Say Yes!
A Guide to Weddings & Celebrations In Georgia’s Lake Country
A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF
Make it Unforget t able
1111 Polo Circle, Suite 102 | Greensboro (706)453-9690 • www.HarborClub.com
Say Yes ! 2015
1
A Guide To Weddings and Celebrations
— in Georgia’s Lake Country —
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Features 16 Beauty and the Braun Model and MasterChef finalist Jessie Lysiak marries pro hockey player Justin Braun at Serenata Farm in Madison.
24 A Country Classic Q & A with Newlyweds Laci and Dallas Gabriel shair insight to their wedding successes...and regrets.
30 Precious Moments Each bride has definite ideas about what will make her day perfect. For Bethany Veal, it was all about family.
38 Gilding the Lilies Choosing the right gown for your body type has never been so easy!
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Departments 6 From the Editor Editor Tracey Buckalew invites you to Say Yes!
8 I Do (and Don’t) Learn which DIY projects to avoid and which ones you can begin with confidence.
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Information 46 Wedding Venue List A County-by-County guide to the top wedding venues in Georgia’s Lake Country.
6 Advertiser List
12 Gift Registry Tips of the Trade Bridal registry-based shop owner Theresa Bishop shares behind-the-scenes tips about building a great registry list.
14 The Complete Wedding Checklist Organization is crucial when there is a seemingly infinite to-do list. Keep it all in check with our handy time line.
ABOUT THE COVER Local Jessie Lysiak marries Pro hockey player Justin Braun at Serenata Farm in Madison photo by Brandy Angel Photography
Memories
to cherish forever Savor
the romance of the Old South with the
charm of historic Madison, Georgia. The spacious gardens, intimate settings, and beautifully appointed guest rooms of the Brady Inn await you.
Weddings , special events, & celebrations
A Victorian Bed & Breakfast Acclaimed in Southern Living, GPTV’s Georgia Traveler, and the Atlanta Journal-Constitution 250 n. SecOnd ST. MadISOn, Ga • 706 342-4400 • 866 770-0773 • www.BradyInn.cOM
From the Editor
A
lthough wedding trends come and go like the weather, every little girl with a Barbie began dreaming of her perfect wedding day years before she was even interested in boys. You would think that getting such an early start on your planning would make the process easier later on. Indeed, some decisions are easy—we girls do know what we like after all, don’t we? Other considerations are surprisingly difficult. Today’s consumers are all about
choices, and it can be overwhelming when deciding about even ordinary things like sizes, colors and quantities. Where is the line between enough and too much? When have you ever before had to consider the infinite variations of the color pink? All of a sudden you’re not sure of anything. This is when we hope Say Yes! will enter the picture and become a handy resource for the Lake Area’s bridesto-be. Take a peek at Jessie and Justin Braun’s wedding at Serenata Farm for a picture-perfect example of classical Southern charm. Bethany and Travis Vickrey made memories centered around their love of family. Laci and Dallas Gabriel celebrated “their way,” by simply surrounding themselves with things they love. Learn from the registry mistakes made by regretful couples in behind-the-scenes wisdom shared by shop owner Theresa Bishop. Peruse the county-by-county venue list and find a location to fit your vision, and your budget, then cut out the Wedding Checklist and start planning the day when you will Say Yes!
Tracey Buckalew , Editor
Advertiser List Amelias/Barkin’ Dogs........52 Ashley-Belle Landings.......43 AthensWedding Prof.........45 Aurum.................................37 Belles, Beaux & Gifts.............13 Brady Inn...............................5 Chris Hudson Couture.........2 City of Madison Town Park.35 Downtown Greensboro....42 Hallie Janes Catering.........37 Harbor Club..........................1 James Madison Inn..............3 Jim Boyd Insurance...........37 6
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JK Linens.............................11 Le Petit Jardin....Back Cover Lilywind Kids.......................53 Madison-Morgan Wedding Association.....................52 Madison Tea Room.............11 Madison Square Collection..22 Nine Oaks Farm.................44 NuArt Printers......................44 Pannell Designs & Events...34 Paschal Orthodontics....33 Plaza Arts Center............53 Pounders Market...............44 Rutledge Family Dental...23
say yes! 2016 is produced by Publisher: Patrick Yost Editor: Tracey Buckalew Art Director: Tracey Buckalew Graphic Designer: Betsy Jenniges Marketing: Dianne Yost Advertising Representatives: Debbie Smith, Rhonda Smith Cameron Gunter Circulation: Michael Ivey ADVERTISING Information regarding advertising and rates are available by contacting: CONTACT Lake Oconee Living, P.O. Box 708, Madison, Ga. 30650, or call 706.342.7440 or fax 706.342.2140 ©2016 Main Street Communications, Inc. Lake Oconee Living is a proud member of
and Grand GAMMA award winner 2012.
Serenata Farm...................34 Sunflower Farm..................44 The Barn at Crooked Pines..36 Bridal Showcase.................36 The Corry House..............35 The Hall at Madison-Morgan Cultural Center..................51 The Retreat at Lake Oconee ..............................Inside Front
Thompson House...............42 Town & Country...................22 Whidby Jewelers...............43 Whitewood Events............10 Z Grant Florists......................7
I DO (and don’t)
Do you have a
creative mind and talented fingers? Tempted to DIY your wedding?
Photographer Ian MacFarlane captures DIY home run ideas at an Athens-area wedding. Above: An old drawer lined with brown paper doubles as a serving basket for deep-fried chicken tenders. Below: A perfectly imperfect homemade sign directs guests to seating at the union of a blended family.
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Go for it...
but limit yourself to certain areas!
DO:
DIY NO BRAINERS: Favors, invitations, place settings, makeup... FOOD FAVORS: Consider something yummy and useful. While a bag of mixed mints and peanuts will rarely go uneaten, why default to the ordinary? Tea: As tea rooms spring up from coast to coast, a resurgence of interest in tea has inspired the lost art of mingling and conversation. Start your own buzz by gifting heart-shaped tea infusers (We found adorable versions for $1.54 at favorwarehouse.com.) and fill them with an assortment of teas. Try fragrant blends like peppermint, chamomile and green teas. Peppercorn Blends or Grilling Seasonings: Planning a warm weather wedding? Give a gourmet blend of peppercorns or spices that guests can take home (and will use!) Package them in mini burlap gift bags. Affordable versions - from $.31- $1.50/ea. - are readily available on the internet. INVITATIONS/ PLACE SETTINGS: Printable, editable document templates are available online and through the Etsy marketplace that can provide you with ultra-easy, gorgeous designs at a fraction of the cost of print-shop versions. From boho-chic botanicals to golden vintage patterns, a plethora of choices are available to satisfy even the most discerning bride. MAKEUP: No one knows your face better than you. And, it’s cheaper.
HELPFUL HINTS: 1. YOU ALREADY KNOW what products work for you - stick with those instead of trying something new on such an important day. If you want to practice new techniques, take a photo of yourself in lighting comparable to the time of day (for an outside wedding) or in similar lighting to what you’ll have indoors - Fluorescent, candlelight, etc. 2. LOOK FOR waterproof or long-wearing versions of the makeup you already know and love. Products that are designed to last throughout the day will ensure you still look fresh through your reception. Use primer under your
foundation and eyeshadow to help make it last. 3. AVOID anti-aging or SPF products. They often have reflective ingredients and, combined with the flash of a camera, can leave you looking like Casper the Friendly Ghost. OTHERS: HIM: Ah, your man. He’s not just another handsome face - he can help! What are his interests? If it’s music, ask him to find the band or DJ. Is he a foodie? Great! He can research caterers. THE GOLDEN AGERS: Self-explanatory. Be kind to grandma, and seat her away from the band and/or speaers. REMEMBER to invite your officiant to the reception. They often are overlooked! ORDER a smaller bouquet that you can use to toss to your female guests. This will preserve your larger bouquet to keep as a memento.
DON’T:
DIY NO BRAINERS: Centerpieces, Catering/Cake, Photography... Unless you are a professional caterer, photographer or florist (or are enlisting the help of a professional friend), don’t risk trying to DIY through this most important of days. Just…don’t. OTHERS: PLANNING A CASH BAR? Miss Manners suggests that you think twice before asking your guests to help pay to play. SOLUTION: Perhaps you could consider offering free wine and beer, yet offer a signature cocktail for those who prefer something a little stronger. BE COGNIZANT of requiring your guests to wait for seemingly endless amounts of time between the ceremony and the reception while photos are being taken or while in transit to a far away location. SOLUTION: Perhaps take the majority of your photos prior to the ceremony. Ask your photographer about a “First Look” photo session. As for the location, try to keep the ceremony and the reception within reasonable driving distance of the other. If that is impossible, provide transportation and/or a designated, comfortable area for your guests to entertain themselves while they wait.
Say Yes ! 2016
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Photo by Chloe Giancola Photography
Celebration Planning + Design www.whitewoodevents.com
706.340.0440
Bridal Registry • Luxurious Linen Sets Comforters • Quilts • Blankets • Plush Towels • Candles Soaps • Pillows • Gifts • Monogramming & More 191 West Jefferson St., Madison •
706-343-9919
Say Yes ! 2016
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gift registry tips of the trade
with Theresa Bishop, Owner of BB&G Home Brides and grooms and their friends have fun going from store to store choosing registry items, yet often, they don’t receive the things they really wanted. After querying them and looking at their online registries, I often find the same problem - they do register for a few needed items, but then they also register for an abundance of cute seasonal products that catch their attention. Many times, the bride’s parents and relatives try to make up for the necessary items after the wedding. That’s good for retailers, but it’s always disappointing to see couples not get what they wanted in the beginning. They know what their priorities are, they simply register for too many fun things and don’t adequately relay their priorities to their friends, family and guests. The following contains helpful hints to build a registry list that will enable guests to purchase items you will use for years to come. CREATE a Registry. A wedding registry is the once-in-a-lifetime chance a couple has to ask for, and receive, all the items they would ever want for their home. You can register for everyday dinnerware and glasses, china and crystal, cookware, appliances and bedding, linens and towels and all sorts of entertaining and home décor items. When starting your registry, which should be soon after you’re engaged, keep the follow-
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ing in mind to ensure you create the perfect list -- filled with items you want and products your guests can both easily find and afford. Friends and family want to buy you something you want and need - so not having a registry for them to turn to will make the process more stressful for them. Without a registry to refer to, your guests may purchase an item you won’t use, don’t need and isn’t returnable.
MAKE a list. Be organized about the process. Know your lifestyle and make a list of your gift priorities. If all your dinnerware needs to be dishwasher and microwave safe don’t register for those cute hand painted plates or rimmed glasses that aren’t! Register for only the items you would like to receive. Most likely, you’ll end up with 4 lists to use at specialty stores: 1. Linens 2. Dinnerware, cookware and entertaining items 3. Appliances 4. Smaller pick up items like candles, cookbooks, cheese boards, etc. STICK to it! (Registering without making a list in advance is similar to grocery shopping when you’re hungry, without a list. You’ll come away with tempting bakery items and no serious food!) Almost all stores, from the major department
stores to the smallest boutiques, have online registries. With that in mind, do not duplicate your registry items at different stores. If you duplicate registries, you will receive duplicate items that you will not want or need. Some will be returnable and some won’t. Save yourself the hassle of juggling returns by not duplicating items. If you feel you have to duplicate some items, keep it to a minimum. Registering at more than three stores can make the process a bit overwhelming for both you and your guests. REGISTER early and accept gift cards. If you’re having an engagement party, or are expecting engagement gifts, register soon after you announce your engagement so there are items for family and friends to choose from. Don’t expect stores to have all your choices in stock. With literally thousands of choices of dinnerware alone, no store keeps it all in stock - not even the big department stores. They will tell you it’s in their warehouse, when they actually are in the manufacturers warehouse. They order it as needed, just like everyone else. Gift cards give you the flexibility to make your own choices and fill in items that you’re missing. Make sure everyone knows you welcome them. REGISTER for enough gifts and at all price points. Make sure you register for two gifts for each person on your guest list since he or she may be invited to a pre-wedding party too. Having items in a range of prices ($25, $50, $100, $250+) ensures that everyone can find a gift they can afford. More expensive items can become the perfect group gift. GET your groom involved. If your groom is the rare one who loves shopping, have him involved from the beginning. If shopping is not his thing, don’t insist. Ask his advice and preferences, then after you’ve narrowed your choices, ask your groom to proof everything. This helps prevent “groom overload.” ASK for Mom’s advice - not your girlfriend’s. Resist the temptation to registry shop with girl friends. Your mom or his mom is a much better choice. Both will have good advice as to which items are essential for your home and which are not. They’ve been there - so, put their advice to
good use. Bring one or both moms to the stores you’ve registered at or review the list online, but remember that the final decision is yours. THINK beyond today. You may not be entertaining the whole family for Thanksgiving this year but you probably will in the years to come. It’s important to register for both the basics (everyday dishes, bed linens) as well as items you may need in the future (formal china and crystal for 12, serving pieces). This is the time to let other people purchase these items now so you won’t have to buy them later. QUALITY is important. Select items for your table (dinnerware, china, crystal, flatware) and kitchen (pots and pans, appliances) which will last years and in the case of tabletop items, become family heirlooms. When considering tableware, choose brands and patterns that you’re pretty sure won’t be discontinued - because you will probably want to add pieces at a later time. This is your once-ina-lifetime wedding - don’t choose trendy items - choose lifetime. Be choosey - good quality doesn’t necessarily have to be expensive. AFTER you’ve made your choices, get the word out! As you start making your registry choices, create a wedding website. It’s a fun and easy way to relay a lot of information to your friends, family and guests. But, don’t make the mistake of using a free website that only promotes registries at the big department stores - unless you only want gifts from those stores. There are free wedding websites that let you control what the visitor will see. Make sure your wedding website shows all your registry locations in every spot “our registries” are listed. If not, and you don’t have control of how your registries are shown, choose a different website! When your registry website is the way you want it, share it in every way possible - word of mouth, facebook, on shower invitations, save the date cards, etc. Don’t be shy - this is your wedding and your day! Make sure everyone far and wide knows where you’re registered!
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6-12 months
The
COMPLETE
g n i d d e W ng i n n a l P CHECKLIST
before
Think about the type of wedding you want and the time of year you want it to take place. Set a budget and determine how costs will be divided. Hire a wedding coordinator, if desired. Compile guest list, and organize addresses. Reserve ceremony and reception venue(s). Finalize wedding date. Choose your wedding party. Order dress and accessories, including veil and shoes. Book an officiant. Book a caterer if the venue doesn’t provide one. Book a florist. Order wedding cake. Book music for ceremony and reception. Book a photographer. Send save-the date cards.
before
2-4 months
before
Reserve rental equipment (tables, chairs, tents...) Arrange transportation for the wedding day. Order stationery, including invitations and thank you notes. Set up a gift registry. Purchase wedding rings. Purchase or reserve groom and groomsmen’s attire. Buy undergarments that your dress requires. Choose wedding favors. Book a room for wedding night. Choose gifts for the wedding party. Reserve accommodations for out-of-town guests. Sign up for dance lessons, if needed.
Discuss details of menu with caterer. Discuss service with officiant. Choose any readings for ceremony. Write wedding vows. Schedule rehearsal time. Try out makeup and hairstyles. Mail invitations.
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cut along dotted line
4-6 months
1-2 months before Buy guest book. Have programs printed. Obtain marriage license. (Be sure to request certified copies) Prepare documents to change your name, if intended.
2 weeks
before
Have final dress fitting with shoes and jewelry. Begin seating plan and write place cards. Notify caterer of guest count. Write toasts for wedding reception. Break in wedding shoes at home. Designate someone to look after your home while you are on your honeymoon.
1 week
before
Finalize seating plan. Pick up dress or have it delivered. Confirm details with caterer. Confirm honeymoon arrangements, and give your itinerary to a friend or family member in case of emergency. Pack for honeymoon. Update caterer with final guest count.
1
day before Confirm transportation arrangements for ceremony and reception.
Juliska
The Region’s Premier Bridal Registry Shop
Have manicure and pedicure. Rehearse ceremony. Give gifts to wedding party. Prepare payment envelopes for venue and make arrangements for someone to distribute them.
Your Wedding Day! Relax and enjoy yourself!
115 South Main Street Madison • (706) 342-3311 View Registries at
BBandGHome.com Say Yes ! 2016
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Beauty Braun and the
Jet-setting, glamorous couple finds time to plan a tranquil summer wedding at Madison’s Serenata Farm, creating the ultimate blend of Southern charm and luxurious splendor to surround friends and family.
J
Written by Jamie Miles Photographed by Brandy Angel Photography
essie Lysiak was a long way from her hometown of Social Circle, working a dream job as a personal chef on a yacht sailing the Caribbean, when Cupid came calling. Busy with modeling gigs and fine-tuning the culinary skills that would eventually land her on an episode of “MasterChef,” Jessie’s life took an unexpectedly romantic turn. “We’ve got the guy for you,” a family aboard the yacht told her. Jessie had heard it before, but these guests were persistent. They told her she’d be the perfect match for a family friend. “They kept saying I had to meet him. I had to meet him,” laughs Jessie, “and they had only known me for a week!” She eventually agreed to let them share her email address with Justin Braun, a Minnesota boy turned National Hockey League star. The soonto-be lovebirds began corresponding,
and after four months of online wooing, Jessie flew to Minneapolis for their first date. Three years later—the same week as that first meeting—Jessie and Justin would exchange vows. The couple’s busy schedules would allow only three months of planning, so Jessie enlisted the help of her mother, Melinda Lysiak, and Madison-based wedding planner, Nancy Nolan-Kuperberg to help with the wedding details. The groom’s hockey schedule with the San Jose Sharks allowed only a two-month summer window during which a date could be set. After the couple settled on August 2, modeling obligations kept Lysiak busy until the last weekend in May. Jessie says from that time on, wedding preparations in such a short time frame consumed her every waking moment. She began scouting lake locations, but
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just as Jessie was considering another venue, a brochure for yoga retreats at Serenata Farm caught her eye. After looking online at the pristine 70-acre pasture land and elegant architecture of the Madison farm, Jessie knew this is where she wanted to get married. A visit to the one-of-akind Southern manor with European flair only confirmed her opinion. It took a little effort however, to convince Serenata’s owner, Bobby Robinson, to consent. It was unlike any event he had hosted before, but he was inclined to agree that the expansive white columns of the main house, charming barn, and vast pastures were the perfect backdrop for a picturesque wedding. For her big day, Jessie wanted to wear something completely unique. In 13 years of modeling, she had worn countless wedding dresses, but this was the gown that would matter. She dreamed of something one-of-a-kind and unlike any others she’d seen. Lysiak called on the talents of gown wizard Randall Smith, who she’d met during her pageant days (Jessie had been first runner up to Miss Georgia USA.) Working from photographs of styles the bride loved, Smith waved his wand and finished a jaw-dropping, jewel-encrusted dress just one week before the wedding. For many of Justin’s family and friends, the wedding would be their first visit to the Deep South, so Jessie wanted the weekend filled with country charm, hospitality, and all things Southern. For the rehearsal dinner, she chose Grand Oaks Estates in
nearby Greensboro. With its impeccably restored 1904 interior, the grand mansion provided a sublime, genteel setting. Like proper Southern Belles, Jessie and her mother put care into the smallest detail of the event. Many brides may be discriminating when choosing the menu for a nuptial event, but because this bride had been a top three finalist on the show “MasterChef,” being selective about the food was an understatement. Jessie selected Chef David Benefiel to prepare the rehearsal dinner in the Grand Oaks kitchen. His phenomenal fare included “the best shrimp and grits ever,” fall-off-the-bone short ribs, and a table full of delectable, to-die-for desserts. As tradition dictates, the groom’s family hosted the dinner, so it was important to Jessie that the event feel masculine as well as romantic. The evening’s color palate of creams, blues, and purples were reflected in the floral arrangements and décor. For the place settings, Jessie and her mother used family pieces, perfectly complimented by the stunning centerpiece created by Madison’s Le Petit Jardin. The wedding was scheduled in the afternoon and, for an August day, it was blessedly, and uncharacteristically, cool and pleasant. Tom Lysiak, father-of-thebride, met his princess and her chariot— an elegant 1955 Chevy—at the top of the aisle. Interestingly, her ride had been commissioned just a few days before the wedding, when mother and daughter passed by the beautiful blue-gray
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...Smith waved his wand and finished a jaw-dropping, jewel-encrusted dress just one week before the wedding.
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vehicle parked in downtown Greensboro. Charmed, Jessie and her mother scoured the nearby shops for the Chevy’s owner. Once he was located, Mom politely negotiated with the gentleman, and Cinderella had secured her Coach and Six—six cylinders that is—for entrance to the ball. After vows were spoken and the kiss shared, it was time for a party. Guests enjoyed signature cocktails inside Serenata’s grand hall. Sliders of Pulled-Pork biscuits with Fried Green Tomato, Bacon and Goat Cheese were passed as the elegant melodies of harp and piano played. Then French doors opened wide, and guests were invited onto the grassy lawn behind Serenata’s stately manor. Transformed into a sparkling mixture of all things elegant and Southern, the back yard location proved to be perfect for a celebration against the backdrop of peacefully grazing horses and cows illuminated by a spectacular sunset. Under a white, billowy tent, elegance reigned as tables had been draped in white linen and set with gold chargers, candelabras and gilded chairs. Twinkling lights wrapped around the trees as well as the interior of the tent and the pool deck. The menu, prepared by Athens’ A Divine Event, started with a summer salad layered with strawberries, pecans and tangerines. As entrées, the bride chose surf and turf. “Justin’s a steak guy,” says Jessie, laughing, “but then everyone from Minnesota is a steak guy.” Her signature dish for “MasterChef “was sea bass, so she’d selected sea bass with butter leak sauce over truffled mashed potatoes, which nicely complemented the beef. The wedding cake was an epicurean masterpiece created by Debra Adams of Cake Design by Debra of Greensboro. With alternating layers of flavors such as Gran Marnier Butter Cake, White Chocolate Truffle and Fresh Strawberry, the bride deemed it “gourmet heaven.” Jessie helped create the edible flower petals that graced every other layer of the stunning confectionery tower. Adams, a long time friend of the bride’s mother, gave the cake
to the couple as her wedding gift. After the feast, guests danced the night away thanks to DJTOD, Tod Peavy, who, Jessie said, “kept the party going.” One of the most meaningful moments of the day was when the D.J. played a request from the bride, the old country song “Small Town Saturday Night.” Jessie recalls the moment. “I surprised him (her father, Tom) with our favorite song from way back a million years ago when we lived in Canada. We had a ball dancing like we used to.” She and her father twirled on the dance floor, and then father and new son-in-law jammed on air guitars, clearly enjoying themselves. “I looked over, and my mom was crying,” Jessie remembers. Tom Lysiak, a former professional hockey player with the Atlanta Flames and Chicago Blackhawks, battles leukemia and had scheduled his treatments around the wedding’s events. Having her father there to dance with her as they had when she was little, made her wedding day all the more special. Nolan-Kuperberg complimented the mother and daughter on their attention to detail and in the benefit of taking the time to select vendors who could implement their individual vision. “This time of year is traditionally a slower time, and they got great service because of it,” commends Kuperberg. “Brides run the risk of it being hot mid-summer, but it worked out great for them.” Jessie confided that under the stress of planning the wedding in such a short time, she and Justin toyed with the idea of eloping. But after the event, the couple was thrilled with the weekend and so thankful for the memories they will always share. “I am so glad we did this,” confirms Justin. “Looking around and seeing everyone there who traveled so far meant so much.” Elegant and upscale…small town feel with a metropolitan touch…it was perfection. With careful attention to detail, this couple’s dream of a wedding filled with Southern charm and romance came together in the perfect slice-of-the-South nuptial weekend.
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Lake Oconee
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laci & dallas
GABRIEL
Questions for the newlyweds... Sometimes it’s the little things that make a big impact on this, the most special of days. Newlyweds Laci and Dallas Gabriel share their insight into what worked ...and what didn’t. Interview by Tracey Buckalew Photographed by Scott Greene of Greeneworks.net
Groom
Bride
Laci (Glidewell) Gabriel, Age: 28
Dallas Gabriel, Age: 31 Occupation: Transportation Supervisor in Athens-Clarke County School System
Occupation: Loan Officer at PrimeLending in Athens, Ga
Q
are some things Q What you are glad you did?
A greeneworks.net) The
photographer (Scott Greene, suggested we do a “First Look” photo shoot, so we did 90 percent of the photos prior to the ceremony. We felt that we’d get a more honest range of emotions in the photographs than we would in front of the crowd of guests or when we knew they were all waiting. This way, after the ceremony, most of the photos were done and we could spend that time with our friends and family.
Q
Is there anything you wish you would have done, but didn’t?
A planner to keep a timeline. We were For sure. I wish I’d have hired a wedding
having such a good time, we lost track of when things needed to happen. We didn’t get to do a toast because of that. And before the wedding, we missed the entrance song because no one knew what was going on.
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What was your greatest planning resource?
A of
Probably Pinterest. I looked at dozens wedding sites and Googled everything, but Pinterest had the greatest resource of information and it was easy to pin ideas to a folder.
Q
Did you DIY anything?
A buy our bouquets. I ordered the flowers
Yes! I did as much as I could. We didn’t
from fiftyflowers.com and then took them to a friend of mine who does the flowers for Publix. She put them together and they were gorgeous. There were a lot of little things we did ourselves, like the wedding invitations and RSVP’s. I found a template on Etsy and printed them off on card stock paper. So, instead of $400, they only cost me $40 and they looked professionally done.
Love in Bloom
Wedding Venue: Antique Acres, 2531 Snows Mill Rd, Bogart, GA 30622 (706) 714-2089 Photographer: Scott Greene, greeneworks.net
Q
Did you have the food catered?
A don’t have a storefront - it’s all catering.
Yes, it was from Biggums BBQ. They
It followed the down-home country feel of the wedding, as did the wedding cake, which were cupcakes from Take the Cake. We loved the idea of cupcakes so people could just go up and grab one. Part of what we did on our own was cut cedar wood planks that we put the cupcakes on. They were wonderful.
Q
Tell me about your dress.
A small, but it was beautiful. It is a Vera I bought a used dress that was a little
Wang. I took it to Maria Reese of Definitely Handmade in Watkinsville. It took her about six weeks to alter it, but she was amazing. She saved me!
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Q
Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue. What traditions did you honor?
A
I had a blue garter, but I didn’t have anything old or borrowed. The day of the wedding was so, so stressful and I showed up about an hour late, then realized I’d forgotten my earrings. My husbands mother took off her diamond earrings and gave them to me to wear….. so that was my something borrowed!
Q
What is your takeaway memory?
A wedding ever and that they had a
A lot of people said it was the best
really good time. It wasn’t just that they were there while we celebrated, they celebrated with us. It was the best day of my life.
Q
First time brides often get caught up in expectations of wedding night bliss. Reality is often different. How did you spend your wedding night?
A house was full. After the wedding, we We had so many people in town that our
actually celebrated with some friends and then went back to our house. We realized we hadn’t eaten all day - and didn’t even eat at the wedding - so we took some food out of the fridge and had a little carpet picnic on the living room floor. We were exhausted, so after that, we just went to bed.
Q
What advice or tips would you give to a Bride-to-Be?
A going to be stressed over the to-do list. You are going to be nervous. You are
Accept all the help you can get. If someone offers to do something for you, take it! Don’t think you can do everything all on your own. I was so, so grateful for the help from my friends. Above all, enjoy the moment. Don’t let all the things that don’t go as planned steal your joy. We didn’t focus on creating a picture-perfect image for the photographs, we focused on creating a day that was us and who we are - which is not glitzy or flashy. And we’re so glad we did!
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Precious Moments
As the day dawned on September 6, 2015, final preparations were made for the Vickrey-Veal wedding at Ashley-Belle Landing in Eatonton, Ga. The night before had been stormy, and the wedding party breathed a collective sigh of relief to find that the day of the wedding was sunny and clear. Tables were adorned with bright white linens, and strands of twinkle lights were draped over the lower branches of majestic hardwoods that shade the lawn of the Eatonton venue. Later, the festivities of the wedding reception would take place under a magical, sparkling canopy of light. Written by Tracey Buckalew Photographed by Brandy Angel
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fter graduating college with a degree in nursing, 22-year-old Bethany Veal, and 26-year-old Travis Vickrey, a police officer, returned to Bethany’s hometown in Georgia’s Lake Country for their nupials. Although the couple now resides in Ohio, many of Bethany’s family remain in Milledgeville, and she cherishes memories of time spent here as a child. A reasonable central gathering place for Bethany’s Ohio connections and Travis’ native Alabama family, Ashley-Belle provided the perfect location at which to celebrate. “I loved the classic, Southern feel,” Bethany says of the venue she found online. “I’m all about some sparkle and chandeliers…things that are soft, pretty, romantic and elegant. I love clean and simple. Ashley-Belle provided that look, as well as the tables, chairs and linens. “They made it easy,” she adds.
Along with the flurry of activity at the wedding site, other final adjustments were being made. The bride’s father, Joe Veal, would not only be giving away his little girl, but would also be officiating. The words he would say later that day ran through his mind like a ticker-tape. As a pastor who spends a great deal of time traveling abroad to minister to congregations in Malawi, Africa, the Rev. Veal is well accustomed to speaking in public. His son’s wedding, he had always said, would be easy at which to officiate. Doing the honors at the wedding of any of his three daughters? He was sure it would be a challenge to keep his emotions in check. “We grew up in the church,” explains Bethany, “so we liked the idea of my dad officiating, but I really wasn’t sure if he was going to be able to handle it. He said he’d be honored to do it, but warned he may shed
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a tear or two,” she pauses and laughs. “He’s an exMarine, so he looks like a tough guy, but…he cried like a baby. It was very sweet.” In fact, that sentiment seems to be the prevailing theme surrounding Bethany Veal Vickrey. “You’ll love her. She’s the sweetest thing,” gushes photographer Brandy Angel of her client when discussing the photos for this article. It was all true—Bethany is indeed delightful. The love for her family and the closeness they share is abundantly evident during our interview, which is filled with enviable moments of precious poignancy. One such story she shares with me is of her unique engagement. It was—you guessed it—very… sweet. “About a year ago in December, I was about midway through my senior year of college. Travis and I had been dating for a while, and we knew we were headed toward marriage, but I didn’t have a clue he was about to propose,” she begins. We planned a trip to go geocaching with friends in a cute little town
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called Fairhope, Alabama. It’s a small but artsy town with lots of shops. It’s really unique, and it’s on the water. It was beautiful all lit up for Christmas. “Travis pulled up the geocaching app on his phone, and we were following the clues, really enjoying ourselves. At one point, Travis says, ‘The next clue is the Princess Surprise.’” Bethany laughs as she recalls the moment. “It all makes sense now, looking back, but I didn’t realize then what was happening.” Some friendly competition between Bethany and Travis had developed, and she was “into” the game, following the clues Travis pretended to be getting from the geo-caching app. “‘You’re getting hot,’ he said. ‘Maybe you should get down on your knees and look under those bushes.’” Bethany giggles as she remembers wondering why no one else was helping her look for the clue. “I looked under this bush, and there was a little box there with princesses on it. I figured that was what we were looking for since this was the “Princess
Surprise.” I opened the box and there was a handwritten note inside. I turned around— still on my knees—to show it to Travis, and he was on his knees too—with a box in his hand.” Bethany sighs softly, and I can hear the smile in her voice as she continues. “He proposed. There we were, both on our knees. It was really emotional.” (and sweet!) Can you take more precious moments? Read on. “Ah, the dress,” Bethany begins in response to my inquiry. “Mom and I went shopping, but we just couldn’t find the perfect one. She has an eye for these things because she and her mother used to do bridal alterations. They were incredible seamstresses. Anyway, we walked into a store that sold sample gowns. We found one in a size that could be altered to fit. I didn’t like the top of it, but the bottom was beautiful. We got it, and Mom ended up taking it apart and making it into my dream dress.” In fact, Liz Veal didn’t finish the gown until just a few days before the wedding. “She and Grandmother took off all
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the lace and beads. They re-beaded it and re-sewed it to fit wonderfully. It was really special and one of my favorite parts. One night, we even found Grandmother asleep in her chair with the dress in her lap.” And this is the point, folks. At the end of the day… when the projects are completed and the challenges are met… what matters is family and the memories made. And so it went, that on September 6, 2015, when the Rev. Joe Veal walked his daughter down the aisle and officiated at her wedding, another precious memory was made. “Travis, on the day she was born,” he began, as he addressed his daughter in her princess finery, “my daddy was in the delivery room. He handed her to me, and I kissed her on the forehead and gave her to her mama. On January 1998, Jesus saved me. Two months later, I realized there was a 4-year-old girl in the next room that I loved more than God. So I went into her bedroom, kissed her on the forehead and gave her to God.” Rev. Veal then kissed Bethany on the forehead, gave her hand to Travis and said, “Now, Travis, I give her to you.” With nary a dry eye in the crowd (and certainly none at the altar), the sweet symbolism came full circle from Bethany’s new life at birth and her new life as a wife. “It was a little rough,” she admits emotionally. “There were lots of tears. But, this is what it’s all about. His family…my family…and how we have full immersion in each other’s life. It was wonderful.” Indeed. *sniff* Thanks for the good feels, Bethany.
Yes
YOU’VE SAID TO THE LOVE OF YOUR LIFE, NOW SAY TO THE SMILE OF YOUR LIFE!
Yes
Fast Results • Clear Braces
706-342-7330 Madison Lake Oconee www.PaschalOrthodontics.com Say Yes ! 2016
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An elegantly rustic location for weddings and events. 6641 Union Point Hwy • Union Point • 706-296-1765 info@thecorryhouse.com • thecorryhouse.com
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The Barn at Crooked Pines Farm • 355 Harmony Road, Eatonton, Ga. • 706-347-0274
www.TheBarnAtCrookedPinesFarm.com 36
Lake Oconee
One-of-a-kind designs for a one-of-a-kind Love. Custom Ring Designs in Gold, Platinum, & Silver
Parkside Commons at Lake Oconee Village (Behind Publix) 706-454-0444 Downtown Athens 125 E. Clayton St. 706-546-8826 www.aurumstudios.com
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Gilding the Lilies Oh, those girls.
Your friends are, well...the best. You’ve been through the wringer with each and every one, and you love them for the crazy quirks of their personalities. You’d like to pick out dresses for them that complement their personal styles and also flatter their myriad of body types. How can you do that without driving yourself crazy? Written by Tracey Buckalew
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I
n times past, brides chose from a woefully limited selection of poufed, gaudy dresses that seemed to be created specifically to make the wearer as unattractive as possible. While they surely guaranteed the bride would be the only shining gem of the wedding party
Photo of bridal party at the brew pub by Allyson Warrington of agwphotography.net
bouquet, modern brides tend to be more sympathetic toward their gal pals. Creative designers now offer fashions that cater to the masses, and there is nary a size nor shape that can’t be accommodated. From boy-shaped to busty and tiny to tall, fashions
have been analyzed and categorized, ensuring every shape and size can be flatteringly fitted. On the following pages, we’ve addressed some of the most common fitting challenges and solutions by which they can be overcome or minimized.
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Find Your Shape then
Find Your Style!
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Pear Shape: Large Bust: Small Bust:
(small bust and large bottom): Go strapless, or look for a tank-style top. Either of those paired with an A-line skirt will accentuate the waistline and your decolletage, while easily glossing over problem hips and thighs. The result? A glorious hourglass silhouette.
In direct contrast to the above suggestion, AVOID strapless dresses unless you’re tucked into a good corset. Flattering support is the goal here, so target a one-shoulder, scoopneck or criss-cross neckline. Dresses with a built-in bra are great choices.
Accentuate pretty arms and shoulders with halter or strapless necklines. If a small bust accompanies broad shoulders, try a neckline with spaghetti straps instead. Alternatively, a cowl neckline can give the illusion of a bigger bustline.
Tall:
While a streamlined dress or strapless column that creates a stunning silhouette is the obvious choice, consider short dresses with the same close shape. This way, extra length fitting issues are non-existent.
Petite:
A v-neck with narrow straps or a high neck will elongate a tiny frame. Although that can’t be said for a strapless dress, they will work as long as a strapless neckline is not paired with a drop waist or too-short length (which will make a small frame appear even smaller).
Boy-shape: Curvy: Limit your search to strapless styles that are fitted at the waist. a sash ribbon, seam, or belt at the waist will create the illusion of more curves.
Emphasize those curves, but be classy. Cap sleeves or strappy gowns with ruching at the waist will flatter your hourglass shape.
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Intent on choosing one style for everyone? Look for a sweetheart neckline. As one of the industry’s most popular choices, it tends to flatter most figures and bust sizes. In the most accommodating design innovation yet, “Convertible” dresses provide a basic shape that can be customized any number of ways, which addresses the most challenging body types in a delightfully convenient way. While a simple internet search yields a plethora of sources for convertible dresses, we have chosen the Henkaa ® Company (henkaa.com) of which to make an example. Pictured at right is the “Sakura” pattern. Available in a multitude of colors, and your preference of short or long lengths, there really is no wrong choice here. Heck, mix and match. It’s all good.
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4
Ashley Belle Landings Southern Charm at its Best
Distinct Venues
The Ashley House, The Jackson Barn The Belle House and The Pecan Grove
436 Greensboro Road • Eatonton • (478) 986-0972 • ashleybellelandingsllc.com
Get Engaged with our Large Selection of Diamond Engagement Rings
177 West Jefferson Street Madison, Georgia 30650 (706) 752-0105 www.whidbyjewelers.com Say Yes ! 2016
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Sunflower
Farm’s
rustic beauty is the perfect setting for your unique outdoor wedding. 1430 Durden Road Rutledge, GA 404-433-5646 madisonweddings.com
POUNDER’S MARKET & CATERING
No catering event too large or too small. Call today to discuss and design your perfect menu.
Hours: 10am - 6pm
1210 Commerce Dr., Suite 111, Greensboro Phone: 706-453-4445•Fax: 706-453-2334 44
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Photography on location at Lake Lanier Islands by Scott Greene of Greeneworks.net.
Georgia’s Lake Country
COUNTY - BY - COUNTY
VENUE LIST Because location is everything...
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COUNTY - BY - COUNTY VENUE LIST
at your fingertips
Baldwin County MILLEDGEVILLE COUNTRY CLUB 3700 Sinclair Dam Rd. NE Milledgeville 478-452-3525 mccga.com
ATHENS COTTON PRESS 149 Oneta St. Athens 706-353-1913 venues.eptingevents.com info@eptingevents.com
THE CORRY HOUSE 6641 Union Point Hwy Union Point 706-296-1765 thecorryhouse.com info@thecorryhouse.com
ROSE HILL (FORMERLY LOCKERLY ARBORETUM) 1534 Irwinton Rd. Milledgeville 478-452-2112 lockerly.org
FIRE HALL NO. 2 489 Prince Ave. Athens 706-353-1801 achfonline.org achf@bellsouth.net
GOODWIN MANOR 306 S. Main St. Greensboro 706-453-6218 goodwinmanor.com
MICHAEL BROTHERS BUILDING 320 East Clayton St. Athens 706-543-3101
GRAND OAKS ESTATES EVENT VENUE 102 N. Laurel Ave. Greensboro 770-380-4412
THE WILLIS HOUSE 1760 Irwinton Rd. Milledgeville 478-452-2181 LA FETE 571 NW Hammock Rd Milledgeville 478-453-2611
Clarke County THE CLASSIC CENTER 300 N. Thomas St. Athens 706-208-0900 classiccenter.com ccsales@classiccenter.com BROAD 9A 160 Tracy St., Unit 10 Athens, 706-206-0299 thebroadcollective.com CINÉ 234 W. Hancock Ave. Athens 706-353-3343 athenscine.com director@athenscine.com
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THE RIALTO CLUB, AT HOTEL INDIGO 500 College Ave. Athens 706-546-0430 indigoathens.com STAN MULLINS ART STUDIO 650 Pulaski St. Athens 706-227-2335 stanmullins.com stanarts@aol.com
STATE BOTANICAL GARDEN OF GEORGIA 2450 South Milledge Ave. Athens 706-542-1244 botgarden.uga.edu
GreeneCounty BRIDGEVIEW BARN 1831 Jernigan Bridge Rd. White Plains 404-247-4965 bridgeviewbarn.com
THE RITZ-CARLTON LODGE Reynolds Plantation One Lake Oconee Tr. Greensboro 706-467-0600 ritz-carlton.com
Morgan County BARN AT OAKLEAF FARM 2230 Sandy Creek Rd. Madison 706-474-2899 info@oakleafbarn.com BRADY INN 250 N. Second St. Madison 706-342-4400 bradyinn.com BURNT PINE PLANTATION 1161 Blackwell Rd. Newborn 706-557-0407 burntpineweddings.com
CABOOSE 104 West Main St. Rutledge 706-557-9021 reddoorsstudio.com
MADISON TEA ROOM & GARDEN 200 W. Washington St. Madison 706-688-9832 madisontearoom.com
FARMHOUSE INN 1051 Meadow Lane Madison 706-342-7933 weddings@thefarmhouseinn.com www.thefarmhouseinn.com
STEFFEN THOMAS MUSEUM OF ART 4200 Bethany Rd. Buckhead 706-342-7557 www.steffenthomas.org
HARD LABOR CREEK STATE PARK 5 Hard Labor Creek Rd. Rutledge 706-557-3001 Daniel Schay HERITAGE HALL 277 South Main St. Madison 706-342-9627 madisonheritagehall@yahoo. com
friendsofheritagehall.org JAMES MADISON INN 240 West Washington St. Madison 770-262-1177 jamesmadisoninn.com MADISON MORGAN CULTURAL CENTER HALL 434 S. Main St. Madison 706-342-4743 mmcc-arts.org MADISON OAKS INN & GARDENS 766 East Ave. Madison 706-343-9990 madisonoaksinn.com
SUNFLOWER FARM 1430 Durden Rd. Rutledge 706-434-5646 sunflowerfarmfestival.com TOWN PARK Jefferson and N. Second St. Madison 706-342-1251 x 206 madisonga.com VARIETY WORKS 274 W. Washington St. Madison 706-342-0776 varietyworksmadison.com
Oconee County THE JOHN OLIVER MICHAEL HOUSE 1800 Hebron Church Rd. Statham 706-202-3583 johnolivermichaelhouse.com
THE THOMPSON HOUSE AND GARDENS 1431 Atlanta Hwy. Bogart 770-725-6252 thethompsonhouseandgardens.com
WILLIAM DANIELL HOUSE 1070 Founders Blvd. Athens 706-769-3902 Managed by the Oconee County Civic Center THOMAS COTTON GIN BARN
3753 Greensboro Hwy.
Watkinsville 706-769-6550 hotthomasbbq.com
ANTIQUE ACRES 2531 Snows Mill Rd. Bogart 706-714-2089 antiqueacresga.com VINTAGE OAKS FARM 6305 Hog Mountain Rd. Watkinsville 770-725-1999 facebook.com/VintageOaks-Farm OCONEE COUNTY CIVIC CENTER 2661 Hog Mountain Rd. Watkinsville 706-769-3902 oconeecounty.com JENNINGS MILL GOLF CLUB 1150 Chambers Court Watkinsville 706-548-3266 Ext. 1108 jenningsmillclub.com THE FARM AT HIGH SHOALS 5470 High Shoals Rd. Bishop 706-286-4732 highshoalsfarm.com
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COUNTY - BY - COUNTY VENUE LIST
Putnam County THE BARN AT CROOKED PINES FARM 355 Harmony Rd. Eatonton 706-347-0274 thebarnatcrookedpinesfarm.com ASHLEY-BELLE LANDINGS 436 Greensboro Rd. Eatonton 478-986-0972 ashleybellelandingsllc.com CROOKED CREEK MARINA 208 Crooked Creek Dr. Eatonton 706-485-9693
party@crookedcreekmarina.us
CUSCOWILLA ON LAKE OCONEE 126 Cuscowilla Dr. Eatonton 706-484-0050 cuscowilla.com EATONTON SENIOR CENTER City of Eatonton 201 N. Jefferson Ave. 706-485-3311 HARMONY COMMUNITY CENTER Harmony Community Assoc. Lake Oconee Pkwy. Eatonton 706-484-1649
Walton County THE HUT City of Eatonton 201 N. Jefferson Ave. Eatonton 706-485-3311
FAIR WEATHER FARMS 2399 Mount Paran Drive Monroe 770-207-4557 fairweatherfarms.com
LAWRENCE SHOALS PARK PAVILION 123 Wallace Dam Rd. Eatonton 706-485-5494 georgiapower.com
MCDANIEL-TICHENOR HOUSE 319 McDaniel St. Monroe 770-267-5602 mcdaniel-tichenor.org
THE LODGE AT LAKE OCONEE 930 Lake Oconee Pkwy. Eatonton 706-485-7785
NINE OAKS FARM 2425 Highway 83 Monroe 678-635-7157 9oaksfarm.com
THE PLAZA ARTS CENTER 305 N. Madison Ave. Eatonton 706-923-1655 moreinfo@theplazaartscenter.com theplazaartscenter.com
THE COTTON WAREHOUSE 132 E. Church St. Monroe 770-784-7001 thecottonwarehouse.com
thelodgeonlakeoconee.com
ROCK EAGLE 4-H CONFERENCE 350 Rock Eagle Rd. Eatonton Reservations / Conference 706-484-2875 or 706-4842868 reagle@uga.edu rockeagle4h.org
THE ENGINE ROOM 601 S. Madison Ave Monroe 877-305-6455 theengineroomga.com
Photography on location at the RitzCarlton Lodge by Shane Durrance.
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Because you’re gonna need more than
a white dress.
OLD GRINGO UGG FRYE NAOT PIKOLINO TAOS SABRINA OTBT
Johnny Was Tribal Lilla P. Gingersnaps JAG NYDJ Ivy Jane Uncle Frank
TWO great stores at 172 South Main in Madison Barkin Dogs:(706) 342-2929 Amelias: (706) 342-2986 open 7 days a week The Wedding of Your Dreams Awaits You! Discover the uniquely beautiful venues and wide array of local bridal services & wedding professionals in Madison & Morgan County – the premier wedding destination in Georgia’s Lake Country. www.MadisonMorganWeddingResources.com www.facebook.com/MadisonMorganWeddings
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W E D D I N G
S H O P P E
RECEPTION • FAVORS • BRIDAL PARTY GIFTS TO-BE-WED WEAR •JEWELRY & ACCESSORIES PERSONALIZED PLATE CHARGERS MINKY DOT PILLOW CASES OCCASION FLAGS NOTE CARDS & PENS & MORE!
706-752-1666
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