facials monthly leading up to my wedding, including the week of my wedding,” says dermatologist Skylar Souyoul, MD. “It calmed my acne, cleaned out my pores, and helped my professional make-up sit so much smoother on my skin.”

4-6 MONTHS BEFORE Four to six months before a major event is the op timal time to start facial fillers such as Juvederm

Haley (Bagwell) Lewis. Photo: Justin Kunimoto

add instant subtle volume on their own, or if the goal is to stimulate your body’s own collagen, products like Radiesse or Sculptra are also options. These products are used to lift and contour the cheeks, fill the temples, smooth nasolabial folds, sculpt the jawline and plump the lips. When done by the right cosmetic physician, dermal fillers can provide a natural result that puts volume back in the areas where you have lost it over time to restore your natural beauty. It can feel very overwhelming when trying to make these deci sions, so be sure to depend on the experts for guidance, wheth er you have a very specific concern to address, or just require a general consultation to guide you through your options. There is also a medical grade skincare routine to further reach your skin goals. Products such as SkinMedica’s TNS Advanced+ Serum is a great addition to any in-office treatment

to increase collagen and elastin production and aid in skin renewal. In a clinical study, patients using this product felt they looked up to six years younger after just twelve weeks. If your concern is acne, pigment, sun spots or facial redness, then four to six months gives your physician plenty of time to get you on a prescription treatment and for it to work before the big day. Some conditions may require in office laser treatments to correct, so you should plan for any needed downtime. With so many options, a consultation with a board-certified cosmetic physician to tailor an individual plan for you is so important.

3-4 MONTHS BEFORE THE BIG DAY

Three to four months out from your event is a great time to get your neuromodulator treatment with Botox or Dysport. These products take two weeks to show results, so you want to give enough time for the treatment to kick-in, while also allowing time for a touch up to ensure it looks perfect.

2-3 MONTHS BEFORE THE BIG DAY

We also recommend starting facials a couple months out from your event to make sure your skin is glowing by the big day. The DiamondGlow Deluxe dermal infusion is a non-invasive, medical 3-in-1 treatment that simultaneously exfoliates, extracts and infuses skin with condition-specific serums. It is the first and only critically timed, exfoliation-to serum treatHaley (Bagwell) Lewis. Photo: Justin Kunimoto ment technology with optimal-depth delivery for immediate and long-lasting results on all skin types-with no downtime! Depending on your skin goals this facial can be tailored to provide hydration, brighten skin, fight acne or improve collagen production. “I personally did DiamondGlow Facials monthly leading up to my wedding, including the week of my wedding,” says dermatologist Skylar Souyoul, MD. “It calmed my acne, cleaned out my pores, and helped my professional make-up sit so much smoother on my skin.”

Lauren Vizza. Photo: Zac Grimaldo

Dr. Lindsey Pennington is the only female double Board-Certified Dr. Lindsey Pennington is the only female double Board-Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon with a solo private practice in the State of Facial Plastic Surgeon with a solo private practice in the State of Louisiana. She focuses on both non-invasive and surgical facial Louisiana. She focuses on both non-invasive and surgical facial rejuvenation. She is joined by Dr. Skylar Souyoul, Board Certified rejuvenation. She is joined by Dr. Skylar Souyoul, Board Certified Dermatologist, in Shreveport at their office on Line Ave, Lindsey Dermatologist, in Shreveport at their office on Line Ave, Lindsey Pennington, MD Facial Plastics. All brides and the mother of the All brides and the mother of the bride presented here are patients of Dr. Pennington.

Maryary& &AlphoAlphon nsosoWilliamsWilliams

JANUARY 22, 2022 • SHREVEPORT, LA

LOVE AT FIRST LIGHT: “Mary and I met at a traffic light!” shares Alphonso. The light was just about to turn green when he sig-was just about to turn green when he signaled for her to roll her window down. “I quickly thought of my #1 pickup-line; “I quickly thought of my #1 pickup-line; You’re about to miss your blessing being on that phone.” The newlyweds exchanged numbers and have been together ever since. When it came time to plan their nuptials, they had a When it came time to plan their nuptials, they had a single vision: “We wanted a traditional yet modern single vision: “We wanted a traditional yet modern and elegant wedding. Our dream wedding became a and elegant wedding. Our dream wedding became a reality with the help of Mrs. Lisa Patterson, owner of Patterson’s Touch of Elegance, as our designer, and Patterson’s Touch of Elegance, as our designer, and coordinator, Leslie Coleman, owner of Serenity Events coordinator, Leslie Coleman, owner of Serenity Events Planning, to create this perfect day!” Alphonso’s main Planning, to create this perfect day!” Alphonso’s main request: A DALLAS COWBOY THEME mixed with Mary’s lace and flowers. INTO THE CHURCH: The couple are members of the beautiful Western Hills Baptist Church in Shreveport. “We love our Pastor, Joey, and his wife, Sharon, and wanted them to marry us.” A selection of music was played prior to the ceremony by DJ Bedrock (Torrance Bedford). THE BRIDAL PARTY & MOTHERS: Bridesmaids and Mothers, wearing dusty blue chiffon gowns by David’s Mothers, wearing dusty blue chiffon gowns by David’s Bridal and Azazie, were escorted to the altar by the groomsmen. DAPPER GROOM: Alphonso looked magnificent wearing a Joseph Couture original Tuxedo, while his groomsmen complemented the groom by wearing Tuxedos from Oxford Street. THE WALK DOWN THE AISLE: THE WALK DOWN THE AISLE: The couple opted for her The couple opted for her nephew, Treylan, to roll a white laced carpet down the aisle nephew, Treylan, to roll a white laced carpet down the aisle for Mary’s walk to the altar, instead of having a flower girl. Mary’s brother-in-law, singer/songwriter, NAACP Image Mary’s brother-in-law, singer/songwriter, NAACP Image Award winner, Soul Train award nominee, and Grammy Award winner, Soul Train award nominee, and Grammy award nominee, Kenny Lattimore, sang one of his all-time award nominee, Kenny Lattimore, sang one of his all-time hits, “For You,” as she walked to the altar. Kenny is married to Mary’s sister, Judge Faith Jenkins-Lattimore. Mary did not walk alone—in her heart, the loving memory of her beloved Father, Robert Jenkins, led her down the aisle. Before he transitioned, he gave his blessings to the couple for a loving and successful marriage. for a loving and successful marriage. HERE COMES THE BRIDE: Mary looked stunning as Mary looked stunning as she made her debut wearing a Lovely Bride California Boutique V-Neckline Wedding Dress with a Mermaid Boutique V-Neckline Wedding Dress with a Mermaid Court Train and beaded lace applique. The focal point Court Train and beaded lace applique. The focal point of her dress was the dramatic skirt and train, making Mary’s entrance and exit a show-stopping moment. Mary’s entrance and exit a show-stopping moment. Adding drama and elegance as she walked down the aisle was her cathedral veil composed of floral lace, 114 cm in length.

BOUQUETS & BOUTONNIERES: Mary carried a beautiful bouquet of white roses and tulips as did the beautiful bouquet of white roses and tulips as did the bridesmaids, while the groom and groomsmen wore matching white roses made by Flowers and Country. THE CEREMONY: Traditional vows and rings were THE CEREMONY: Traditional vows and rings were exchanged. The couple chose 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 exchanged. The couple chose 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 scripture verse because it is a powerful message that scripture verse because it is a powerful message that fits in with their ideals of marriage: companionship, fits in with their ideals of marriage: companionship, commitment, responsibility, and mutual support. The commitment, responsibility, and mutual support. The Ceremony consisted of the Unity Candle and Cord of Ceremony consisted of the Unity Candle and Cord of Three Strands, while Pastor Patrick Dennis of Bright Three Strands, while Pastor Patrick Dennis of Bright Star Baptist Church of Shreveport and his ensemble Star Baptist Church of Shreveport and his ensemble blessed the church with a combination of two gospel hit songs that created a Godly atmosphere for everyone attending. Mary chose the Cord of Three Strands because her mom has always taught her to put God because her mom has always taught her to put God First in your relationship. SIGNED, SEALED, & DELIVERED: At the conclusion of the ceremony, family and friends witnessed the pure of the ceremony, family and friends witnessed the pure love and joy on the faces of the Newlyweds as they threw love and joy on the faces of the Newlyweds as they threw their held hands in the air as they exited the church to their held hands in the air as they exited the church to the song by Stevie Wonder, Signed, Sealed, Delivered the song by Stevie Wonder, Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours. The musicality of the ceremony gave a hint as to how the rest of the day would treat their guests. to how the rest of the day would treat their guests. QUICK CHANGE: For the reception, the bride changed For the reception, the bride changed into a Bridal jumpsuit perfect for dancing into the into a Bridal jumpsuit perfect for dancing into the night with her Groom. Mary wore a Mrs. Leather Jacket designed by Brodie Bride. A SKYBOX RECEPTION: The couple wanted to take advantage of every opportunity to personalize their advantage of every opportunity to personalize their wedding to make their day memorable for their guests. wedding to make their day memorable for their guests. Keeping in line with the Dallas Cowboy theme, the Keeping in line with the Dallas Cowboy theme, the couple chose the most obvious venue—Independence couple chose the most obvious venue—Independence Stadium Skybox—for their reception. Guests were greeted by the voice of saxophonist, Eddie Guests were greeted by the voice of saxophonist, Eddie Spencer. Eddie entertained the guests with a mixture Spencer. Eddie entertained the guests with a mixture of music which left the guests in awe by his rendition of music which left the guests in awe by his rendition of Louis Armstrong’s, “What a Wonderful World.” of Louis Armstrong’s, “What a Wonderful World.” The dance reception would not have been complete The dance reception would not have been complete without the genre music provided by DJ Bedrock. He without the genre music provided by DJ Bedrock. He kept our wedding party and guests entertained and on kept our wedding party and guests entertained and on the dance floor. BRIDE’S TABLE & FINE SOUTHERN DINING: The The Bride’s Table was made of floral swag, sequin napkins, Bride’s Table was made of floral swag, sequin napkins, with crystal King & Queen candleholders. Taylor’s with crystal King & Queen candleholders. Taylor’s Catering served up some Southern Classics favorites Catering served up some Southern Classics favorites putting a gourmet spin on the dinner menu. THE SENDOFF: The couple walked out of the recep The couple walked out of the reception through a long line of friends and family, who sent tion through a long line of friends and family, who sent them off to their honeymoon in Punta Cana, Domini them off to their honeymoon in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, with a sparkler-flanked exit.