Mswg2k15 by Mid South Wedding Guide

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Dear Fans,

Nashville Wedding 3

Congratulations on your recent engagement. At Mid South Wedding Guide, you’ll find inspiration for your unique and memorable wedding. An engagement is a once and a lifetime experience. Don’t spend it stressing over wedding details. We have some great news for your wedding planner, vendors, and yourself.

Calligraphy Co.

Paris Engagement

Love Notery Co.

The Lodge

Modern Boutique

Mrs. Alabama

Gratidude Ranch

Shave Face Co.

Thank you to our cover couple Mr. and Mrs. Crawford.

Mid South Wedding Guide is happy to announce its newest resource for wedding planning The Wedding Guide Box. Yesterday’s brides prepared for months without getting to see the fruits of their labor until the wedding date. The Wedding Guide Box brides receive a box packaged with samples and treats for each phase of your engagement. From the first box to the last. If you need help planning bridal showers or even bachelor party; we will be celebrating each step of the way with you. Aren’t all couples different? Of course they are, which is why we customize your gift sets for you. Our team carefully crafts these personalized packages to not only suit your style, but also your budget. Did we mention that each month we give away a “grand” prize to a few lucky couples by random drawing? We do register through our website. Now sit back, sample the cake, taste the champagne, and truly smell the roses at MidSouthWeddingGuide.com Allison Brooke Brigance allison@midsouthweddingguide.com 901.652.1969 For more information about MSWG or Wedding Guide Box email info@midsouthweddingguide.com

Nashville, Tennessee Mr. Thomas & Mrs. Joanna

The Proposal: Joanna and Thomas love to be active and go on runs together at a trail in Nashville. It was no surprise when they decided to go on a run on a Friday evening. Thomas had a different idea for a run on this night. Thomas had set up three different signs along the way about a mile into their run earlier that day. As Joanna was coming around the corner of the fisrt sign; she completely missed the first sign but turned around to look to see the last part of the sign that said “keep running.” Joanna didn’t think anything of it, assuming it was motivation for other runners on the trail. Thomas’ seemed to have a little panic from Joanna, her first clue. Joanna then comes around to the next sign and this time paying more attention reading “someone wants to meet you,” which left Joanna intrigued and wondering who these signs could be for. When she came to the last sign that said “Jo, my name is Huck, can we be a family” and saw her new little pup sitting there she knew it was for her but thought it was the sweetest way of giving someone a new puppy. As she was loving on little Huck she saw a little tag attached to his collar and when she opened it, she read “will you marry my daddy.” Joanna turned around to see Thomas on his knee popping the question and of course, she said yes! On a day that was forcasted to be 85% rain at the time they were headed to go on the run, the sun came out with no rain in sight. Could not have been more perfect of a proposal!

Seeing the look on my fianceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s face, when we met for the first time that day knowing that this is the man I get to spend the rest of my life with made me feel like the luckiest woman in the world! I remember thinking in that moment how awesome God is to have blessed me with a man who loves and accepts every part of who I am. He truly brings out the best version of me and I get to have him alongside with me every day for the rest of my life. My other favorite moment would be having all of our family and friends from all over being in one place and celebrating us, and our marriage was memorable! Seeing the smiles on everyone faces and the genuine support of happiness. This is how we felt from every single person. It was just amazing and I am sure it may be one of the only times in our lives where we will ever feel that kind of overwhelming love from so many at one time. I remember having all my closest friends there on the dance floor and wishing the night would never end! This was the best day of our lives and I wish we could do it all over again! - Mrs. Joanna Crawford

I will always remember the first look. I was standing with my back to Joanna and hearing her walk up on the sidewalk to grab me from behind was the most anticipation I have ever felt. It was like learning to swim for the first time in deep water. I was nervous and didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know what would happen; when all of a sudden my dad grabbed hold of me to let me know he was there. However, having Joanna grasp on to me from behind knowing this â&#x20AC;&#x153;forever thingâ&#x20AC;? was really going to happen had never felt so comforting, reassuring, and exhilarating all at the same time. -Mr. Thomas Crawford

The Details:

Just n you Angels Coffee, Sweets, sCigar Bars, oh my! We love a custom specialty stations that reflect the Personalities of the couples at their reception. Thomas and Joanna had three spectacular buffets of Sweets with assorted arrangement of candies, coffee Bar for the late night guest and chic cigar bar for the Celebration.

Keeping Up With The Crawfordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s My advice to other engaged couples would be: Take in every single moment! Whether you have a three months of engagement or a year engagement,; make sure to live in the moment of each day and not let the stress of wedding planning take over the best time of your life. It is so easy to get caught up in the silly details. However, if you remember what it is really all about, then it will make the engagement much more enjoyable. If you are the most indecisive person, like myself, rest assure that it gets easier. There are so many decisions to make in wedding planning and if you dont think of every single one as the biggest decision of your life; it makes it a lot easier! Once you make a decision, dont ponder on it just move on to the next one. Remember your fiance and you are a team so no matter how stressed you get, try not to let it out on the other person. Lastly, take time during the engagement to do other fun things together that donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t involve the wedding planning because EVERYONE needs a break from the wedding talk even the bride and groom. -Mrs. Joanna Crawford

Sometimes you meet a fellow wedding professional and you both “just get it.” You have that moment where you know where each other is coming from and you share a passion for the hospitality industry and in Beth Hunt’s case; she is making everything more fancy one cursive curly letter at a time. This business owner and I share so much in common and I enjoy every chance I get to speak with such powerful women entrepreneurs like her and share encouragement and ideas. MEET BETH HUNT What made you start your business? When I was 10 years old, I asked for a calligraphy set for Christmas and I guess it was then that I first started writing some form of calligraphy. I always enjoyed art classes in school and, ever since I can remember, loved writing names and words different ways for fun. Many years later, I began addressing wedding invitations for close friends who liked my handwriting. After doing it for several friends, I realized that calligraphy was something I could do for other people as well, so I started Beth Hunt Calligraphy about seven years ago. What is the best advice given to you yet? That it’s better to be over-prepared than under-prepared. A little bit of extra effort tends to pay off in most situations. It’s similar to the adage that it’s better to be over-dressed than under-dressed.

What wedding trends do you see coming for 2016? Gray ink is a fresh neutral and fun option in leu of traditional black ink that will be big this fall for calligraphy as well as invitations and other printed materials. Gold ink is still very popular and isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. The sparkle it gives is just so festive!

For wedding day signage, mirrors are an elegant choice that I predict more brides will start incorporating into their big days. Pretty mirrors with calligraphy written on them add ambiance and can really tie together your reception’s theme. They’re stunning after dark when you can see candles flickering in the reflection. More and more brides are also choosing to put a personalized stamp on their wedding festivities with hand-lettered monograms. For example, a couple’s initials inside a hand-drawn wreath or crest can create a motif you can use on save the dates, invitations, programs and beyond: cocktail napkins, tote bags, stickers, ribbons, cups, and stationery are just a few examples. What are your favorite accounts to follow on social media right now? I’ve long been obsessed with @thisisglamorous; her images are simply breathtaking and a source of inspiration for me. I’m French at heart, so I love @parisinfourmonths. Some of my other faves are @beautifulpaper, @pizzazzerie, @snippetandink, and as a mom of little ones I can’t get enough of @thebeaufortbonnetcompany. What is the coolest thing you have done so far as a business owner? I love when clients challenge me with new ideas and how to incorporate my calligraphy into their special events, homes, or whatever it may be, and a recent project inspired me to start thinking of unconventional ways to use calligraphy. Calligraphy is an ancient art, so it’s fun to modernize it by writing on different things beyond just paper. Writing on hydrangea leaves as place cards, or writing a pretty message on kraft paper to turn it into personalized wrapping paper, or even writing a monogram on cookies for a party are just a few examples. My intern went to a building supply store last week to get pieces of wood for me to write on - I don’t think she would’ve ever expected to visit a building supply store when she agreed to work for a calligrapher, but she swears it was fun.

Paris, France Josh and Kalea

The Proposal:

Josh and Kalea are avid sports fans. He’s a basketball coach at Purdue University. Kalea’s brother played football at Purdue, therefore, it was a rather uneventful Saturday evening spent gathered around the television watching college football. Then around halftime of the ball game, Josh asked Kalea if she had ordered something because he had seen a package in the kitchen. She brushed it off saying it was just something her mom had sent not knowing THE PACKAGE he was referring to.

She was taking pictures of her bag to send to her friends when Josh says, “Now make sure the authenticity card and receipt and all is inside in case you want to exchange it.” “Exchange it? I don’t want to exchange it!”Kalea shot back. Then that’s when her mouth dropped to the floor.

Not only was the authenticity card inside, there was a ring box with the cushion cut diamond Kalea had told Josh she wanted over a year ago. At that time, he rolled his eyes at her, but now fast forward to the present, and here it was right After additional questioning on the part of in front of her. For a small town Mississippi girl, Josh, Kalea begrudgingly went to the kitch- this was a GREAT night. She got a Louis and en to discover a professionally wrapped a diamond. Oh and a good looking fella too. package. Her eyes lit up, but it was rather large so at no point in time in open- -Ms. Kalea Henry ing did she think, “Ohhh this is a ring!” Kalea proceeded to open the wrapping to find the Louis Vuitton purse she had drooled over a few weeks back when they were in Chicago. The thank you’s, you’re the best, I love you sooo much followed.

Kristen Rocco is a professional love storyteller as the Founder of Love Notery. She created Love Notery to give couples a very special piece of their history - the words of their extraordinary love stories. She crafts custom-written love stories among other treasured love keepsakes for engagements, weddings, anniversaries or simply to celebrate the love between two people. Find her at www.lovenotery.com. Why did you start your business? One day last year, I was sitting on my couch watching TV when I caught a glimpse of my wedding photos. Every time I look at my wedding photos, all the amazing moments of that day rush back to me. It was one of those days that I’ll cherish forever. But then it hit me…it hit me that my love story began 3 years before my wedding day. Those 3 years prior to my wedding encompassed all the reasons why I had said “I do.” That’s when the idea for Love Notery came to me. I thought to myself that if I were thinking this, others must be too. So I immediately decided to put my professional background as a storyteller, interviewer and writer to work and help couples celebrate all the reasons why they fell in love by documenting their extraordinary love stories. It’s so rewarding to help couples bring their love stories to life not only because every story is unique, but I get to see couples fall in love all over again as they relive the memories of their relationship during our interview. What is the best advice given to you yet? Marie Forleo’s mantra is, “Create a business and a life that you love.” This really speaks to me. When you’re doing the work that you love, it doesn’t feel like work. This couldn’t be more true when I’m helping couples tell their love stories and creating tangible memories they’ll cherish now and for many years to come.

What wedding trends do you see coming for the Fall? The couples I work with have a passion for personalizing their wedding day as much as possible. Sharing their love story with their guests on their wedding day has been a great way to do that. Also, couples are really thinking hard about what makes them unique and trying to carry that through in their decor, food, design, and venue. What are your favorite accounts to follow on social media right now? My Instagram picks are going to be all over the place! @jenkirkman for humor; @daniellelaporte and @hilaryrushford for entrepreneur inspiration; @fredrikeklundny for beautiful (real estate) shots in NYC; @shesthefirst for bettering the world through girls’ education; @photosbyilene for great (landscape) photography; @nutritionbymia for food porn; @humans.of.new.york for capturing the very essence of humanity; @huffpostweddings and @ourbestfindswedding for wedding inspiration and advice. Oh, and @lovenotery of course! What is the coolest thing you have done so far as a business owner? The coolest thing by far is bringing my own vision into the world that helps couples create their “love legacy.” I’m creating completely-custom heirloom love keepsakes that couples will be able to share with their children and their children will share with their children. That excites me and is what makes me get up every morning!

An engagement is a once and a life-time experience. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t spend it stressing over wedding details. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find inspiration for your unique and memorable wedding. The Wedding Guide Box brides receive a box packaged with samples and treats for each phase of your engagement. From the first box to the last, from bridal showers to bachelorette party; we will be celebrating at each step with you.

The Lodge Nashville, TN

Photography courtesy of Frozen Exposure Photography + Cinematography.

Why You’ll Love It Violet Flower carries an assortment of up-and-coming designers with a bit of edge. Be prepared to find clothing that is considered chic contemporary, classic staples to party ready eveningwear. Inventory features affordable on trend pieces to enhance your wardrobe. Violet Flower ambience will make you enjoy shopping again with personal care & service. Violet Flower quality brands as well intimates, bath goods, for shoppers to feel glorious inside and out. In a city filled with boutiques, Violet Flower will combine trendy and timeless fashions —perfect for the fashionista who doesn’t want to break the bank. Shopping is personal here. The boutique prides itself on establishing relationships with its customers.

MEET YOLANDA OGLE Violet Flower Boutique, Owner

What made you start your business? As an individual who moved to Nashville 10 years ago from a major city. I did not see a small business owner focusing on the thousands of transplanters transitioning fashion style. I wanted to combine the urban contemporary style of clothing with the southern chic flare. “I am so proud that we were able to bring new styles from contemporary designers along with moderate prices to Nashville.”

What are your favorite accounts to follow on social media right now? Vogue, Glamour, Instyle, Fashion Bomb Daily, Sarah Jessica Parker, Beyonce, Anne Wintrop, Tom Ford, Dior.

What is the best advice given to you yet? Don’t waist your time in the race looking back to what the other guy is doing. It’s not about the other guy; it’s about what you can do. Just run the race as hard as you can; give all you got every time.

What wedding trends do you see coming for the 2016? I see people are playing with color more Navy, Grey, Burgundy and Hunter & Everest Green.

What is the coolest thing you have done so far as a business owner? Travel out of the country to review personal and street style of that country/culture.

Wedding Viel to Mrs. Alabama Crowning F More I am currently Mrs Alabama United States 2015 so I recently competed at Mrs United States in Las Vegas where I placed 3rd alternate. I have been very lucky to represent Alabama as both a “miss” and a “Mrs” and gain the experience of both divisons. My favorite thing about the Mrs United States system is the celebration of family and womanhood. Being a Mrs titleholder allows you to represent such a dynamic group of women who are all very different within their roles. We had women who are doctors, nurses, corporate executives, moms, business owners and everything in between. Being what your family needs you to be, fearlessly pursuing your dreams, trying to positively change the world around you and doing that while maintaining a healthy marriage is no joke and something these women do everyday. Honestly its about celebrating women and empowering all women to understand how important their role is in the world. I am a lead ambassador and spokeswoman for The What Matters Foundation. We are a non-profit who works directly with youth and unknown worldchangers to be empowered to create change in the world around them.(www.whatmattersfoundation.org) We have several campaigns throughout the year that focus on different topics, and we are currently preparing for our King and Queen Conference in November. It will be a conference for high school students where we will give them the tools needed to reach their full potential and be the “royalty” they are meant to be. (www.kingandqueenconf.com) Please check us out online! We are always looking for new ambassadors.

The Propsal Evan took me to my family’s farm. The farm’s lodge overlooks the valley and is beautiful at sunset. He handed me a letter, and the first sentence said,” My mom told me when I was younger to start praying for God to put the right woman in my life for me to marry, and that when I met her it would feel different than anything I had ever felt. I found out exactly what she was talking about when I met you, and I didn’t have to pray that prayer .any longer.”

The Details Wedding Planner | Aletha Wilson with With This Ring Caterer | Classic on Noble Cake & grooms cake | Olexa’s Café Ceremony & Reception location | J&D Farms in Southside,AL

Disc Jockey | Feel The Beat Entertainment Music at reception| First Dance- Penny Rae (acoustic performance) , Feel the Beat Entertainment Flowers | Kathy Miller Florists Hair and Make-Up | Brittany Benton Massey

The most memorable part of the day from our wedding day would have to be the crazy storm that hit as our wedding time approached.

Our first dance was very special though with the acoustic music and dim lighting over the barn. Its something I’ll never forget, and you know they say it’s good luck for it to rain on your wedding day. Our wedding was outside so we Evan and I are set for good luck for had to start the wedding thirty the rest of our lives and then some minutes early, it lasted five to ten because of our lucky wedding day. minutes due lighting hitting the ground. This made our power being knocked out because our beautiful cross was struck by lightening.

Keeping Up with The King’s Evan and I are quickly coming up on our one year anniversary and this first year honestly has been so much fun. Evan is truly the kindest, most encouraging, and patient man. I feel very lucky to have found someone who can put up with me, and do it in a loving way. I would say the biggest thing I have learned is to communication. Learning to have those tough conversations and seeing things from your partners perspective. Respect each other and laugh everyday. I can even have fun going to the grocery store with Evan and we are excited for many years to come. -Mrs. Molly King

134 N. FRONT STREET Senatobia, Mississippi WE PROVIDE EVENT SPACE FOR WEDDINGS, BABY SHOWERS, FASHION SHOWS, REUNIONS, ANNIVERSART PARTIES, AND BIRTHDAY PARTIES.

Gratidude Ranch Leiperâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fork, TN

Special Thanks n wSponsorsoeLGBaT Photo Shoot Vendors Gratidude Ranch in Leiperâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fork, TN | Venue Modern Trousseau | Bridal Gowns Bella Bridesmaid | Bridesmaid Gowns Street Tuxedo | Tuxedos Katie Russo Beauty | Hair and Make-Up Memory of Elegance | Florist Brown Sugar Cake Room | Wedding Cake Photography courtesy of Frozen Exposure Photography + Cinematography.

THE PERFECT GROOMENS’ GIFT: We Support No-Shave November, However; a little manscaping does a groomsman good scoring points with the bride and bridesmaids. MEET JAMES O’BRIEN “James O’Brien is a sweater enthusiast. He shaves three times a week and prefers the Gillette Fusion razor with Baxter’s shaving cream.” — http://www.shaveface.com What made you start your business? I moved to Nashville with a band and, while traveling for shows, our drummer told me about the concept of sharpening disposable razor blades on denim. As you can imagine, I was super skeptical, but, after a few weeks of trying it out, I was blown away. My blades were as sharp as new about a month later. I used my own jeans for about a year or so and, after ruining a few pairs of jeans, I decided that it was time to make a product out of the concept. So, with Casey’s help, we tested a bunch of denims and looked into the best ways to effectively strop disposable razors on denim. Honestly, we were sick of paying outrageous premiums for razors and even sicker of throwing them out after too few uses. So the Strop was born, and so was ShaveFace. What is the best advice given to you yet? Never deep fat fry in the nude. What wedding trends do you see coming for the Fall? Let’s see... I’m calling community tables, bare industrial bulbs, live music, gluten free wedding cakes, whiskey cocktails, and succulent boutonnieres. What are you favorite accounts to follow on social media right now? Uncrate, This Wild Idea and National Geographic. What is the coolest thing you have done so far as a business owner? We’re about to head out on our Shaving The States road trip. We’re going to visit all of our sources and manufacturers and show our supporters what it means to be “Made In America”. We’re hitting 7 cities in 10 days. And Cadillac has been kind enough to lend us a car for the trip. There’s no doubt that it’ll be a great ride.

#MSWGBestof2015 SOCIAL MEDIA TAG ENTRY DEADLINE: December 15, 2015 Rules and Regulations on midsouthweddingguide.com