Hartselle Living January/February by Hartselle Newspapers

READ THIS BOOK • HALI RHEA GURLEY • CHAMBER CONNECTIONS

HARTSELLE LIVING January/February 2022

2021 WEDDINGS MEET 7 LOCAL COUPLES

FROM THE GROUND UP FAMILY BREATHES NEW LIFE INTO HOUSE THAT SAT VACANT FOR DECADES

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WEDDINGS 32 ECKL & MELTON 34 CROW & ROBERSON 36

GIRODO & LANEY 38 ROMAGER &

HOME & STYLE

MURPHY

9 FROM THE GROUND UP

Family breathes new life into house that sat vacant for decades

SITTASON &

ARTS & CULTURE

SMITH

15 HAIRDRESSER HALI Local salon owner enjoys makeup artist life

42 GILLETTE 44 ELMORE & GUYSE 4 Hartselle Living

FOOD & DRINK PHOTO BY LAUREN COFFEY PHOTOGRAPHY

GODSEY &

21 SWEET SHOWER SIPPINGS 24 SO CHEESY

Photo by RAW Images

46 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS 48 READ THIS BOOK 50 OUT & ABOUT

HARTSELLE LIVING

FROM THE EDITOR

CONTRIBUTORS

STAFF Editorial Rebekah Yancey Alison James Contributors Constance Smith Michelle Blaylock Susan Hayes Rachel Howard Marketing Baretta Taylor

ALISON JAMES, copy editor Alison James earned her bachelor’s degree in journalism at Auburn University, graduating in 2012. She began her career in community journalism in Alexander City and Dadeville, followed by a stop in Opelika before landing in north Alabama. She loves sharing the stories – and correcting the grammar of those stories – of the people and places that make north Alabama such a special place.

I’m writing this letter on the very day I’m celebrating being married for a year and a half to the best person I know. Maybe it’s the warm, fuzzy feelings I get every year while preparing for this issue of Hartselle Living, or maybe it’s seeing the beautiful photos in our bridal section – or it could have something to do with being so deeply in love with my better half – but I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it with the last breath in my body: I love love. Love is the best thing about this life, whether it’s the love between a husband and wife or the love I have for my mother and father, my siblings, the family I got when I became a Yancey or the two little babies who will grace this world with their presence this spring when my sister and sister-in-law make me an aunt times two. Cue the water works! I think it’s pretty clear at this point why the bridal issue is my favorite of the year. Reading the love stories of newlyweds in our community and seeing the photos of their wedding days brings me so much joy. I hope it does the same for you. In addition to the bridal section in this issue, we have filled the rest of its pages with bridal and wedding-themed content for our readers to enjoy. In the Arts & Culture section we have a story about Hali Rhea Gurley who, with her mother Stacey, owns South of Main. On the side, she’s a makeup artist and does beautiful hairstyles for nearly 80 brides a year on average. You can read about how she got into the hair and makeup industry on page 15. Our Food & Drink contributor Constance Smith brings us fruity and fun cocktails and mocktails for those bridal showers that are so much fun. Check out those recipes on page 21. And of course, on pages 31-45 we feature the love stories and wedding days of seven local couples who married in 2021. This magazine will be one to keep for sure thanks to all the beautiful photos you can find in this issue. Here’s to love, and as always, thanks for reading,

Anna Baker Terri Haston Administration Beth Jackson

CONSTANCE SMITH, writer Constance Smith is a lifestyle blogger and YouTuber at AGoodLifeFarm. com. After 25 years of Army family life, Constance has planted roots here in Hartselle. She now homesteads on her small farm, where she raises heritage breed animals and is focusing on permaculture gardening. In her spare time she enjoys photography, art, kayaking and other outdoor sports.

Phone: 256-773-6566 info@hartselleliving.com Hartselle Living is published bimonthly Hartselle Newspapers, LLC. A one-year subscription to Hartselle Living is $16.30 for 6 issues per year. Single copies are available at select locations throughout the Hartselle area. To advertise or to get more copies, call 773-6566. Copyright 2021 by Hartselle Newspapers, LLC

RACHEL HOWARD, photographer Rachel Howard is a Hartselle native who is proud to own and run a business in her hometown. Capturing moments on camera allows her to give the gift of memories, and that makes her soul smile. She is an avid fitness-lover and teaches spin classes as a side hobby. She enjoys singing, playing golf with her husband Nick and being a dog mom to Ralphie and Bud.

ON THE COVER

Madison and Daniel Smith met through mutual friends and married March 6, 2021, in Hartselle.

rebekah.yancey@hartselleliving.com

Photo by RAW Images

6 Hartselle Living

Hartselle Living 7

HOME&STYLE

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Family breathes new life into house that sat vacant for decades STORY BY REBEKAH YANCEY PHOTOS BY RACHEL HOWARD

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10 Hartselle Living

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The house that has sat vacant for decades on the corner of Cedar and Chestnut streets has recently undergone a complete remodel from the ground up thanks to owners Michael and Jennifer Broom. The history of the house is ambiguous at best, with neither the local couple nor many others knowing much about its previous owners or inhabitants. The Cedar Street house is the fourth major remodel for the couple, who have also taken on several smaller jobs through the years. All in all, they said the job took nearly seven months to complete. Because it had no inhabitants for decades, the house had no utilities hooked up when the project began in spring of this past year. Broom said the foundation, plumbing, electrical work, subfloor and trim is all completely new. Just like a new construction, Broom said the house had to be brought up to code to meet all the guidelines from the city to pass various safety inspections. The two-bed, two-bathroom house is now 1,120 square feet, after the former back porch was closed in and transformed into a mudroom. Before the remodel, the house was around 975 square feet. It features energy-efficient windows, spray foam insulation, granite countertops and hardwood floors, with tile in the bathrooms and mudroom. All new cabinetry was installed, as well. The house is completely furnished and can sleep six. It features several amenities, such as internet, a full-size

Hartselle Living 11

washer and dryer and two big walk-in closets in each bedroom. A front porch was added with composite decking for relaxation. With the house being located close to downtown Hartselle, Broom said he plans to rent it out to short-term travelers and hopefully bring in new people to visit the area.

MEET THE MANPOWER • Construction: Bama Group, Kevin Corum • Materials: Corum’s Building Ace Hardware • Foundation/heavy demolition: Homesource Construction, Chuck Stafford • Demolition/framing: Gary Garner Construction • Frazier Roofing • Roberts Plumbing • Dr. Shock Electrical • Guzman Painting • Gutters Unlimited • Concrete siding/soffit/window and door installation: Craig Terry • Sheetrock: Waylon Turrentine • Trim/detail work: Charles Sanders • Cabinetry: Firehouse Construction, Clay Heater • Stucco/deck block work: Kenny Orr • Flooring/tile/backsplash: Joaquin Zacarias • Granite: Surface World, Athens • HVAC/spray foam: Marsh Heating and Cooling • Gravel/grading: Jim Hampton • Wilhite Furnishings and property location specialists 12 Hartselle Living

Hartselle Living 13

ARTS & CULTURE

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14 Hartselle Living

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Don’t Forget the Groom

HAIRDRESSER HALI Local salon owner enjoys makeup artist life STORY BY REBEKAH YANCEY PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

W Photo by Blushing Garnets Photography

• Home • Auto • Life • Business • Specialty Lines Photo by Brittnay Calden Photography

Photo by Hali Rhea Gurley

Gurley said she averages 80 weddings a year. Her largest bridal party had 23 women including the attendants and family members. She has had clients from various backgrounds and cultures, and she said she has enjoyed being a part of each one. “They’re all very different, and I feel like I get put in situations I would have never been familiar with otherwise,” she added.

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When she was 17 years old, Hali Rhea Gurley was always the one who did her friends’ hair and makeup for formals, proms and dances. It started slowly for the junior in high school, but soon she was the unofficial makeup artist and hairstylist for as many as 15 people in a day. She said it was then she knew it was time to act on her life-long dream of going to school to pursue her cosmetology license. Now Hali, 26, and her mother, Stacey Gurley, co-own South of Main in downtown Hartselle and have specialized in wedding and event hair and makeup on the side for seven years. The motherdaughter duo has owned the salon on Sparkman Street for two years. “I do a lot of trials and run-throughs during the week, and I usually do two to three weddings every weekend,” Gurley said. She comes from a long line of women who are involved in the industry: In addition to her mother, Hali has three aunts who are also hairstylists. “I’ve always been around it and wanted to do it,” she said. “I never really thought I would, but here I am.”

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Hartselle Living 17

Photo by Madison Martin Photography

With a background in pageants, the mother of one said she is seeing the structured, pinned-back styles of the past go by the wayside. In the same way weddings overall are becoming more relaxed and minimalistic, in turn, hair and makeup trends are following suit. “I don’t know if it’s more so related to the COVID pandemic or just the shift in priorities and families wanting to focus on what’s most important, but I’m seeing a lot of micro weddings,” Gurley said. “Even dresses – I used to see a lot of big ballgowns, and now everything is sleek and slimming, very minimalistic.” Gurley said her favorite style to do for brides right now is the relaxed, undone, bohemian look that is so popular. A few of Gurley’s weddings have been featured in Alabama Wedding Magazine – an accomplishment she calls a highlight of her career. “I love getting to travel to different venues every weekend and work alongside some insanely talented artists. I love getting to travel to new states all while meeting new people,” she said. “Being able to go to the beach for a weekend while working a wedding and taking my family on a trip is a dream,” Gurley added. “Seeing different cultures through work and art and witnessing firsthand how people’s personalities shine through on their big day is one of the best parts of my job. “I would have never thought this Southern girl from Alabama would have gone as far as I’ve gone.” Gurley can be found on Instagram @hairdresserhali.

Math is everywhere – and fun for families!

Most families of elementary and intermediate school-aged children want to keep math skills sharp over school breaks and weekends, and if family time can be a part of that – that’s a bonus! Sites such as tasteofhome.com have no-bake recipes that parents and children can make together. This is fun for everyone, and it grows math skills. Depending on the age of your child, consider working with him or her on developing math skills with the following considerations: 1. Mix ingredients. Allow your child to measure and then add ingredients. 2. Mix ingredients. Double, triple or halve recipes, allowing your child to determine how to scale proportions. 3. Price the total recipe. Using your grocery receipt, have your child find the items used in the recipe and then determine what it cost you to make it. 4. Price each portion. Did you make two dozen of something? Have your child help you determine what each portion costs. 5. Consider a profit margin. You can have a conversation with your older child about what it might cost to sell the treats. Labor, power, water, packaging – a conversation about how businesses determine mark-ups and profits could be powerful. There are YouTube videos for children about profit margins that might spur your conversations. Several sites and Pinterest pages provide directions for making homemade cards with your children. Depending on the age of

your child, consider working with him or her on developing math skills with the following considerations: 1. Though not specifically tied to math, using scissors and “dots of glue the size of an ant” and other such activities build fine motor skills in little hands and fingers. 2. Counting collections is a math skill that should be reinforced in 4-, 5- and 6-year-old students. So, if you are going to make 10 cards and need 20 charms for the cards, have your child count 20 from the collection. Alternatively, consider having your child sort the charms by sizes or colors and then count those collections. 3. If your child is a bit older, have him or her do the sorting and then determine how many cards can be made with the number of charms available. 4. Similarly, if you are cutting shapes from paper, have your child determine how many shapes can be cut from one sheet of paper and then how many pieces of paper will be needed to accomplish the task. 5. An older child can again consider profit margins. “If you wanted to make and then sell these cards, how much would you need to charge for each card to cover all of your materials costs? And what would your labor be worth?” Again, family time is important in the life of a child. Activities such as these can make holidays and weekends fun and academically rewarding.

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18 Hartselle Living

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Hartselle Living 19

The Mortgage Center

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SWEET SHOWER SIPPINGS STORY AND PHOTOS BY CONSTANCE SMITH

LEMON BERRY COOLERS

You will fall in love with this drink the first time you try it. It’s a lemonade with orange, lime and a splash of raspberry. To make a ridiculously lovely cocktail with this recipe, add a splash of vodka or champagne to the glass. INGREDIENTS • 2 oranges • 3 lemons • 3 limes • 3/4 cups sugar • 7 cups water • 1/2 cup fresh or frozen raspberries • lemon and lime slices for garnish

When bridal season comes upon us, there will be many gatherings, celebrations and, of course, bridal showers. These beverage recipes all have a light and refreshing flavor, and they’re sure to be a lovely addition to your festivities.

CITRUS BERRY PUNCH With orange, pink lemonade and cranberry, this punch is the perfect blend of sweet and tangy. This punch can also be “spiked” with vodka, tequila or champagne, if you wish. INGREDIENTS • 12 oz. frozen pink lemonade concentrate, thawed • 12 oz. frozen orange juice concentrate, thawed • 4 cups cranberry juice • 4 cups ginger ale or sparkling water • 1 orange, sliced • 1 cup fresh red raspberries • 1 cup fresh blackberries • Ice INSTRUCTIONS 1. Combine the pink lemonade concentrate, orange juice concentrate, cranberry juice and ginger ale in a punch bowl. 2. Stir gently to combine. 3. Add the fruit to float in the top. 4. Serve with ice.

22 Hartselle Living

INSTRUCTIONS 1. To begin, juice the oranges, lemons and limes. Add the juice of all to a pitcher. 2. Pour in the sugar and water and stir until the sugar is dissolved. 3. Drop the raspberries and a few lemon and lime slices into the pitcher. 4. Chill until you are ready to serve. 5. Pour over ice and garnish with a lemon wedge.

STRAWBERRY LEMONADE MARTINI This strawberry lemonade martini is probably the most refreshing cocktail you will ever taste. INGREDIENTS • 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, cored • 1 oz. vanilla vodka • 1 oz. Limoncello • 1 tablespoon honey • Ice INSTRUCTIONS 1. To begin, muddle your strawberries inside a beverage shaker. 2. Add the remaining ingredients. 3. Close up the shaker and shake it well until everything is combined and chilled. 4. Strain it into a martini glass. 5. Garnish the glass with a slice of lemon and a big, beautiful strawberry. Hartselle Living 23

Cozy soups are the perfect meals to serve on a chilly winter day. Both of these creamy, cheesy recipes are incredibly easy to make, and both will be well-loved by the whole family – kids included. You can see cooking videos of both of these recipes at AGoodLifeFarm.com

CHEDDAR BROCCOLI SOUP

This soup takes only minutes to make and can be made with either fresh or frozen broccoli. It is a great way to get the kids to eat their veggies. To replace the fresh broccoli with frozen, use about 1 pound of broccoli. No need to thaw it – just add the frozen broccoli to the soup at the end. INGREDIENTS • 3 tablespoons butter, unsalted • 1/2 cup red onion, diced • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour • 2 cups beef broth • 2 cups milk • 1 cup half & half • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese • 1 head broccoli

SO CHEESY Comforting soups for winter days STORY AND PHOTOS BY CONSTANCE SMITH

INSTRUCTIONS 1. To begin, cut the florets from the broccoli head, breaking or cutting them into bite-sized pieces. Set aside for now. 2. Combine the butter and diced onion in a Dutch oven or soup pot. 3. Cook the onion over medium heat until it is tender but not browned. 4. Add in the flour and whisk together. Let cook for one minute. 5. Add the beef broth and whisk briefly. 6. Add the milk, half-and-half, salt and pepper. Cook the mixture until it begins to bubble. Stir frequently, more as it heats, to prevent scalding. 7. Add in the shredded cheese and the broccoli. Stir until the cheese is melted. 8. Continue to stir frequently until the broccoli is tender, about 5-10 minutes. Hartselle Living 25

CHEESEBURGER SOUP

This soup is another great one for the whole family. It is made in your slow cooker, with just a couple other simple steps. This soup is not spicy, but if you are concerned about heat for the very little ones, reduce the chipotle to 1/2 teaspoon. INGREDIENTS • 1 medium onion, diced • 3 cloves garlic, minced • 1 lb. ground beef • 1 lb. potatoes, washed and cut into 1-inch pieces (red, yellow or russet) • 4 carrots, peeled, trimmed and cut into 1/2-inch pieces • 32 oz. beef broth • 1/4 cup ketchup • 2 tablespoons classic yellow mustard • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1 teaspoon chipotle chili pepper • 2 tablespoons butter • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour • 1 1/2 cups milk • 2 cups sharp grated cheddar cheese • Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced pickles and crumbled bacon INSTRUCTIONS 1. To begin, brown the ground beef with the onions in a skillet until it is cooked through, about eight minutes. 2. Drain off any excess grease and place the beef and onion in the slow cooker with the garlic, carrots, potatoes, beef broth, ketchup, mustard, salt, pepper and chipotle pepper. 3. Stir it all together and cover. Cook on high for four hours or low for eight hours. 4. When the soup is done, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. 5. Whisk in the flour and let it bubble for a minute. 6. Pour in the milk and whisk. 7. Continue to cook and stir until the sauce comes to a gentle boil and thickens. 8. Turn the heat all the way down to low and add in the shredded cheese. Stir until the sauce is melted. 9. Pour this cheese sauce into the slow cooker and stir it in. 10. Serve topped with extra shredded cheese, some diced pickles, crumbled bacon or whatever you like on your burger! 26 Hartselle Living

Growing in the new year

OFFERING YOU

Happy New Year from the William digital copies of books, audiobooks, Bradford Huie Library of Hartselle! movies, TV programs and music. We hope 2022 will be blessed with I am sure many readers have health and happiness for you and heard of Hoopla but might not be yours. familiar with how it works. It is We are looking forward to extremely easy to use. First, you will continuing to expand our services to need to have an active library card. our community and our patrons in Next, download the Hoopla app and 2022. We will continue to be open follow the directions in the app to on Monday evenings until 7 p.m., register your library card. That’s it. and we will offer a wide variety of The materials will be automatically programs throughout each month. returned upon due date – no MICHELLE BLAYLOCK LIBRARY MANAGER We offer painting classes, a book overdue fines or fees! club, gaming night and special story We are also able to expand our times, in addition to our weekly Wednesday Little other digital service, Overdrive/Libby, with this Listener Story Times. We are also adding movies! same grant. Our hopes are to reduce wait time on For more information, please call or stop by the some of the more popular books and audiobooks library. checked out through that service. We are excited to be able to launch our newest If you would like help with either one of these service, Hoopla, thanks to a Library Services and services, please call or stop by the library. Our Technology Act Grant through Alabama Public librarians will be happy to help you. Library Services and the support of our city council. Thank you for your support throughout the year. Hoopla is a digital service that will allow William We look forward to serving you and meeting our Bradford Huie Library cardholders to check out growing community’s needs in 2022.

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Hartselle Living 29

2021 WEDDINGS

MEET 7 LOCAL COUPLES PHOTO BY LAUREN COFFEY PHOTOGRAPHY

Eckl Melton June 5, 2021

PHOTOS BY RAW IMAGES 32 Hartselle Living

The proposal: Nov. 14, 2020, we were hosting a Friendsgiving in our new home we had just purchased. Josh brought me inside to help me look for his phone that he said he had misplaced. While we were searching, everyone headed into the backyard, where Josh finally led me. There was a backdrop set up that said “Will you marry me?” but Josh couldn’t wait to get down on one knee and didn’t even make it to the

backdrop. We were so blessed to be surrounded by our closest friends and family during such an exciting time! The wedding dress: Having the perfect dress was always my dream for my wedding day, and Bella’s Bridal did not fall short. I said yes to the second dress I put on and couldn’t have loved it more! My mom and a few of my bridesmaids were able to be there with me for that special moment.

Favorite moment from the big day: Our absolute favorite moment of the wedding day was our first look. From our second date I knew I was going to marry Josh, and I have always pictured seeing him on our wedding day. I was so nervous walking down the hill to him, and when I finally got to him, there was such a feeling of relief. Many tears were flowing from both of us at that moment.

Vendors Wedding Venue: Weddings at Cabin Bluff Florist: Nee’s Flower Market Caterer: At Your Service Catering Cake: Valor Baker Invitations: Etsy Wedding Dress: Bella’s Bridal

Bridesmaid Dresses: Birdy Grey Hair and Makeup: Jaysa Caldwell Groom/Groomsmen Attire: Mr. Burch Music: Steven Marimberga, DJ Transportation: Accent Limo

Hartselle Living 33

Crow Roberson June 26, 2021

PHOTOS BY RAW IMAGES

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How we met: Zach and I officially met at Hartselle High School as juniors, when we had AP chemistry together. By senior year I had developed a major crush. I remember about eight months before we started dating, someone asked me to describe my dream guy. Straight out of my mouth came “Zach Roberson.” I knew I wanted my future husband to have the same caring and gentle nature as Zach. The wedding dress: On a whim, my Mom and I decided to take a trip to Hoover to go to David’s Bridal, both thinking we would try a couple dresses and head out. That was when I tried on a beautiful, ivory satin ballgown with dainty off-the-shoulder sleeves. I men-

tioned to the consultant that the only thing I didn’t like was that it was a little plain. She brought out the most perfect jeweled belt and earrings to match. It was perfect, and I finally had that bridal moment. Oh, did I mention it had pockets? Perfect for hiding my tissues for waterworks on wedding day! Favorite moment from the big day: My favorite memory from our wedding day was our first look. I am absolutely terrible about keeping secrets, and it was so hard not to accidentally tell Zach all about my dress. I was so excited to get his genuine reaction to seeing me all dressed up. My favorite thing about the first look was how giggly Zach was. He couldn’t stop this in-

fectious, school-boy giggle. I loved that we were able to have that moment together and just enjoy each other’s company for a quick few minutes before we started taking pictures with everyone else. I also loved that because we did the first look, I actually got to spend all day with him. Zach’s favorite moment was when we ate together before the reception. I can get behind that as well because it really was great to get to sit down, eat a meal – I had not eaten all day – and spend a quick 20 minutes together before going inside to talk and visit with everyone who came to celebrate with us. Overall, our entire wedding day was such an undreamed-of event. I never

could have expected the day to go as well as it did. I never thought I would make as many memories as I did. I regularly will look at Zach and ask him if he wants to go back and do it all over again. It was just a day filled with joy, excitement and, of course, love.

What you’re doing now: Zach and I now live in LaGrange, Ga. I have two more years at Auburn University’s Harrison School of Pharmacy. Zach is the pulpit minister at the Middle Fayette Church of Christ in Fayetteville, Ga.

Vendors Wedding Venue: Flint Church of Christ Florist: Karissa Lang Caterer: Apple Lane Farms Cake: Sweet Cravings by Mel, Melonee White Videographer: Michael Raymond Productions Wedding Dress: David’s Bridal, alterations by Urban Altered

Bridesmaid Dresses: David’s Bridal Hair and Makeup: Kristy Jones (hair) and Keri Aycock (makeup), POSH Salon Groom/Groomsmen Attire: Jos. A. Bank Rentals/Decorations: Something Vintage Event Rentals and Karissa Lang

Hartselle Living 35

Girodo Laney

May 8, 2021

PHOTOS BY RAW IMAGES 36 Hartselle Living

How we met: I’m a hairstylist. Logan called the salon one day needing an appointment for a haircut. Another girl had cut his hair a few times, but he needed an appointment for a Saturday, and the girl who had been cutting his hair didn’t work Saturdays – but I did. So, I took him on as a client. We always talked so much, and then one day he asked me out. The proposal: One of my favorite places in the world is the Huntsville

Space and Rocket Center. Logan decided we needed to go there one weekend, and I wasn’t going to say no. We got there and toured a little. I took a picture of us next to the big rocket. I was looking at the pictures to see how I liked them, and he told me to turn around. When I did, he was down on one knee and asked me to marry him. It was the quickest yes of my life! The wedding dress: I went to The Something Blue Shoppe thinking I

would never make a decision that day on a dress. I tried on four or five. As soon as my consultant put on “the” dress, I said yes because I knew it was the one. Favorite moment from the big day: Our favorite moment was getting to see each other at the altar for the first time. We chose not to do a first look, and I’m so glad we didn’t! Favorite wedding detail: My bouquet with both of my grandmothers’ “mother’s” rings tied into it.

Vendors Venue: Burningtree Country Club Florist: It’s Your Day – bride’s bouquet Caterer: Burningtree Country Club Cake: Sweet Sensations Invitations: The Knot Wedding Dress: The Something Blue Shoppe

Bridesmaid Dresses: David’s Bridal and The Something Blue Shoppe Hair and makeup: Felicia Green, Libby Blackburn and Sadie Hood Groom/groomsmen attire: Men’s Wearhouse

Hartselle Living 37

Romager Murphy October 10, 2021

PHOTOS BY JODI HYDE PHOTOGRAPHY 38 Hartselle Living

How we met: Ty and I met in high school. We had a music appreciation class together. All we did was laugh and cut up in class, secretly crushing on each other. After that class, we didn’t speak for many years. Later we reconnected through Facebook. I messaged him first, wishing him a happy birthday, and the rest is history. The proposal: Ty took me on a trip to Gatlinburg, Tenn., as a Christmas gift in 2020 and proposed there. The wedding dress: I found my

wedding dress while shopping by myself one day at David’s Bridal. I fell in love with it instantly. Favorite moment from the big day: My favorite part of our wedding day was the ceremony. I loved every minute of it, from walking down the aisle with my dad to saying my vows to my best friend. What we are doing now: Ty and I live in Hartselle now and hope to grow our family here. I have no idea what I would do without him.

Vendors Wedding Venue: Charlie’s Vineyard at Frost Farm, Eva Wedding Planner: Cynthia Weaver, Charlie’s Vineyard Florist: Baker’s Flower Shop, Eva Caterer: Charlie’s Vineyard at Frost Farm Cake: Simply Delicious, Decatur

Wedding Dress: David’s Bridal Hair and Makeup: Katie Morrow Roberts Groom/Groomsmen Attire: Something Blue, Hartselle Music: DJ Jammin Jeff Photographer: Jodi Hyde

Hartselle Living 39

Sittason Smith

March 6, 2021

PHOTOS BY RAW IMAGES

40 Hartselle Living

How we met: We met through mutual friends but quickly put the pieces together that I worked with Daniel’s sister, Mary Katherine. Nothing happened after we met until I told Mary Katherine I had met her brother, and she immediately texted him and said we needed to go on a date. So, a few days later he contacted me, and we went on our first date! The proposal: Daniel was living in El Paso, Texas, at the time, and I was in Birmingham. He wasn’t supposed to come home until the Fourth of July, but he flew in late Friday, June 19, 2020. I had no idea he was in Bir-

mingham because I was working that night. My sister was visiting for two weeks, and we were planning on going to eat with my cousins that night. On our way, we “got a flat tire” and pulled into the botanical gardens to find Daniel waiting for me. We walked through the garden, both very nervous, and I was just rambling about how he managed to fly to Birmingham without me knowing. He had a hidden photographer friend who got pictures of everything. We had a celebration with friends and family after. Favorite moment from the big day: I loved taking communion with

Daniel during our ceremony for the first time as husband and wife. I loved having a slow, fun morning with all my best friends and family, and I loved having a last dance with Daniel while everyone was lining up to send us out. Favorite wedding details: I loved the flowers because my aunt, Jennifer Sittason, did them and did such an amazing job making sure it was everything I wanted. I’m not a flower person, but they were all so special because she played such a big part in making the day perfect! What we are doing now: We are living in Birmingham in our first

home, which we love so much! I work at Children’s of Alabama as a pediatric oncology nurse, and Daniel works for

Stewart Perry as a project manager. We recently got our first dog together in July.

Vendors Wedding Venue: The Witt House Florist: Jennifer Sittason and partypetalsbydeana Caterer: JW Steakhouse Cake: Jan Barnett Videographer: Hannah Busing Invitations: Something Blue Shoppe Wedding Dress: Something Blue Shoppe

Bridesmaid Dresses: Something Blue Shoppe Hair and Makeup: Natalie Moore Groom/Groomsmen Attire: Men’s Wearhouse Music: Hi-Definition Transportation: Just for You Coach Day-of Wedding Coordinator: Monty Vest Rings: Diamonds Direct

Hartselle Living 41

Godsey Gillette

June 26, 2021

PHOTOS BY RAW IMAGES

42 Hartselle Living

How we met: Britt and I both grew up in Hartselle and attended Hartselle High School. We didn’t really get to know one other until he reached out to me at the end of 2018, and we went on our first date. The proposal: It was the most perfect day. He managed to get me all dressed up and down to a big rock that overlooked a beautiful lake on his family’s land. It was all a blur, but I do remember him saying, “I promise to always protect you, lead you and love you.” We headed back to his house, and all of our family and friends were lining the driveway. I remember feeling so loved, blessed and filled with joy!

The wedding dress: I found my dream dress at The Something Blue Shoppe. I always knew I wanted something timeless and classic! It was a tough choice, but when I tried on my sister’s veil with my dress, it sealed the deal, and tears flowed. It was a day I’ll always remember and a sweet memory I got to share with my mom, sister, grandmother, aunt, mother-in-law and groom’s sister! Favorite moment from the big day: Our big day was the best day ever. It went so smoothly and was truly a day filled with so much joy. It is hard for me to the choose a favorite memory because the whole day was my favorite day. A few moments that stand out are, of course, seeing Britt for the first time and walk-

ing down the aisle to him! I did not expect him to get emotional at all, but he surprised me. I will never forget dancing with my dad; my best friend and her mom singing our unity candle song; and having everyone we love dancing the night away with the best band ever. Favorite wedding details: I placed pictures of my grandparents and Britt’s grandmother, who have passed away, in charms and added them to my bouquet. I felt it was a special way to carry them through the day with me! What we are doing now: After our amazing honeymoon, Britt and I moved into our new house and started making it our home! Soon it was back to work for him and then back to school for me.

I teach first grade at Crestline in Hartselle, and Britt works at PowerGrid Services. In August we brought home the

sweetest black Lab puppy! We truly haven’t slowed down a bit but are loving this new life as husband and wife.

Vendors Wedding Venue: First United Methodist Church Hartselle Reception Venue: The Witt House Florist: Jennifer Sittason Photographer: RAW images Second shooter: GeoPho Caterer: JW Steakhouse Cake: Barnett Bakery Cookies: Claire’s Cookie Company Videographer: Wilhite Productions Invitations: Eracalligraphyco

Programs and Sign: Ledgewood Fine Stationary Crest: Isabelle Speed Table Linens: La Tavola Fine Linen Wedding Dress: The Something Blue Shoppe Bridesmaid Dresses: The Something Blue Shoppe Hair and Makeup: Hali Gurley Groom/Groomsmen Attire: The Something Blue Shoppe Music: The Block Party Experience Day-of Coordinators: Dana McCutcheon and Kat Tyler

Hartselle Living 43

Elmore Guyse

June 5, 2021

PHOTOS BY LAUREN COFFEY PHOTOGRAPHY

44 Hartselle Living

How we met: Jordan and I went to high school together. We went on a few dates, like dinner and a movie, and attended prom together, but we never truly dated during high school. We both went our separate ways in college – I went to Mississippi State, and Jordan went to UAH – so we did not talk or see each other for five years, except for that one time he frantically waved at me while driving on the interstate. I was in my first year of optometry school at UAB when Jordan invited me to go to a wedding with him in Huntsville – so I did. We had a great time at the wedding and then started going on more dates. We dated long distance from August 2018 until May 2019, when Jordan decided to change jobs and move cities to be closer to me while I fin-

ished optometry school in Birmingham. I fell in love with Jordan’s patience and selflessness toward me as well as others. The proposal: Jordan first mentioned the idea of getting married about six months after we started dating. I told him I wanted to get through my National Boards exams and graduate optometry school before we got married. So, I took my National Boards Aug. 5, 2020, and Jordan proposed Aug. 8. My mom called me the day I took Boards and wanted to have a girls’ day on the upcoming Saturday to celebrate. So, I drove to my parents’ house, where my mom and I had a nice lunch together. Then she told me someone was coming over to give me a massage and do my nails to celebrate that I was done with my exam. So, I had

a nice relaxing massage and had my nails painted – but then my mom told me we had to drive down to the lake house to take our Christmas card picture with the rest of the family. I was so confused why we were taking our Christmas card picture in August because we are usually the type of family to take it right before Christmas, but I didn’t question it too much. When I walked into the lake house, there was no one inside. I walked to the back porch and saw candles, lights, flowers and pictures of Jordan and me. Then I saw Jordan standing on the dock. He had decorated the dock with string lights, candles, flowers and a cross that his dad had built. It was so beautiful! Jordan got down on one knee, quoted my favorite Bible verse to me,

Hebrews 12:1-2, and asked me to “run the race” of life with him. Then all of our families and friends were there, and we had dinner and cake. It was the most perfect day! What you are doing now: Jordan and I are now happily married and set-

tled into our home in Priceville. I am working as an optometrist at Drake Eye Center in Hartselle, and Jordan is working remotely as a data analyst for Surgical Care Affiliates. We have absolutely loved moving back to our hometown and being so close to friends and family.

Vendors Wedding Venue: Central Baptist Church Reception Venue: The Witt House Wedding Planner: Leigh Chappell Photographer: Lauren Coffey Photography Florist: Kathy Summerford Caterer: J.W. Steakhouse Cake: Denise Lang Videographer: Bergamot Films

Wedding Dress: Bella’s Bridal and Formal Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie Hair and Makeup: Phillip Bailey and Kim Nelson Groom/Groomsmen Attire: Michael Mason Bridal Music: Pianist Greg Spicer, violinist Viljar Weimann and reception band Randall Key and band

Hartselle Living 45

UPCOMING EVENTS • Jan. 12: Lunch and Learn Quarterly Event with ChandlerThinks, 11:30 a.m., The Venue • Jan. 14: Member 101, 8:30-9:30 a.m., Depot • Jan. 19: IMPACT Student

BECOMER A MEMBE NEW MEMBERS • First Priority of Greater Decatur Alabama • Spencer Bell Ministries • Jill Turney – MarMac Real Estate • Buttered Up Soap Company • JPosh Apparel • Blue Sanitation • Zoey’s Downtown • Sherry’s Sparkle

Leadership Kickoff • Jan. 20: Hartselle After Hours Quarterly Event,

SANTA AT THE DEPOT • Nov. 7 from 1-4 p.m. • Presenting sponsor: Mutual of Omaha Mortgage • Santa sponsor: DiamondPro • Snowflake sponsor: Inline Lighting and Electric • Cookies and cocoa sponsors: ACE Auto Body, Bargains USA and Redstone Federal Credit Union • Photos: Images by JesiB • Santa’s Throne provided by Something Vintage • More than 100 children attended, plus parents

5-7 p.m. • Feb. 3: “Parents, We Need You” Workforce Town Hall, 8 a.m., Hartselle High School • Feb. 7: TRC Kickoff Rally, Time and location TBD

TRC AWARDS TRIP

• Feb. 16: BOSS – Business Owners Sharing Solutions

• • • • •

Oct. 10-12 Dollywood DreamMore Resort Incentive trip for Chamber’s TRC Campaign volunteers Thank you to TRC chair Dr. Mark Hendrix Thank you to Dena Nagel of Journeys by Design Travel and Tours for organizing the trip • Attended by Beth Foote and family, Whitney Mosteller and family, Missy Evans and family, Tabatha Nowak and family, Dena Nagel and family and Mark Hendrix

Breakfast (formerly called Breakfast and Business), 7:30 a.m., The Venue • Feb. 19: Cinderella Ball, 5 p.m., Burningtree Country Club

CITY APPRECIATION • Dec. 9, Hartselle First Assembly of God • Honored all city employees – City of Hartselle, Hartselle Utilities and Joe Wheeler EMC • Presenting sponsor: Sonoco Reels & Plugs • Gold sponsors: Wear, Howell, Strickland, Quinn, and Law LLC, Redstone Federal Credit Union and Hartselle Enquirer • Décor sponsor: Something Vintage

• Silver sponsor: Traditions Fence • Table sponsors: Cindy Shaneyfelt–MarMac Real Estate, ServPro of Decatur and Magnolia River • Friends of the City supporting sponsors – ACE Auto Body, Forever Kate, Bargains USA, Habitat for Humanity of Morgan County, New Build Cleaning Services and Don Alejo Mexican Restaurant

Hartselle Area Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 817, Hartselle, AL 35640 46 Hartselle Living

256. 773.4370  admin@hartsellechamber.com Hartselle Living 47

READ THIS BOOK

Must-Read Romance These recommendations are some of the librarians’ favorite romance books. These books are perfect for getting ready for Valentine’s Day!

From the Librarians: The William Bradford Huie Library of Hartselle is proud to offer readers recommendations from our librarians. These titles were selected by Sarah Laughmiller, Chrissy Tucker and Alex VanKoughnett. Come into the library to check out these and more.

(256)

502-9800

Home Sweet Home

“LOVE REMAINS” by Kaye Dacus

“STILL THE ONE”

by Susan May Warren

Deep Haven is a small town where Cole Barrett and his parents would vacation every summer. It’s there he met and became fast friends with Megan Carter. When Cole’s parents died in a car accident, he was sent to stay in Deep Haven with his abusive grandfather but was later taken away and lost touch with Megan. Years later, Cole is looking to get a job with his friend as a U.S. Marshal; however, he must tie up loose ends in Deep Haven. He just wants to get the job done and leave. What he doesn’t count on is coming face to face with his old friend Megan – who is renting the apartment above his grandfather’s garage.

eet W., r t S n i a 110 M 25640 L A , e l l e s Hart

You’ve Y ’ ffound the Right Person. Let us find you the

Right Mortgage!

“SPOILER ALERT” by Oliva Dade

“Spoiler Alert” is a modern-day nerd romance. April is a geologist who spends her free time writing fanfiction or posting on private fandom message boards for the Gods of the Gates. The majority of her personal life is devoted to the show and all the things she would do differently. Her life turns upside down when she finally posts one of her cosplays, as her picture goes viral and earns her a date with the lead actor of Gods of the Gates, Marcus Caster-Rupp.

“THIS TIME NEXT YEAR”

by Sophie Cousens

Minnie Cooper has a birthday twin, Quinn Hamilton – the first two babies born in the year 1990. Quinn was born just a few minutes before Minnie – meaning he got the prize money and the good-luck name to go with it. Minnie blames Quinn for all her bad luck, and they’ve never even met. What happens when Minnie unexpectedly meets Quinn at a New Year’s Eve party as the clock is ticking down to their 30th birthday?

“YOU DESERVE EACH OTHER” by Sarah Hogle

Naomi Westfield is a woman who thinks she has found the man of her dreams: Nicolas Rose is a local dentist and the son of one of the most prominent families in town. He gives her butterflies and fills her day with joy. However, this dream ends when they get engaged. Suddenly, the two are miserable, but neither one wants the responsibility of ending it all. Whoever ends it will be responsible for all the money spent on the wedding. The only solution is to torture each other with pranks until someone cracks – a plan that is bound to backfire.

48 Hartselle Living

Kerry Richardson 256-221-0515

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Five senior ladies and one gentleman love meddling, so they band together to set up their young, single, adult grandchildren. Their first targets are Zarah Mitchell and Bobby Patterson. Bobby has just moved back to Nashville, working for the Tennessee Criminal Investigations Unit. He is eager to get to work and get plugged into a community where he can hopefully find someone to settle down with. Zarah works for a historic preservation agency, which so happens to be a company into which Bobby is investigating. As their grandmothers’ plot is set in motion to get these two to fall in love, what they do not know is that Zarah and Bobby already have history. There’s a lot to learn, a lot to forgive – and a crime to be solved.

OUT & ABOUT

SNOW PLACE LIKE HOME A mild winter evening made for a great night for the annual Hartselle Christmas Parade, despite a few rain showers. The crowd came out in droves to participate in the jolly good time. Photos by Devan Rigoni 1. Mackenzie Howard, Cash Howard, Trenton Howard and Charlie Howard 2. Brooks Dove 3. Katie Shadoan, Will Matthews 4. Piper, Crystal Thompson, Josh Abernathy 5. Mitchell Mason, Matt Spicer 6. Emmie Lou and Randall Wilson 7. Laura Ritch, Sweetie, Cynthia Kovach 8. Steve Stoddart, Haley McGuire and Chief Daryl Fox 9. Cody Gibbs and Layla Mae Gibbs 10. Kyle Berry, Thomas Self, Darnell Berry, Mark Berry and Elizabeth Self 11. Sophie Giroux, Lola Burgos and Ashlyn Giroux of Kim’s Star Twirlers

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Hartselle Living 51

t s o H s u LetSpecial Day! Your

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Tag (and follow!) our Instagram page @heyhartselle or use the hashtag for a chance to be featured on this page in each issue! @nursetiffworley Walking Depot Days feeling thankful for teens that will spend the day with me! #heyhartselle

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@lucy.springerdoodle So enjoyed the Hartselle Christmas Parade

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www.thompsonhomesal.com Hartselle Living 53

{ Bridal gift registry available here! } of inners 2021 W nt a r u a t s 2020 & ican Re x e M t Bes selle! in Hart

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2050 Beltline Road SW, Decatur, AL 35601

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