Her Bridal 2021 by Cooke NC

Bridal 2021

633 Red Banks Road Arlington Village 252-321-7000 RobinsonJewelers.com

Meet our team

Christina Ruotolo Editor

Christina Ruotolo is the Editor of Her Magazine, Hot Dish writer, and a Multi-Media Specialist at The Daily Reflector Newspaper. She is active in the community, is a part-time bookseller at Barnes & Noble and creative writing instructor. Christina has been a wedding planner for over twenty years and licensed wedding officiant for over twelve years. Her favorite part about weddings are the cake and dancing the Wobble. Jasmine Blount is a graphic designer at The Daily Reflector. She enjoys sonic slushes and spending time with her husband & two sons, Dash and Jett. Contact her at jblount@ apgenc.com.

Jasmine Blount Designer

Tara Wind

Tara Wind, MS, RD, LDN is the Dietetic Internship Director at East Carolina University. She did her undergraduate program at UNCChapel Hill and graduate work at Meredith College. She has been a Registered Dietitian for over 20 years, with the last 6 involved with interns.

Christy Jones

Christy Jones, also know as Coach Chris, is an improvement coach for leaders and helps them break free from feeling overwhelmed and prepares them to take their teams to high levels of performance. Contact her at www.beginmonday.com .

Contributor

Shay Ernest Contributor

Elizabeth Cayton Photographer

Daria Beddard Contributor

Shay Ernest graduated from East Carolina University with a Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition and Dietetics. She is currently a dietetic intern completing her clinical rotations at UNC Lenoir Health Care in Kinston. Her goal after the internship is to become a registered dietitian where she hopes to help patients understand the connection between food and health. Elizabeth Cayton is owner of Elizabeth Cayton Photography. She is a wedding and portrait photographer and videographer based in eastern North Carolina. She received her photography degree from ECU in 2005 and has been working in photography ever since. For more information contact 252-531-9114 or visit the website www.elizabethcayton.com. Daria Beddard is a newlywed and a Florida transplant to eastern North Carolina. She loves spending time with her husband, animals, and friends and has always wanted seasons and the falls have not disappointed her at all. “As a Partner with Trades of Hope, I am blessed with being able to make an impact on the lives of so many worldwide while making an income from my spare bedroom. For more information, visit her website, www.tradesofhope.com/ Dariamitsos.

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Dear Readers,

My parents got married January 8, 1972 in Vermont in the dead of winter. Snow blanked the ground outside the church, inside the heaters broke and everyone had to wear their coats. A day before the wedding, my maternal grandmother slipped on a patch of ice and broke her ankle. They wheeled her out of the hospital after her surgery long enough for her to attend the wedding. My mother wore a fitted gown with lace and capped sleeves and carried a bouquet of white flowers, the bridesmaids wore ankle length crushed velvet dresses the color of deep purple, and my dad wore a black bow-tie and smile that could warm any room. A pair of twenty-something lovebirds promised in a freezing church that day to love each other through sickness and health until their final days. After the ceremony and small reception where cake was cute and toasts made, they ended their wedding visiting my grandmother in the hospital and spent three days on a honeymoon in New York City. My mother says their wedding day and honeymoon was magical even though things did not go as originally planned. My parents were married for forty-two years until my mother’s death in 2013. If this year has taught us anything, it’s that bad things will happen but you don’t have to let them ruin your special day. To all the brides and grooms who will walk down the aisle this year in the middle of a pandemic, remember the most important thing in any marriage is love. For this special bridal issue of Her magazine you will meet two couples, Logan and Trent and Daria and Eddie. These two couples navigated the ups and downs of wedding planning during a pandemic and both stories will warm your wedding heart. I dedicate this bridal issue to my parents, Nick and Linda, who just celebrated their heavenly 49th wedding anniversary. Thank you for both showing me that no matter what happens, love always wins in the end.

Christina Ruotolo

— editor

Contents Cover Story

4-9 Love, Marriage & Covid

Inside

26 In Bloom Boudoir Studio Now Open in Greenville

Meet Her & Him

30 Logan & Trent Drumm 10 Her Spotlight: Risk Managers 12 Her Panel: Weddings Over The Years 14 Confession of a Pandemic Bride 17-21 Weddings Through The Decades 22 Wedding Day With A Dose Of Vitamin D 23 Her Recipe: Salmon Cakes 25 Her Advice: Preparation For a Great Marriage

Her — February 2021

BY CHRISTINA RUOTOLO

irst comes love, then comes marriage, then comes COVID, then comes…. wait, that’s not how the song is supposed to go. But over the last year, this is the new wedding tune every bride and groom have been singing. Before COVID-19, a boy gets down on one knee, a girl says yes, he slips a ring on her finger, then the planning commences. Long guest lists are made, flights booked to warm, sunny beachy locations, wedding dresses are bought, hotel room reserved and the rest is a dizzy list of cake tastings, bridal shopping, invitations and hundreds of other to dos. A few days before the wedding, the bride and her girl crew don matching tiaras and sashes, partake in a few adult beverages while the groom and his posse enjoy a wild night of their own. A few days later, she wears white, he wears his dress blues, she says yes, he says yes, they enjoy a long, passionate kiss and dance the night away. There is no COVID, no masks, no hand sanitizer stations, or social distancing. There is hugging, dancing, kissing, eating not thinking, “Did I wash my hands? Did I pick up the right drink? There are tight lines of people snaking around the open bar, fingers grabbing at trays of finger foods, and cake is sliced and eaten with or without a real fork, no plastic forks in site here. People get tipsy, hug their friends a little

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too long and in some cases, you all fight and claw for the prized bouquet, your ticket to love. This year, the scene looks quite a bit different. I have been planning and managing weddings for over 20 years and I normally work 10 to 15 weddings a year. In 2020, I did three. THREE. I wore my mask, social distanced, fist bumped the bride and groom (no hugs here) after I pronounced them married and enjoyed the strangest year of wedding planning ever. I was super excited though that all three of the weddings I managed and performed were for some of my favorite people. One of those amazing women is my former co-worker and gal pal, Logan. She is a bright light in a world that right now is anything but. Her smile lasts for days and she is always happy and laughing. She is a great friend who would be there if you needed anything and I would have loved to have her as one of my caring teachers. I bought her her first drink when she turned 21, and I helped her navigate the world of dating, offering advice when needed. I am quite a few years older than she is, so I enjoyed living vicariously through her young journey through love and it has been so amazing to watch her fall in love. In 2019, Logan met a new man named Trent. Every time she talked about him, her cheeks flushed with joy, and you could

Her — February 2021

hear in her voice the authenticity of what was turning into true love. He was going to the be the one, her Lobster, her Penguin...her Channing Tatum. And just a few short months later during Christmas Eve 2019, Trent got down on one knee in front of a Christmas tree with lights and popped the question. This past summer, in the midst of a pandemic, they said I do in an open air wedding under an arch made of sunflowers overlooking a bridge and a sparkling pond. They promised through the uncertainty of the world around them to love each other in sickness and in health, and little did they know, their first year of marriage would test them in many ways and they would have to lean on each other and that love to get them through it all. I am so happy to share Logan and Trent’s magical love journey with Her readers. I wanted to know the whole story from first glance to now, so I interviewed them on how they survived their planning and first year of marriage in a pandemic. And in my opinion, there is nothing better than an old fashioned love story to warm your hearts this winter.

Trent, what did you think of Logan when you first met her? When I first saw Logan I thought she was beautiful. We didn’t talk the first time I saw her. When we finally did, I knew right away that she was someone I wanted to keep around.

Logan, what did you think of Trent when you first met him? The very first time I recall seeing Trent, he was covered in grease working on his truck in our best friends’ driveway. Our best friends are married and, until this point, we had not crossed paths. I remember thinking he needed a shower (haha). The first time I actually spoke with Trent, I could tell right away that he was a caring man who would do anything for those he loved. We planned a surprise party together for our mutual best friends and we have been hooked since!

and the tradition of it all. I proposed to her with the help of her parents and our best friends in front of the tree on Christmas Eve.

Logan, what was the first thing that went through your mind when Trent proposed? “Omg…omg…omg” then “Oh crap, I have on a flamingo Christmas sweater.” I woke him up five times that night to ask him if he was still sure. Little did Logan and Trent know, but a storm was a brewing and just two months into their engagement, a pandemic would hit the world with a bang.

How long after your engagement did you find out about the COVID-19 shutdowns? Logan: We were engaged on Christmas Eve of 2019. By

February of 2020, we began to hear more and more about COVID, and I immediately started getting anxious. By this point, I was finished with almost all of the major wedding plans (location, catering, photographer, cake, etc.). We had already adjusted the date twice for a few reasons and there wasn’t much availability left at our venue. By March when our school was made to go virtual, I was very worried. Trent and I went back and forth for months about whether we should postpone.

How did the shutdowns affect your wedding plans? What changed? Logan: When we began seeing shutdowns due to COVID, I

Trent, now let’s talk about that proposal.

followed every news conference hoping that things would start to get better. Luckily, we were able to tour our venue, complete our menu and cake tasting, and I was able to pick out and order a dress all before shutdowns. The biggest impact we felt surrounding planning was the guest list and invitations. With Trent’s family being from out of state, we knew that there would likely be some issues with travel. Our venue had to set a maximum capacity, which we wanted to come in far below to make our guests comfortable. We ended up cutting our guest list down by 50 guests right from the start. We sent invitations out, fully aware that many of those invited may not attend. Due to the ever-changing statistics and changes that went on, it was very difficult to get an accurate guest count. We had people change their minds about coming up to the week of the wedding. We ultimately ended up with about 100 people less than what RSVP’d. We also had to wear masks at every visit to any of our vendors, as well as alterations and fittings. We had to ensure that spacing at the venue would be adequate for our guests. Luckily our venue location was large and both indoor and outdoor, so guests had many options to spread out. We budgeted in purchasing masks for all of our guests and wedding parties (although it was their option to wear), as well as lots and lots of sanitizer.

I decided I wanted to propose in November of 2019. Logan’s favorite holiday is Christmas. She loves to be with her family

What was your biggest fear for your wedding day being that it was in the middle of a pandemic?

Trent, what is your favorite thing about Logan? What made you fall in love with her? My favorite thing about Logan and the reason why I fell in love with her is that she's able to put others before herself and that truly does speak volumes in today's society.

Logan, what is your favorite thing about Trent? What made you fall in love with him? My favorite thing about Trent is how passionate he is about the things/people that are important to him. I fell in love with his kind heart, his ability to make me laugh even when I don’t want to, and he is the calm to my storm.

Her — February 2021

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Logan & Trent's WEDDING DETAILS

Wedding Cake: Three tied wedding cake provided by The Topiary, Jacksonville Wedding Venue: The Rustic Barn at Half Moon, Jacksonville Wedding Bouquet: Created by floral artists at Forget-Me-Not Flowers and Gifts, Jacksonville Wooden door decor made by Trent and Logan. They built the doors themselves. The actual doors were salvaged antiques (and had layers and layers of paint to get through). Logan made the window with wedding party. The sign was purchased on Etsy. All other décor was purchased from various retailers. Wedding Dress: Designed by Essence of Australia Bride’s Glitzy Boots by Corral

Trent: I was most concerned with the health of our older family members, as well as my family coming in from out of the state.

Logan: OTHER PEOPLE. I was so concerned

about the health and safety of our friends and family. I had such anxiety the entire day and for two weeks after. We gave all of our guests the heads up about our precautions, but also explained that if they weren’t comfortable, we understood! We were fully prepared to have just our immediate family there. It still would have been our beautiful day.

Trent, what was the best part of your wedding day?

realizing that we were actually getting married. I love that our guest list ended up being smaller. It was so much more intimate and included some of the most important people in our lives.

Were you able to go on a honeymoon and if so, where did you go and how was a pandemic honeymoon different than a non-pandemic honeymoon? Trent: We were not able to go on a

honeymoon. We decided to not plan one with the uncertainty that surrounded travel during that time. We also didn’t want to go somewhere and not get to fully experience it. Logan also had to go back to work the following Monday.

The best part of the wedding day for me was being able to relax with our family and friends after the ceremony was over. It was nice to be able to let loose and have fun.

Trent, what is your favorite part about being married to Logan?

Logan, what was the best part of your wedding day?

My favorite part about being married to Logan is always having my best friend around.

The ceremony was my favorite part…

Logan, what is your favorite part about being married? Never feeling like I am alone in anything (also he’s a really good cook, LOL). Little did Logan and Trent know, but another storm was brewing and just a few short months into their marriage, they would meet COVID head on.

Tell us what happened when you realized you had COVID-19? We both tested positive for COVID-19 in November 2020. We had been married for about three months when Trent tested positive first. I had to immediately quarantine with him, however I did not have any symptoms for the first week and I continued to test negative. We were both exposed at the same time to a family member. I was extremely worried about Trent and didn’t know exactly how to handle him being in pain. I am so used to him being the strong one. I communicated with his parents a lot, went and bought a new thermometer and pulseox, and checked his vitals hourly. I hated seeing him in bed all day…that is not my husband. About a week later, I developed a headache and sore throat. It eventually turned into a persistent cough. I am very strongwilled and continued to work through COVID virtually. I eventually got to the point that my heart rate was way too high and I couldn’t breathe. Trent took me to the hospital and had to drop me off and leave. That was so scary for us both. Luckily, I was treated and given medicine and didn’t have to be admitted. Trent took such good care of me, the house, and our four dogs. We were lucky in that we weren’t very sick at the same time, so we could take care of each other!

What has been the most positive thing to happen to you both in the last year? Trent: Finally having a home of our own. Logan: Other than getting married, the best thing that has happened for us has been the purchase of our first home!

Now that you have survived almost your first year of marriage, what do you see for the second year of marriage? Logan: We plan to try to relax and enjoy the next year of

marriage. Trent has enrolled in college and I am finishing my master’s and a graduate certification and plan to start pursuing my doctorate.

And of course, the most asked question after a wedding is when are you going to have some babies? Logan: No definite plans for kids right now…we have four dogs and they are a handful all by themselves!

Logan and Trent are now COVID- free and enjoying their new home and settling into their new life as a married couple. No matter what the future holds, they are going to be just fine. Now see that was a great love story with dips and turns and no matter what, love always wins in the end. Congratulations Logan and Trent. Cheers!

Her — February 2021

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Her — February 2021

BY DARIA BEDDARD met Eddie on May 13, 2016, in Florida the weekend before he moved back up to North Carolina. I thought for sure we’d never see each other again. Almost a year later, we had our first date and dated long distance for about a year. After Hurricane Irma hit in September of 2017, we made the decision that I would be making the move to be with him in Greenville. Two years later, almost to the date, I made the move. On August 18, 2019, my life was forever changed when the love of my life, Eddie proposed to me. We were in Savannah, Georgia, and I had ruined all his plans as far as the details of how it was going to go down. He had never been there before and I, being a lover of all things Savannah, basically changed everything he wanted to do. It was late, and hot, and I could hear the dog barking in our rented-out apartment, but when he insisted that we kept on walking, I knew what was happening. He could barely get out the words before I burst into tears and said yes. I wasted no time starting to plan. I mean, like most women, (I think), I had a Pinterest board saved with all the decorations, dresses, rings, and all the other stuff. I found a place that had my dream dress, and my best friend was coming into town to start all the festivities. Labor Day weekend came, and, before it was all said and done, I knew almost all the details of the wedding, including where I was getting married, how I needed to order my dress, the menu options, drink options, and at least half the guest list. I set up a website that was free to have people RSVP so that I didn’t have to track anything extra. It also allowed me to have all my details readily accessible to the family members including my registry, directions to the venue, surrounding hotels, and the closest airports. I had never in my life felt more prepared months in advance of something so major. I should have known then it was too good to be true. By February 2020, we started getting RSVPs in, and family mem-

bers were making reservations for flights and

first dance, or even have pro-

hotel rooms. My best friend had also arranged

fessional pictures to celebrate

my bachelorette party in Nashville, with fun

us. I wanted at least that.

plans to visit all the museums and karaoke

So we planned it for Nov.

bars. It was, no doubt, going to be epic.

20, and, while the plans didn’t

March 11 came, and I was wheels up in a

go exactly as we thought they

plane heading to “Nashvegas.” We knew that

would, the day was so magi-

some things had already shut down, but we

cal and filled with love. Being

weren’t letting this stop us! We had no clue

able to share those moments

what was to come. As we got settled into our

with my husband and to have

Airbnb, we learned of more places on our list

a day to express our love, even

that had shut down. We continued to say, “It’s

if it’s six months later, was a

OK! We’ll find things to do!” Some of our plans

day we’ll never forget. The

weren’t ruined, but some had to be completely

plus side is that we can cele-

rearranged.

brate twice a year now!

Overall, the bachelorette party was a win. On March 15, I sat there in disbelief, along with the rest of the nation, as I watched the country start to shut down. Two weeks,

A FEW NOTES I WOULD PASS ON TO FUTURE BRIDES: •

that’s what we were told. At this point, I wasn’t making any chang-

cial day with your spouse. In reality, while you want to be

es. It was two weeks later that I started to have a mild panic attack. Schools were going to remain virtual through the end of

No matter what happens, do not lose sight of sharing a spesurrounded by family and friends, it truly is just about you.

•

Get yourself the website. Even though things didn’t work out

the school year. I knew that was going to impact so may things. I

the way I thought they would, the website was so helpful in

remember bawling.

helping me keep organized. I was able to link my registry

You see, May 15 was our wedding date. We picked that because of the significance of all of our big things happening in May. It

and all. •

There are wristbands now that you can order for your guests

became very clear that a May wedding would not be safe, and I

to wear that are color coded. It allows people to see who’s

couldn’t imagine having another date. But, because of the situa-

comfortable with what kind of interaction. The ones I saw

tion at hand, I couldn’t knowingly put our older family members at risk for our own selfish needs. My grandmother has already

included no contact, elbow bumps, and full on hugs. •

Most importantly, do not plan your wedding on making other

battled through severe pneumonia, and if she caught COVID, it

people happy. Make a day that will live with love in your hearts

was likely she wouldn’t survive. So, we were able to easily change

for the rest of your lives. I’m sure glad I did!

our date to Labor Day weekend, thankfully. We still got married on May 15 with my mom, my aunt, his mom,

Daria Beddard is a newlywed and a Florida transplant to eastern

and his stepfather present, along with two of our very dear friends.

NC. She loves spending time with her husband, animals, and friends

We were not going to give up our date, but we could always do

and has always wanted seasons, so the autumns have not disap-

the big celebration later.

pointed her at all. She is a partner with Trades of Hope. For more

By July, it was clear that things weren’t getting any better. We

information, visit her website, www.tradesofhope.com/Dariamitsos.

contacted our vendors to cancel in hopes that we could plan something down the road. Our photographer and the photo-booth gladly refunded us with complete understanding, but the venue would not refund our deposit. We considered legal action. But after speaking to a lawyer, we realized it could have taken months to get to the end of it, and while the money was important, my mental health was more important. As Labor Day came and went, the emotions of not having our special day were heavy on my heart. I had already had my dress and it was being tailored, and I still had dreams of me being able to wear it. After speaking to my dear friend who is a photographer, we decided that we were going to do a bridal photography session. Eddie and I never got a chance to say our own vows, have a

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1. Bouquet- This Antique Broach Bouquet is the perfect way to add glitz and glamour to your roaring 20s wedding day. (www.glambouquet.com) 2. Cake- This roaring 20s themed wedding cake features classic Art deco style by incorporating geometric patterns such as sunbursts, zigzags, chevrons, and sweeping curves in gold and black. (www.chicvintagebrides.com) 3. Wedding Dress- Eliza Jane Howell 20s inspired wedding gown features Gatsby glamour to make any head turn. (www.elizajanehowell.com)

4. Table Decor- Add black and gold pops of color with flapper fringe or tall feather centerpieces to provide touches of Gatsby glamour. 5. Transportation- Rent a 20s inspired limousine for your bridal party for a true roaring 20s experience. (www.triadroaring20slimo. com)

6. Throwback 20s WeddingCornelia Vanderbilt married John F. A. Cecil on April 29, 1924. There were two separate invitations to the occasion. Five hundred people received an invitation to the ceremony at All Souls Church at 12 noon and the reception immediately following at Biltmore House. Another 2,500 received a separate invitation to attend only the wedding reception at 12:30 p.m.

1. Bouquet- Brides in the 50s enjoyed bridal bouquets with various shades of whites and creams and opted for carnations, roses, Lily of the Valley, Myrtle, Sweet William, Hyacinth, and Ivy. 2. Cake- Enjoy vintage style cake with classic elements that work with any decade (www.facebook. com/weddingcakesbysue/)

8. Throwback 50s Wedding- Grace Kelly married Prince Rainier III of Monaco on April 19, 1956 The bride’s wedding gown is still highly regarded as one of the most beautiful wedding dresses ever made. Featuring a high-necked, long-sleeved dress, with a long, billowing skirt, and 10-and-a-half-foot-long train, the dress was designed by Helen Rose and made from 125-year-old Brussels lace, taffeta, and thousands of hand-sewn pearls.

3. Wedding Dress- Tea length dresses and tulle make any wedding dress perfect for your 50s themed wedding. (www.cuttingedgebrides.com) 4. Ceremony Decor- Greet guests with a gift of a vintage hankie for a unique gift 5. Reception Decor- Add a touch of 50s rock-n-roll into your table décor with these fun centerpieces (www.rocknrollbride.com) 6. Transportation- Rent a classic 1952 Rolls Royce Silver Wraith (www.carolinaclassiccarrentals.com) 7. Hair- Go for a classic pin-up with red lips and cat eye eyeliner

6. 1. 2.

4. 5.

1. Bouquet- For Boho style wedding bouquets, the wilder and fresher the better. Select vibrant wild flowers such as Sunflowers, Veronica, Peonies, and Dahlias. Contact Jefferson Florist in Greenville to help you create a beautiful bouquet for any season. (www.jeffersonflorist.com)

4. Hair- To evoke a free-spirit and effortless elegance, opt for flowing hair in soft tendrils and add a fresh crown of wildflowers for an earthy and ethereal look. (https://blog.wedpics.com- photo by Ciara Richardson Photography)

2. Cake- When choosing a cake for a Bohemian style wedding, look to nature for inspiration. Select natural elements such as succulents, fresh flowers, and twigs, berries, or plants and leaves for a natural, organic feel. (www.facebook.com/weddingcakesbysue/)

5. Wedding Favors- Give your guests the gift of natural light and serenity with these wooden tea light holders. (www.etsy.com)

3. Wedding Dress- The Bohemian style wedding dress is all about comfort. Enjoy flowing floor length gowns in gauzy and breezy fabrics with wide sleeves and open necklines. This Lillian West Aline cotton lace gown features bell sleeves, a criss-cross strapy back with a chiffon bias band at the natural waist, complete with satin lining. (www.lillianwest.com)

6. Throwback 70s Wedding- Several decades before Bill Clinton became president of the United States, he married Hillary Rodham on October 11, 1975 in the living room of their Arkansas home in front of fifteen guests. After the ceremony, they had a reception in their back garden for several hundred friends and family. Hillary only paid $53 for her bohemian style lace gown with its empire waist and gypsy skirt.

Her — February 2021

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1. Wedding dress- All brides should feel like a princess on their

5. Bouquet- To add romantic elegance to your ceremony, select

wedding day and this dress will do just that. This Christina Wu

a bouquet using the same flowers Duchess Kate used in her

wedding dress features a full tulle ball gown with bead detailing on the Basque-waist bodice with a sweetheart neckline in ivory and

wedding to Prince William back in 2011. She selected flowers for their special meaning including lilies for the return of happiness;

silver.

hyacinths for steady love; ivy for fidelity and friendship; and myrtle,

(#15574- houseofwu.com. Also available for order at

the emblem of matrimony.

avaformalswashington.com) 6. Transportation- Arrive and leave your wedding in elegance 2. Tiara- Nothing says royalty like adding a tiara to your bridal

with a horse drawn carriage. (Southern Breezes Carriages in

décor. Cabbage & Kings offers a variety of British décor, clothing

Charlotte, NC can provide a carriage to help you arrive and leave

including beautiful designer tiaras as well as silk gloves and jewelry to add that special British touch to any occasion. (Located inside

your wedding in style. (http://southernbreezes.com)

Little Shoppes & South Market Antiques, Washington, NC)

7. Throwback 80s Wedding- Princess Diana's fairy tale wedding to Prince Charles took place at Westminster Abbey in London

3. Shoes- What better way to feel like a princess then to wear your

on July 29, 1981 where over 600,000 people lined the streets and

very own sparkly heels reminiscent of Cinderella's glass slippers. These women's leatherette stiletto heel closed toe pumps feature rhinestone crystals. (www.jjshouse.com)

3,500 guests attended the lavish royal wedding. The bride’s dress was covered in 10,000 pearls and had the longest train in history at 25-feet long. The gown was designed by David and Elizabeth Emanuel.

4. Cake- The 80s was all about height, so choose a cake with multiple layers with touches of silver, gold or bling. This wedding cake has beauty, class and style. (http://www.berylscakes.com)

5. 4.

HEALTH

WITH A DOSE OF VITAMIN D BY TARA WIND AND SHAY ERNEST

In addition to looking and feeling their best, this year gives brides-to-be another goal leading up to their wedding: boosting their immune systems during the COVID-19 pandemic. The exhaustion and added stress, inherent in wedding planning, already weakens the immune system, then add in the stress of the pandemic. Recent research has shown that adequate vitamin D levels can protect against COVID-19 by regulating a healthy inflammatory response and boosting immune cell production. Vitamin D is nicknamed the “sunshine vitamin” because our bodies can produce it when our skin is exposed to sunlight. Deficiency risk is higher during the winter months as a result of being indoors more and bundling up to stay warm. Therefore, getting vitamin D from your diet becomes even more important. Fortified foods such as breakfast cereal, orange juice, milk (including soy milks and alternatives) and mushrooms exposed to UV light provide most of the Vitamin D in American diets. We can also get vitamin D from non-fortified foods like oily fish (trout, salmon, tuna, mackerel), egg yolks, and beef. Although we can get vitamin D from both food and the sun, nearly one third of the U.S. population is still at risk for having a deficiency. To get enough on a daily basis, try to include foods containing vitamin D at meals and snacks. Start your day with a fortified breakfast cereal with milk or yogurt and a small glass of orange juice. Have hard-boiled eggs as a snack. For dinner, try the recipe for delicious salmon cakes. If you think you are

deficient, talk to your doctor and get your vitamin D levels tested. Sometimes vitamin D supplements are required, in addition to sunlight and incorporating foods containing vitamin D in your well-balanced diet. (1) Looker AC, Johnson CL, Lacher DA, et al. Vitamin D status: United States 2001–2006. NCHS data brief, no 59. Hyattsville, MD: National Center for Health Statistics. 2011. (2) https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/ treatments-for-covid-19#:~:text=There%20is%20some%20 evidence%20to,with%20COVID-19

Tara Wind, MS, RD, LDN is the dietetic internship director at East Carolina University. She did her undergraduate program at UNC-Chapel Hill and graduate work at Meredith College. She has been a registered dietitian for over 20 years, with the last six involved with interns. Shay Ernest graduated from East Carolina University with a bachelor’s degree in nutrition and dietetics. She is a dietetic intern completing her clinical rotations at UNC Lenoir Health Care in Kinston. Her goal after the internship is to become a registered dietitian where she hopes to help patients understand the connection between food and health.

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RECIPE

SALMON

Recipe adapted from “The Mediterranean Diet Cookbook for Two” by Anne Danahy, RDN

IN GR ED IE NTS: •

• • •

15-ounce canned salmon without salt, drained 1 tbsp olive oil, divided ½ cup celery, minced ½ cup onion, minced

DI RECT I O NS: • • • • •

1 tsp dried dill 1 tsp dried parsley ½ tsp pepper 2 eggs, beaten 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

NOTES:

We like this recipe because the convenience of using canned salmon. But feel free to use fresh salmon if you have it on hand! If you are not a fan of dill, try using thyme or crab boil seasoning instead. The celery can be switched out with bell peppers too. Make it your own and use what you like!

NUT R I TI ON I NFO R MAT I O N :

Serving size 2 salmon cakes (yields 4 servings): Calories 278 kcal Fat 11 g Total Carbohydrate 18 g Protein 27 g

Place drained salmon in a large bowl. Remove any skin and bones if necessary. Set aside. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add ½ tablespoon of oil and the celery and onion. Sauté for 5 minutes. Add the sautéed vegetables, dill, parsley, and pepper to the salmon; stir to combine. Next add the beaten egg and the panko breadcrumbs, stir to combine. Form the salmon mixture into 8 patties, each should be about 3 inches wide and ½ inch thick. Using the same skillet, wipe it clean and return to a medium-high heat. Add the remaining ½ tablespoon of olive oil and two salmon cakes, cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining salmon cakes.

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Her — February 2021

December may not mark the peak of wedding season, but many couples tie the knot at the culmination of the holiday season. According to The Knot, a leading wedding industry resource and information site, New Year’s Eve weddings are popular. A poll from The Knot found that 7,230 weddings were scheduled for December 31, 2017. Flowing champagne, extra vacation days during the holidays and long weekends, as well as the merry atmosphere of the holiday season can make New Year’s Eve a great time to get hitched. BBQ Pork & Turkey Chicken & Ribs Fresh Home Made Sides

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Her — February 2021

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ADVICE

BY COACH CHRIS

ello ladies! I am super excited about this edition of Her

KEY 2: Learn to forgive often

Magazine because it is a special edition: The Bridal is-

Marriage is a classroom. Your feelings will get hurt and it is import-

sue. Let me tell you why I love this: It is because I ab-

ant to learn to forgive. Do not sweat the small stuff so to speak.

solutely love marriage! I think that marriage is truly a

One of my friends once said this statement to me and it has a lot of truth: “if it is not worth divorcing over—do not spend energy

blessing and an honor—when done right. My husband and I have the privilege of meeting with couples

on it!”

who are thinking of getting married and those who are already married. It is our passion to see marriages work—but most impor-

KEY 3: Learn how to live selflessly

tantly that marriages have access to the right tools and resources

Selfishness is the fastest way to bring destruction in a marriage.

that are needed to experience a great marriage. Each year, we

If you are going to be fulfilled in your marriage, you will have to

plan and facilitate a marriage retreat through our business (The

learn how to give more than you take. Pouring yourself into your

Monday Solutions Group) called “Focusing On Forever” where we

spouse will give you fulfillment.

take couples away for the weekend and lead them through various activities and exercise that are designed to help strengthen their

KEY 4: Continue dating

marriages. It is such an honor for us to partner with couples from

I cannot tell you how many couples forget how to date once they

all walks of life as they focus on growing their marriage.

get married. To nurture your relationship, you will want to do the

One of the things that we hear often from couples is this: “we

things that made you attracted to the person in the first place!

wish we would have spent a little more time preparing for the mar-

Flirt with each other. Run around the house without clothes on (if

riage as much as we spent planning the wedding day.” Now, don’t

you all are by yourselves—of course!) Explore interests and activ-

get me wrong, the wedding day is quite important. It is a time to

ities AFTER you say “I do”—your marriage is worth the continual

bring family and friends together to witness a very special combin-

pouring in!

ing of lives through a sacred ceremony. The flowers are beautiful. The lighting of the unity candle is pretty. The dresses and tuxes

I wish you the best as you are preparing for your wedding day. I

are flawless, and the wedding cake is oh so delicious! I do want to

know that you are going to be an absolutely stunning bride! I just

just encourage you, as you are putting the finishing touches on

want to ask that you keep it in the forefront of your mind though,

your guest list that you do not forget to make sure you plan for

once the wedding comes to a close, that you do not forget that

more than a great wedding day—prepare for a great marriage.

you still must work on building a great marriage. Know that I am

I want to offer you 4 basic keys that I have found that are very important as you are about to spend your entire life becoming

excited for you and I hope that this article has been a blessing to you. Congratulations and many blessings to you!

“one” with the person that you believe will be with you forever. Christy Jones, also known as Coach Chris, is an improvement KEY 1: Communicate, Communicate, Communicate!

coach for leaders who works to help them break free from feeling

Communication is if you are going to have a great marriage. It is

overwhelmed while taking their teams to high levels of perfor-

important that you learn how to express yourself and listen well!

mance. Contact her at beginmonday.com.

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Her — February 2021

IN BLOOM BOUDOIR STUDIO NOW OPEN IN GREENVILLE

BEAUTY

BY CHRISTINA RUOTOLO

oudoir photography has grown in popularity over the

you have no idea what you’re doing, and your brain is seriously

past few years because women like to commemorate

in the awkward mode of operation. She says, “rest easy knowing

milestones and celebrate special occasions. A rising

that I GOT YOU!” Beauty is seen through a smile and glimmer

trend and investment among Brides, is the inclusion of

in the eye. Her focus is on revealing the genuine you.

a bridal boudoir album gifted to her significant other and life

Her goal is to get to know you as a new friend because, she’s

partner or by hosting a bridal session with her party of atten-

basically seen you at your most vulnerable, so… you will leave

dants. This is a spa-like experience that is momentously photo-

the boudoir session feeling pretty. You will feel more in touch

graphed as a keepsake.

with your feminine side. You’ve looked in the mirror and you now

How wonderful, that Kris Fay, owner and photographer at

remember that taking a moment for yourself, reintroduces you

In Bloom Studios has opened In Bloom Boudoir, a privately

to the lady that others see when they look at you; not to mention

owned boudoir studio located at 2404 S. Charles Blvd., Suite

you have a timeless album to keep forever.

G, Greenville NC. This “by appointment only” studio is operated

“We are all busy. We are shuffling our daily calendars and

by women, for women. Kris and her daughter, Brilea Conner

let’s just own the fact, that as women, we are likely multitasking

(local hair and makeup stylist at Body Bliss Salon, 3701 Charles

through our day. Whether we are experiencing the excitement of

Blvd., Greenville) work together to tailor your personal boudoir

wedding planning, or we are trudging through the grind of the

experience. You are warmly greeted with a robe and beverage

workday while our children swim through their chaotic sched-

as you are welcomed to the salon chair. Here you will experience

ules, we are all women, that sometimes (although unwillingly)

a transformation of makeup and hair style where you step up

forget to stop and take a moment to BLOOM. So, no matter the

your everyday gorgeous to a glamorous version of yourself. You

title you currently hold, whether you’re a bride, a mom, survivor

are given access to the client closet with varieties of styles and

(or all of the above), invest in yourself, because you are worth

sizes for your wardrobe changes.

it. Our motto is, “a flower doesn’t consider competing with the

Kris states: “let me be clear, boudoir doesn’t mean sex. It

flower beside it, it just blooms!”

means sexy. You define your own sexy. A size, a shape, an age, doesn’t define that for you”. Brides come in all shapes, sizes and ages and Kris professionally guides you through posing and wardrobe selections that are suitable for all body types. Her goal is to comfortably bring out your best features. Kris is an easy-going photographer that likes to laugh and cut up throughout any shoot (and especially boudoir) when you likely already feel like

For more information on In Bloom Studios, contact them through these avenues: www.inbloomstudiosnc.com, www.inbloomboudoir.com, @in_bloom_boudoir, @in_bloom_studios, or on Facebook at In Bloom Beauties-https://www.facebook.com/ groups/485919965709788. To contact Brilea Connor, email her at brileaconnor.glossgenius.com or check her out on Instagram at Hairstylist@bodyblisssalonandspa.

Her — February 2021

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KRIS

BRILEA PHOTOS BY KRIS FAY

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Her — February 2021

LOGAN MOSELEY DRUMM

26 • WINTERVILLE • TEACHER Hobbies: Traveling, binge-watching Netflix, and being outside What is your anthem (song that represents you)? Currently my song would be Settling Down by Miranda Lambert. I love music, so it changes a lot. Who is your style Icon? Miranda Lambert, and Audrey Hepburn Signature scent: Right now-Prada Candy Favorite food: French fries and diet coke Favorite movie: Titanic Favorite memory with Trent so far: Visiting his family’s lake house.. every time we go! Describe the perfect date with your husband: We love to cook together, especially making pizza. So, making pizzas and watching a movie on our couch.

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TRENT DRUMM

24 • WINTERVILLE • VETERAN/STUDENT Hobbies: Working on my truck, fishing, and hunting If you could have dinner with any one person dead or alive, who would it be and why? My Grandfather Drumm I can’t live without my... truck Favorite food: Chicken and Pastry Favorite movie or book: Band of Brothers Favorite memory with Logan so far: When we moved into our house Describe the perfect date with your wife: Red Sox Game

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Her — February 2021

BOUTIQUE GREENVILLE, NC

U Upscale l Women’s W ’ Cl Clothing hi S Store e • Jewelry & Accessories • Shoes • Game Day & Bridal Collections

64 44 E Arlington Blvd d, Grreenville, NC 27858 Web bsite: www.megsboutique.co om nstagram: @megsboutiquencc In Facebook: @megsboutiquencc

Em mail: megsboutique14@gmail.com m

252-560-5415 Meg’s Boutique NC Meg’s also has the Meg’s Boutique NC specializes in affordable trendy was started by local best jewelry selection fashion for all of your clothing needs. They have Megan Hall. At just 22 everyday clothing to lounge-wear to night out clothing. for anything you need. years-old, she started Gifts or shopping for They have a Game Day collection to cater to all of the her business online in ECU pirate needs as well as bridal collection or anyone yourself? They got July 2020 and watched you! They also have who needs that simple white dress for a rehearsal it take off to officially local owned handmade dinner, bachelorette parties, and even graduation. opening her store front jewelry booths in their in October 2020. store as well.

Her — February 2021

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Your Full-Service

Diane Edwards

Local Realtor

CSSS, GREEN, SRES

Multi-million Dollar Producer Former WBCBR Realtor® of the Year Coldwell Banker Sterling, Diamond and President’s Circle

Representing buyers, sellers and investors with experience & integrity.

mobile: (252) 945-0981

REALTOR® GRI, SRES

“Waterfront and Luxury Home Marketing”

Each Coldwell Banker Office is Independently Owned and Operated

Prime Properties

Ida Lynn Stox 252-714-5099 www.idalynnstox.com ida@idalynnstox.com

© 2019 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Afiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity

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Her — February 2021

We cover rustic to elegant and everything in between. If you are looking for an outdoor/indoor venue offering you views of the countryside and the feel of the farm but close to everything!

Please contact us for all of your event needs. 942 Laurie Ellis Road • Winterville • 252-531-3329 or 252-531-3258 • brocksberries@gmail.com • www.brocksfarm.com