Gulf Coast Weddings Summer 2020

VOL. 5 ISSUE 2 COMPLIMENTARY

GET INSPIRED Real weddings Tips from pros Get a plan

JUST GOT ENGAGED? WHAT TO DO NEXT HAPPILY EVER AFTER BEGINS HERE...

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Happily ever after begins here...

Gulf Coast

WEDDINGS PUBLISHER & EDITOR Dorothy P. Wilson GRAPHIC DESIGNER Crystal Scretching Farrah Underwood Jasmine Ball CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Jennifer Gentile CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Anna Cirlot Photography & Design Bluewaters Photography James Edward Bates Photography Kayce Stork Photography 10 COVER STORY Morgan and Cory Dickerson were married on September 28, 2019 in Gulfport.

Cover photo

by Blueswaters Photography HAPPILY EVER AFTER BEGINS HERE...

© 2020. Gulf Coast Weddings is published three times annually by Gulf Coast Woman, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or part in any manner without written permission of the publisher.

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pl a nnin g 6 SO YOU’RE ENGAGED… WHAT NEXT? 8 POSTPONING YOUR WEDDING ... WHAT TO DO 18 PLANNING GUIDE

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Tilley Photography

t rend s 12 GOWNS 14 CATERING AND CAKES 15 ACCESSORIES 16 FLORALS

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Where the Coast gets engaged!

pav broome & fine jewelry

Hwy. 49, Downtown Gulfport • 228-863-3699HAPPILY • pavandbroome.com EVER AFTER BEGINS HERE...

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Paige Luckett and her 2 business partners created a successful business and one of the most sought-out catering companies on the Gulf Coast, continuing their venture until 2014. Paige Luckett had the opportunity to buy the business in its entirety and with a little persuasion talked her husband Duane Luckett into coming on board and pursuing his dream of being a Chef and co-owner. Paige and Duane on their new venture as owners decided to change the name to Southern Flavor Catering & Events and have been on this journey together for over 6 years.

It’s our passion, at Southern Flavor Catering, to understand and exceed our client’s ideas and dreams. We work together to create menus and services that fit your needs. Our team of professional event staff and chefs know that each event is significant and important. From corporate functions to a beautiful sunset wedding, Southern Flavor provides an exceptional experience unlike any other.

Weddings | Corporate Events | Office Delivery Offsite Catering | Bar/Alcohol Service Full Staffing | Venue Referrals Food Fusion | Custom Menus

We are the ONSITE CATERER for THE DOCK VENUE on Gulfport Lake.

Contact Paige Luckett

at paige.lucketttsfc@gmail.com 4

or call 228.697.0150

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Southern Flavor Catering

Looking for a venue with breathtaking views for your special event?

Your event deserves to be everything you dream of. The Dock has the largest seating capacity on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, breathtaking views, comfortable atmosphere and an elegant setting.

From an important corporate function, to a beautiful sunset wedding, The Dock can provide an exceptional experience. We are here to help you plan your event. Tucked away on Gulfport Lake, located just minutes from I-10 and the Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport, ensuring your guests will make it to your event on time.

Host your wedding ceremony or reception against the beautiful backdrop of Gulfport Lake.

Weddings

Wedding ceremonies, rehearsals, and receptions at The Dock are classic and unforgettable, with customizable options that are sure to fit your style and personality.

13247 Seaway Rd.

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Corporate and Special Events

From fundraisers to anniversaries, birthdays, or reunions, The Dock provides a perfectly spacious venue, with the largest seating capacity on the Gulf Coast.

Gulfport, MS 39503

(228) 697-0150

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Amenities Indoor/Outdoor Reception Space Ceremony Locations

Email: manager@thedockgulfport.com (228) 276-1500 • thedockgulfport.com •

HAPPILY EVER AFTER BEGINS HERE...

Waterfront Views of Gulfport Lake

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engaged... here’s what to do next

so you just got

By Jennifer Gentile

Photography by Anna Cirlot Photography & Design

Perhaps it happened during a quiet moment between just the two of you. Maybe he tipped off your friends and family, so your nearest and dearest got to witness your happy tears. However the proposal happened, congratulations on your engagement! The wedding journey is just beginning, and as any bride can attest, the to-do list can get overwhelming in a hurry. Our advice: Take the process step by step, and make the most important decisions first. Now that you have the ring, here’s what to do next:

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S HARE THE NEWS

Tell your VIPs, either by phone or in person, before posting the news to social media.

SET BOUNDARIES

Be prepared for a deluge of opinions about when, where and how you should get married, and accept that you can’t please everyone. Avoid committing or agreeing to anything for the first few weeks while you and your fiancé hone your vision. In the meantime, receive suggestions gratefully, but don’t feel obligated to say “yes.”

SET A DATE

You can’t make many other decisions until you know when the big day will be, so first things first. You may immediately have a season in mind, or even dates that are meaningful to you and your significant other, so you can start there. Take care to avoid any scheduling conflicts for your VIP guests, and make sure you give yourself plenty of time to plan — bearing in mind that many popular vendors are booked a year or more in advance.

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SET A BUDGET

Like your date, you need a budget before you can do much else. Be clear on who is contributing what, and communicate early and often, to prevent misunderstandings later. Head count greatly affects the bottom line (not to mention the size venue you’ll need), so tailor your guest list to what you can reasonably afford.

START RESEARCHING VENUES

This step may well determine your wedding date, as it may depend on when your preferred venue is available. When choosing where to hold your wedding, make sure the venue aligns with your vision, fits your budget and can accommodate your guest list comfortably.

MOST IMPORTANTLY — SAVOR THE MOMENT

Coordinating a wedding can get overwhelming quickly. This is a once-in-a-lifetime occasion, so pause to enjoy it before launching into planning mode.

FOR THE BRIDE’S TROUSSEAU

Heritage House Gifts GIFTS FOR ALL OCCASIONS

738 East Pass Rd. | Gulfport, MS 39507

228.897.7644 HAPPILY EVER AFTER BEGINS HERE...

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Tips from the pros

Postponing your wedding Here’s what to do

Photo by Tilley Photography

By Jean McGrury

Jean McGrury is owner, primary wedding planner and designer with After the Proposal Weddings & Events.

Reach her at (228) 326-4853.

In these unprecedented times, more and more couples are taking the advice of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to limit group gatherings because of COVID-19.

Consequently, some couples are either postponing their weddings or considering alternative options.

message that’s to the point is best. If you have a room block, you may want to reach out to the hotel to see if you can negotiate a full or partial refund on your guests’ behalf. Regarding the invitation, contact the printer and ask if they are giving discounts on reprinting the invitation and RSVP card.

Remember you will not need to pay for the envelopes.

If you must reschedule or significantly adjust your big day, here’s the steps you should take:

3) BE FLEXIBLE

1) TELL YOUR VENDORS ASAP

Should you and your partner decide to postpone your wedding, the first people to contact are the ones tasked with making it happen. Your pros should be understanding of your decision and can help provide additional guidance on the next steps. Better yet, hire a wedding planner who will take care of everything for you. My suggestion is to call the venue and church first to see what available dates they have open, then task yourself with coordinating all the other vendors on date options. Do not delay!

2) CREATE A COMMUNICATION PLAN TO INFORM YOUR GUESTS

The easiest and most effective way to relay your message is via your wedding website or via email and phone calls. A simple

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When working with your vendors to reschedule, try to keep an open mind. While your original date may have landed on a Saturday, securing another Saturday later in the year may not be possible. Consider other days of the week like a Friday or Sunday. You may get a discount, and yes, the guests will come. I got married on a Tuesday night, and everyone showed up.

4) LET YOURSELF GRIEVE

It is OK to feel disappointed or be upset, and it is important to acknowledge your feelings and understand that they are valid.

How about having a nice dinner and a bottle of champagne to acknowledge your original wedding date? That way, you will have two anniversaries to celebrate!

WE ARE OPEN AND KEEPING SAFE

GULFPORT OCEAN SPRINGS BAY ST. LOUIS

ABCrental.com

HAPPILY EVER AFTER BEGINS HERE...

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REALWEDDINGS

Southern Charm

M o r g a n & Co ry D i ck er s o n Wedding date: September 28, 2019

VENDORS Photographer: Bluewaters Photography Wedding planner: Magnolia Bride Ceremony, reception and rehearsal dinner venue: The Venue at Southern Oaks Farm Florist: The Flora House

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Caterer: Sweetlicious Liquor: Scranton’s Catering Makeup: Crissy Cox Hair: Lindsey Varnadore, Mint Salon Videographer: Coast Media Jewelry: Hand-me-down from my grandmother Shoes: Badgley Mischka Wedding gown: Designer,

Martina Liana Bridal Dress Shop: I Do Bridal & Formal Tux: Men’s Wearhouse Bridesmaid dresses: Bella Bridesmaids Musician/Entertainment and Lighting: DJ Todd Langlinais Cake:: Sweetlicious Invitations: Minted.com

BRIDE’S FAVORITE ELEMENT OF THE WEDDING Seeing my groom’s face when I was walking down the aisle. Although there were so many people present in the moment, it still felt like it was only him and me.

HER ADVICE FOR OTHER COUPLES Make sure you have a wedding planner. I used Magnolia Bride, and they took every detail I envisioned and made it come to life. They were amazing! I also would recommend taking a moment on your wedding day, whether it be during the ceremony or reception, and look around the room at all the people celebrating with you. Really soak in the moment. It’s a busy day and will go by in a flash.

HAPPILY EVER AFTER BEGINS HERE...

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TRENDS

Gowns

Fall for these 2020 bridal gown trends

By Kerri Pellegrin

LOVELY IN LACE From sweet lace to high drama, here’s the trends you’re sure to see coming down the aisle this year:

CONTEMPORARY SPARKLE

While sparkle and shine is nothing new in the bridal fashion world, this season takes on traditional sequins and beading — with fully embellished textiles fit for the modern bride.

Perfect for black-tie weddings and fancy venues, sparkle never goes out of style, and you’ll be sure to shine bright all night long.

TIMELESS BEAUTY

Timeless beauty is Hollywood glam meets polished simplicity. The style, in a word: classic.

With sleek, crisp lines and blank canvas feels, it’s time for the bride’s inner minimalist to shine. With a high-andtight bun and elbow length gloves, move over Grace Kelly!

POP OF COLOR

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Photos by Bluewaters Photography

have brides everywhere turning to wedding dresses with color to express their personal style.

Who says you have to wear white on your wedding day? Today’s brides have started using an understated splash of color for their big day.

Blush may have been a long-running trend and is still very much in style, but the new hot trend is black. Whether it’s full black-on-black or a black combo with nude or white, it’s a trend you’ll see a lot of. You’ll also see shades of pale pink, blush, gold, pewter and lavender, which

From the seaside to the cathedral, lace and a little magic transform a dress into a gown.

Creating something truly magical and memorable to be talked about for years to come, lace can be relaxed and effortless or elegant and fabulous.

From botanical patterns to beautiful Chantilly or illusion lace taking tradition to the next level, a lace wedding dress is a thing to behold — and something every bride can appreciate and admire.

PEARL EMBELLISHMENTS

As a tried-and-true classic, pearls make every girl feel like the Southern belle she is at heart. The daintiness and elegance of pearls are the perfect accents for any bride. These favored gems add grace to a seductive illusion back and elevate the charm of lace. Pearls are nothing new to classic style, but lately, we’ve been seeing them in a whole new light and being used in unexpected ways that go beyond everyday beading and jewelry. Gone are the days when pearls were only for the most traditional brides, and we couldn’t be more excited!

Kerri Pellegrin is owner, planner and designer with the Wedding Collection in Bay St. Louis.

Reach her at kerri@ theweddingcollection.com or (228) 344-3212.

WWW.THEWEDDINGCOLLECTION.COM •• 228-344-3212 228-344-3212 •• BAY BAY ST. ST. LOUIS, LOUIS, MISSISSIPPI MISSISSIPPI WWW.THEWEDDINGCOLLECTION.COM

A FULL SERVICE BRIDAL EXPERIENCE Offering Everything Everything from from the the Planning Planning to to the the Dress Dress Offering

THE PLANNING — THE DRESS — THE DESIGN

WEDDING

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Catering and Cakes TRENDS

When it comes to wedding treats and eats, couples don’t just want the food to be delicious — they want it to make a statement. Here’s what you’re sure to see more of in 2020:

Photo by Kayce Stork Photography

Photo by Tilley Photography

FLORAL CAKES AND GREENERY From edible blooms to fern decorations, couples are giving their cakes the botanical treatment.

ALTERNATIVE CAKES

Not everyone wants the large, centerpiece cake towering over their reception. At weddings this year, don’t be surprised to see cookie or pie tables, donut stacks or other sweet options in lieu of a traditional cake.

GEOMETRIC DETAILS

Whether the structure itself is angular or shapes are incorporated into the design, cakes are breaking out of their round mold. The effect is interesting and innovative.

ELABORATE DECORATION

Aside from the bride, the cake is often the focal point of the party — so it’s little wonder couples want them to be eyecatching. Brides are incorporating their themes into the design, decorating them creatively and thinking outside of the box when it comes to presentation.

SUPER SPREADS

For cocktail hours, couples are serving large amounts of cheeses, fruits, nuts, meats and other snacks, all beautifully displayed and perfect for grazing. These spreads are not only chic and modern — they bring people together.

Photo by Tilley Photography

SUSTAINABILITY

As couples become more eco-conscious, they want their wedding — and the food they serve their guests — to reflect their values. Think locally sourced, plant-based options that do the body — and the planet — good.

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Photo by Kayce Stork Photography

TRENDS

Jewelry & Accessories Wedding guests may ooh and ah over the bride’s gown, but it’s the details that take her look over the top.

According to Gail Pav, sales director with Pav & Broome Fine Jewelry in Gulfport, brides are embracing ofthe-moment accents that reflect their personality and grab attention.

Photo

by Tilley Photography

2020 will be the year for untraditional shapes and colors, with more of a bohemian vibe. Now is the time to express yourself loudly and proudly. It’s time to be unapologetically, uniquely you.

Yellow gold, which is new to millennials, has resurged in popularity, adding even more color at the base level. Stacks (stackable rings, bracelets, etc.) and layers (layering necklaces) add a certain flair and individuality to the mix. Even stone shapes have evolved from the traditional solitaire or round to oval, pear and emerald cuts.

Photo

by Tilley Photography

Photos by Bluewaters Photography

HAPPILY EVER AFTER BEGINS HERE...

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TRENDS

Florals

Rachel Bond, owner and floral designer with Pine Hills Floral Designs, tells us which floral trends are gaining traction:

FREESTANDING OR HANGING ELEMENTS

Photo by Bluewaters Photography

Custom hanging or freestanding designs are taking the place of traditional arches for ceremonies.

These often have a very loose and natural feel.

GREENERY WALLS

Faux greenery walls with fresh greenery and flowers accenting them are excellent backdrops for indoor or outdoor weddings. They create a soft, garden setting.

Photo by James Edwards Bates Photography

COLOR

Neutrals have been popular for years, but color is making a comeback. Punches of jewel and berry tones add a rich accent in bouquets and on tablescapes.

Photo by Kayce Stork Photography

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A Love for All Seasons 15461 Northrup Cuevas Rd., Gulfport, MS 39503

(228) 218-1906 • www.venueatsouthernoaks.com HAPPILY EVER AFTER BEGINS HERE...

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planning

Find it ONLINE gulfcoastweddingsmagazine.com

There is nothing more critical when planning a large event than having a good plan. Just like shopping for Christmas, having a list of things in hand at all times will ensure you don’t spend more money than you have to and helps you stay focused so you aren’t busting your budget on things you ultimately won’t use.

WEDDING PLANNING CHECKLIST WHO PAYS FOR WHAT? CASH CONTROL BUDGET PLANNER VENUE DIRECTORY VENDOR DIRECTORY REGISTRY CHECKLIST TOP GIFTS LIST GROOM GUIDE FIND A WEDDING PRO Photo by Tilley Photography

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MARRIAGE LICENSE INFO

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Eternal Bliss Takes Planning facebook@atpweddingsandevents • instagram@aftertheproposalweddings

228-326-4853 • www.AfterTheProposal.com HAPPILY EVER AFTER BEGINS HERE...

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BEAUTY

Tips for booking your wedding-day

By Crissy Cox

makeup artist

Getting gorgeous for your wedding starts well before the big day.

Here are some words of advice for choosing the right makeup professional and ensuring you look flawless:

START YOUR SEARCH EARLY

Wedding planning can be overwhelming. I get it, but don’t let beauty fall to the wayside.

Most professional makeup artists book at least six to nine months (if not further) in advance, and unfortunately, there is not always

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a way to forecast which dates will be popular. I like to tell my brides as soon as you have fallen in love with an artist, reserve your date.

TRIALS ARE ALWAYS A GOOD IDEA

Doing a trial run with your makeup and hair artists is essential for many reasons. Don’t underestimate the power of a good vibe. It’s important for you and your stylists to click. You also don’t want to go into your wedding day completely blind; it makes your big day so much less stressful when you know exactly what to expect. I always communicate with my brides after their trials to see how their makeup held up throughout the day and what small tweaks must be made on the day of.

You’d be surprised what a simple lip color change or some false lashes can do for your look.

LOOK FOR A TRUE PROFESSIONAL

This is where I encourage you to dig a little deeper. Reach out to your recently married friends.

Read reviews. Look through dozens of photos in artists’ online portfolios. Ask your photographer and other trusted vendors who they recommend.

Wedding day makeup is about so much more than a pretty makeover. Make sure the bridal artists you consider not only are talented, but professional.

Do they practice sanitary procedures? Do they use clean makeup brushes on every client? Are they good communicators? Will they arrive on time? You want to be sure that your artist not only will show up for your big day but keep you happy and well taken care of throughout the process.

PAMPER YOUR SKIN AHEAD OF TIME

One of the best pieces of advice I can give is start taking care of your skin NOW. Visiting your favorite dermatologist or aesthetician and developing a simple skincare routine can ensure you have a more even and radiant canvas for your wedding day makeup. Remember to test any spray tanning, waxing, facials or treatments at least four to six weeks ahead of time if you plan on doing them for your big day. The last thing you want at your wedding is a rash … I’ve seen it.

Crissy Cox is a freelance makeup artist on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, specializing in on-location wedding and special event makeup. Contact her or learn more at facebook.com/CrissyCoxMUA.

HAPPILY EVER AFTER BEGINS HERE...

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