WILLOW OAK LODGE | TASTE OF FRANKLIN | SCOTTY KENNEDY
January/February 2022 Vol. 12 Issue No. 1
HERE COME
the brides
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FROM THE MANAGING EDITOR
I
t’s here to get your 2022 started off on a happy, positive note: our annual bridal edition of Franklin Living. For the wedding-lovers like me, there’s plenty to gush over in this issue. Within its pages, you will meet five newlywed couples and share in their love stories. Thanks to their photographers, we’re giving you a peek at their special wedding days, and I dare you not to swoon over the images that capture their joy and love. We put a special spotlight on the work of talented local photographer Scotty Kennedy, who photographed his niece’s wedding this fall. As a decades-long player in the industry, he shares some insight for getting those all-important wedding photos to keep the memories bright forever.
We also share a little wedding advice from our regular contributors, Emily Mays with your financial focus and Katernia Cole-Coffey with some timely thoughts on a beloved bridal tradition. Of course, we have plenty to fall in love with that isn’t wedding related, too. Amy McCollum has tasty recipes for your new year, and Philip Goad is bringing his spiritual wisdom. Willow Oak Lodge has something for everyone, from the hunters to the partiers, so don’t miss our look into this hidden gem in Spruce Pine, brought to you by Kim and Tim Horton. We hope you will treasure this special edition.
Alison James
Features Editorial ALISON JAMES MARÍA CAMP Contributors PHILIP GOAD HEATH GRIMES EMILY MAYS Marketing SHELLEY OZBIRN
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What’s Happening Money Matters Taste of Franklin Faith Focus Here Come the Brides Anatomy of a Wedding Photo From the Extension: Something Blue Hidden gem Education Corner Faces of Franklin County
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Administrative
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SOMMER MORRIS
____________________ Franklin Living is published bi-monthly by Franklin County Newspapers, Inc. Copyright 2020 by Franklin County Newspapers, Inc. P.O. Box 1088 Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-1881 fax: 256-332-1883 www.franklincountytimes.com
Franklin Living
ON THE COVER: Clair (née Kennedy) and Wilson Whitlock are Red Bay natives who married Sept. 4 at the First Baptist Church of Red Bay. Local photographer Scotty Kennedy, uncle of the bride, captured the images of their special day and shares his tips and insights starting on page 25.
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What’s What’s Happening Happening
Checkout outall allthe the upcoming upcoming Check community events! events! community Submit community events for future issues of Franklin Living to Submit community events for future issues of Franklin Living to alison.james@franklincountytimes.com. Requests must bereceived received Submit community events for future issues of Franklin to alison.james@franklincountytimes.com. Requests must beLiving by theby first of the month for consideration for the next edition. alison.james@franklincountytimes.com. Requests must be received the first of the month for consideration for the next edition. events subject to change or cancellation. by theAll first of theare month for consideration for the next edition.
LifeSouth Blood Drives Spring Spring Sports Registration Sports
January and February
Jan. 1 through Feb. 1 Registration Jan. 29 through March 7
Jan. 1The through Feb. 1 Russellville Jan. 29 through March 7 Parks and Recreation
Department will The Russellville sports Parksbegin and spring Recreation registration with soccer Department will signups Jan. 1 through is scheduled to be in Russellville on The LifeSouth bloodmobile begin spring sports Feb. 1. Youth soccer boystoand girls ages 3-12, and theregistration following dates: Jan. is2,for noon 5 p.m., O’Reilley Autocost Parts; withwill soccer is $35. Teams play their games atCourthouse; the soccer fields by Jan. 5, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Franklin County Jan. 8, noon signups Jan. 1 through the Chucky Mullins Center. Youth softball signup for girls toFeb. 6 p.m., Cricket Wireless; Jan. 13, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Russellville 1. Youth is for andcontinue girls ages 3-12,March and cost ages 6-12 soccer will begin Jan.boys 29 and through 7, Hospital; Jan. 21,will 7 a.m. totheir 3more p.m., Franklin Homes; Feb. 8, by 10 a.m. with a cost of $35. information call 256-332-8870, is $35. Teams playFor games at the soccer fields tothe 4:30Chucky p.m., Feb. signup 24, 9 a.m. 4 p.m., ext. 14.Listerhill Mullins Credit Center.Union; Youth and softball for to girls IHP. For more information visit www.lifesouth.org. ages 6-12 will begin Jan. 29 and continue through March 7, with a cost of $35. For more information call 256-332-8870, ext. 14.
Franklin County Basketball Rockin’ at Tournament the Roxy Jan. 11-15
Jan. 11 and Feb. 8
Rockin’ at the Roxy
Red Bay, Tharsecond Saturday ptown,The Vina, night of each month at Belgreen and 7 p.m. is the monthly Phil Campbell Jan. 11 and Feb. 8Band Kerry Gilbert teams concert will at the Historic The second face offRoxy on Theatre theSaturday in night of each at will be joined by a special guest for court for the month Russellville. The KGB 7 p.m. is the monthly annualeach Frankshow. Doors open at 6 p.m. Cost is $10 for adults, $5 forGilbert children 6-12 and free for children younger than 6. linKerry County Var- Band concert at the Historic sity Basketball Roxy Theatre in Tournament. Russellville. The KGB will be joined by a special guest for Teams will play 6 at each Vina show. for thisDoors open at 6 p.m. Cost is $10 for adults, $5 for children 6-12 and free for children younger than 6. year’s competition.
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Rockin’ at County the Roxy Franklin Jan. 15 and Feb. 12 Franklin County Basketball Tournament The second SaturBasketball Tournament
Jan.night 14-18of each day month at 7 p.m. is Red Bay, Red Bay, theTharptown, monthly Vina, Kerry Tharptown, Vina, conGilbert Band Belgreen and Belgreen and Historic cert atCampbell the PhilPhil Campbell Roxy Theatre in Rusbasketball teams basketball teams sellville. will off onKGB will faceface off The on will be joined the court for the court for by a the special guest for the Franklin Franklin each show. Doors County Varsity County Varsity Tournament. open at 6 p.m. Cost Tournament. Teams play is Teams $10will forwill adults, play $5 at Bay in 6-12 and free for children younger than 6. forRed children at Red Bay in this annual this annual competition among county teams. competition among county teams. Jan. 14-18
BTCPA’s “Send Me No Flowers” Feb. 13-16
Scale Back Alabama: The Bay Tree CounScale Back Alabama: Weigh-In Week cil for the Per form-
Weigh-In Week
ing 20-26 Arts in Red Bay Jan.
will host its secTheJan. Weigh-In 20-26 ond production of Week for teams the season, “Send The Weigh-In participating in Scale MeWeek Nofor teams Flowers,” Back Alabama will be Feb. 10-13, participating Scale Jan. 20-26, kickinginwith dinner available the play, at the Weatherford off the two and a half Back Alabama willbefore be month SBAhilarious comedy, George Kimball’s Center. In this Jan. program. 20-26, kicking is aoff free statewide hobby istwo hypochondria. When he overhears his docthe and a half weight-loss tormonth talking aboutSBA another patient who is on his way program. campaign designed out heart trouble, he misunderstands and preis awith free statewide to encourage pares to meet the end bravely. He puts his affairs in weight-loss Alabamians to get order and writes campaign designed healthy and have fun a heartbreaking letter to his wife to betoread after encourage doing it. Since thehis death – and this is only the beginning of George’s exploits in his delusional Alabamians get first challenge into 2007, Alabamians haveown lost more than 1 world. Dinner theater tickets must be to purchased advance. million pounds. more sign up or toinfind healthy and For have funinformation, aFor local weigh-in site, visit www.scalebackalabama.com. information about bringing a group, contact Beth doing it. Since the Hammock at 256-668-0045. first challenge in 2007, Alabamians have lost more than 1 million pounds. For more information, to sign up or to find a local weigh-in site, visit www.scalebackalabama.com.
MountainBlood Valley Hee Haw LifeSouth Drives
There be live Jan. 22 will and Feb. 1 music at Mountain Valley Hee Haw in Phil Campbell every Saturday night beginning at 7 p.m., featuring
The TheLifeSouth House Band. For more information call 256-810-4840. bloodmobile will be in Jan. 22 and Feb. 1 Russellville Jan. 22 LifeSouth at The IHPbloodmobile and Feb. 1 at Cricket will be in Wireless. The bloodmobile will be at IHP from 9 a.m. to 4 Russellville p.m. and at Cricket Wireless from noon to 7 p.m. For more Jan. 22 atvisit www.lifesouth.org. For additional questions information IHPappointments, and Feb. about eligibility and more call 1-888-7951 atLifeSouth Cricket supplies blood needs at Russellville Hospital. 2707.
LifeSouth Blood Drives
Wireless. The bloodmobile will be at IHP from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and at Cricket Wireless from noon to 7 p.m. For more Franklin living information visit www.lifesouth.org. For additional questions about appointments, eligibility and more call 1-888-7952707. LifeSouth supplies blood needs at Russellville Hospital.
Franklin Living Franklin living
MONEY MATTERS
Saying ‘I do’ to a budget-friendly wedding
F
iguring out your wedding budget can be confusing if you’ve never planned a large event. This will likely be the biggest party you’ll ever host – and probably the most expensive. It’s difficult to nail down a dollar amount if you’re unsure of what you can actually afford. However, working hard and putting in some time and energy early on will lead to a very happy “happily ever after.” Here are a few money tips to keep your finances and your stress level in check. Create a budget. Start by figuring out exactly how much you can spend. This amount might depend on whether you have family helping with expenses or footing the bill on your own. Determine what kind of wedding you want. You can’t stick to a budget if you don’t set one. Begin by making a list of all the items that you want for your wedding and researching pricing. Don’t be afraid to include big and small items on that list – at the end of this, you’ll be able to plug in the items that fit your budget. Start saving. Now that you’ve assessed your financial situation, created your wedding budget and identified the must-haves are on your wedding list,
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start putting the money aside. Be aware of the big-ticket items that can eat up your wedding nest egg quickly. These items are often fresh flowers, venue, photography and caterer, to name a few. There are lots of ways to cut these costs, often by taking non-traditional routes. Nail down your most essential items and start researching ways to cut those expenses. Google and Pinterest are great places to start. Borrow and utilize thrifting. Upcycling is a hot trend, and your wedding is as good a time as any to take advantage of it. Maybe you have friends who got married recently and have items you can make your own. Thrifting is also a great way to find décor you can re-purpose for your big day. Prepare for the unexpected. Even with a considerable budget and a diligent approach, there will still be unexpected costs. Having a buffer for this can reduce a lot of stress. Most importantly, your wedding is about the two of you and your marriage, and that will last much longer than the one-day celebration. Having a budget means figuring out what matters to you and focusing on ways to make those priorities come to life – without sacrificing your entire bank account.
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Emily Mays is vice president/chief administrative officer at Community Spirit Bank in Red Bay, working in finance for 15 years. She is an enthusiastic social media marketer, financial literacy advocate and go-local supporter. She lives in East Franklin and has one daughter, Lola.
Franklin Living
YOUR PERFECT SMILE FOR YOUR PERFECT DAY
Singing River Dentistry patients Justin and Savana King Photograph by Beloved Imagery
531 St Clair St, Russellville, AL 35653
(256) 332.6888 www.SingingRiverDentistry.com 5
TASTE OF FRANKLIN
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Franklin Living
And a tasty new year Recipes and photos by AMY DOLAN MCCOLLUM
As the new year begins, here are a few fresh recipes to get 2022 started on the right culinary foot. Consider trying one or more of these for your next party – whether for Valentine’s Day or the big game.
BROCCOLI AND CHIVE STUFFED MINI PEPPERS TIME: 30 minutes YIELD: 2 dozen
Ingredients • • • • • • •
12 miniature sweet peppers 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened 1/3 cup minced fresh chives 1/8 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon pepper 2/3 cup finely-chopped fresh broccoli 2/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Cut peppers lengthwise in half; remove seeds. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, chives, salt and pepper. Stir in broccoli. Spoon into pepper halves. Place on a foil-lined baking sheet and bake until heated through, 9-11 minutes.
7. 8.
Remove from oven and sprinkle with cheddar cheese. Return to oven and bake until cheese is melted, 3-4 minutes longer. Cool slightly before serving.
Thank you for allowing us to take care of your family.
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CHERRY PIE Ingredients
VEGGIE PIZZA Ingredients
• 2 (8 ounce) packages refrigerated crescent rolls • 1 cup sour cream • 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened • 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt • 1 ounce package ranch dressing mix • 1 small onion, finely chopped • 1 stalk celery, thinly sliced • 1/2 cup halved and thinly-sliced radishes • 1 red bell pepper, chopped • 1 1/2 cups fresh broccoli, chopped • 1 carrot, grated Note: You can use low-fat cream cheese and sour cream for a healthier variation.
For the crust: • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs • 1/3 cup white sugar • 6 Tablespoons butter, melted For the filling: • 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese • 1/2 cup white sugar • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 1 cup heavy cream • 12 ounce can cherry pie filling
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. 2. Butter a 9-inch pie plwate. 3. In small bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar and melted butter. Stir well and press into pie plate. 4. Bake 5 minutes the let cool completely. 5. In large bowl, combine cream cheese, sugar and vanilla. Mix well. 6. In a medium bowl, whip cream until stiff peaks form. 7. Fold whipped cream into cream cheese mixture. 8. Spread over cooled crust. 9. Dot with cherry pie filling and smooth with knife or spatula to cover. 10. Chill in refrigerator until serving. Notes: You can use a 9-inch square baking dish if you do not have a pie plate. To save time, prepared pie crusts are also acceptable. You may also substitute blueberry pie filling or strawberry pie filling.
“LIFE IS LIKE A BOX OF CHOCOLATES” CHOCOLATE VALENTINE CAKE
Instructions: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
6. 7.
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a jellyroll pan with non-stick cooking spray. Pat crescent roll dough into a jellyroll pan. Let stand five minutes. Pierce with fork. Bake for 10 minutes and let cool. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine sour cream, cream cheese, garlic salt and ranch dip mix. Spread this mixture on top of the cooled crust. Arrange the onion, carrot, celery, broccoli, radish, bell pepper and broccoli on top of the creamed mixture. Cover and let chill. Once chilled, cut it into squares and serve.
Ingredients
For the cake: • Duncan Hines Devil’s Food chocolate cake mix and ingredients as listed on box For the frosting: • 2 sticks of real butter, softened • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa • 5 cups confectioner’s sugar • 1/2 cup milk • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract • 2 tablespoons chocolate syrup You will also need a box of chocolates.
Instructions:
1. To make the cake, follow package directions to make up the batter. 2. Pour half the batter into a square 8- or 9-inch pan. Pour the other half into a round 8- or 9-inch pan. 3. Bake as directed. Let the cakes cool five minutes in the pans then invert on cooling rack and let them cool. While cooling, make the frosting. 4. Pour cocoa in a large bowl or bowl of stand mixer. Whisk through to remove any lumps. 5. Cream together butter and cocoa powder until well-combined.
6. Add sugar and milk to cocoa mixture by adding 1 cup of sugar followed by about a tablespoon of milk. After each addition, turn mixer onto a high speed for about a minute. Repeat until all sugar and milk have been added. 7. Add vanilla extract and syrup until well combined. 8. If frosting appears too dry, add more milk or syrup, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency. 9. If frosting appears too wet and does not hold its form, add more confectioner’s sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency. 10. Cut the round cake down the center, then place cut sides on two adjacent sides of the square cake, creating a heart shape. Frost entirely with chocolate buttercream frosting. 11. Use the chocolates from a box of chocolates to make the cake look like a traditional box of candy. Note: Another variation is to do the cake with a strawberry cake mix, use a pink frosting and decorate with conversation hearts.
Franklin Living
CAJUN CABBAGE SOUP Ingredients
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1 tablespoon olive oil, or to taste 1 yellow onion, diced 2 cups chopped carrots 2 cups chopped celery 2 cloves garlic, minced, or more to taste 1 pinch salt and ground black pepper to taste 32 ounces unsalted chicken stock 2 1/2 cups water 2 teaspoons browning sauce, such as Kitchen Bouquet 1 head green cabbage, coarsely chopped 14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes 4 dashes Louisiana-style hot sauce 1 bay leaf 1 pinch Cajun seasoning, such as Tony Chachere’s, or to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion, carrots and celery and sauté until vegetables are tender and starting to brown, about five minutes. 2. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about one minute. 3. Season with salt and pepper. 4. Pour in chicken stock, water and browning sauce. 5. Bring soup to a boil; reduce heat to low.
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6. Add cabbage, diced tomatoes, hot sauce, bay leaf and Cajun seasoning. Simmer until cabbage is tender and liquid is reduced by half, 25-30 minutes. Adjust seasoning as needed. 7. Remove bay leaf before serving. Note: For a healthier choice, you can use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock if desired, and choose no-sugar-added tomatoes if possible.
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FAITH FOCUS
Do you delight in meditating on the law of the Lord?
P
salm 1 opens with a revealing statement for people who want to be blessed: The first verse states they will avoid being advised by wicked people, occupying the pathway of sinners and keeping company with those who mock God. The second verse reveals that, instead, the blessed person will delight in the law of the Lord and meditate on it day and night. Verse three then promises great strength, like that of a mighty tree, for those who will pattern their lives in this manner. I wonder if the way we think about the law of the Lord sometimes causes us to miss out on the blessings God intends for us? In Mark 8:21, Jesus seems to be frustrated when he asks his disciples, “Do you not yet understand?” Jesus is deep into his ministry. He’s about to be on his way to Jerusalem, where he will eventually be crucified. For all the miracles they have witnessed and all the teaching they have been blessed to hear, the apostles still don’t get it. It’s worth noting that they do remember plenty of facts. They correctly answer two fact-based questions from Jesus. The knowledge they’ve gained, however, doesn’t seem to have changed them. They still don’t understand who Jesus is, nor do they trust his ability to meet their needs. What’s the point for us today?
It has been said that wisdom has to do with knowledge being properly applied. As such, how much time do we spend contemplating Scripture – not just reading the facts but really contemplating what they mean? When we think about meditating on the “law of the Lord,” do we limit ourselves to nothing more than an inspired list of do’s and don’ts? While the do’s and don’ts of the Bible actually do matter, there’s so much more to contemplate if we intend for the inspired word of the Lord to
change us! We should always be contemplating God’s amazing love, his provision in making sure the needs of life here are met and his provision in providing a roadmap to heaven that is both available and understandable! What a joy to contemplate the hope can have because of God’s investment of his only son as the price of our salvation. Let me challenge you to both read the law of the Lord and then contemplate it. Doing so will bless you and will allow your relationship with God to be like one of those strong and healthy trees described in Psalm 1. Philip Goad is the minister at North Highlands Church of Christ in Russellville. He is married to Marla, and they have a daughter, Kayla Thorne, who is married to Josh. They also have a son, Preston, and one grandchild, Greyson Thorne.
We offer a $4,000 sign on bonus $5,000 sign on bonus for drivers. visit: www.pilgrimsusa.com
1-256-768-3707 10
www.facebook.com/pilgrimsrussellville.
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BRIDAL SECTION
HERE COME
The Brides Franklin Living
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Alyssa&Austin
Alyssa is from Russellville, and Austin is from Phil Campbell. The happy couple now resides in Phil Campbell after their June 5, 2021, wedding. Franklin Living
HOW WE MET: Austin and Alyssa met with the help of two special friends on New Year’s Eve 2019. It was love at first sight. They were inseparable after that night.
THE PROPOSAL: Austin had the perfect set up. It was Alyssa’s dream proposal, under a tree filled with lights and pictures of the two of them. He even hired a photographer. It was perfect.
MEMORABLE DATE: The couple’s most memorable date was when they went to Chattanooga for their March birthdays. Because of COVID-19, everything was shut down the same day. They made the best of it and ended up seeing Larry Fleet perform at a small hole-in-the-wall venue.
THE WEDDING: June 5, 2021, at Oliver’s Barn in Killen A beautiful rustic barn that lights up when the sun goes down.
WHAT WE LOVE: They both adore how giving and loving one another is.
Franklin Living
FAVORITE MOMENT: A favorite moment from the wedding was the maid of honor/matron of honor and best man speeches and all the great things they had to say.
WEDDING TEAM Venue: Oliver’s Barn Catering: Brian Copeland Florist: Sam’s Blossom Shop Cake: Tara Warpup Videographer: Shannea Flanagan, Right Brian Photography Photographer: Shannea Flanagan, Right Brain Photography Wedding dress: Cherry Tree Lane Hair: Shayna Romans Make-up: Laren Lindholm Men’s attire:Thompson’s Menswear Music: DJ Boat
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We also book:
• Graduation Parties • Anniversaries • Birthdays • Showers • Reunions (call for details on available dates)
(256) 826-4455 2185 Lynwood Avenue Russellville, AL 35654 www.facebook.com/ hillsideweddingsandevents/ www.hillsideweddingsandevents.com 387633-1
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Franklin Living
Allison
Keylee&Trevor
Trevor is from Phil Campbell, and Keylee grew up in Red Bay. The happy couple now resides in Russellville after their March 20, 2021, wedding. Franklin Living
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HOW WE MET: Trevor and Keylee met at CB&S Bank in Russellville, where they both worked at the time. Keylee’s coworkers were on a mission to set her up with someone in the office, and they coincidentally picked Trevor’s best friend Chase. After further investigation, her coworkers decided that Keylee and Trevor might be a better match. It took some convincing from everyone, but Trevor finally caved, and they went on a date. The rest, as they say, is history. Funnily enough, Keylee and Trevor are now best friends with Chase and his wife and do lots of things together. FIRST DATE: Trevor and Keylee’s first and probably most memorable date was to the drive-in movie theatre in Russellville. About halfway through the first movie, the car died. They watched the rest of the first movie in silence and luckily found someone to jump the car off during intermission. WHAT WE LOVE: Trevor loves Keylee’s strong Christian faith and the way she keeps God first in everything she does. Trevor also loves Keylee’s dimples and beautiful smile. Keylee loves Trevor’s commitment to her, his family and friends. He is loyal and trustworthy. Anything that he does, he does it 100 percent. Trevor also has the best sense of humor and can make Keylee laugh every single day. Not a day goes by that Keylee does not realize how blessed she truly is to have Trevor as a husband. THE PROPOSAL: When Trevor and Keylee started dating, one of the first movie series they watched together was Rocky.
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When Rocky proposed to Adrienne, Trevor said “That’s how I’m going to propose to you one day.” Keylee didn’t think much of it. Sept. 26, 2020, there were some big name UFC fights on TV, and Trevor had been talking about it for months. He was eager and wanted to have friends over to watch it, and he even said he was going to get a UFC cake. Later on in the night, Trevor wanted Keylee to come over to the counter and cut the special cake for everyone. On the cake, under a fake UFC poster, was a picture of the proposal scene from Rocky 2. Trevor memorized and recited the movie proposal quote, “What do you think you’re you doing for the next 40-50 years? I was wondering if you wouldn’t mind marrying me too much.” THE WEDDING: March 20, 2021 at First Baptist Church in Red Bay It was a small gathering, family and bridal party only, because of COVID-19 precautions. The colors were white and blush pink, with a variety of different flowers in those shades. The wedding was immediately followed by a beautiful reception at Hotel Red Bay. FAVORITE MOMENT: Trevor’s favorite moment of the wedding was when the big double doors opened and he saw Keylee walk down the aisle, right before he burst into tears. Keylee’s favorite moment was when she was escorted down the aisle by her father and grandfather and saw Trevor start weeping. Another favorite moment for the couple was when “The Blessing” by Kari Jobe was played and the congregation had a special time
to pray over the couple. There was not a dry eye in the house. FINAL THOUGHTS: Trevor and Keylee would like to thank anyone who had a hand in helping them on their special day. If there were any major problems, they were not aware. It was the best day of their lives thus far, and they know many people helped to make it possible!
WEDDING TEAM Ceremony venue: First Baptist Church Red Bay Reception venue: Hotel Red Bay Catering: Hotel Red Bay Wedding planner: Julie Bolton and Suzanne White Florist: Southern Elegance Cake: Regina Sparks Videographer: Caleb Ramey Photographer: Mandi Nunley Photography Invitations: Hobby Lobby Wedding dress: David’s Bridal Bridesmaid dresses: David’s Bridal Hair and make-up: Kaynon Thorn and Myah Jackson Men’s attire: Coats Clothing Company Music: Bailey Bolton, vocalist and guitarist, and Joyce Johnson, pianist Favors and gifts: Cookies by April Young Rentals and décor: Hotel Red Bay Sound technician: Mike Montgomery
Franklin Living
Clark
Taylor&Zack
Taylor is from Russellville, and Zack is from Ethel, Miss. The happy couple now resides in Oxford, Miss., following their Nov. 8, 2021, wedding. Franklin Living
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HOW WE MET: Taylor and Zack met at a camp called Central Hills Baptist Retreat, located in Kosciusko, Miss., in summer 2016. They were both counselors on staff there. They were just friends, but Zack often jokes he had a huge crush on Taylor. It wasn’t until summer 2018 that they fell for each other. Zack asked Taylor on a date to hang out at his house, and she said yes FIRST DATE: Their first date was a breath of fresh air for both of them. They had a long, deep talk after stopping at Sonic, and Zack kissed Taylor – then said, shocked and excited, “I just kissed Taylor Hollimon!” WHAT WE LOVE: Zack loves how he can be himself around Taylor, and he adores her long legs. Taylor loves how kind Zack is to her and how he frequently lets her know how important she is to him. She said she gets lost in his blue eyes. THE PROPOSAL: Zach proposed Nov. 8, 2020, and he was so nervous to ask Taylor to marry him because he wanted everything to be perfect. It was the most beautiful fall day, with the leaves changing colors and the perfect weather. Zack asked his dad to build an easel, and his
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mom painted these words on a wooden board: PAST (Every minute from then to now), PRESENT (I have LOVED you always), FUTURE (Now I want ALWAYS to be FOREVER). When Taylor turned around, Zack was on one knee in his front yard. Zack also surprised her with some of their families waiting to celebrate with them. THE WEDDING: June 5, 2021, at The Givens House at Glenn Hill in Town Creek The wedding colors were light pink – Taylor’s favorite color – along with wisteria purple and light blue, with accents of gold. Taylor’s inspiration was a wildflower, enchanted, fairytale wedding. She wanted something different, yet classic and timeless. The ceremony was held in the little white chapel, and the reception was outside in the back under the fairy lights on a summer night. FAVORITE MOMENT: Taylor said it was hard to choose one moment out from the day, but her favorite was the first look with Zack. She described it as a magical moment between the two of them, and their corgi Winston even came out to join in. They both shed a few happy tears.
WEDDING TEAM Venue: The Givens House at Glenn Hill, Town Creek Catering: Whole Hog Express, Leighton Wedding planner: Bernice Givens and Charlotte Seay Florist: Bernice Givens Videographer: Blake Henn, Eleven9 Media Photographer: April Warhurst, Bluebird Redbirds Wedding dress: David’s Bridal and Sonya Seay Campbell Bridesmaid dresses: Azazie Hair and makeup: Allie Syphrit and Lauren Mott Men’s attire: Claude Julian’s Music: Chris Boatwright with DJ Boat Favors and gifts: Tish Hollimon, Carolyn Clark and Jennifer McCalpin Rentals and decor: Carolyn Clark and Bernice Givens Cakes: Samantha Montgomery, The Mustard Seed Bakery Officiant: Shane Thrash – Taylor and Zack’s “camp-boss”
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Willodean Davis Agent/Broker
I have merged my company with Exit River City Realty to serve you...my customers and friends. I am still in the same place, and blessed to have all of the same agents and managers in the office to help me with all of the new technology.
Call 256.762.5671
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Healthy Smiles Begin at an Early Age! • Pediatric dentist with 20 plus years of experience • Preventive dentistry (cleaning, sealants, fluoride treatments, and space maintainers)
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Coan
Morgan&Jordan Morgan and Jordan are both from Russellville. The happy couple now resides in Russellville following their Dec. 11, 2021 wedding.
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Franklin Living
The Riverton Wedding & Special Events
HOW WE MET: Jordan and Morgan have attended Calvary Baptist Church in Russellville together for more than 20 years. They got to know each other through a shared Sunday School class. FIRST DATE: Jordan asked Morgan to go to dinner and a movie. The first date was cut short before the movie started because of a family member’s broken wrist – but this just gave Jordan the perfect opportunity to ask for a second date, since they didn’t get to finish their first date. WHAT WE LOVE: What Jordan loves most about Morgan is how kind she is to all people. What Morgan loves most about Jordan is how he is a leader and how he always shows her how much he cares about her. THE PROPOSAL: Jordan took Morgan to Huntsville, where they spent the day together. Jordan proposed at Big Spring Park, and the couple celebrated their engagement with dinner at Ruth’s Chris. After dinner, Jordan’s parents held a surprise engagement party for Morgan with both of the couple’s families. THE WEDDING: Dec. 11, 2021, at Morgan’s parents’ venue, Triple H Barn The ceremony was outdoors at a pier, while the reception was held inside the barn. FAVORITE MOMENT: Jordan’s favorite moment of the wedding was their first look with one another. Morgan’s favorite moment was partaking in the Lord’s supper with both of their parents after saying their vows.
Venue Overlooking Beautiful Sunsets on Pickwick Lake Two Cabins on the Lakeside Property 10020 Riverton Rose Trail * Cherokee, AL 35616 662.544.0196 Visit: www.theriverton.net
WEDDING TEAM Venue: Triple H Barn Catering: Southern Skillet Catering Florist: Sunflowers Designs and Gardens; Russellville Florist & Gifts Cake: Samantha Montgomery, bride’s cake, and Suzann White, groom’s cake Videographer: Ace Eaton Designs & Production Photographer: Love + Bloom Studio Invitations: Hester’s Printing Wedding dress: The Something Blue Shoppe Bridesmaid dresses: The Something Blue Shoppe Hair: Keyla McKinney, Southern Roots Salon Make-up: Kristie Wells Men’s attire: The Something Blue Shoppe Music: Shea Madden
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Bridal Registry • Clothing • Gifts • Home Decor
13720 Hwy 43 Russellville, AL 35653 • 256-291-7090
www.maggiejsboutique.com
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Golden Dreams Jewelry
Wedding engagement sets, gifts for the bride and bridesmaids, Valentine gifts, custom designs and much more! FREE RING CLEANING
GOLDEN DREAMS JEWELRY 361 2nd St. Belmont, MS 38827 • Phone: 662-454-3158 • www.goldendreamsjewelry.com 22
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Moss
Andrew&Baylee
Andrew is from Harvest, while Baylee hails from Red Bay. The happy couple now resides in Red Bay following their Nov. 6, 2021, wedding.
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HOW WE MET: Feb. 1, 2019, Andrew and Baylee met at a Huntsville Havoc Hockey game. For more than a year, a mutual friend named Elizabeth had been trying to get them to meet, showing pictures of each to the other and trying to make arrangements for them to “run into each other.” At the time, Baylee was not interested, and Andrew kept saying he “didn’t like redheads.” However, Elizabeth got Baylee to go to the hockey game, where Andrew just so happened to be as well. He came to see Elizabeth and ended up meeting Baylee. The rest of the night, Andrew threw popcorn at Baylee – and from then, the rest is history. FIRST DATE: Andrew and Baylee don’t have a super memorable date. Every day they get to spend together is a wonderful day well spent. They make new memories together every day, and every new memory is their favorite. WHAT WE LOVE: What Baylee loves most about Andrew is how he pushes her to become the best version of herself. Andrew wants Baylee to have all her dreams come true, and he tries everything he can to make sure they do. Baylee also loves how Andrew has to make sure everyone is having a good day, whether it is a cheesy joke, a simple smile or a hug. Baylee said “There is never a dull moment or a boring day with Andrew,” and “he would give the shirt off his back to anyone just to make their day a little brighter.” What Andrew loves most about Baylee is that he can look into her eyes and it brings him to re-
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ality; it gives him a purpose and a reason for life. Andrew also loves that Baylee isn’t afraid to be herself around him, and she makes every day an exciting adventure THE PROPOSAL: At the time of the proposal, Andrew and Baylee had been dating for 10 months, but Andrew knew he wanted to spend the rest of his life with Baylee. Andrew knows how much family means to Baylee, especially her grandparents. So on Christmas Day 2019, he proposed to Baylee at her Nana and Papa Melvin’s house. Andrew and Baylee were taking pictures in front of the Christmas tree, and when Baylee went to look at the pictures, he was behind her on one knee. THE WEDDING: Nov. 6, 2021, at Triple H Barn in Russellville The barn was filled with Andrew and Baylee’s closest friends and family. It was decorated with white and maroon flowers, eucalyptus leaves and a lot of greenery and candles. The aisle had white rose petals leading to the front of the barn, where the doors were open and draped with white cloth. At the end of the aisle, there stood Andrew waiting for his bride. FAVORITE MOMENT: Andrew and Baylee’s most memorable moment from the wedding was their first dance. During the dance, nothing else mattered to them but that moment. That was the moment when it finally hit them that they were husband and wife – the moment they realized they had each married their best friend, so excited they get to spend eternity together making new memories every day.
FINAL WORD: Andrew and Baylee were hesitant about getting married as early as they did. Baylee was a full-time college student, and Andrew worked a full-time job. A lot of people wanted them to wait until Baylee finished college, but they were just so in love they knew they wanted to become husband and wife. Baylee realized she wanted to become Andrew’s wife when she noticed how much he pushed her in college to get good grades and to get the degree she had dreamed for. Baylee knew even if they got married, it wouldn’t stop her dream because of how hard Andrew pushes her. She knew becoming his wife would only make her want to work harder.
WEDDING TEAM Venue: Triple H Barn Catering: Family Wedding planner: Carlee Humphres Florist: Hobby Lobby Cake: Noe Perry Photographer: Amy McMullen and Elizabeth Keeter Invitations: Zazzle Wedding dress: David’s Bridal Bridesmaids dresses: David’s Bridal Hair and make-up: Holly Hardin Men’s attire: Amazon Music: Joseph Baldwin Favors and gifts: Amazon, Walmart and Target Rentals and decor: Brooklyn White
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Anatomy of a wedding photo Photos by SCOTTY KENNEDY Story by ALISON JAMES
Clair (née Kennedy) and Wilson Whitlock are Red Bay natives who tied the knot Sept. 4. When it came to a wedding photographer, the bride made the obvious choice: her uncle, local photographer Scotty Kennedy. The couple celebrated their magical day with a ceremony at First Baptist Church of Red Bay and a reception at Hurricane Creek Lodge.
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When it comes to wedding photography, Kennedy said a more “old-school” approach defines his personal style. While candid photos have become a popular choice for brides in the modern age, he likes to take the time to really compose each shot for a more posed, formal look, from hand placement to other small details.
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Wedding photography is a demanding subset of the photography industry – physically as well as emotionally. “You only have a certain amount of time to get the shot,” Kennedy noted. Because a wedding photographer will be working in a high-stress environment, capturing all the memories of a couple’s special day, Kennedy said it’s critical for the couple and photographer to have a level of trust and be able to work well together. “Be sure your client has seen your work,” Kennedy advises, either prints or an online portfolio. “They pretty know much know what they are getting when they book their photographer because they have looked at their samples.” If a photographer’s style doesn’t match how the bride and groom imagine their wedding being photographed, that particular photographer might not be a good fit.
Don’t forget the family photos! It can be challenging in the busy world today to find the time for pictures with extended family, but a wedding provides a great opportunity for that. Kennedy recommended being sure ahead of time what different family groups and pairings you want photographed.
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For his niece, Kennedy wanted to make sure the photographs captured the understated elegance the Whitlocks were going for. The couple chose to rely on the simple beauty to be found in their venue, like the stained glass windows. The simple-but-elegant setting provided perfect backdrops for their photographs.
Although some brides choose to forego the traditional bridal session, it can be a great way to have a set-aside time to celebrate the bride and create a photo to display at the wedding or reception. Kennedy shot photos at his studio as well as on location. While studio portraiture allows a photographer more control over the background and lighting, on-site photos are a popular choice when it comes to capturing the ambience of the wedding day. It’s a choice that comes down to the bride’s preferences.
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Kennedy said lighting is a crucial component to capturing an engaging photo. He utilizes flash as well as making best use of natural lighting for each shot. Using an external flash helps to catch the light in the subject’s eyes and keeps the photo from being a little dull.
FROM THE EXTENSION
Something blue UNIQUE IDEAS KEEP OLD TRADITION FRESH
Wedding photography is something Kennedy has largely set aside in favor of family sessions and senior portraiture, as well as school photography and custom framing. After decades in the industry, he said the most important thing is for a couple to just be really familiar and comfortable with their photographer and his or her skill and style. Trends change, so be sure you’re confident in who you’re going to be working with and what you want out of your photos. Clair is the daughter of Mickey and Susan Kennedy, and Wilson is the son of Buddy and Mary Ann Whitlock. The couple resides in Red Bay, where Clair works in the accounting department at Tiffin Motorhomes, while Wilson works at Hurricane Creek Lodge.
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“Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a silver sixpence in her shoe.” This wedding tradition and good luck saying has been around for years, a rhyme from the 1800s in England, during the Victorian era. Back in the day, I remember the “something blue” as the garter worn by the bride or the engagement ring stone, a blue sapphire. For my own wedding, all the men in the wedding party were dressed in navy blue suits. The color blue is said to represent purity, consistency, faithfulness and love, as well as trust, loyalty, honesty and commitment. Old traditions help turn celebrations into lasting memories that can be cherished for a lifetime. These days, “something blue” can feature in the wedding in a number of creative ways. Why not arrive or exit in blue vintage vehicle or add a blue bow to a white vintage vehicle? How about serving a blue wedding cake or using blue toasting flutes? Here are some more creative ways to add something blue on your special day: • Blue jewelry, such as earrings, bracelets or necklaces with blue stones, such as aquamarine, topaz, lapis, turquoise, sapphire, tanzanite, tourmaline and moonstone • Blue accessories, like pumps, flats or a clutch purse • Blue flowers in bouquets, boutonnieres or arrangements, such as periwinkle, blue daisy, anemone, desert bluebell, iris, delphinium, hyacinth, allium, forget-me-not, cornflower, freesia, hydrangea, larkspur, morning glory or orchids • Blue ribbon tied in bridal bouquet • Blue sash for the bride or flower girls • Blue wedding invitations • Blue linens for the reception • Blue dishes • Blue attire for the mother of the bride • Blue bridesmaid dresses or groom/groomsmen suits • Blue tie or bowtie for the groom • Blue monogram for the cake, cake topper or cocktail napkins • Blue handkerchief • Blue label sewn into the bride’s wedding dress, with the name of the couple and the wedding date
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Hidden gem Spruce Pine’s Willow Oak Lodge offers abundant outdoor fun for all
Story by MARÍA CAMP Photos by MARÍA CAMP AND CONTRIBUTED
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illow Oak Lodge, nestled in the woods just off Highway 43 in Spruce Pine, might be best known as a high-fence hunting preserve offering whitetail deer, wild turkey and quail hunts – but it’s so much more. Willow Oak Lodge offers more than a thousand acres of diverse terrain, including creeks, ponds, open fields and impressive views. Guests have access to fishing and hiking, trails for side-by-side riding, boating, spotting wildlife and generally enjoying being in the great outdoors. Other options for relaxing include booking a massage, taking advantage of the sauna and making use of the full gym. Good food and Southern hospitality greet guests, many of whom come from out of state to get away from it all. The lodge also hosts special events, including a costumed Halloween party, New Year’s Eve party and a Valentine’s Day ball. Husband and wife team Tim and Kim Horton are the owner-operators of Willow Oak Lodge, which opened to the public in late 2019. They also run their lure company, Profound Outdoors. A major league pro fishing angler, Tim won the 2000 Toyota Tundra Bassmaster Angler of the Year award and is an 11-time Bassmaster Classic qualifier. He is also the star of his well-known educational fishing television show, “Timmy Horton Outdoors.” Kim worked in education as a gifted and talented program teacher for 13 years. “Franklin County has always been home,” said Tim Horton. “I’m from Spruce Pine, and Kim is from the Rockwood/Belgreen area. This is a very special place that’s really entwined in the fabric of who we are. Our goal is to get people outside and making wonderful memories together, and that’s the most important thing.”
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With its expansive acreage of open fields and an abundance of creeks and ponds, Willow Oak Lodge is a popular destination for vacations, weekends for couples and families, weddings, corporate retreats, family reunions and private parties. In addition to dining and lodging, meeting space is also offered. For the past ten years, the property has been developed and managed for wildlife habitat, with lodging added in the past year and a half. “We can sleep around 30 people here,” said general manager and licensed massage therapist Tiffany Thorne. “Accommodation options
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“Willow Oak Lodge is a place like no other. They make you feel at home there. The Hortons have built a little slice of heaven on top of a mountain in Spruce Pine, and you just don’t understand until you experience it for yourself.” —Jake Norris, Willow Oak visitor
include staying in rooms in the lodge, private cabins or Tim’s Barn.” The barn offers six bedrooms and bathrooms and includes some of the wood from a barn built on the property in 1918. A variety of themed lodging options include Valley View, the Rabbit Hole, Fox Trot, Quail Run, the Rut Room, Eagles Nest, Ole Raspy Hen and several others. There is also the option to stay in the honeymoon suite. “We’ve had some of our most enjoyable moments on this property,” said Kim Horton, “walking in the woods, planting food and habitat for wildlife, checking trail cam photos, fishing with our
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kids and relaxing in the cabin. This place is very special to us, and we wanted to share it with others. That’s why we opened the lodge in the first place.” The majority of hunters come from other states, including Mississippi, Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia and North Dakota, and a lot of them visit other local attractions while in the area. “We had a family with two younger kids come and stay just for lodging,” said Kim Horton. “They caught fireflies and made smores and had so much fun walking the trails and hiking and going on nature walks and skipping rocks in the ponds. After they got home, their mom sent me the sweetest note about their stay.” Willow Oak Lodge is located at 8410 Highway 43 in Spruce Pine. For more information, call 256-460-6681, email willow. oak.lodge@gmail.com or visit their Facebook page or Instagram account.
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EDUCATION CORNER
Starting strong, finishing strong
We had a great first semester of the 2021-2022 school year at RCS, which was due in large part to our teachers, staff, administrators and students working together toward the common goals of success and growth. At RCS, we have heard the term “collective efficacy” and read about its effectiveness, and this past semester we have worked hard to put this idea into practice. For those who might not be familiar with the term, “collective efficacy” refers to a shared belief that our faculty and staff can have a positive impact on student achievement despite other factors in the students’ lives that might negatively affect their success. This idea is especially important at RCS, where we have a student population that is 28 percent English Language Learners and has 74 percent of students on free and reduced lunch. Studies have shown language barriers and socioeconomic status can have a negative impact on learning and achievement, but at RCS, we believe in overcoming these outside factors and achieving great things in spite of the obstacles many of our students face — obstacles that are beyond their control. We take what we have, and we use it to help us grow and succeed. Because of the amazing things our teachers and staff are doing in our classrooms, RCS is proving the idea of collective efficacy to be extremely successful – so much so that we have been honored to host two different visits from state educators and state leaders who have come to observe and learn from our teachers. Our amazing educators have been able to share their knowledge and techniques with others in hopes that more and more students across our state will be able to overcome the outside factors that tend to affect their education and achieve great things despite those obstacles. It’s been an honor to host these guests on our campus, and I am so proud of our teachers for how they continue to stand out through their teaching methods, innovation and the resulting student success. As a superintendent, it’s great to work with such a dedicated team of educators who are truly committed to student success and growth. It’s also an honor to have such hard-working students in our district who don’t make excuses when it comes to what they can achieve. I am looking forward to this next semester and to finishing up the 2021-2022 school year as strong as we have started. As always, it’s GREAT to be a Golden Tiger! Heath Grimes is the superintendent of Russellville City Schools. He and his wife Amy have three daughters: Leah, Halle and Erin.
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FACES OF FRANKLIN COUNTY Franklin County gets in the spirit of the season with four Christmas parades held in the early part of December – in Russellville, Phil Campbell, Vina and Red Bay. Holiday characters, marchers, lighted floats and decorated vehicles brought festive fun to downtown streets, and community members packed the roadsides to enjoy the merry-making. Photos by MARÍA CAMP Baylor Willis, Kayli Willis and LaDonna Harget
Sawyer Page, Helen Burgett, Tammy Wren, Sherri Mims and Karen Page
Kayla, Brycen and Tessa
Gunner May, Avery Gunner and Savannah Gunner
Lydia Miller and Gabby Glasgow
Stephanie Johnson, Calvin Sutton, Zoe Morgan and Allie Sutton
Emily Adams and Jacklynn Adams with Lala the dog
Sharon Strickland, Red Bay grand marshal
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Sue Raper, Vina grand marshal
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Tupelo, MS
kaysformalwear.com
annual sale January 3-31
Book your appointment online today
Photographer: Daynalee Faith Photography
• Gorgeous Mountain Views • Wedding/Event Venue • Receptions • Family Gatherings • Cabin Rental
