Greater Goods

Wedding Gifts

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1. Recipes for newlyweds, Bon Von, 230 W Center Street, Hernando, MS 2. Annie Glass serving pieces, Ultimate Gifts, 2902 May Blvd. Suite 102, Southaven, MS 3. Etta B Pottery, Mimi’s on Main, 432 W Main St, Senatobia, MS 4. Mr. & Mr.s plate set, Cynthia’s Boutique, 2529 Caffey Street, Hernando, MS 5. Art and home accessories, The Speckled Egg, 5100 Interstate 55, Marion, AR 6. Blessing Beads and wine glasses, The Pink Zinnia, 134 West Commerce Street, Hernando, MS 7. Mockingbird Pottery, Southern Traditions, 120 W Bankhead St. #A, New Albany, MS 8. Mr. & Mr.s mugs, Bon Von, 230 W Center Street, Hernando, MS 9. Picture Frame, Merry Magnolia, 194 E Military Road, Marion, AR 10. MS made Pottery, Paisley Pineapple, 6542 Goodman Road, Olive Branch, MS 11. Pillow, Mimi’s on Main, 432 W Main St, Senatobia, MS 12. Painting and Pillows, Commerce Street Market, 74 W Commerce St, Hernando, MS

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1. Duke Cannon soaps, Commerce Street Market, 74 W Commerce St, Hernando, MS 2. Bentley Drink Ware, Merry Magnolia, 194 E Military Road, Marion, AR 3. Fishing coffee table book, Magnolia House, 2903 May Blvd, Southaven, MS 4. Corkcicle coolers, The Pink Zinnia, 134 West Commerce Street, Hernando, MS 5. Big Green Egg and Accessories, Complete Home Center, 32 E Commerce St, Hernando, MS 6. Cigars and accessories, Spring Street Cigars, 6080 Getwell Rd Suite 101, Southaven, MS 7. Grilling essentials, Ultimate Gifts, 2902 May Blvd. Suite 102, Southaven, MS 8. Rustic frame, The Speckled Egg, 5100 Interstate 55, Marion, AR 9. Fish art, Ultimate Gifts, 2902 May Blvd. Suite 102, Southaven, MS 10. Special Shit seasoning, Cynthia’s Boutique, 2529 Caffey Street, Hernando, MS 11. Jon Hart duffle bag, Community Discount Pharmacy, 100 N Front St, Senatobia, MS 12. Men's Devotionals, Mimi’s on Main, 432 W Main St, Senatobia, MS

Honeymoon Havens

56 58 DeSoto

By Debi Lander Photography courtesy of Debi Lander, The Venetian, New Orleans CVB and Gatlinburg.com

If your wedding was postponed and then downsized, you have all the more reason to splurge on a honeymoon, especially to an iconic destination known for romance.

Couples are honeymooning in picturesque places stateside that are as fascinating and romantic today as they were to their parents and even grandparents. Niagara Falls, Las Vegas, New Orleans, Gatlinburg, and Little St. Simons Island have certainly withstood the test of time for romance, but they also offer many new thrills and attractions. Although each location appeals to a particular type of couple, they all promise lifelong memories.

Gondola Rides at the Venetian. Las Vegas

NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y.

The sheer magnitude of Niagara Falls never fails to impress. Whether it needed it or not, the 1953 movie, “Honeymoon,” pushed its romantic lure over the edge. John Percy, president and CEO of Destination Niagara USA, says, “Niagara Falls has a long history as the Honeymoon Capital of the World. Today, couples still want that same timeless experience.” No trip to this wonder straddling the New York/Canadian border is complete without hopping on the Maid of the Mist. The boat ventures right up to the furiously cascading water. Landlubbers also can get up close and personal (at the American Falls) with The Cave of the Winds tour. Evening hand-in-hand promenade strolls supply spectacular illuminated pictures of the 700,000 gallons of water per second rushing over the Falls. Want more thrills? Soar above the wonder on a 15-minute helicopter flight. Beyond the main attraction, newlyweds honing their kitchen skills can take a hands-on class at Niagara Falls Culinary Institute. Wine enthusiasts? Take a scenic drive along the Niagara Wine Trail through traditional vineyards and enjoy ice wines, ciders, and mead. Lodging choices matter. The Giacomo, a boutique hotel in an Art Deco building, provides honeymooners room choices with a fireplace and whirlpool bath. The nearby Village of Lewiston offers the quieter Niagara Crossing Hotel & Spa, with its full spa and views of the Niagara Gorge. Before leaving, visit the Niagara Falls USA Official Visitor Center and claim your complimentary “We Honeymooned in Niagara Falls USA” certificate — signed by the mayor.

LAS VEGAS, NEV.

Las Vegas may be the Wedding Capital of the World, but Fletch Brunelle, marketing vice president for the Convention and Visitors Authority, says, “Vegas offers endless possibilities to fit every honeymooning couple’s interests and price point, including relaxing pools and day spas, exhilarating outdoor adventures, top accommodations, romantic world-class restaurants, and unparalleled entertainment. If you can dream it, you can do it in Las Vegas.” Start with a romantic gondola ride piloted by a Venetian Hotel singing gondolier. The ultimate swoon-worthy candlelight dinner at Mizumi offers a great dress-up excuse. Reserve the floating pagoda table, accessible by a private path through lush Japanese gardens, where chef Min Kim will prepare Japanese specialties. Stroll arm in arm along the famous strip mixed with high-end shops and high rollers. It’s not quite Paris, but still fun to ascend the Eiffel Tower and gaze upon the

St Louis Cathedral. New Orleans

Luxor Hotel’s pyramids. Sneak a kiss behind the dancing Bellagio Fountains before watching headliner acts and extravagant productions like Cirque du Soleil’s “O” show.

Vegas also affords some unexpected adventures — maybe a flightseeing tour over the Grand Canyon or car trips to nearby Hoover Dam and Valley of Fire State Park. The downtown Mob Museum explores the struggle between organized crime and “the law” while the Neon Museum flashes signs from old casinos. Whatever the budget, Vegas can deliver (at least what the slots don’t take away).

NEW ORLEANS, LA.

The Big Easy embraces and embodies its motto, “Let the good times roll!” as do honeymooners to the city that celebrates music, culinary, and cultural traditions. Newlyweds may wish to skip the craziness of Mardi Gras…or not! Head to iconic Jackson Square, then cuddle up on a mule-drawn carriage ride that includes private tours of the French Quarter’s lacy-iron architecture. Powdered sugar-drenched beignets and chicory coffee await at Café du Monde. Afterward, stroll the riverbank, browse the French Market, or

Sunset on Little St. Simons

take a tasting tour to learn about cocktails at the Sazerac House. At sunset, cruise the Mississippi River on the Steamboat Natchez. NOLA encourages quirky fun. Voodoo, ghosts, cemetery and swamp tours rank among the most exciting diversions. Ride a 19th-century streetcar or speed over wetlands in an airboat. History buffs will love the National World War II Museum. Also known as the Crescent City, New Orleans honors the birthplace of jazz. Try a jazz brunch in the Court of Two Sisters. Look for Cajun and Creole specialties at famous restaurants like Commander’s Palace, Brennan’s, Arnaud’s, or Cochon. Don’t miss the dueling pianos at Pat O’Brian’s, while you sip a Hurricane — the house libation. Lodging recommendations include Hotel Monteleone with its full spa and famous carousel bar or the luxurious Bourbon Orleans for its ideal location.

LITTLE ST. SIMONS ISLAND, GA.

The Lodge on Little St. Simons delivers nature lovers a laid-back ecovacation. It’s the only overnight choice on the 11,000-acre Georgia isle, hidden amongst maritime forests, coastal marshlands, and seven miles of sandy beach. A maximum of 32 guests experience something akin to a posh summer camp with adult drinks and gourmet meals. Board a ferry, cross the Marshes of Glynn, and step into a fairyland of giant live oaks draped with Spanish moss. The rustic-looking Hunting Lodge dates to 1917 and works as the resort’s heart and soul with a gathering and game room, two dining rooms, a little museum, and an office. Sixteen guest rooms in cottages or lodges dot the compound. Honeymooners prefer the one-bedroom Tom House. Secluded, all-inclusive escapes allow for late breakfast. Family-style lunches are encouraged though you can request a table for two. Daily activities feature the naturalist’s tour of the untamed wilderness, with over 300 species of birds and likely some gators, too. Sunbathing, beachcombing, kayaking, fishing, and bicycling on

20 miles of trails offer afternoon options. Guided boat excursions await all. Before dinner, join the casual social hour with wine, beer, and hors-d’oeuvres. Attendees mingle, recounting the day’s adventures. After dinner, entertainment runs from wildlife talks to poolside movies. Little wonder Little St Simons earns return visits.

GATLINBURG, TENN.

The allure of the Great Smokey Mountains and warm country hospitality attract vacationers to Gatlinburg. Honeymooners wishing alone time can’t beat the privacy and seclusion of a romantic cabin in the mountains. Time slows down; sipping a glass of wine (or moonshine) by the fireplace, the patio, or even in the hot tub satisfies. Quintessential mountain views complete the aura. Any time of year, Gatlinburg offers things to do and ways to play. Visit a theme park, go hiking, fishing, or simply stare at the stars. Ober Gatlinburg provides whitewater rafting or indoor skiing on artificial snow and a chairlift that takes you to the top of Mount Harrison. The iconic, 407-foot Gatlinburg Space Needle provides one of the most romantic things to do in the Smokies. The 360-degree observation deck affords seductive views of glowing city lights. Newlyweds Sarah Beth and Ty Boone of Star, Miss., recently honeymooned in a Gatlinburg cabin. “We remained busy from sun up till sundown, going to dinner shows, skiing at the Ober, tubing in the National Park, and spending a day at Dollywood,” says Sarah Beth. “I really enjoyed the Titanic Museum and learning about the ship. We both loved riding the Wild Eagle rollercoaster. I can’t wait for an anniversary to return.” And that’s how honeymoons should feel.

Debi Lander is a freelance writer and photographer currently living in Sarasota, Fla. Out of the five honeymoon locations, New Orleans would be her pick.

OTHER ONE

By Judy Garrison Photography courtesy of Seeing Southern Photography

A world-class photographer stood in front of a room of aspiring photographers — me included — and shared the most important advice she had given her wedding clients over the past 20 years: “After the wedding, you have two things: a husband and photographs.” And for that reason, your wedding photographer, like that of your spouse, is a decision which will last a lifetime. As a wedding photographer, I never forget the importance of my role on the wedding day; it’s a relationship which begins the moment I sit down with clients and extends long after the fireworks have faded. My technical skill should be mastery, and my relationship skills, even more paramount. When albums and wall art are delivered weeks after the wedding, I imagine my couple, curling up on their sofa, lovingly flipping through the album pages to a soundtrack of ohs and ahs, recalling their best day ever. As an artist, I take pride in creating lifelong heirlooms of their story. During a turbulent pandemic world, when so many

plans have had to be postponed and rescheduled, making concrete decisions that require dolling out hefty retainers and deposits is scary. Every initial meeting in 2021, whether in-person or via ZOOM, has revealed a more diverse clientele than in years past. There are more questions, especially concerning cancellations and postponements, as well as taking more time to sign the contract and move forward. These trepidations bring both pros and cons. Couples are more cautious, and rightly so. I reach for understanding with a side of education. All photographers must have more than a camera in their bag. Many vendors forget that, more than likely, this is the first wedding experience for most. It becomes part of my responsibility to educate my couple about the photography process and manage their expectations. And at the end, no surprises for anyone. Once the venue is booked, the next decision should be the photographer. Those two choices will define your day, and both are in the highest demand. Dates book quickly so as soon as you are sure, schedule the photographer immediately.

CHOOSING A PHOTOGRAPHER

Finding a photographer who is right for you takes planning and thought. Here are a few things that couples need to consider and do: Make an overall budget. From florals to guest gifts, put it all on the table at the very beginning. What can you afford? A professional photographer will be one of the high-ticket items, so decide upon a dollar amount before you fall in love with the wrong photographer. Research those within your budget, and email potential candidates as soon as the venue and date have been confirmed. Begin the conversation asking for availability and package pricing; once received, determine if the photographer is, indeed, an ideal fit. Find the style that moves you. Do you like fine art (creative and artistic)? Or are you more into photojournalism (unplanned and unobtrusive)? Many couples prefer

traditional (blend of modern and vintage) photos, while some like editorial (think Vogue, creative, and edgy). A photographer’s style can also include moody (shooting film and digital, bolder colors) or light and airy (natural light with lower contrast and soft colors). Many photographers stick to one style; however, many allow the setting and the couple to dictate the direction of the photography. Every location can point to a specific tone or mood. Schedule a ZOOM or meet faceto-face. Once you narrow the choices, ask for an in-person meeting or a Zoom call. Aside from being technically and professionally ideal, feeling comfortable around the photographer is a must. You will spend more time on your wedding day with your photographer than anyone else. Is there a connection, and are you comfortable around them? Are they demanding in instruction, or are they pleasant in guidance? Is their personality fun, flexible, and professional in documenting (no matter the style) your day? Honestly, do you like them? Ask the right questions. This is the moment for everyone to be on the same page. Ask everything that concerns you no matter how insignificant it might be. What is included in the packages? Are substitutions allowed? How are the images delivered? If it’s an online gallery, is it password protected? What kind of prints and products do you offer? How many photographers will be at the wedding? Will you have an assistant? Is travel included in your pricing? What about an engagement session? Can you build a print package of exactly what I want? When should I expect to receive my images? Do I have to order prints through you or may I print them elsewhere? Will you provide a personal print release? May I see one of your delivered wedding galleries? Read the fine print. Read through the contract carefully. Most photographers require a non-refundable retainer; in exchange, they will reserve that date on their calendar and not sell it to another. What happens if the wedding is cancelled or postponed? When you see “non-refundable retainer,” that money is spent when you reserve the date and not refunded; however, ask if it will transfer to the new date. Discuss whether or not images can be shared on social media and if the images will be watermarked. Most importantly, understand who owns the photos.

One point of confusion for most clients is copyright. Keep in mind that photographers retain copyright as creator of the images. Clients own the photos for use as stipulated in the contract. Also, never ask for RAW or unedited files. Time will tell. Time can’t be manufactured; you have to plan for it. And on the wedding day, when everything is a blur, having a photographer that knows exactly how much time it takes to create what you want is invaluable. Even if you have a wedding planner or a venue coordinator, working with your photographer on the timeline is imperative. Listen to them. Discussions begin months before the wedding day — shot list, family groupings, time frames — and that is the time to set the day’s schedule. My goal is to never ask my bride any questions on her wedding day; knowing her as I should, I already know the answer. A personal relationship with the clients and understanding of what they want from their wedding photography drafts every decision. Go with the pro. Photography is not the place to slash the budget. Friends or family with nice cameras (and good intentions) can’t produce the quality of images that a professional can. Professionals are skilled at positioning during the day to capture moments that can’t be recreated. Having the (contractual) assurance that you’ll have a photographer on site removes anxiety and a greater chance that something might come up, and you’ll be left with no photographer. Ditch the Digitals. Not entirely, of course. Remember the last time you gathered around your computer with the family, looking at images from the last big family event? Of course not. Images that live on walls or sit on a desk become an active part of everyday life. They become a living, breathing entity — a constant reminder of family, love, and moments. A point of conversation. An album to flip through. A physical connection to an unfolding story. Wedding photography is a huge investment; don’t simply allow the images to exist on a USB or in a folder. USBs are lost and computers fail as will the internet. Keep in mind that your photographer is an artist and the images works of art. Give

them the home they deserve. Allow the photographer to create an album of your story, so that when the family is gathered it becomes a centerpiece for generations. Then, it becomes a legacy, an heirloom, that will be passed down from generation to generation. Choosing the right photographer for your day provides comfort and assurance that when images are delivered weeks afterwards, your expectation will transform into elation. Photography isn’t simply showing up on the wedding day with a camera in hand. It’s about constant communication, time management, orchestrated planning, complimentary posing and editing, and curating an authentic love story that will last for the ages.

Judy and Len Garrison are award-winning travel and wedding photographers. To view their portfolio, visit www.seeingsouthernphotography.com/.