Albemarle Magazine Spring 2020 by Cooke NC

Albemarle Spring 2020

Magazine

Wedding planning, flowers, photography, catering and venues to prepare for that special day.

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Albemarle Spring 2020

Magazine

ON THE

COVER

Bride-to-be Ashley Mason of Camden County is planning a fall wedding with her fiance, Zach Overman, of Weeksville. Ercmy Tillmon The Daily Advance Wedding planning, flowers, photography, catering and venues to prepare for that special day.

Contents Bride-to-be talks about love A touch as unique as the couple Setting the stage Celebrate with food Capturing that special moment Thanking the wedding party

6 10 12 16 20 22

Calendar

Memories that last a lifetime

ALBEMARLE MAGAZINE

is a publication of The Daily Advance, an Adams Publishing Group newspaper 215 S Water Street Elizabeth City, NC 27909

EDITORIAL 252-335-8117 Publisher Robin Quillon Editor Miles Layton

(252) 368-9287 Correspondents Miles Layton Nicole Bowman-Layton Kesha Williams Anna Goodwin McCarthy

Welcome to our Spring 2020 issue of Albemarle Magazine. We're focusing on wedding planning because busy brides know spring, summer and even fall are around the corner. The bride-to-be in our cover story, Ashley Mason, said planning for the big day can be more stressful than taking those lifelong vows to love, honor and cherish. To give Mason and others thinking about getting married an early wedding present, this edition offers a few ideas to help plan for the big day. Need an elegant wedding dress or to rent a tuxedo? Check out our story about Danielle's Boutique Bridal and Tuxedo Rentals. Danielle’s offers dress styles, designs and good prices for every bride and groom who wants to look their best. Also check out Anna Goodwin McCarthy’s story about popular wedding venues, the Crawfish Shack in Hertford and The Carolina Center at Corporate Drive in Elizabeth City. The Crawfish Shack not only serves as a wedding venue, but for other celebrations including reunions, birthdays, retirements and anniversaries. For an “Alaska feel,” coupled with woodwork and antiques that provide “a lot of conversation pieces,” The Carolina Center is available for events as small as corporate meetings to large weddings and celebrations. No wedding would be complete without some flowers and greenery. McCarthy also talked to the folks at Albemarle Floral about designing floral arrangements and bouquets for a couple’s special day.

Photography Ercmy Tillmon Kesha Williams

Rather than using an iPhone's camera, check out Kesha Williams' article about hiring a wedding photographer to provide the best pictures, ones surely to last a lifetime. Instead of eating Chinese food after the wedding -- as readers will read about in our Back Porch column – couples may want to consider hiring a caterer to provide food and beverages for their big day.

PRODUCTION

Williams' article suggests choosing a caterer from popular restaurants such as Montero's or Currituck BBQ, both places that shared some expert advice about menu planning.

Brandi Callahan

ADVERTISING

Advertising Director Sean O’Brien Account Representatives Rich Houghton Lisa Bailey Bev Alexander

Nicole Bowman-Layton looks at gifts for bridesmaids and groomsmen. Ideas can range from traditional jewelry to holding parties to make your own unique crafts. Whether a couple's wedding features a dress fit for a princess, a catered meal, cherished photos and a venue big enough for everyone to feel comfortable, the most important memory to create and share for a lifetime is when two people who love each other say, “I do.”

Miles

SUBSCRIPTIONS 252-329-9505

CIRCULATION Chuck Edwards

ONLINE

See Albemarle Magazine at DailyAdvance.com Albemarle Magazine is a publication of The Daily Advance, The Perquimans Weekly and the Chowan Herald.

Albemarle Magazine Spring 2020

MILES LAYTON

Albemarle Magazine Editor

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Albemarle Magazine Spring 2020

By Miles Layton Editor

Bride-to-be Ashley Mason looks over a bridal gown magazine while dress shopping at Danielle's Boutique Bridal and Tuxedo Rentals. Ercmy Tillmon/Daily Advance.

While bride-to-be Ashley Mason was busy shopping for a wedding dress at Danielle's Boutique Bridal and Tuxedo Rentals, she talked about the planning needed for the big day and the reasons she wants to get married. Mason tried on a traditional wedding gown – the type with a long flowing white fabric that may require a kid's help to carry the bridal train as this lovely lady walks slowly toward the altar. “You got to be as dramatic as you can,” Mason said as she spoke of creating a look that would captivate the crowd and inspire memories that would last a lifetime. Located in Elizabeth City at 401 South Griffin Street, Suite 175, Danielle's Boutique and Tuxedo Rentals has been offering fine attire for weddings, proms, balls and church-going clothes since 2004. The boutique is open between 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and closed on Sundays. Though the shoulderless beaded dress complimented the 19-year-old Camden County bride's figure, Mason was thinking about choosing another dress, perhaps another style from the boutique's extensive collection. Mature beyond her years, Mason looked at the engagement ring on her tiny finger as she spoke of the man she plans to marry – Zach Overman, 22, of Weeksville. “In today's world, I think some of the younger kids don't believe in marriage, but I do for sure,” she said. “I guess you'd say I'm old school in that way where I believe in trust. Kids nowadays, they just lie to their partner all the time like it’s not even serious. I'm very serious when it comes to dating somebody. I don't date someone just for fun. Zach was really my first serious boyfriend. I didn't play around. I knew what I wanted when I started dating him and I got it.” Mason said their relationship is built on friendship. “I've known Zach since sixth-grade,” she said. “We've been best friends since before we ever started dating – there was always something about him. He was always there for me and it just kind of happened. We started actually talking, confessing our feelings for each other and started dating.” When it comes to relationships, women seem to have a better head for the passage of time, so when Mason was asked how long she and Overman had been dating, her response was quick – two years, seven months, and three years in July – so she's ready to take the next step. “I'm not worried or scared,” Mason said. “Some people would probably say they are worried before getting married because marriage is such a big step, but I'm so confident with my relationship with him – we're on such the same page that I think we're going to do amazing things.” And faith in God plays a role in the bride-to-be's faith in marriage. “The most important thing, we've got God in the center of our relationship,” Mason said. “We make that a priority. We go to church every single Sunday together.” Mason moved freely about the boutique as she eyed colorful dresses and tuxedos nearby. She grabbed a bridal catalog and walked over to a full-length mirror. Dresses start at $300 and range in price. There are prices to suit any bride's budget; prom gowns, too. Tuxedo rentals start at $100 so the

Albemarle Magazine Spring 2020

groom can look his best for the big day as well. “I chose Danielle's Boutique because I knew it had some really pretty dresses,” she said. “So I figured: why not go there and see what they have?” Boutique's owner, Hilda Gibson, nodded her head and smiled. “Opening a dress shop – that was a high school dream,” she said. “I said in my senior year – I even wrote it down – that I was going to get married first. My goals were to go to college and then at some point to open up a ladies dress shop. Well, I got married – 55 years in April – earned my college degree and opened this shop in 2004 – we've been open 16 years. I've seen a lot of women buy dresses for their weddings.” Both Gibson and Mason agreed that weddings are “all about the dress.” Though Mason is pretty put-together about spending the rest of her life with Overman, she said wedding planning is more stressful than finding the courage to take the vows. “Planning the wedding is probably more scary and stressful; figuring out all the little details and everything,” she said. Planning the big day – Oct. 10 – is critical. Four beautiful bridesmaids and four groomsmen, who will be dressed in tuxedos, will be flanking the bride and groom at the altar for a traditional wedding at the Fountain of Life Church in Elizabeth City. Mason laments that paring down the guest list to 100 people is very hard and that's just one aspect of wedding planning. “It takes a village to do this – you got to have people,” she said. “I can't do it on my own. I have Zach's mom

Ashley Mason tries on one of the several wedding dresses available at Danielle's Boutique in Elizabeth City. Ercmy Tillmon/The Daily Advance

helping me. I have my own mom. I have my maid of honor and anybody else who is willing to help me, but there's all the little steps. You have to figure out your guest list – around 100 people. You have to get all that and figure out where you are going to have it. You have to figure out a photographer. You have to figure out what you're going to do for your food – if it's going to be catered or not. Flowers, too. There's a lot of things that you don't realize that you have to plan to have a big wedding.” Overman's uncle Scott is a pastor, so he will open the wedding service while Mason's dad John, who’s also a pastor, walks her down the aisle. Overman's uncle will then ask “Who gives this bride away?” “After my dad gives me away, he will switch spots with Zach’s uncle and my dad will be doing the wedding service,” she said. "It’s something that I’ve always looked forward to and been excited for. I’m beyond happy that he gets to not only give me away but also marry us." Mason smiled, took a deep breath and talked to Gibson who shared the secret to a good marriage. "No real secrets to marriage, but being kind, thoughtful and loving to one another goes a long way,” said Gibson who will be married 55 years in April. Echoing Gibson's advice, Mason spoke of the importance of communication. “I would definitely say communication in a relationship is very important,” she said. “It's important to build the foundation of trust and knowing you can tell them anything without them getting mad or acting out or something. Definitely important to be able to talk to your partner about anything.”

It's important to build the foundation of trust... - Ashley Mason

Sign your child up at imaginationlibrary.com or contact Chowan/Perquimans Smart Start Partnership at 252-482-3035. Children from birth to fifth birthday receive a free book in the mail each month through the Dolly Parton Imagination Library Program offered throughout North Carolina local Smart Start Partnerships.

Albemarle Magazine ďťżSpring 2020

FLORAL DESIGNERS ADD NATURAL BEAUTY TO WEDDINGS By Anna Goodwin McCarthy Correspondent Whether it is the traditional bouquet in a bride’s hand or an elegant spray arranged in a unique way, flowers reflect the beauty of weddings. One of the best aspects of designing floral arrangements and bouquets for weddings is being a part of a couple’s special day. Both Sheri Casper, owner of Albemarle Floral, and Jeffrey Rogerson, owner of Jeffrey’s Greenworld and Florist, have been creating stunning floral designs for years. Casper has been arranging flowers for weddings for decades. She opened Albemarle Floral in Elizabeth City more than a year ago. “It warms my heart to know I have made them happy,” she said. Casper said couples should have an idea of the venue and the color palette they will use before they begin to select flowers for their wedding. Often couples will scan Pinterest or Floral Designers’ Facebook pages or websites for ideas before visiting a florist. With a wide variety of flowers available, such as hydrangeas, lilies and roses, couples are able to pick their favorites. “Peonies are popular,” Casper said. She said fresh natural flowers are often the most utilized for weddings, but she also creates many silk arrangements for couples. The benefits of using silk floral arrangements are that couples can keep them for years as a memory of their special day or they can use them again in other arrangements, according to Casper. She said this year’s wedding floral trends for fresh flowers have included blush, ivories and natural tones. Casper works with couples and wedding planners to create floral designs for weddings at a wide variety of venues and locations. With the location of her business in downtown Elizabeth City, Casper said brides have contacted her a week ahead of time to let her know they will be getting married by the Justice of the Peace. They pick up their bouquets on the way to getting married only a few blocks away. Casper said she also has been asked to make floral bouquets by couples who arrive by boat on the waterfront and are getting married at a location in Elizabeth City.

Jeffrey Rogerson, owner of Jeffrey’s Greenworld and Florist has created arrangements for weddings for four decades. “Each one is special,” he said. Years ago, Rogerson said the trend for weddings included candelabras, and often weddings took place in a church. “When I first started the bigger, the better,” he said. Now, in addition to churches, couples are choosing destination weddings and different settings like the outdoors, Rogerson said. Some couples decide to have “more natural” and “understated weddings.” Some couples select bouquet designs that include long, hanging stems and a more “relaxed” style, according to Rogerson. Rogerson said he has also seen a resurgence of cascading bouquets. Another change Rogerson has witnessed in weddings is the actual wedding date. Whereas, spring and June weddings always have been known to be the wedding season, Rogerson said he now sees weddings year-round with fall becoming the new popular time for weddings in our area. Rogerson believes people like fall weddings because the “weather is cooler.” Rogerson communicates with clients to customize the wedding to their preferences. “I personally do my wedding consultations myself,” he said. Rogerson said he has incorporated mementos from grandparents and mothers into bouquets. Adding a necklace from a beloved grandmother or a piece of material from the bride’s mother’s wedding dress represents a special way to personalize a bouquet. Both Casper and Rogerson work with their clients to create beautiful floral designs for their weddings. Whether it is a small or large budget, flowers help to make an important day even more meaningful. For more information about Casper’s floral designs visit, the Albemarle Floral Facebook page or website at https:// www.albemarlefloral.com. For more information about Rogerson’s floral designs visit, the Jeffrey’s Greenworld and Florist Facebook page or website at https://www.jeffreysgreenworld.com.

Albemarle Magazine Spring 2020

Sheri Casper, owner of Albemarle Floral, prepares a bouquet as the wedding season approaches. Ercmy Tillmon/The Daily Advance

SETTING THE PERFECT STAGE

Wedding venues work to create lifelong memories The interior of the Chawfish Shack in Hertford is shown. Owned by Marty and Sheryl Hurdle, the Crawfish Shack has been a favorite wedding venue for couples for the past four years. It got its name from the crawfish the Hurdles raise on their property. Photo courtesy Sheryl Hurdle

By Anna Goodwin McCarthy Correspondent Two area couples help others to create lifelong memories. The Crawfish Shack, owned by Marty and Sheryl Hurdle, in Hertford and The Carolina Center at Corporate Drive, owned by Michael and Sherri McDaniel, have become popular destinations for weddings. “It’s a good feeling to make someone happy on their special day,” Sheryl Hurdle said. For the last four years, The Crawfish Shack has become a favorite venue for couples getting married in Hertford. The venue is aptly named, The Crawfish Shack, because the couple has been raising crawfish in the ponds on their property since 2001. The pond near the venue, however, does not contain crawfish. The sun rays glisten off the pond, and the picturesque landscape produces an inspiring view. Hurdle said they first started having weddings at the location after a friend noted its beauty and asked to be married on their property. “It is so pretty back there,” she said. The Crawfish Shack not only serves as a wedding venue, but can be used for a variety of celebrations such as reunions, birthdays, retirements and anniversaries. Hurdle describes the decor of The Crawfish Shack as

“country rustic.” Decor can be provided by the venue, or couples may select to bring their own. Hurdle said they offer different package prices for renting the venue. The Crawfish Shack can hold up to 250 people for weddings taking place inside the building. The capacity for outdoor events is basically unlimited, according to Hurdle. After seeing so many beautiful weddings at the venue, Hurdle said she hopes to renew her vows with Marty at The Crawfish Shack in the future. After Michael McDaniel retired from the U.S. Coast Guard, he and his wife, Sherri, decided to open The Carolina Center at Corporate Drive in 2017. The building previously was a keyboard manufacturing plant, which they transformed into an event venue. McDaniel said they recognized a need for a place like The Carolina Center in the area. The building is available for events as small as corporate meetings to large weddings and celebrations. The venue may be rented with the Gold, Silver or Bronze package which vary according to price and access to the

Albemarle Magazine Spring 2020

facility’s rooms. The Gold Package holds up to 200 people with access to the ballroom, pre-function room, conference room and kitchen. The Silver Package holds up to 60 people with access to the pre-function room, conference room and kitchen. The Bronze Package holds up to 20 people with access to the conference room. McDaniel describes the decor of the venue as “warm and rustic.” Couples may select to use the decor or bring their own. Tables and chairs are included. McDaniel said his wife and mother-in-law are originally from Alaska, and they decorated the building with an “Alaska feel.” With antiques and beautiful woodwork, McDaniel said the decor contains “a lot of conversation pieces.” Many couples like to visit the event garden for photographs, where there are bistro lights and a structure made to resemble a tobacco barn. “Most all couples take their pictures there,” McDaniel said. McDaniel said with many weddings scheduled on

Saturdays, it is important to reserve a wedding venue as soon as possible and preferably a year in advance. “We really work with the wedding couples,” he said. “We try to make it easy on them.” McDaniel witnessed the wedding planning process before he opened The Carolina Center, having previously served as a DJ at weddings. He no longer DJs, but suggests money saving tips for couples like purchasing linens and reselling after the event and finding a facility that offers seating instead of having to rent tables and chairs. “We want to help couples starting out,” McDaniel said. McDaniel said he and his wife have been married for 25 years. “For Sherri and I, it’s exciting watching these people start their lives together,” he said. For more information about the McDaniel’s venue, visit The Carolina Center at Corporate Drive’s Facebook page and website at https://thecarolina.center. For more information about Hurdle’s venue, visit The Crawfish Shack Facebook page or website at http:// crawfishshack252.com.

Mike McDaniel, owner of The Carolina Center in Elizabeth City, prepares Thursday, Feb. 27, for one of the more than 50 weddings the event venue will host this year. Ercmy Tillmon The Daily Advance

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Lily Christiansen, catering manager for Montero's Restaurant & Bar, assists clients with plans for wedding receptions, family celebrations and more. Montero's catering service has catered events in northeastern North Carolina and Hampton, Virginia Beach, Suffolk, and Yorktown, Virginia. Kesha Williams

Celebrating with food By Kesha Williams Correspondent Shortly after a couple decides to share their wedding day with family and friends, the race to find the right wedding vendors begins. Among the top priorities are selecting ceremony and reception venues, accommodations for guests, and a caterer. The caterer’s role isn’t simply to provide food and beverages. They also nourish guests with a delectable menu fit for a sensational celebration. Whether the host opts for a plated dinner, a buffet or light refreshments, the right caterer wows the crowd in a matter of minutes. Catering services vary from one vendor to another. Many vendors provide a catering specialist to help customers plan, coordinate and facilitate this phase of the wedding celebration. Catering services may be as simple as a four-person crew who cooks then serves the food. Often, others are restaurant staff who serve the public on a daily basis or those hired solely for catering events. According to the North Carolina Department of

Agriculture and Consumer Services, restaurants, including catering operations, are regulated by county health departments. The menu is determined by the type cuisine the hosts prefer and the type food the vendor is best suited to prepare. While some restaurant staff closely follow the menu items they prepare daily, many provide additional foods their wedding clients prefer. Menu items are influenced by the venue and kitchen appliances available on site. Two local caterers addressed their important role in the wedding-planning process. The staff of Montero’s Restaurant & Bar/ Catering customizes menus for their clients. Customers usually hold at least two consultations with the restaurant’s catering manager Lily Christiansen. Those meetings allow the coordinator and client to plan the meal, discuss the proposal and projected costs, taste samples of the preferred menu, review

Albemarle Magazine Spring 2020

the timeline and finalize arrangements. Christiansen said couples should select a caterer soon after securing an event. They must carefully review a prospective caterer’s menu and understand the challenges and limitations involved with preparing and serving meals from their selected site. They also should consider how much staff is provided in addition to servers. Montero’s provides a bartender, but that’s not guaranteed with all caterers. The to-do list is lengthy in the early stages of the planning cycle, and monitoring that list is an ongoing task. Christiansen said customers should know if they are pleased with the seats their wedding venue provides or if it will be necessary to rent chairs and tables. Montero’s doesn’t provide centerpieces or wedding cakes, but its staff will cut and serve them. The restaurant routinely prepares the food, tea and water for their catering customers. Customers should determine if they will need more wine than beer. When choosing a wedding caterer, ask prospective vendors if they offer nonalcoholic wine for guests who'd rather not drink alcoholic beverages. Weddings are big celebrations and sometimes family reunions where people come to enjoy the meal and in some cases alcoholic beverages. Montero’s clients have led them to wedding venues in the Virginia cities of Hampton, Yorktown and Virginia Beach and towns in North Carolina. The venue is responsible for having a state license to serve alcoholic beverages, Christiansen said. “At Montero’s, we come in hours before the event, and we are there working in many cases five hours later. We’ve done so much in different venues. Some had full kitchens. On other occasions, we’ve worked under tents and operated ovens powered by generators to prepare for our guests,” Christiansen said. “Couples should know from our menu the items they would like to eat, as well as the food their guests would enjoy. We often serve garden salads, plated dinners, buffet, coffee stations when requested and breads for their meals. That bread is important if guests started their celebration during cocktail hour, where alcoholic beverages were served.” Deanna Pope is the catering manager for Currituck BBQ. She said the restaurant provides many of the same items on the menu and can add items to please their customers. She recommends customers take the time to attend a taste test, which allows customers to determine if the food they select for their wedding is suitable for guests who may be dressed up for the event. “With barbecue, the customer should know if they prefer the vinegar-based barbecue or those made with mustard. Customers should understand if they prefer sliced or pulled beef or if they prefer pork,” Pope said. Pope suggests couples make reservations with the restaurant well in advance of the day they will need a meal for the reception or other event related to a wedding. “Customers should know price does not determine the quality of the food the caterer provides. Food can be expensive, but you can get it at a manageable cost. You want to keep the menu balanced; you don’t want a menu that has 15 items. Guests are less likely to eat every item. Customers can ask if food will be available for those who are vegan or vegetarian, but they need not base the entire menu on the needs of a few.”

Currituck BBQ's Deanna Pope suggests customers should also consider: • Ask the caterer if she or he is prepared to make a few extra plates or just the number the caterer and customer agreed upon at the time registrations were completed. • Note the type and variety of desserts a caterer can provide for guests. For example, some caterers offer brownies, cobblers and apple crisp. • Determine which day of the week to hold an event, such as a wedding reception or meal. Venue prices can vary, and a lower one means being able to spend extra money on a menu that will please guests. New LocatioN opeNiNg SpriNg 2020

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Photographer Jill Koch often uses familiar scenes in Elizabeth City for customers who prefer outdoor settings for weddings. Here she's shown taking a photo from the steps of the stairs at First United Methodist Church on Road Street. Photo courtesy Kesha Williams

Capturing that special moment Wedding photographers help bring wedding festivities into focus By Kesha Williams Correspondent From iconic garden scenes to historic landmarks, smalltown chapels to waterside pavilions, mountaintop resorts to vineyards and breweries, it’s all coming into focus. Wedding photographers couldn’t be happier to receive notice that your nuptials will take place in unforgettable locations. These locations allow photographers and couples to gather and to create memories of a lifetime. First, the trending news: Area photographers report a transformation is underway as one couple after the other places a whole new spin on scenes local residents often take for granted. Sure, decorations, favorable weather and geographic locations are key elements in the composition of stunning wedding photographs. The remaining element in these mystical scenes is the photographer’s imagination. Wedding photographers are increasingly encouraged to make full use of these sites to create a photo gallery that can’t be matched by mere shutterbugs. Some couples decide to marry near the places where they met, graduated or simply fantasized as the most picturesque site for their wedding. Understand professional photographers want to serve clients well, but few are in business simply to copy another photographer's work. Your bookmarks of poses displayed on popular photo websites may or may not work well at the location of your wedding or the site of your engagement photos. Allow your photographer to make adjustments. What’s a couple to do when the time comes to choose a photographer and work with her or him?

Realize quality photographs are the most comprehensive reminders of the wedding at the sunset of your special day. Carefully consider your options before ruling out or selecting a photographer. Some photographers spend a lot of money on advertising and websites, while others offer great services but spend modest amounts on advertisements and websites. Full-time photographers offer market-rate wedding packages and shoot on a daily basis. Experienced freelance photographers shoot on a more restricted calendar basis but may offer different rates for small-scale weddings. All should be licensed to operate a business within the state of your special event. Be realistic about your budget, and make timely payments to assure your wedding date is firmly secured on the photographer’s calendar. Keep an open mind. Consider noting on the printed program booklet: "Thanks for celebrating this day with us. A designated photographer or team of photographers has been hired to document the event. Please be mindful of their work space." In this era of cellphone photo enthusiasts, that's a kind hint that attendees shouldn't interfere, crowd or interrupt the photographer(s) hired to do the job. Wedding photography do's and don'ts Photographers are artists working to the best of their ability with the equipment they have. Unless you discussed in advance underwater photography, shooting from a moving boat or an airplane, don't expect her/him to risk their

Albemarle Magazine Spring 2020

camera equipment unexpectedly. Don’t drastically change your itinerary of “must-see images” on the day of the event. Make sure you and your photographer(s) understand, well in advance of the wedding day, the guidelines and preferences of ministers/priests or others allowed to officiate a ceremony. In some cases, flash photography is not allowed in sanctuaries and some church pulpits are restricted to clergy. Restrictive guidelines may also apply if your wedding takes place inside a museum or cultural hall where rare memorabilia is stored. Advance awareness allows your photographer to adjust their shooting routines. Remember, photographers work on time lines to capture and later edit images. Don’t expect to receive a commendable batch of images sooner than the contract stipulates. Understand whether clients purchase images directly from the photographer or from a recommended photo printing lab. There are advantages to both types of service. Jill Koch has been working as an independent photographer in Elizabeth City for 15 years. Although her client base ranges from kids to senior citizens, wedding bells have prompted many clients to hire her for their special day. She’s witnessed folksy settings, country and coastal and plenty of back-to-nature settings. Dress attire varies from one client to another, as well as the size of the wedding party and attendees. Koch recommends an alternative interior venue be reserved unless clients and their guests don’t mind gathering in the rain or the blistering cold wind. She recommends couples prepare well in advance of their wedding day and anticipate a list of possible interruptions in a day they’ve imagined as their “perfect day.” “There’s a lot a couple has to remember before the wedding day. A dress the bride tried on may have been a perfect fit six months ago, so don’t wait until two days before the wedding to try it on again. The same could be said for a groom’s suit,” Koch said. “If a bride wore the dress to pose for outdoor pictures in advance of the wedding date and the dress must be cleaned,

you should know which dry cleaner is best prepared to clean the type dress you own,” Koch said. “Make sure you have a qualified wedding coordinator to run the day to assure the most important things on your checklist are completed. She or he can be helpful when the time comes to guide happy but distracting family and friends to a reception room when the photographer needs the full attention of the bride and groom,” Koch said. Clyndell Godfrey, another local photographer, has shot an array of public events and weddings. He acknowledges photographers are facing steeper challenges now than a decade ago when few people questioned the need for a designated photographer. Godfrey assures the public, a skilled photographer is still a solid investment for a couple who has carefully coordinated their special day. Experienced photographers take pride in serving their customers. They will make a far greater effort to secure focused images and a consistent collection of quality images than unskilled well wishers frantically clicking cell phones from the wrong angles or the wrong location of the venue. Godfrey has over 35 years of experience shooting photography. Prospective clients should, Godfrey said, be mindful of a photographer’s portfolio, their style of shooting and their ability to shoot first-rate images. “As a photographer, I like to create memorable poses and moments my client will cherish for a lifetime. I also welcome safe poses from my clients as well. As a professional photographer there may be boundaries or limitations I must respect due to insurance risk. Never put your client in danger just to capture a photo,” Godfrey said. “The biggest insult for a wedding photographer is a customer merely comparing prices and not comparing the quality of his/her work, years of experience and their professionalism for your event. Choose a photographer who will listen to the client’s ideas, as well as make suggestions. Always sign a contract detailing your agreement,” Godfrey said.

Downtown Elizabeth City's street-lit benches and pathways give Clyndell Godfrey the low-light photography challenge he welcomes. When weddings and anniversaries last beyond sunset, he's prepared to continue the photo shoot. Photo courtesy Kesha Williams

Albemarle Magazine Spring 2020

By Nicole Bowman-Layton Correspondent

EDENTON -- For today's wedding parties, gifts given as a token of appreciation can be as unique as the couple's personality. It is also important to choose a group of people that compliment a couple’s personality. Making the important decision to get married can fill couples with joy and excitement as they imagine spending the rest of their lives together. Naturally, brides and grooms-to-be are anxious to share the good news with others and include family and friends in the festivities. One way couples exemplify inclusion is by asking their closest acquaintances to be part of their wedding parties. Being asked to serve as a bridesmaid or groomsman is an honor. Some couples may be tempted to ask every friend, sibling or cousin to join their wedding party, and some do. In fact, ancient Roman law required 10 witnesses to be part of a wedding ceremony. However, the larger the wedding party, the more people couples have to coordinate and the more personalities they must manage.

While large wedding parties are in style, there isn't any one-size-fits-all formula to decide which size party is right for a particular situation. Trends vary based on geography and culture. These tips can help couples decide on the size of their wedding parties and what to get them. Match it to scope and style Wedding planners may use a standard ratio for a proportion of guests to wedding party members. That ratio is one pair of wedding attendants for every 50 guests. This creates a balanced feel where the more people in attendance, the larger the wedding party and vice versa. In conjunction with this, planning gifts for the wedding party members should be proportional to the size of the wedding. For those who look for a simple wedding, having something handmade for the bridesmaids or groomsmen may be complementary to the wedding. Alice Stallcup, who owns the Gregarious Goose in Edenton, offers private crafting classes where wedding parties can get together to make things like stamped metal pendants or items that can compliment a reception’s décor. Consider your expenses Wedding party members may be asked to spend considerable amounts of money to be in the wedding, but the couple will have certain expenses tied to the wedding party as well. These can include limousines to ferry people between the ceremony and reception; the costs of arranging and photographing large wedding parties; the cost of boutonnieres, bouquets and attendants' gifts; and feeding extra guests at the rehearsal dinner. Small wedding parties can be easier on a couple’s budget. Cherie Roberts, the instore designer at Vaughan’s Jewelers in Edenton, noted that diamonds are still a bridemaid's best friend, as they can be bought in several sizes at prices suitable for any wedding budget. Many couples opt for traditional jewelry or engraved items for their wedding party. Roberts noted that practical items – things that can be used or worn over and over again – can be engraved for a personal touch. Also popular are paired jewelry sets, such as Kendra Scott necklaces and bracelets. Cherie noted that diamonds and pearls, such as pearl inlay, are popular as wedding jewelry. Engravable bar necklaces are popular. "People sometimes put the wedding date or a phrase that's significant to the couple on them," she said. For the groomsmen, engravable items, such as cufflinks, shot glasses or wallet clips are popular. Know your expectations Couples should discuss what they expect from their wedding parties. Do couples want their loved ones to be very hands-on or waiting in the wings? For those who want a lot of input from their wedding parties, asking distant friends or family to be included may be impractical. Select reliable, easygoing people Wedding party members should be people couples can

Albemarle Magazine Spring 2020

rely on, and it only helps if wedding party members are not prone to overreacting. Choose a wedding party that can be trusted and people with whom you get along. Stallcup noted that wedding parties can tackle a group project, such as making a unique gift for the happy couple. The Gregarious Goose is primarily a store that offers unique, handmade items crafted by small business owners from across the country. The store’s backroom includes an arts and craft classroom that also can be used for private events. Stallcup said the price depends on how many people attend and what kind of craft is being done. "I just need to know about a month in advance, so I have time to get supplies," she said of reserving the space for a private class. The Gregorious Goose is at 315 S. Broad St., Edenton. It is open from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday. For information, call 252-352-1450 or email thegregariousgoose@gmail.com. Vaughan's Jewelers, 331 S. Broad St., Edenton, is open 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

The Gregarious Goose in Edenton offers private crafting parties that can range from creating art or decor for the wedding and reception to handstamping jewelry to make unique gifts for the wedding party

Popular gifts for groomsmen include engraved shot glasses, cuff links and wallet clips. Photos by Nicole Bowman-Layton

Jewelry from Kendra Scott featuring diamonds and pearls, such as pearl inlay, are popular.

Diamond stud earrings are popular wedding party gifts and come in several sizes.

Albemarle Magazine Spring 2020

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Albemarle Magazine ï»¿Spring 2020

2 0 2 0 Calendar

SPRING MARCH

Shag dance lessons

River City Shag Club will offer free Carolina shag dance lessons for beginners at YMCA at the Pines in Elizabeth City at 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays through March 18. There’s a $3 facility charge. No partner necessary. Wear leather sole shoes. Email: rivercityshagclub@hotmail.com for details, or call 757-288-1301.

Monday, March 16 Adult Book Club

Adult Book Club will meet at the Camden Library Monday, March 16 at 3:30 p.m. The book they will discuss is Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman. Contact: 331-2543.

Monday, March 16 Library classes

Pasquotank Library will offer an Excel 1 class Monday, March 16; a Tech Help class Tuesday, March 17; a Facebook class Wednesday, March 18; a Word 1 class Thursday, March 19; a Mouse and Keyboarding class Friday, March 20. All classes will be held from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Contact: 335-7536.

Tuesday, March 17 Library programs

Camden Library will offer Toddler Storytime Tuesday-Wednesday, March 17-18 for kids ages 2 to 4 at 10 a.m.; Baby Storytime Thursday, March 19 for kids ages birth to 2 10:30 a.m. and Big Kid Storytime for kids ages 4 to 8 at 3:30 p.m. Contact: 331-2543.

Library programs

Pasquotank Library will offer preschool classes themed St. Patrick's Day Tuesday, March 17 for kids ages 3-4 from 10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. A similar class will be held Wednesday, March 18 for kids ages 1-2 with an adult at the same time. Contact: 335-2473.

Thursday, March 19 Clay pots workshop

The Currituck County Master Gardener Speakers Bureau will host a “Lets Get Creative with Clay Pots” workshop Thursday, March 19 at the N.C. Cooperative Extension, Currituck County Center, at 9 a.m. Marcia Steele will be the instructor. Register online at mastergardenersspeakerbureau.eventbrite.com. Contact: Chris Baha for questions or accommodations for people with disabilities at 232-2262 or email ctblaha@ncsu.edu.

iPhone basics workshop

The Chowan Senior Center will host iPhone Basic Workshops every Thursday starting Thursday, March 19 and ending Thursday, April 16 from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. You will need an Apple iPhone 5s-11 or iPad Apple devices only. You must know your passcode, Apple ID and password. The registration fee is $75 for five class meetings. Contact: 864-3189689 or email: handzon@mac.com for any questions about the class.

Monday, March 23 Library classes

Pasquotank Library will offer an Excel 2 class Monday, March 23; a Powerpoint 1 class Tuesday, March 24; a Tech Help class Wednesday, March 25; a Word 2 class Thursday, March 26; a Gmail Basic class Friday, March 27. All classes will be held from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Contact: 335-7536.

Tuesday, March 24 Library programs

Camden Library will offer Toddler Storytime Tuesday-Wednesday, March 24-25 for kids ages 2 to 4 at 10 a.m.; Baby Storytime Thursday, March 26 for kids ages birth to 2 10:30 a.m. and Big Kid Storytime for kids ages 4 to 8 at 3:30 p.m. Contact: 331-2543.

Library programs

Pasquotank Library will offer preschool classes themed Hello, Spring Tuesday, March 24 for kids ages 3-4

from 10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. A similar class will be held Wednesday, March 25 for kids ages 1-2 with an adult at the same time. Contact: 335-2473.

Wednesday, March 25 Card party/bingo

City Road United Methodist Church will host a Card Party and Bingo in Edwards Hall Wednesday, March 25. Lunch will begin at 11:30 a.m. and cards will follow at noon. There will be prizes. Cost is $20 per person. All proceeds will go towards missions. Contact: 339-1805.

Monday, March 30 Library LEGO Club

Library LEGO Club will meet at the Camden Library Monday, March 30 for kids of all ages from 3:30 p.m. to 4;30 p.m. Contact: 331-2543.

Library classes

Pasquotank Library will offer a Tech Help class Monday, March 30 and an Excel PivotPoints class Tuesday, March 31. Both classes will be held from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Contact: 335-7536.

Tuesday, March 31 Library programs

Camden Library will offer Toddler Storytime Tuesday, March 31 for kids ages 2 to 4 at 10 a.m. Contact: 331-2543.

APRIL Library programs

Pasquotank Library will offer preschool classes themed Flowers Tuesday, March 31 for kids ages 3-4 from 10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Contact: 335-2473.

Wednesday, April 1 Organic gardening class

N.C. Cooperative Extension, Currituck County Center will host an Organic Gardening class Wednesday, April 1 from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. You can register online at organicgardeningcurrituck.eventbrite.com.

Albemarle Magazine Spring 2020

Contact: Chris Blaha at 232-2262 or email ctblaha@ncsu.edu

Thursday, April 9 Bee series

NC Cooperative Extension Currituck County Center will host a Bee series Thursday, April 9 starting with “Basics”; Thursday, June 11 “Maintenance”; Thursday, Sept. 10 “Harvest”. All series will be held from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. You can sign up for the full series or just one at beeseries.eventbrite.com. Contact: Adam Formella at 232-2262 or email adam_formella@ncsu.edu.

Thursday, April 9 Norfolk Zoo trip

NC Cooperative Extension, Currituck County 4-H will host a trip to the Norfolk Zoo Thursday, April 16 for kids ages 5-10. Youth will meet at 120 Community Way at 8:30 a.m. The registration fee is $18. Reserve your child’s spot by April 9 at zootrip2020.eventbrite.com . For more information about this event or for accommodations for persons with disabilities, contact Stephanie Minton at 232-2262 or by email at stephanie_minton@ncsu.edu no later than ten business days before the event.

Happy Trails horse camp

Currituck County 4-H will host a one day Happy Trails Horse Camp at the Currituck County Rural Center, 184 Milburn Sawyer Road, Powells Point, Friday, April 17 for kids ages 8-14 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cost is $10. There will be an Equine Science session from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Both events require youth to be enrolled and you can enroll at 4-H Online.com for the current year. You can register for both camps at happytrailsapril.eventbrite.com and equinescienceapril17.eventbrite. com. Pre-registration and payment are required by April 10. For more information or accommodations for persons with disabilities please contact Tom Harrell at 232-2261, or email tpharrel@ncsu.edu no later than five business days before the event.

Monday, April 13 BBQ Boot Camp

NC Cooperative Extension Currituck Center will host BBQ Boot Camp at 120 Community Way, Barco, Monday, April 13 for kids ages 8-18 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The class fee is $30. Reserve your child’s seat today by first completing the class registration and payment at bbqbootcamp2020.eventbrite.com . Then complete your child’s 2020 4-H Online enrollment at 4honline. For more information or accommodations for persons with disabilities contact Olivia Patchell at 232-2262, email: oljones@ncsu.edu or Sherry Fischlschweiger via email: sherry_fischlschweiger@ncsu.edu no later than five business days before the event.

Tuesday, April 14 Jam Camp

NC Cooperative Extension Currituck Center will host Jam Camp at 120 Community Way, Barco, Tuesday, April 14 for kids ages 9 and up from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Participants will learn about local berry production, and food preservation techniques. The registration fee is $30. Reserve your child’s seat today by first completing the class registration and payment at youthjamcamp2020.eventbrite.com . Then complete your child’s 2020 4-H Online enrollment at 4honline.com. For more information or accommodations for persons with disabilities contact Olivia Patchell at 232-2262, email: oljones@ncsu.edu or Sherry Fischlschweiger via email: sherry_fischlschweiger@ncsu.edu no later than five business days before the event.

Tuesday, April 21 Backyard Flocks for Beginners

NC Cooperative Extension Currituck County Center will host a Backyard Flocks for Beginners class Tuesday, April 21 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. You can sign up online at backyardflocksforbeginners-adults. eventbrite.com. From 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. they will offer a condensed version for youth ages 5 through high school and parents who are interested in raising their own chickens are invited to attend. Register for this course at backyardflocksforbeginners-youth.eventbrite.com. Complete your enrollment by signing your child up for 4-H online as well at www.4honline.com. If you have questions about the class, or if you need accommodations for persons with disabilities contact Adam Formella at 232-2262 or email adam_formella@ncsu.edu no later than five business days before the

event. If you have questions about 4-H online or any of the youth registration, contact Stephanie Minton at the same number, or by email at stephanie_minton@ncsu.edu .

Thursday, April 23 Container salad greens class

N.C. Cooperative Extension Currituck County Center will host a Youth Container Salad Greens class Thursday, April 23 for kids ages 10 to 18 from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Class fee is $20. Reserve your child’s seat by first completing the class registration and payment at youthcontainersaladgreens.eventbrite.com . For more information or accommodations for persons with disabilities contact Olivia Patchel at 232-2261, email olivia_patchel@ncsu.edu or Sherry Fischlschweiger at sherry_ fischlschweiger@ncsu.edu no later than ten business days before the event.Send calendar information to kgrizzard@reflector.com.

Thursday, April 23 Adult container salad greens class

The N.C. Cooperative Extension Currituck County Center will host an Adult Container Salad Greens class at 120 Community Way, Barco, Thursday, April 23 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Reserve your seat today by completing the class registration and payment at adultcontainersaladgreens.eventbrite.com . For more information or accommodations for persons with disabilities contact Olivia Patchel via email olivia_patchel@ncsu.edu or Adam Formella via email adam_formella@ncsu.edu at 232-2261 or 232-2261 no later than ten business days before the event.

Sunday, April 26 Spring concert

The Albemarle Chorale will present its 1st Spring Concert under the Direction of Lyn Winslow at Edenton United Methodist Church Sunday, April 26 at 4 p.m. Admission is free and donations are appreciated. Contact: 221-8057.

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MAY Sunday, May 3 Spring concert

The Albemarle Chorale will present their 2nd Spring Concert under the direction of Lyn Winslow at First United Methodist Church Sunday, May 3 at 4 p.m. Admission is free and donations are appreciated. Contact: 221-8057.

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Albemarle Magazine Spring 2020

Memories that last a lifetime By Miles Layton Editor Albemarle Magazine's cover story about Ashley Mason and Zach Overman's wedding plans was inspired by my wedding day. Though I have been to weddings, my lack of knowledge spurred me to ask Mason about her planning – and I am in awe. Mason is doing it right – enthusiastically planning the big day down to every detail. It's hard not to marvel at the preparation it takes to buy a beautiful dress, select bridesmaids and wedding guests, plan a large meal and rehearsal dinner, and pick a venue. When I married my wife Nicole many years ago, our wedding was a far more simple affair, so I wonder at times if we missed out by not having a traditional service. When we were in college, Nicole and I had our first date during a three-day weekend capped off by Martin Luther King Jr. Day. We dined at a Japanese steakhouse and attended a martial arts movie starring Jackie Chan. Two years later when Nicole and I eloped, we got married during a wicked cold December day in Toledo, Ohio. Not much planning went into the small wedding service. Guests were friends from law school; no family because no one was willing to take a two-day trip from North Carolina in the dead of winter to see two fools get married. Our chosen venue was a Lebanese bar known for its french fries, free-flowing alcohol and good times. Nicole looked lovely in a thrift store-purchased white dress. She wore makeup, lipstick, pearls and everything. White shoes. Amazing. Rather than a tuxedo that I couldn't afford, I wore a favorite gray cardigan and a black James Bond turtleneck that was given to theatergoers who saw the action star's latest spy flick. My hand-me-down black dress shoes had a hole or two in one sole because they were the only pair I owned. Music came from a jukebox with the wedding march being the “Imperial Death March” theme from Star Wars – I think. My memory from that day is still a bit hazy because I enjoyed a bit more alcohol than I was accustomed to drinking. Though there was no official photographer to chronicle the wedding, we still cherish a black-and-white photo from the college newspaper's photographer. The pastor who presided over the wedding – he got his credentials from one of those “Rolling Stone” ads that promised to ordain anyone who paid a $25 fee. Our vows were simple and to the point – to love, honor and cherish – probably the word “obey” was purposely omitted because we embrace each other as equals, although

our dachshunds keep us on a short leash. Nicole had no engagement ring and her wedding ring was a gold band. My ring was a black hematite ring – which I loved until the stone band cracked many years later. Nicole paid $2 for the ring that I picked from the ring bin at the Discovery Store, a neat little shop in the mall that sold polished shark teeth, gemstones and all sorts of naturerelated merchandise. After we said our vows and exchanged rings, our guests dined on a pound cake that Nicole had made from ingredients purchased at the grocery store. Our first meal as man and wife was at a low-end Chinese restaurant in a strip mall that served great food and was within walking distance of the bar where we had just been married. Cooks used a well-used wok to prepare rice, vegetables, chicken wings, beef and shrimp. We ate the meal using plastic forks, paper plates and drank from styrofoam cups. We sat at a small table by the restaurant's front window and watched the snow fall in the streets by a busy intersection. Afterward, we walked to our tiny apartment and went to sleep, too tired to do much of anything else. Though a wedding ceremony had taken place, we still had the option to call it quits because the wedding license had not been returned to the county's probate court that would make it official. But rather than letting the paperwork lapse a few weeks later, we chose to sign some forms, lick a few stamps and make it official. That was 21 years ago and we've been on many adventures together since then. From that simple beginning, our love has grown stronger over time. Today, we have three children, three dogs, a few kayaks, a sunfish and a sailboat and can see the Albemarle Sound from our front porch – not a bad deal. For the most part, we've worked side by side since we were in college. While having the right kind and style of wedding matters, what's more important is the love two people share for one another – the kind of love that lasts through good times and bad, sickness and in health, Trump vs Obama, diaper duty or dog puke, rich or poor, to love and cherish til death do us part.

Albemarle Magazine Spring 2020

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