JUNE/JULY 2018
June/July 2018 | INVITATION
1
107 EAST MAIN Historic Downtown Baldwyn
662.401.2051 662.790.4914 Facebook.com/Blue-August
JUNE/JULY 2018
10 ON THE COVER
ANNOUNCEMENTS
EVENTS
Caroline and Jed James of Corinth share a special moment on their wedding day last August. Read more on page 22.
14
Devlin & Worsham
42
AKA Kentucky Derby Day Party
15
Null & Smith
44
Tupelo High School Graduation
16
Black & Pettit
45
Skip Gleason Golf Tournament
18
Hall & Verrell
46
Saltillo High School Graduation
IN EVERY ISSUE
20
Hutchinson & Huckaby
47
YAC Distinguished Citizen
6
Letter From the Staff
22
Jordan & James
48
Gumtree Festival
8
Calendar
24
Kemp & Avent
50
Stop the Violence Parade
10
In Season: Marital Advice
26
Knight & Cooper
51
Steele’s Dive Family Night
12
Community Corner: Rocks
28
Roberts & Nguyen
52
Kiwanis Club Pancake Breakfast
54
Out and About
30
Roth & Mitchell
56
Recipe: Chocolate Fudge Cake
32
Taylor & McAuley
34
Ward & Bailey
photographed by Victor Villatoro
FEATURES 36 Bridal Trend Guide These wedding trends are popular now with brides and grooms in northeast Mississippi.
40 Couple Q&A Four well-known local couples offer marital advice and share their wedding photos.
4 INVITATION | June/July 2018
6
36
56
June/July 2018 | INVITATION
5
THE STAFF “Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue.” Bridal trends come and go, but this special tradition has stood the test of time. Here are some of the memorable things Invitation staff members incorporated in their own weddings.
SOMETHING OLD
My mom and dad gave us this silver cake knife, which they used to cut the cake at their wedding 30 years before we got married. Their names and anniversary date are engraved on one side of the knife blade, and they surprised us by engraving our names and wedding date on the other side. It’s a meaningful piece of silver that we use now for special occasions. — Emily Welly, Editor in Chief
SOMETHING NEW
When I found this veil at a shop in the town where my grandparents lived for more than 50 years, I knew it was mine. I had wanted to find something new for my wedding day that I could potentially pass down to my children and had already decided a veil would be perfect. And there it was in that tiny store, as if it was just waiting for me. — Rachel West, Publisher
SOMETHING BORROWED
I borrowed this beautiful headband from my dear friend, Emily Suber. She wore it on her wedding day, so it was very special for me to continue the tradition. Years later, I became the godmother of Emily’s daughter, Lucy. Maybe one day Lucy can honor both Emily and me by wearing this headband on her wedding day or some other special occasion in her life. — Hallie Thomas, Creative Director
SOMETHING BLUE
I realized as it got closer to my wedding I had my something old, something new and something borrowed. But I didn’t have my something blue. My mom brought my grandmother’s blue Bible into my bedroom one night and told me it would mean a lot if we used it in some way in my wedding. I decided to ask the preacher to use it at our wedding; then it dawned on me that was going to be my something blue. — Becca Pepper, Advertising Designer
6 INVITATION | June/July 2018
publishers
Phil and Rachel West
editorial
EDITOR IN CHIEF Emily Welly CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Allison Estes EVENTS EDITOR Mary Moreton STAFF WRITER Melanie Crownover COPY EDITOR Kate Johnson SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR AND EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Sarah McCullen
advertising
ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Alise M. Emerson Leigh Lowery Lynn McElreath Stacey Raper Moni Simpson Whitney Worsham ADVERTISING DESIGNERS Zach Fields Becca Pepper
art
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Hallie Thomas STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Joe Worthem CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Amanda Cody Elizabeth Roberts Whitney Worsham
production
PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Emily Suber
office
BUSINESS MANAGER Hollie Hilliard DISTRIBUTION Donald Courtney Brian Hilliard MAIN OFFICE 662-234-4008 ADVERTISING INFORMATION invitationmag.com
To subscribe to one year (10 issues) of Invitation or to buy an announcement, visit invitationmag.com. To request a photographer at your event, email Mary at mary.invitation@gmail.com. Invitation respects the many diverse individuals and organizations who make up north Mississippi and strives to be inclusive and representative of all members of our community.
PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE
June/July 2018 | INVITATION
7
calendar
JUNE 15 - AUGUST 15
Ongoing
6/23
6/30
Children ages 5 and up are invited to an art camp at Farmhouse in downtown Tupelo. $100 per student for a three-day session; snacks and supplies included. Sessions are June 18-20, July 9-11 and July 23-25. 10 a.m.-1 p.m., 126 W. Main St., Tupelo. facebook.com/farmhousetupelo
Bring your chairs and blankets for a movie under the stars. Sponsored by Pride Mobility Products Corp., this year’s movie series features “Ferdinand” on June 23, “The Sandlot” on July 28 and “Because of Winn-Dixie” on Aug. 25. Concession stand will be open. 8:30 p.m., Ballard Soccer Concession Stand, Tupelo. facebook.com/TupeloParkRec
Join the City of Amory Parks and Recreation for food, live music, games and fireworks. Festivities begin at 6:30 p.m.; fireworks at dark. Old Amory Golf Course, Highway 25, Amory. gomonroe.org
Art/DIY Camp at Farmhouse
Ongoing
Biscuits & Jam Farmers’ Market New Albany’s summertime farmers’ market takes place on Thursdays, 4-7 p.m., June-August. Tallahatchie Riverbank, New Albany. biscuitsandjamfarmersmarket.com
6/15
Family Fun at HealthWorks! Bring the whole family for Fun and Fit Fridays at HealthWorks! Individual families, as well as day-care and summer-camp groups are welcome, but call ahead for groups of 10 or more. Tickets $5 per person; children under 2 and members are free. Fridays in June and July (except July 6), 10-11:30 a.m., at HealthWorks! in Tupelo. Call 662-377-5437 for more information.
6/23
Gumtree Ball Gumtree TWIGS presents the 16th annual father-daughter Gumtree Ball. $85 per couple. 5-9 p.m., BancorpSouth Arena, Tupelo. lebonheur.org/gumtreeball
8 INVITATION | June/July 2018
Tupelo Summer Movie Series
6/23
Pontotoc Food Fight: Cake Edition Local bakers will compete in a cake-baking competition hosted by BOND Small Business Group. Tickets, $10, include cake tasting. 1-4 p.m., Melvin’s Grill, Pontotoc. picatic.com/foodfight2018
6/26-27
Paw Patrol Live! Paw Patrol Live! presents “The Great Pirate Adventure.” Tickets $23-$128. 6-8 p.m. BancorpSouth Arena, Tupelo. bcsarena.com
6/30
Fourth of July Fireworks in Amory
7/4
Fourth of July in Tupelo Celebrate the Fourth of July with entertainment, food, children’s activities and fireworks. 3-9 p.m., Ballard Park, Tupelo. facebook.com/TupeloParkRec
7/9-13
TCT Theatre Camp Rising first- through eighth-graders are invited to participate in Tupelo Community Theatre’s weeklong summer camp, “Planks, Pillage, Plunder!” which includes a performance at the end of camp. Tuition $100 for TCT members and families with more than one sibling attending; $125 for nonmembers. Grades 1-4 meet in the morning; grades 5-8 meet in the afternoon. Lyric Theatre, 201 N. Broadway, Tupelo. tct.ms
New Albany Freedom Fest
7/12
Features live entertainment by local musicians, with headliner Sam Mosley & The Muscle Shoals Horns, plus an arts market, food vendors and a fireworks show. Park Along the River, New Albany. visitnewalbany.com
Painter Maria Hughes will demonstrate her artistic process as Caron Gallery’s featured artist. Wine and cheese will be served. 3-7 p.m., Caron Gallery, Tupelo. Call 662-205-0351 for more information.
Art Demo at Caron Gallery
7/12-14
Slugburger Festival Corinth’s 31st annual Slugburger Festival includes the Miss Slugburger Pageant, a corn hole competition, a music competition, live entertainment on Friday and Saturday nights and more. facebook.com/slugburgerfestival
7/26
Counting Crows Concert Counting Crows brings its “25 Years and Counting” tour to northeast Mississippi. Tickets $37-$77. 6:30-11 p.m., BancorpSouth Arena, Tupelo. bcsarena.com June/July 2018 | INVITATION
9
THE BIG THREE Local experts offer engaged couples advice on family, finances and faith. written by Melanie Crownover
T
here’s more to marriage than a dream dress and beautiful locale for the nuptials. When the honeymoon is over, experts say there are three things that can test the limits of a relationship: family, finances and faith. These local authorities on lasting love have a few suggestions for facing those topics head-on.
Family First
At Tupelo Marriage and Family Counseling, owner Jessica Roberts sees couples in all stages of marriage, from those about to tie the knot to longtime spouses. “I think a lot of times if my patients in long-term relationships had talked openly about possible problem areas early on, [they could have avoided] issues later,” Roberts said. “You don’t think about a lot of these things when you’re dating because it’s all fun with little responsibility. It gets so much more complicated when you marry.” Roberts offers these tips for cultivating healthy relationships. Open up about the past. Meeting the family and friends of your affianced only gives you a glimpse into their background. Talk about
1
10 INVITATION | June/July 2018
your childhood and the relationships you saw growing up that have colored what you think marriage (and family) should be. Remember that those same experiences have affected how you resolve problems, as well as how you deal with conflict and emotions. Aim for balance. When you’re at the beginning of a new life together, it’s hard to imagine needing personal space. “It’s not healthy to put all of your eggs in one basket emotionally if you want to be happy,” she said. “You have to realize early on that even though you’re a couple, that person is not solely responsible for your happiness.” Roberts encourages couples to maintain individual interests and activities throughout their relationship. Make time for each other by keeping a couple’s calendar. Schedule a date night. Make a note to do something nice for your spouse. Meet for morning coffee or a “couple break” during the day, especially when life gets more complex. “People look at me like I’m crazy, but you even need to jot down sex on that calendar sometimes,” Roberts said. “When you’re changing diapers at 2 in the morning, working all day, there’s a basket of laundry and
2 3
pile of bills, it’s easy to put off connecting with each other regularly. Couples need that if they want to stay together.”
For the Love of Money
Helping clients at all stages of life with financial planning is an everyday duty for Lynn Keith, vice president of wealth management at BancorpSouth in Tupelo. Here is some of her advice for newlyweds and engaged couples. Be honest and realistic. “Talking about finances can be an uncomfortable thing, but money is one of the top 10 reasons people get a divorce,” Keith said. “It’s very important to start early and talk about them on a regular basis.” Talk about whether you are a spender or a saver, your long- and short-term goals, and how you plan to get there as a team. Get organized. Start by gathering your personal bills to create a consolidated budget. Do you want to have individual or joint accounts? How will you handle keeping up with individual spending and balancing the checkbook? Set up a record-keeping system with which you’re both comfortable. Make sure your assets and accounts are titled correctly
1
2
when the marriage is official, and don’t forget to update all beneficiary information on your investment, retirement and insurance accounts. Stay the course. “Don’t think you have to start with the big house and car,” Keith said. “Once you have a budget and some goals, work together to keep your finances on track to reach them.” Even if one person is in charge of paying the bills, make sure you are both part of the process. Schedule time at least once a month to gauge your progress and talk about expenses, and always ensure both spouses have access to passwords, account codes and bill due dates in case an emergency arises. Pay the bills on time, and keep your debt-to-income ratio under 36 percent to build your credit.
3
You Gotta Have Faith
When couples request premarital counseling with Troy Comer, pastor of Northstar Church in Saltillo, it’s usually three months before he’ll give his blessing. That may seem like a long process, but he insists the time invested is well worth it. Comer suggests tackling a few key issues about faith before tying the knot. Discuss your faith, including your beliefs about God, how you worship and your denomination. Leaving out even a detail or two that may be awkward to talk about now can mean bigger problems later, even if you attend the same house of worship. If religion and faith are important to you, consider the role God will play in your household. Comer, for example, believes the marital relationship is a trio. “You each should hold your personal relationship with God first, and that will only strengthen your relationship with each other,” he said. Worshipping, devotional time and serving together are a few ways to further develop the connection. What about the kids? Making known your thoughts about what your future family’s worship life will look like is important. What will you teach the children about praise, grace, serving and giving? If you don’t agree on certain tenets in your religion or are from different religious backgrounds, how will you compromise? “You have open-hand issues that are up for discussion and closedhand ones that you’re not going to give on,” Comer said. “You know what yours are. Your spouse needs to know, too.”
MLS# 18-1085 $500,000 760 Indian Oaks Dr.—Saltillo 5 Bedrooms, 3.5 Bathrooms
MLS# 18-1362 $375,000
1126 Dogwood Dr.—Tupelo
4 Bedrooms, 3.5 Bathrooms
1
2 3
June/July 2018 | INVITATION
11
NORTH MISSISSIPPI ROCKS PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF BRYSON AND LINDE AVENT
written by Melanie Crownover
W
hen someone asks Bryson Avent of Corinth how he proposed to his new bride, Linde, it takes a while to explain. The engagement story involves a smooth stone, some paint pens and a candlelit rock hunt in the town’s courthouse square last July. “I painted ‘Will you marry me?’ on a rock and hid it there for her to find during a [rock] hunt after my second cousin’s birthday party,” he said. “By the time she found it and turned around, I was down on one knee with the ring.” The idea for the creative proposal came from a common pastime in Corinth and many surrounding towns. Participants paint inspirational sayings or colorful pictures on smooth stones and hide them for others to find. Finders commonly keep the rocks they discover and then paint their own designs on new rocks to plant in popular areas like parks and town squares. Informal clubs for rock-painting and rock-hunting enthusiasts abound in the area, including in Amory, Corinth, New Albany, Pontotoc, Saltillo, Smithville and Tupelo. “We started here as an activity for our church youth group, and now we have over 2,500 followers on our Facebook page,” 662 Rocks Amory coordinator Analise Hall said. “I think it’s gotten so popular because it’s an inexpensive and fun way for families to spend time together, even if you just go hunt.” Although the Amory group has had one formal meeting to paint rocks together, most followers simply use the social media page to share and find out when and where new items are hidden or found. To find similar groups in communities near you, search Facebook.
12 INVITATION | June/July 2018
June/July 2018 | INVITATION
13
PHOTOGRAPHED BY NATALIE WOOD
JORDAN ELIZABETH DEVLIN & ROBERT HAYDEN WORSHAM III
d Street 346-A West Oxfor MS , oc ot nt Po 662-489-1074 ay Monday-Saturd 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
The Red Door
For The Best Gifts & Bridal Registry 346-A West Oxford Street
Pontotoc, MS 662-489-1074
FI 14 INVITATION | June/July 2018
r. and Mrs. Clay Sutton Devlin of Atlanta announce the engagement and upcoming marriage of their daughter, Jordan Elizabeth Devlin, to Robert Hayden Worsham III, son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Hayden Worsham Jr. of Corinth. Mr. Worsham proposed to Miss Devlin at Rowan Oak, home of William Faulkner, on the weekend of the 2017 Ole Miss vs. LSU football game. Miss Devlin graduated in 2012 from Parkview Baptist High School in Baton Rouge. She attended Louisiana State University, where she was a member of Chi Omega fraternity. She graduated from LSU in May 2016 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in mass communication. She currently works at Fitzgerald & Co. advertising agency in Atlanta. Mr. Worsham is a 2009 graduate of Corinth High School. He received a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering in May 2014 at the University of Mississippi, where he was a member of Sigma Chi fraternity. He is currently employed with Wilkinson Real Estate Advisors in Atlanta. The couple will exchange vows June 30 at Rayne Methodist Church in New Orleans, with the Rev. William Ray Bradford of Tupelo officiating. A reception will follow at the Audubon Tea Room. After their honeymoon, the couple will reside in Atlanta.
PHOTOGRAPHED BY BRIAN FLINT
ABIGAIL JANE NULL & TAYLOR CHRISTIAN SMITH
r. and Mrs. John Anthony Null of Corinth announce the engagement and upcoming marriage of their daughter, Abigail Jane, to Taylor Christian Smith, son of Mr. and Mrs. Gregory Charles Smith of Corinth. Mr. Smith proposed to Miss Null in January 2017 on the stage of their high school’s auditorium, where they both performed in musicals. Miss Null graduated from Corinth High School in 2013. She attended the University of Mississippi and was a member of Delta Gamma fraternity. She received both a bachelor’s degree in English education and a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from Ole Miss. Mr. Smith graduated from Corinth High School in 2011. He played soccer for Itawamba Community College, where he received an associate degree in science. He graduated from the University of Mississippi with a doctorate in pharmacy in May 2018. He is employed at Medical Plaza on Harper. The couple will exchange vows June 23 at First Baptist Church in Corinth. A reception will follow at The Franklin Courtyard. After their honeymoon to Walt Disney World Resort and St. Lucia, the couple will reside in Corinth. June/July 2018 | INVITATION
15
JESSICA BLACK & MACK PETTIT
essica Black and Mack Pettit were married at 5 p.m. March 3, 2018, in front of family and friends. The parents of the bride are Bonnie and Loren Shackelford. The parents of the groom are Mimi and Marty Pettit. Jessica’s maid of honor was Hillary Black, and her bridesmaids were Maggie Metcalf, Julia Shackelford, Jordan Mansel, Lynzee Kinnsey, Ashley Hutchinson and Katy Falls. Mack’s best man and photographer was his dad, Marty Pettit. His groomsmen were Jordan Metcalf, Mark Covington and Hunter Black, along with his U.S. Navy buddies, Justin Harrison, Kyle Kulas and Ozell Newsom. Tracey Proctor of AFID Design created the floral arrangements; the chapel, mantel and table decorations; and the bride’s bouquet. Tracey also designed the rehearsal dinner arrangements for Friday night. The bride’s and groom’s cakes were designed and baked by Cakes by Rita. The bride’s was an elegant three-tiered cake garnished with white roses, and the groom’s was a delicious chocolate cake designed for one of the groom’s
16 INVITATION | June/July 2018
favorite pastimes: golf. The wedding and reception were held at Kingfisher Lodge. The rehearsal dinner and the wedding were catered by Kingfisher Catering. Guests at the rehearsal dinner were treated to the groom’s favorite Southern dishes, including fried chicken and fried catfish with all the trimmings served in buckets family style. The rehearsal dinner music was performed by Will and Erin Bristow, also known as Seed Tick Road, one of the bride and groom’s favorite bands. At the wedding reception Saturday night, the Mary Frances Massey band played while guests danced the night away.
On the wedding day, Jessica wore a beautiful wedding dress from Willow Bride boutique, located in downtown Tupelo, and Mack and his groomsmen wore snazzy tuxes from Reed’s, also in downtown Tupelo. The Sallye Stewart Event Planning crew kept the rehearsal and wedding day running without a hitch. After the wedding ceremony, which was officiated by the couple’s friend Ann Kelly, and a wonderful evening celebrating, Jessica and Mack were chauffeured away by Scott Hendrix from Classic Getaways. They later enjoyed a fun-filled honeymoon in Cabo San Lucas.
June/July 2018 | INVITATION
17 PHOTOGRAPHED BY MARTY PETTIT PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTOGRAPHED BY FAITH RILEY PHOTOGRAPHY
ERIN NICOLE HALL & KYLE VERRELL
rin Nicole Hall and Kyle Verrell were united in marriage at 5 p.m. Oct. 14, 2017, at Martin Baptist Church in New Albany. Brother Andy Russell officiated. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ryan Hall of New Albany. She is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Willie D. Hall and Mr. and Mrs. Charlie Hall, all of New Albany. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Mike Verrell of New Albany. He is the grandson of Ann Andrews and the late Mr. Parker Andrews, and the late Mrs. Marie Howard and the late James Verrell. Given in marriage by her parents and escorted by her father, the bride wore a strapless
18 INVITATION | June/July 2018
sweetheart neckline dress with a chapel-length train. She finished the look with pearl drop earrings, a sash and pearl headpiece, a tulle veil with lace, and gold heels. Attending the bride as matron of honor was her sister, Andrea Hall Trainor. The maid of honor was SuAnna Hall, sister of the bride. Bridesmaids were Gina Hall and Calli Broom. The groom’s father served as best man. The groomsmen were Cole Verrell, Brock Foster and Jess Owen. Raeme and Mason Verrell, children of the groom, served as the miniature bride and groom. The flower girl was Madelyn Verrell, niece of the groom.
Nuptial music was provided by Diane Bolen, pianist. Vocalists were Sarah Robinson, Andrea Hall Trainor and Bill Trainor. Faith Riley Photography provided ceremony and reception photography. Flowers featured at both the ceremony and reception were beautifully arranged by Teacups and Tulips of Eupora. The bride’s parents hosted a reception following the ceremony at MyGirl’s Events of New Albany where guests enjoyed beautiful decorations provided by MyGirl’s Events and delicious food prepared by Special Occasions of Etta. The couple departed from the reception with a sparkler send-off. The couple resides in New Albany.
June/July 2018 | INVITATION
19
PHOTOGRAPHED BY GWYNNE GREY PHOTOGRAPHY
ANNA CATES HUTCHINSON & IAN JACOB HUCKABY
nna Cates Hutchinson and Ian Jacob Huckaby of Saltillo were united in marriage on Oct. 6, 2017, during a beachfront ceremony in Pensacola, Florida. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Todd Hutchinson of Saltillo. She is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Milton Hutchinson of Blue Mountain and Mrs. Paula Grisham and the late Mr. Jackie Grisham of Ripley. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Joe Huckaby of Saltillo. He is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Murle Kitchen of Tupelo and the late Mr. Gaston Huckaby of Guntown, and Mr. William Williams of Elmer, New Jersey, and Ms. Louise Williams of Pontotoc. The bride was given in marriage by her father to the song “I Get to Love You” by Ruelle. Her gown was designed by Allure. She wore a pearl necklace that had been worn by her maternal grandmother at her wedding, and she carried a sixpence that was carried by her paternal grandmother when she married. Attending the bride as maid of honor was her sister, Sarah Grace Hutchinson. Anna was also blessed to have as bridesmaids Brianna Huckaby, sister of the groom, Livvy Coleman, Sarah Kate Griffin, Shelby Ward and Ellie White. Her flower girl was the groom’s youngest sister, Jillian Huckaby. The best man was the groom’s father, Joe Huckaby. Groomsmen were Brian Huckaby, brother of the groom, Tanner Boyd, Brock Cates, Kendal Giroux, Xavier Taylor and
20 INVITATION | June/July 2018
honorary groomsman Wesley Padilla. The very special ring bearer was Liam Asher Huckaby, son of the bride and groom. The wedding was held beachfront at sunset with loving family and friends in attendance. The couple exchanged vows underneath a bamboo arbor draped with white chiffon fabric. Roses in shades of pink and white cascaded over the arbor. During the nuptials the couple had a beautiful sand ceremony while “What a Beautiful Name” by Caleb and Kelsey was played.
Following the ceremony, the celebration continued at an outdoor reception at the Beachfront Beauty home. Wedding guests enjoyed dancing to music by DJ Vic Peavy. Mike and Sherri Oliver of Loughtide Weddings Navarre Beach were the wedding planners and directors, and Florals by the Sea of Destin, Florida, provided the floral design. The memories were captured by Gwynne Grey Photography of Destin and Nate Lipsey Videography of Madison.
June/July 2018 | INVITATION
21
aroline McKay Jordan of Yazoo City and Jed Ellis James of Corinth were united in marriage at 6:30 p.m. on Aug. 26, 2017, at Barnsley Resort in Adairsville, Georgia. The ceremony was officiated by the Rev. David Felker. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Albert Jordan Jr. of Yazoo City. She is the granddaughter of Mrs. Katherine Jordan and the late Mr. Bernard Albert Jordan Sr. of Yazoo City, and Mrs. June Stock and the late Mr. George Ferdinand Stock Jr. of Hollandale. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Ricky Earl James of Corinth. He is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Baxter James of Corinth, and Mrs. Shelby Morton and the late Mr. Billy Morton of Ripley. Nuptial music was provided by Candlelight Strings quartet. The bride was given in marriage by her father. Attending the bride were her three sisters. Elise Jordan Choate served as matron of honor, while maids of honor were Ellen Neill Jordan and Anne Eliza Jordan. The groom’s father served as best man, and the groom’s brother, John Adkins James, served as groomsman. Serving as flower girl was the bride’s daughter, Anne Sellers Brumfield. After the ceremony, a reception was held at the Ruins at Barnsley Resort. Music was provided by Big Night Dynamite. Following a honeymoon in Italy, the couple resides in Corinth.
22 INVITATION | June/July 2018
PHOTOGRAPHED BY VICTOR VILLATORO
CAROLINE McKAY JORDAN & JED ELLIS JAMES
www.bcbsms.com Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi, A Mutual Insurance Company is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. ÂŽ Registered Marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, an Association of Independent Blue Cross and Blue Shield Plans.
June/July 2018 | INVITATION
23
inde Leigh Kemp and Bryson Barker Avent, both of Corinth, were united in marriage on April 28, 2018, at 4:30 p.m. at Fillmore Street Chapel in Corinth. The ceremony was officiated by the Rev. Roger Shock. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Gregory Howard Kemp of Saltillo and Mr. and Mrs. Charles Terry Vanderford Jr. of Corinth. She is the granddaughter of Mrs. Norma Hill and the late Mr. Robert Hill of Corinth, the late Mr. and Mrs. Louis Kemp of Corinth, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Vanderford Sr. of Corinth, and Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Leslie Sr. of Saltillo. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Brent Avent of Corinth. He is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Ben Avent of Michie, Tennessee, and Mrs. Melba Barker and the late J.E. Barker of Corinth. Ceremony music was provided by Mrs. Sara Ellington. Attending the bride as her maid of honor was her sister, Laney Kemp. Serving as bridesmaids were the groom’s sister, Hannah Avent, and cousin, Briley Elliott. The groom’s father served as best man. Serving as his groomsmen were his brother, Hunter Avent, and his uncle, Zane Elliott. Following the ceremony, a reception was held at SMITH. Floral arrangements were provided by Dawn Laster, and photography services were provided by Amanda Holt Photography. Following a honeymoon in Vail, Colorado, the couple resides in Corinth.
24 INVITATION | June/July 2018
PHOTOGRAPHED BY AMANDA HOLT PHOTOGRAPHY
LINDE LEIGH KEMP & BRYSON BARKER AVENT
June/July 2018 | INVITATION
25
PHOTOGRAPHED BY TAYLOR SQUARE PHOTOGRAPHY
KAITLYN ELIZABETH KNIGHT & RAY BENJAMIN COOPER
aitlyn Elizabeth Knight and Ray Benjamin Cooper were united in marriage at 6 p.m. July 8, 2017, at Paris-Yates Chapel on the University of Mississippi campus. The bride, a graduate of the Master of Accountancy program at Ole Miss, is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Herby D. Key of Corinth and the late Mr. Scott Knight. She is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Kellie Holder, Mr. and Mrs. Bill Knight, Mrs. Elaine Key and the late Mr. Herby C. Key. The groom, certified by the Gemological Institute of America in jewelry design and engraving, is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Chuck Cooper of New Albany. He is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Ben Avent and the late Mr. and Mrs. Warren Cooper. The bride, given in marriage by her stepfather, wore an Allure strapless gown of light ivory adorned with pearls and elegant beading. The bridal bouquet was white roses and eucalyptus. The bride carried a monogrammed handkerchief that her mother carried on her own wedding day. Attending the bride as maids of honor were Hannah Avent and Abby Noyes. Bridesmaids
26 INVITATION | June/July 2018
were Carly Cooper, Jenna Cooper, Catherine Knight, Erin Rains and Sara Rogers. Chuck Cooper, father of the groom, served as best man. Groomsmen were Graham Collins, Jack Cooper, Sam Cooper, Van Cooper, Josh Googe and Jon Key. Erin Frazier served as the bride’s proxy. Lucy Martin and Tori Treadway attended the registry and served as program attendants. Nuptial music was presented by guitarist Cole Sanders and organist Linda Taylor. Vocalists were Beth Mitchell and Beth Middleton. Directing the wedding was Emily Sanders of Emily Taylor Weddings, and photography was provided by Ann-Marie Wyatt of Taylor Square Photography.
Following the ceremony, the bride’s parents hosted a reception at The Lyric on the historic Oxford Square. Guests enjoyed a dinner buffet catered by My Michelle’s and danced to music by MusicDude’s LouDPaQ of Memphis. As guests held up sparklers, the couple departed in a red convertible Thunderbird owned by the groom’s mother. On the eve of the wedding, the groom’s parents honored the couple with a rehearsal dinner at Tallahatchie Gourmet in Oxford. Following the honeymoon to Cocobay Resort in Antigua, the couple resides in Atlanta, where the bride is an accountant at KPMG and the groom is associated with Van Atkins Jewelry.
Bringing Healthcare Home Since 1974
Medical Management • Physician Directed Services • Advanced Nursing Care • Pain Control and Symptom Management • Continuous Care • Medical Equipment and Supplies • Short-Term Inpatient Care
Personal Care Assistance • Personal Care through Certified Nurse Aides • Light Housekeeping Services • Incontinence Supplies
Emotional and Spiritual Support • Medical Social Services • Respite Care • Crisis Counseling • Spiritual Counseling • Thirteen Month Bereavement Program • Trained Volunteers
499 Gloster Creek, Suite I-7 Tupelo, Ms 38801 Phone: 662-844-2870 Fax: 662-844-2871
www.camellia.com
A hospice nurse is available 24/7 to promptly respond to the needs of our patients. Our agency operates in compliance with Title VI under the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, and Federal HIPAA Privacy Practices briefly describes how we may use or disclose protected health information. You may call our office to request a copy of our Notice of Privacy Practices.
Licenses: (MS) 089, 091, 129, 131, 189, 190 (LA) 2203781724, 2203781723 (AL) 01-1670, 01-1682, E3507, E4605
June/July 2018 | INVITATION
27
PHOTOGRAPHED BY TUESDAY BELL ETHRIDGE AT CLASSIC PHOTOGRAPHY
JORDAN ROBERTS & LOGAN NGUYEN
ordan Roberts and Logan Nguyen were married at 6 p.m. June 10, 2017, at Southwind in Shannon. The ceremony was performed by the couple’s pastor, Brother Bob O’Neal, of Old Union Baptist Church in Shannon. Jordan is the daughter of Mike and Lisa Roberts of Tupelo. She is the granddaughter of Sam and Irene Wood of Tupelo, T.D. Roberts Jr. and Coleen Roberts of Shannon, and Mary Jane Bone of Saltillo. Logan is the son of Phillip Nguyen and Jenny Dickson, both of Tupelo. He is the grandson of Jerry and Martha Bailey of Tupelo, Quyen
28 INVITATION | June/July 2018
Kim Lee of Tupelo, and the late Thuyen Nguyen. Attending were maid of honor Haley Chisholm and bridesmaids Brooke Frederick, Tyler Byrd, Alyssa Kelly and Kacey Byrd. The flower girls were the groom’s sister, Julianna Nguyen, and the bride’s cousin, Elizabeth “Lizzie” Kennedy. The best man was the groom’s father, Phillip Nguyen. Groomsmen included Layton Nguyen, Eric Dickson, Minh Nguyen and James Roberts. The ring bearers were the bride’s nephews, Madden and Connor Tubb. The bride was escorted into the ceremony by her father to “Look at Me” by Carrie
Underwood, sung by Ashley Lindley. Ashley also sang Elvis Presley’s “Can’t Help Falling in Love” while the couple performed a unity sand ceremony symbolizing the blending of two different beings into a single, inseparable unit. Following the ceremony, family and friends enjoyed a reception hosted by the bride’s parents, also at Southwind. After honeymooning in Seaside, Florida, the couple resides in Starkville, where they attend Mississippi State University. They both work at Hardin’s Country Store in the Eggville Community in Tupelo.
June/July 2018 | INVITATION
29
PHOTOGRAPHED BY DANELLE BLACK PHOTOGRAPHY
PARIS ROTH & LIGE MITCHELL
aris Roth and Lige Mitchell were united in marriage at 7 p.m. May 20, 2017, in Tupelo. The ceremony and reception were held at Park Heights restaurant. The couple’s pastor, Brother David Hamilton of West Heights Baptist Church in Pontotoc, officiated. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Lenny Welch of Pontotoc. She is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Jakob and the late Mr. Jon Roth. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Mitchell of Pontotoc. He is the grand-
30 INVITATION | June/July 2018
son of Mr. and Mrs. Jim Knox and the late Mr. and Mrs. Therman Mitchell. Many of the guests flew in from the bride’s home state of Illinois. Attending was the maid of honor and sister of the bride, Sidney Workman. Bridesmaids included family and lifelong friends Katelyn Mitchell, Brittany Scott, Samantha Schultz, Morgan Sahagian and Dallas Freeman. The flower girl was Phoenix Rae. The best man was the groom’s father, Dennis Mitchell. Groomsmen included Eric Knox, Brandon Seale, Richard Stafford, Warren
Boatwright, Luke Peeples and Cade Riley. Paris was escorted down the aisle by her father to the song “Like Jesus Does” by Eric Church. Songs were played throughout the night by Mckinzie “DJ Mac” Tyes. The bride’s rose gold-and-platinum wedding set was custom-designed by her husband and created at GDI Memphis. After honeymooning at Walt Disney World Resort, the couple resides in Mooreville. The bride is employed at Renasant Bank, and the groom works at BancorpSouth.
June/July 2018 | INVITATION
31
bigail Elizabeth Taylor and James Rieves McAuley Jr. exchanged marriage vows at 6 p.m. Feb. 24, 2018, at Gloster Street Church of Christ in Tupelo. The cere mony was performed by Chad Ramsey. The church holds a special history for the couple because the groom’s parents and the groom’s sister were married at the location in 1985 and 2014, respectively. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jimmy Taylor of Starkville. The groom is the son of Dr. and Mrs. James Rieves McAuley of Tupelo. The bride wore a gown and cascading veil from Willow Bride of Tupelo. The Tupelo High School Madrigals performed for the ceremony. Following the ceremony, the newlyweds were driven to the reception at Tupelo Country Club in a vintage 1937 Chevy sedan owned by a close family friend. At the reception, guests dined on the couple’s favorite meal consisting of breakfast entrees, including made-to-order, chef-prepared omelets. Blind Eye DJ got the party going with favorite tunes. A rehearsal dinner was hosted the night before by Dr. and Mrs. McAuley at Park Heights Restaurant in Tupelo. The matron of honor, Michelle McAuley Hill, hosted the bridesmaids’ pajama breakfast at her home on the morning of the wedding. The groom’s luncheon was hosted by the his uncles at the home of Dr. and Mrs. Robert McAuley. The flowers and design for the rehearsal dinner, wedding and reception were provided by Stephanie Hester West of Venues. The wedding cake and groom’s cake were provided by Elizabeth Gable of Endville Bakery. The groom’s cake was a gift to the groom from a close family friend. Following the wedding, the couple honeymooned in Kauai, Hawaii. The couple resides in Saltillo, where Mr. McAuley is a medical device sales representative and Mrs. McAuley is a nurse at North Mississippi Medical Center.
32 INVITATION | June/July 2018
PHOTOGRAPHED BY FAITH RILEY PHOTOGRAPHY
ABIGAIL ELIZABETH TAYLOR & JAMES RIEVES McAULEY JR.
June/July 2018 | INVITATION
33
AMELIA CATHRYN WARD & ALEXANDER JAY BAILEY
melia Cathryn Ward and Alexander Jay Bailey were united in marriage at 6 p.m. June 3, 2017, in a ceremony surrounded by family and friends at Southwind in Shannon. Judge Stephen Bailey and Judge Chuck Hopkins officiated at the double-ring ceremony. The bride is the daughter of Ms. Janice Brock Ward and Mr. James Warren Ward of Tupelo. She is the granddaughter of Mr. William A. Brock of West and the late Mrs. Peggy Clark Catledge of Newton, and Mr. Bobby Edward Ward and the late Mrs. Virginia Whatley Ward of Columbus. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Lynn Bailey of Tupelo. He is the grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. Harold Jones of Houston, and Mrs. Billye Oswalt Bailey and the late Mr. Jay B Bailey of Saltillo. Given in marriage by her parents and escorted by her father, the bride wore a ball gown that featured an intricate open back from designer Stella York. Diamante beading covered the bodice and straps, while multiple layers of hemline tulle flowed down from the open back and waist, creating the ballroom silhouette. The bride wore an ivory curly-edge royal cathedral veil. The bride and bridesmaids carried bouquets of white and pink roses tied
34 INVITATION | June/July 2018
together with hydrangeas, designed by DB’s Floral Designs of Saltillo. Attending the bride was maid of honor Mary Jourdan. Bridesmaids were Kayla Baxter, Kelsey Brock, Mary Morgan Burks, Kellon Duff, Kensey Hopkins, Jillian Lann, Caitlin Otis, Lyda Stokes, Lindsey Tedford and Mia Wilson. Honorary bridesmaids were Courtney Baxter, Blakely Beggs and Emily Davidson.
Flower girls were Harper Hunt, Rivers Otis and Summer Wilson. The groom’s father served as best man. Groomsmen were Scott Bailey, Turner Beggs, Haynes Cole, Curt Davidson, Bryson Hunt, Casey Shackelford, Blake Tedford, John Truong, Harris Ward and Ross Waycaster. Ushers were Eli Bailey, Coleman Brock and Will Otis. Musicians Scott Sandifer and Abbey
PHOTOGRAPHED BY ANNE LAMPKIN
and Gracie Swartzendruber and vocalist Kara Young provided beautiful music that displayed the bride and groom’s taste of traditional mixed with contemporary. A reception followed the ceremony at Southwind, where guests enjoyed Southern cuisine, including fried chicken, mashed potatoes and chicken salad catered by Nichols Foods and Deli of New Albany. Guests were
treated to cake prepared by Endville Bakery of Tupelo and cookies from Sweet Treats Bakery of Tupelo. An elegant vintage theme was carried out in the table arrangements of teapots, lanterns, family heirlooms and flowers that complemented the ceremony arrangements, all designed by Jeremy Allison of J. Edward Designs, located in Tupelo. Wedding guests were entertained with
music and dancing by Funkytown of Memphis. Photography was by Anne Lampkin of Tupelo, and videography was by InFocus Video Productions of Tupelo. Wedding events were coordinated with help from Special Occasions by Denise Kennedy Brown. After the wedding, the couple honeymooned by cruising the Caribbean for seven days. They reside in Tupelo. June/July 2018 | INVITATION
35
Planning your wedding? Consider incorporating some of these trends that are popular with brides and grooms in northeast Mississippi. written by Melanie Crownover
T
he only thing that can change as fast as a bride’s mind is the ever-evolving wedding trends she must consider to make her day stand out from the rest. Wedding planner Regina Hall of My Girls Events in New Albany has seen and done them all. She says the trick to incorporating trends is to do it sparingly while still showcasing the bride’s and groom’s personalities in every detail. But to blend the two seamlessly, you first have to know which trends are on the way out and which are on point right now. That is Hall’s specialty.
The Look
“In the past few years, we’ve seen a lot of the farmhouse look, but that’s fading,” Hall
36 INVITATION | June/July 2018
said. “Now our brides are leaning more toward a bohemian look.” Instead of Mason jars and burlap, think modern geometric patterns mixed with woodland-themed greenery. Pair detailed wood items that have a cabin feel with elegant dinnerware and candleholders in crystal or metallic finishes.
the colors
White lace and draped fabrics in shades of sage and violet are quickly replacing 2017’s top color choice of burgundy. Another shade past its prime is the rose gold that’s been popular the past couple of years. Forgo that tone for your pick of copper, silver or yellow gold.
the fashion
Those color changes also hold true for bridesmaids’ dresses and jewelry. For the groomsmen, however, formal suits in hues of gray and tan will complement any theme the couple chooses. “We had a lot of guys wearing khakis with a white shirt and bow tie for a while, but I don’t think we’ve had a wedding yet this year where the men weren’t in full tuxes that were neutral,” Hall said.
the place
The key is to find a spot that speaks to you, whether a church or hillside barn, Hall says. Keep the site of your post-wedding celebration separate, and don’t disregard the option of a smaller after-party. Hall said many couples are throwing afterparties now in personal locations like the home of a family member or friend, either following an early reception or in lieu of one to spend more time with the people closest to them.
June/July 2018 | INVITATION
37
the wedding party
“Simplify” is the new word when it comes to wedding parties. Instead of having a large number of bridesmaids or groomsmen, most couples now opt for five or fewer. “The trick is to have honorary bridesmaids so you can still include your other friends,” Hall said. “Let them each choose their own style of dress in the shade you’ve chosen, and sit them together close to the front to be seated when the parents are.”
the food
“You can have anything to eat at a wedding reception now,” Hall said. “This is another area where the couple can share themselves by serving what means most to them.” Find a food that speaks to your roots, like one couple Hall worked with who served Chicago-style hot dogs in honor of the groom’s hometown. Dish out a favorite meal shared by you and your soon-to-be spouse, like another pair of Hall’s clients who served a spread of their favorite breakfast treats. If you can find a way to serve your food bar-style, you’re even more on trend.
38 INVITATION | June/July 2018
E G A T ED N I V SPIR IN
Always in fashion, everlasting styles for the girl who loves details. Vintage inspired rings have a delicate look that’s heavy in adoration.
Little’s Jewelers
2220 S. Harper Road • Corinth, MS 662.286.5041
Mall at Barnes Crossing • Tupelo, MS 662.840.4653
June/July 2018 | INVITATION
39
We asked these well-known northeast Mississippians to share marital advice with our readers. Here’s what they had to say.
Paul and Heather Thorn, Union Married 18 years
Paul is a musician, and Heather is a trainer at North Mississippi Medical Center Wellness Center.
“One thing that’s helped us most was someone saying to pick your battles. Not everything in a marriage is going to always be agreeable, and there are some things you just need to let go. It’s good to think about whether it’s worth it before you make something an issue.” — Paul Thorn
Ricky and LuAnne Ford, Booneville Married 39 years
Ricky is the president of Northeast Mississippi Community College, and LuAnne is the director of music at First Baptist Church.
“Make sure that there is a lot of conversation about how important this step is in each of your lives. This decision is for the rest of your life, and advice should be consumed from several sources. Marriage counselor, pastor, parents and anyone else should be welcomed for advice and counseling. Most of all, a lot of prayer seeking wisdom, discernment and compassion since you will be giving totally of yourselves to each other.” — Ricky Ford
40 INVITATION | June/July 2018
Christy and Bobby Burns, Corinth Married 25 years
Christy is the executive director of Corinth CVB, and Bobby is a manager at Tri-State Electric of Corinth.
“Don’t assume you know what the other person is thinking. Even if you’ve been together forever, you don’t. Men and women think so differently, so just make sure you always make communication a priority.” — Christy Burns
Sean and Janet Suggs, Saltillo Married 18 years
Sean is the president of Toyota Motor Manufacturing Mississippi Inc., and Janet is a Realtor.
“The best advice I can give a newly married couple is to listen more and talk less.” — Sean Suggs “Keep an index card that lists the reasons you love your partner and why you fell in love. You may need to refer back to the list later.” — Janet Suggs
It's
Wedding Season !
Is your
BACKYARD READY? 844-6539
• www.sportsmanlawn.com June/July 2018 | INVITATION
41
tupelo
KENTUCKY DERBY DAY PARTY
The Nu Sigma Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority held its Pink and Green Kentucky Derby Day party May 5 at Elvis Presley Museum. The event included food, music and a hat contest. photographed by Amanda Cody
Derrick and Debbie Wright
Sheryl Sykes, Stephanie Allen and Bridgette Wilson
Ira Kinard, Veronica Lipsy, Floristene Gladney and Shreka Knight
Terry Watson, Willie Allen, M.L. Jones and John Knight
42 INVITATION | June/July 2018
Zeneakia Ilo and Yvette Crump
Stephanie Allen and Walter Zinn
Judy Watson, Pam Coleman, Ora Baldwin, Roxie Smith, Zaffron King and Erie Wheeler
June/July 2018 | INVITATION
43
tupelo
TUPELO HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION
Tupelo High School held its graduation ceremony May 18 at BancorpSouth Arena. The 446-member class of 2018 received $9 million in scholarships to 225 colleges. photographed by Amanda Cody
Shiana Bean and Shmya Sampson
Daniel and Nicholas Adams
44 INVITATION | June/July 2018
Brailee and Gloria Berry
Ledal and Wanda Westbrook
Gabriel Blaylock, Christopher Neal and Zachary Bullock
Joshua Estes, Olivia Love and Harrison Eidt
Christina Jimenez and Kennya Rocha
Lane, Collin and Amy Ferguson
Tom and Thomas Boyd
Zayne and Drake Cobb
tupelo
SKIP GLEASON GOLF TOURNAMENT
The seventh annual Skip Gleason Memorial Golf Tournament was held May 19-20 at Natchez Trace Golf Club. The event included cash prizes, food and music. Proceeds benefit the Skip Gleason Scholarship at the University of Mississippi School of Law. photographed by Amanda Cody
Marc Showalter and Ivo Kamps
James Wilson, Holly Jackson and Zach Pritchett
Eric and Elijah Farris
Micheal McCrory and Andy Moran
Mike Wren and Mitch Eubank
Barry Replogle and Scott Wood
Austin Bynum, J.R. Stout, Nathan Swords and Dennis Bynum
June/July 2018 | INVITATION
45
saltillo
SALTILLO HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION
Saltillo High School held its graduation ceremony May 19 at BancorpSouth Arena. The 222 members of the 2018 senior class received diplomas and celebrated with family and friends. photographed by Amanda Cody
Sredrick Blanchard and Rob Bradley
Addison and Chasity Cockrell
46 INVITATION | June/July 2018
Alex Stowers and Austin Edge
Jamie, Jacob, Joyce and Charles Siddall
Austin Ross, Emily Shaffer and Carlos Shackleford
Andi Herring, Morgan Heste and Taylor Higgins
Ty Hill, Trey Holiman and Anthony Hosey
Destynee Tolliver and Serinti Washington
Ebony Betts and Kellie Brickus
Amy Blake, Sherri Childers and Jenny Simmons
tupelo
YOCONA AREA COUNCIL DISTINGUISHED CITIZEN
The annual Yocona Area Council Distinguished Citizen dinner was held May 1 at BancorpSouth Conference Center. The 2018 honoree was U.S. Rep. Trent Kelly, who represents Mississippi’s 1st Congressional District. photographed by Amanda Cody
David and Slade Wise
Taylor Neal and Austin Abee
Donnie and Dorie Kisner
Connor and Cathy Graham
Kirk Tharp, Trent Kelly and Greg Burkes
Brittany and Weston Poole with Wendy, Lee and Makenzie Pate
Ty Robinson and Barbara Kelly
Brian Estess and Josh Taylor
Bryant and Melissa Perkins
June/July 2018 | INVITATION
47
tupelo
GUMTREE FESTIVAL
The 47th annual Gumtree Festival was held May 12-13 around the courthouse lawn. The celebration of arts featured art and food vendors, a singer/ songwriter competition and a 10K race. photographed by Elizabeth Roberts
Janice Cain and Cheryl Peeler
Emory and Mary Ford Kirk
Kim Coffin, Betsy White and Martha Senter
48 INVITATION | June/July 2018
Lynn and Robert Palmertree
Haley and Kristy Jones
Jackie Tutor and Bob Rundquist
Beth Anne Eitzey, Leslie Geoghegan, Sadie Gardner, Susan Megukin and Gabrielle Cooper
Karen and Melissa Conwill
Melinda Cook, Carolyn Livingston and Kathy Butts
Ruthe and Danain Beck
Sarah Bailey and Wynn Howell
Lisa, Miquel and Cristiano Vasquez
Kristy and Haley Jones
June/July 2018 | INVITATION
49
tupelo
STOP THE VIOLENCE
The third annual Stop the Violence parade and community event was held May 12 at Gumtree Park. The event was presented by Life Saver Group for Girls in Tupelo. photographed by Amanda Cody
Ro Ragin, Latasha Pannell and Dexter Eddie
Chrisy Ruff and Khyleen Vance
Jazmin and Corneasha Williams
50 INVITATION | June/July 2018
Kristin Kidd and Alexis Ruff
Jordan and Makayla Heard
Corissa, Annie, Mark and Santanna Scales with Rekina Birkes
Nancy Cunningham, Lekeshia Hill and Jawana Smith
Demarcus and Jacquette Trimble
Jonathan Depriest and Demarcus Smith
tupelo
STEELE’S DIVE FAMILY NIGHT
Steele’s Dive held a dinner fundraiser May 17 to benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of North Mississippi. The event included live music, food and games. photographed by Amanda Cody
Doug Cuthbert, Cheryl Henning, Jeff Chambers and Taylor Culver
Rachel Gray and Sierra Kimbrell
Michele Lindsey and Beth Nolan
Aluara Bennett and Linden Zabarovskis
Deborah, Larry and Lauren Pugh
Juanita Floyd, Albine Bennett, Charlise Latour and Zell Long
Sabella and Sabine Zabarovska with T.J. Jackson
Jenny Jones and Myra Collins
Cami and Leigh Buntin
We’ve got the right mortgage for right where you are in life. Call or visit one of our lenders and let them help find a mortgage that’s just right for you!
Mendy Ramey
4359 Mall Dr | Tupelo (662) 678-8450 vicki.hill@bxs.com
2541 Hwy 145 | Saltillo (662) 869-7607 leslie.pettey@bxs.com
1851 N Gloster St | Tupelo (662) 407-3005 | mendy.ramey@bxs.com
Stacy Carroll White
201 S Spring St | Tupelo (662) 620-4879 donna.aycock@bxs.com
201 S Spring St | Tupelo (662) 620-4883 stacy.carroll@bxs.com
456 S Coley Rd | Tupelo (662) 678-8090 ken.williams@bxs.com
NMLS #442673
NMLS #546364
NMLS #442671
NMLS #86755
NMLS #1101333
NMLS #91642
Donna Aycock
Vicki Hill
Leslie Pettey
Ken Williams
Mortgages are subject to approval. Interest rates are subject to change without notice & dependent on credit score. This is not a commitment to lend or rate guarantee.
June/July 2018 | INVITATION
51
corinth
KIWANIS CLUB PANCAKE BREAKFAST
The Kiwanis Club of Corinth held its annual pancake breakfast May 5 at Waldron Street Christian Church. Proceeds benefit Havis’ Kids. photographed by Whitney Worsham
Bobby Roberts, Will Matthews and Martha Roberts
Greg and Patti Meyer
Jan and Glennan Grady
52 INVITATION | June/July 2018
Walter and Tonya Williams
John and Mindy Mercier
Leonda McDowell, Steven Eaton, Louanna Montgomery and Brent Avent
Luke, Beth and Carly Mitchell
Staci and Holly Ross
Glenda and John Andrews
COMING SOON...
THE CHILDREN’S COVER CONTEST AUGUST 2017
Keep an eye on our Facebook page for more information. The contest will take place in early July. We look forward to seeing your submissions! Meet Children’s Cover Contest Winner, Sam
july/august 2011
JULY/AUGUST 2010
BACK TO SCHOOL
The winning contestant will receive a prize package and a professional photography session and will be featured on the cover of Invitation’s August issue.
View more photos at invitationmag.com.
OUT AND ABOUT CHILDREN’S DENTAL CLINIC / TUPELO ENDODONTICS BLOOD DRIVE
Allie Walker, Glenda Floyd and Betsy Gibens
Lakya Jackson and J.D. Dill
Danny and Glenda Putt
USTA 55-PLUS WOMEN’S TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIPS
Mary Beth Smallwood and Scott Reed
Linda Davis and Vickie Edwards
WOODWORK KINGS MEET THE ARTISANS
Taylor Witt and Jennifer Tenet
54 INVITATION | June/July 2018
Kerry Long, Dawn Branton and Pam Wasson
Jo Anne and Ronn Besselievre with Pepper
BARK PARK FESTIVAL
Stuart Witt and Anthony Eldridge
Lexi Godwin with Kaiser
Maddie Taylor with Uber
June/July 2018 | INVITATION
55
recipe
CHOCOLATE FUDGE CAKE WITH SNO-CREAM written by Melanie Crownover recipe contributed by Kristen Ward photographed by Joe Worthem
T
here’s going to be a cake-themed food fight in Pontotoc on June 23. The event, Pontotoc Food Fight: Cake Edition, is organized by BOND Small Business Group and allows both professional chefs and home cooks to compete. Pastry chef Kristen Ward of Tupelo’s Butterbean Biscuits & Coffee is one of them. “We’re known for our breakfast menu, but we want to give people a sample of the kind of dessert items they can expect when we add on night hours this summer,” Ward said, adding that she’ll be serving up a unique banana pudding cake at the event. This fudge cake and sno-cream sundae dessert is another favorite Ward created for Forklift, where she also serves as a pastry chef. To be a taster at the cake competition, call 662586-1156 for a $10 general admission ticket.
Cake 1¾ cups all-purpose flour 2 cups sugar ¾ cup cocoa powder 1½ teaspoons baking soda ¾ teaspoon salt 2 large eggs 1 cup buttermilk 1 tablespoon vanilla extract ½ cup butter, melted 1 cup hot coffee
Glaze Two 14-ounce cans condensed milk ½ cup vanilla extract In a large bowl or stand mixer, thoroughly combine dry ingredients. Slowly add eggs, 1 at a time, until fully incorporated. Add buttermilk followed by 1 tablespoon vanilla. Mix at medium speed until a thick batter is achieved. In a separate bowl, add melted butter to hot coffee. Add mixture to batter with mixer setting on low so as not to splash hot coffee. Run mixer until batter comes together.
56 INVITATION | June/July 2018
While waiting, line the bottom of a 9-by13-inch pan with parchment paper, and generously spray the rest of the pan with nonstick spray. Pour batter into pan, and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center of cake comes out clean. Meanwhile, whisk together the condensed milk and ½ cup vanilla. Once cake is finished baking, remove from oven and allow to cool just enough to handle. Gently run a knife around edges of cake, and flip it out onto a rimmed baking sheet. Remove parchment paper carefully. Leave cake upside down, and pour milk mixture over it. (Excess mixture will gradually be absorbed.) Wrap the cake tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight.
Crunchy Butter Toffee Topping 21/3 cups sugar 2 cups butter 1/4 cup half-and-half 2 tablespoons light corn syrup Combine all ingredients in a heavy 3-quart saucepan, and cook over medium heat, stirring
constantly, until butter is melted. Reduce heat to medium-low. Cook 25-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning, until a candy thermometer reaches 300°F. Immediately pour onto a rimmed baking sheet lined with wax paper. Cool 1 hour, and break up by hand.
Sno-Cream 1 cup heavy whipping cream 1 teaspoon vanilla extract One 14-ounce can condensed milk Place cream and the bowl from a stand mixer in the freezer for 15-20 minutes. Pour cream and vanilla into cold mixing bowl, and beat with a whisk attachment 2-3 minutes, until soft peaks form. With mixer on mediumlow, add condensed milk in a slow but steady stream. Once condensed milk is mostly combined, turn mixer speed up to medium-high, and beat until stiff peaks form. Pour mixture into a loaf pan or bowl, cover tightly with a double layer of plastic wrap, and freeze for 24 hours. Serve atop a slice of fudge cake topped with crunchy butter toffee.
You Know She’s Worth It
Taylor Square Photography
The South’s Leader in Estate Jewelry and Diamond Solitaires On The Square Oxford, MS
Historic Downtown New Albany, MS 1.866.VANATKINS www.vanatkins.com