Table of Contents
Mr. & Mrs. Ross
Mr. & Mrs. Sandel
8 12
Mr. & Mrs. Spillman
PUBLISHER
Stacy Graning
COMMUNITY EDITOR
Jan Griffey
MARKETING
Justin Clarkston
Lisa Sanders
Mr. & Mrs. Reynolds
16 20
Mr. & Mrs. Butts
DeNora Stewart
BRIDES Magazine is produced and published published by Natchez Newspapers Inc.
503 N. Canal St. Natchez, MS 39120
Mr. & Mrs. Hicks
Mr. & Mrs. Palmer 32 35
24 28
Mr. & Mrs. Russell
BRIDES Magazine published annually under the NATCHEZ THE MAGAZINE registered trademark. All contents herein are the sole property of Natchez Newspapers Inc. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without written permission from the Publisher. Please address all correspondence (including but not limited to letters, story ideas and requests to reprint materials) to: news@natchezdemocrat.com.
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ON THE COVER
Mrs. Mason Spillman (nee Taylor Beesley) at Stanton Hall as photographed by Stacy Landers.
Mr. & Mrs. Broussard Hayden McFarland & Kaitlynn Long
38 42
We have everything you need to plan your tailormade wedding. From small intimate ceremonies in our spellbinding parks and gardens to large outdoor or indoor events in historic properties, Natchez provides everything needed to make your wedding day memories match your vision.
Start planning your Southern dream wedding today.
Preserving Moments, Crafting Memories
Brandon Annie
Annie Russ and Brandon Ross were married Nov. 9, 2024, at St. Mary Basilica with the Very Rev. Aaron Williams officiating.
Parents of the bride are Dr. Jennifer and Kurt Russ of Natchez. The bride’s grandparents are Judy Vermaelen and Tommy Vermaelen of Alexandria, Louisiana, and the late Robert and Suzanne Russ of Natchez.
Parents of the groom are Bruce Ross of Centreville and Tracy Ross of Covington, Louisiana. His grandparents are the late Carol and Barbara Ross, the late John Schmolke and Paul Bilbo and Elgin Bilbo III.
The bride is a graduate of Cathedral High School and attended the University of Southern Mississippi, where she was an active member of Phi Mu Fraternity. She graduated from Jones College with degree in nursing as is a registered nurse working in the nursery at Merit Health Natchez.
The groom graduated from Adams County Christian School in 2014 and attended Hinds Community College, where he played baseball and graduated with an associate’s degree in arts. He then attended the University of Arkansas at Monticello, where he played baseball and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in health and physical education. He is the head baseball coach, assistant football coach and middle school science teacher at Delta Charter School in Ferriday, Louisiana.
The bride wore a Kitty Chen gown purchased from Magnolia Mariee in Natchez. The long-sleeved gown featured lace and beading, with buttons down the back, a sweetheart neckline and a cathedral-length lace train. Originally designed as a strapless gown, the bride worked with seamstresses to custom-design her lace sleeves. She wore her sister’s veil and blue shoes. Her engagement ring was made from the wedding ring belonging to her grandmother, Suzanne Russ, and the bride’s wedding band was made from a tennis bracelet given to her mother, Dr. Jennifer Russ, by her parents on her graduation from medical school.
Attending the bride were Chandler Russ Brantley of Natchez, matron of honor, and bridesmaids Jillian Thompson of Hattiesburg, Charlie Lowe of Monticello, Emily Rasco of Natchez, Grace Williams of Woodville, Katherine Roser of New Orleans, Liza Mayo of Natchez, Aza Wilmore of Alexandria, Sara Ross of Natchez and Brieta Diesen of Ottawa Hills, Ohio. Joni Juneau of Alexandria was flower girl.
The bridesmaids wore long, black dresses in a style of their choosing. All carried simple arrangements with natural tones and light pinks, created by Maura Johnston of Little Miss Florist.
Attending the groom were Tyler Buckles of Natchez, best man, and Wade Simplson of Natchez, Christopher Perry of Natchez, Sean Perry of Centreville, Matt Darden of Centreville, Braden Boone
of Utica, Michael Harrison of Braxton, Peyton Sullivan of Brandon and Tanner Martin of Natchez. Ring bearers were Bryce Ross and Wade Brantley, both of Natchez. Ushers were Hayden Newman of Natchez and Jake Spears of McComb.
The groom wore his grandfather John Schmolke’s watch for the wedding day, and turkey feathers from a turkey killed by the groom were used in the boutonnieres.
Music for the ceremony was provided by Babcock String Studio and soloist Emily Malloy.
The bride and groom both said their favorite moment of the day was when they saw each other for the first time. “When the church doors opened and we were focused on each other it was like no one else was in the room,” Annie said.
A reception was held after the ceremony at the Family Life Center.
Instead of choosing a traditional guest book, the couple opted for an audio guest book, inviting wedding attendees to use a phone to record a message for the couple to enjoy later.
The nearly naked three-tiered Chantilly cake was created by Misty Lee. Molly Manning Robertson created the groom’s cake, which was a red velvet turkey with the fan of a turkey killed by the groom.
The couple’s first dance was to “My Best Friend” by Tim McGraw.
After a honeymoon at Excellence Oyster Bay in Jamaica, the couple is at home in Natchez.
Assisting with the wedding day were Carolyn Eidt and Barbara Lomasney, wedding director and event planner; River City DJs, Jamie Tyson; Kylie Wooten, photographer; and Ryan Boles, Jim Anderson and Henrietta Ryan, caterers.
Ashley Will
Forty-eight hours after a hurricane blew through Orlanda, Florida, Ashley Nicole Urbaniak and William Lawrence Sandel were married on Sept. 28, 2024, at the Disney World Wedding Pavillion with Stan Buckley officiating.
The bride is the daughter of Dennis Gerard Urbaniak and Diane Elizabeth Urbaniak of Freehold, New Jersey, and the granddaughter of Robert Ransom and Ann Ransom.
She is a graduate of Freehold Regional Performing Arts Center, the Joffrey Ballet
School and Marymount Manhattan College.
The groom is the son of Henry Adrian Sandel III and Lisa Gaudet Sandel of Natchez. He is the grandson of Joan and Henry Adrian Sandel II, Ed and Mary Jane Gaudet and Katie Watson.
He is a graduate of Cathedral High School and the University of Mississippi and works as a distribution engineer and project manager.
The bride wore a custom designed Demetrios off-the-shoulder gown and veil and carried a bouquet of white roses, blue delphinium and blue hydrangeas with pearl accents. Attending her were Loeke Sakkers, maid of honor, Kyrstiane Urbaniak, Alyssa Urbaniak, Krista Urbaniak, Shelby Ransom, Mackenzie Clark, Lauren Seyfferth and Caleigh Newell. They wore pale blue-grey dresses.
Attending the groom were Evan Webber, best man, and Joseph Weadock, Roderick Givens Jr., Wyatt Boothe, Christian Jenkins, Andrew Hyde and Austin Noland.
A reception was held after the ceremony at Disney’s Grand Floridian Ballroom, featuring dueling pianos from Orlando. The three-tier cake featured layers of vanilla cake, raspberry jam with cascading pearls and a white chocolate Cinderall Castle topper. The groom’s cake featured was a chocolate mousse and orange cake with Grand Manier mousse.
The couple’s first dance was to “So Close” by Jon McLaughin, which the bride heard playing in the wedding pavilion during a previous tour. She said that highlights of the ceremony were reading private vows and sharing their first dance as a couple.
The couple’s honeymoon included a three-day trip to Disneyland in Anaheim, California, and a trip to Four Seasons Bora Bora. They are at home in Kissimmee, Florida.
Assisting with the day were Karen Serrette, wedding director, and Corinne and Dean of Disney Weddings Fine Photography and Jessie of Revelry Film and Photo.
Natchez
, located on the highest bluff on the Mississippi River and the oldest permanent settlement on the Mississippi River, is like no other city in Mississippi. Home to architecturally significant Stanton Hall and Longwood, which are both National Historic Landmarks and owned and lovingly preserved by the Pilgrimage Garden Club. We invite you to indulge in the opulence of our two properties for your special events.
Stanton Hall
Stanton Hall is unquestionably the grandest property in Natchez, occupying an entire city block. Standing in a grove of towering live oaks, this magnificent home beckons you to relish the lavish main hallway, bronze gasoliers, and triple-parlors.
For more information, contact Christy cwilliams@pilgrimagegc.com 601-445-4420.
Longwood
Longwood, the largest and most captivating octagonal home in America, crowned by an onion-shaped dome, hints to an elegance never completed. Approached by a sunken drive and past the reflective pond surrounded by moss-draped trees, you marvel at the unrealized dream.
MasonTaylor
Madelyn Taylor Beesley and Mason Blaine Spillman were married on Dec. 14, 2024, in an outdoor ceremony on the steps of historic Stanton Hall that earned the endorsement of Mike the Tiger.
The bride is the daughter of Craig and Margaret Beesley of Natchez and the granddaughter of the late Al and Kelly Graning of Natchez and Ken and Sue Beesley of Natchez.
She is a graduate of Cathedral High School and the University of Louisiana at Monroe. She works as a radiologic technician.
The groom is the son of Nancy Mason of McComb and Brian Spillman of St. Francisville, Louisiana.
He is a graduate of West Feliciana High School
and Louisiana State University. He is a game warden with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.
The ceremony was officiated by Barrett Hollingsworth.
Attending the bride were Wesley Anderson, Ann Ward, Kimble Devening, Baylee Graning, Emma Humphries, Sela Gaude, Mollie Devening, Rebecca Wheeler, Caroline Young, Sallie Stout, Caroline Matheney, Laura Chauvin, Ashby Hadskey and Sara Beth Willard. Flower girls were Jozie Dicks and Jimmie Hadskey.
The bride wore an elegant, fitted strapless gown from Magnolia Mariee. The attendants wore gowns in varying shades of brown.
Attending the groom best men were
Adams Burns and Beau Hadskey. Groomsmen were Patrick Brian, Woody Davis, Russ Ellison, Marcel Gallego, Trampus Butler, Andrew Beesley, Steve Pisa, Keith Accardo Jr., Davis Havard, Taylor Peterson, Jack Havard and Brandon Key. Ringbearers were Hudson Humphries, Banks Hamilton and Hank Howsen.
In a surprise to wedding guests, Mike the Tiger (LSU’s mascot) joined the festivities for the reception and led the wedding party and guests in a traditional second-line parade before joining friends and family on the dance floor.
The couple’s first dance was to “Into the Mystic,” the groom’s favorite song.
The LSU and New Orleans themes carried throughout the evening, with
the groom’s cake a tribute to his time at LSU. The groom’s cake was designed by Christy Knotts, and the bride’s traditional white layer cake was created by Erin Myers.
Assisting with the event were Christy Williams, wedding director; John Grady Burns and Monique Renee, bouquets and floral arrangements; Rene Adams and Wardo’s Poboys, catering; Stacy Landers, photography; Jozefina Dicks, videography; Wesley Anderson, Macee Crouch, Lindsey Edwards and Meghan Wood, hair and makeup; Andy Guida, ceremony music; and Johnny Earthquake and the Moondogs, reception band.
The couple will honeymoon in Italy during April and are at home in St. Francisville.
Luxury Meets History & Fine Dining In Natchez Mississippi
#1 By Open Table #1 By Trip Advisor
Margaret Michael
Margaret Dean Williams and Michael Spencer Reynolds were married at 5:00 p.m. on November 2, 2024, at Trinity Episcopal Church in Natchez. The Reverend Dean Courtney Stacy Taylor and The Reverend Hugh Jones officiated the traditional ceremony.
Parents of the couple are Christine Williams and Sharon and Kenneth Ott Williams, Jr., and Tracy Reynolds, all of Natchez. Grandmother of the Groom is Mrs. Peggy Nell McCall.
Given in marriage by her father, the bride wore a bridal white ballgown of silk Mikado with a gentle scooped neckline with pleated straps falling from the bodice. A dramatic vertical bow designed by Cindy Whittington accentuated the back of the gown and she chose to wear her mother’s cathedral-length wedding veil as she entered the nave of Trinity Church to “Westminster Abbey,” played on the pipe organ with the state trumpets by Organist Vincent Bache III.
Attending the Bride as Matron of Honor was Hannah Vines Moore of Natchez. Bridesmaids included Brooks Turner Barnett, Vicksburg; Blair Sullivan Brooks, Ocean Springs; Taylor Darnell-Sibal, Dallas, Texas; Olivia LaVonne Edgin, Natchez, step-sister of the Bride; Anna Katherine Webb, Oxford, sister of the Bride; and Virginia Elise Williams, Gulf Breeze, Florida, sister of the Bride. Junior Bridesmaids were Audrey Elise Kirby, Gulf Breeze, Florida, niece of the Bride and Alexandra Nicole Reynolds, Natchez, sister of the Groom. Flower Girl was Camila Relynne Sibal of Dallas, Texas.
Attending the Groom as Best Man was Travis Justin Barnett of Vicksburg. Groomsmen included Bradley Warren Canton, Escondido, California; Forrest Logan Crumby, New Albany; Tucker Calvin Lowe, Horn Lake; Tristan Michael Lowe, Hernando; Nathan Bradley Moore, Oxford; Aaron Randall White, Flowood; Barrett Lancaster Young, Austin, Texas. Ring Bearer was James
Preston Webb, nephew of the Bride.
Readings from the Scripture were read by Jessica Cauthen Butts and Forrest Logan Crumby.
Following the Blessing of the Marriage, the new Mr. and Mrs. Reynolds recessed to “Trumpet Tune in D” by David N. Johnson and joined the wedding party to depart to the reception in the white wedding trolley.
From the moment that guests were greeted at the Church, the warm tones of the Antique hydrangea, free spirit and Kahalas roses, Fibonacci and creamy blush spray tea roses, and Juliette Garden rose blooms amplified the Lucious garden gathering with the inclusion of coral, peach and white ranunculus, soft and delicate lisianthus with touches of Italian ruscus and graceful seeded eucalyptus. This first glance theme was continued at the entrance to Stanton Hall where Guests were received by the Bride and Groom for the Reception. The Portico and Back Gallery were enhanced with abundant swirls of smilax on the railings and Chandeliers were accented with the soft flowing ribbons and tucks of roses in an array of colors to follow the Wedding theme. The beautiful Dining Room setting was complimented with those soft and warm, but vibrant arrays of Wedding colors and blooms.
Guests were welcomed into the center hall with flutes of Champagne and various passed canapés, including Bacon-wrapped Fried Oysters. Tables in the Triple Parlors of Stanton Hall were covered in Ivory satin cloths with tall floral arrangements, ribbons, and candlesticks. The Dining Room was laden with a beautiful presentation of gourmet cheeses, Italian meats, grilled vegetables, Beef Tenderloin, Marinated Boiled Shrimp, Baked Blackberry Brie in Phyllo cups, Chopped Lobster Salad, and far too many options to mention. All catering was lovingly prepared by René Adams with Simply Spectacular Catering.
The Bride’s cake was five tiers with vintage buttercream piping created by Rose Atwater and was inspired by the architecture and crown moulding of Stanton Hall. The flavors were Wedding Cake with Lemon Curd Filling, Vanilla Bean Cake with Chocolate Ganache Filling, Lemon Cake with Blueberry Filling, Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Filling, and Wedding Cake with Vanilla Almond Filling. The Groom’s cake was a homage to Oxford and Ole Miss, with scenes of Vaught Hemingway Stadium, The Grove (even including the Bride and Groom’s nephew, Preston Webb), the Lafayette County Courthouse, William Faulkner and the red phone booth with working lighted street posts, and the Lloyd Bell Tower, all in Chocolate Fudge Cake and Peanut Butter Frosting.
As the guests made their way onto the adjoining bistro-lighted patio, they were treated to a trio of musicians playing lively New Orleans-style Jazz and entertained
by watching KateLee Laird live paint the event. Amidst the beautiful grounds of this memorable location, Guest tables were accented with trios of stunning candle sticks and soft colorful ribboning on each tied with a variety of rose buds. As the night turned to the live Music of Aa’Keela and The Beats Big Band, Guests then moved into the Carriage House where they were dancing under a ribboned chandelier covered gracefully again in Smilax and rose buds becoming the centerpiece of the room, lit with overhead soft fabric drapings and the twinkling glow of lights. The stage mimicked the floral arrangements throughout the property, all designed by Moreton’s Flowerland.
As the couple left their beautiful venue, the classic car in which they departed was enhanced with the final burst of Wedding colors and florals that
completed the vision leaving memories of a perfect evening. The theme of the wedding was created by Margaret and Spencer’s dear friend, Hannah Vines Moore, with a bespoke Toile that incorporated various scenes from their favorite things, including; Stanton Hall, Trinity Episcopal Church, The Grove, a custom monogram, and a view of the Mississippi River Bridge from Natchez. Sarah Lindsay Laukhuff painted beautiful Stanton Hall that was used for the Save The Date. Tara Jones Calligraphy of Dallas, Texas, cousin of the Bride, fashioned the text for the letter-pressed and engraved invitations and were printed by Fresh Ink of Jackson. Lindsay Ott Photography captured the images and Davis Sharp produced the video. Hair and Makeup for the daywere by Bailey New Van Rooyen, Wesley Anderson, and Meghan Wood.
Jessica Hayden
Jessica Trudell Cauthen and Hayden Scott Butts were married on Nov. 16, 2024, at Trinity Episcopal Church in Natchez with the Rev. Sam Godfrey, rector The of Christ Episcopal Church in Vicksburg, officiating.
Parents of the bride are Constance Coskery Cauthen of Pennsylvania and the late Samuel Lawrence Cauthen of Natchez. Her grandparents are the late Mr. and Mrs. Edgar Gibson Coskery of Pennsylvania and Mr. and Mrs. William Andrew Cauthen and Edith Trudell Cauthen of Natchez.
The groom is the son of Russel B. Butts Sr. and Stephanie Smith Butts of Natchez. His grandparents are the late Mr. and Mrs. Lucius
McCutchen Butts, Jr. and Mr. and Mrs. Flavius H. Smith, all of Natchez.
The bride is a graduate of Trinity Episcopal Day School and earned a bachelor’s degree in business marketing from the University of Mississippi. She is the marketing manager at Visit Natchez.
The groom is a graduate of Trinity Episcopal Day School and of Louisiana State University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business
administration. He is a banker with Concordia Bank & Trust.
The couple’s ceremony and reception were traditional, timeless and heartfelt.
“We were married in the church we grew up in and where several generations before us on the Cauthen and Trudell side were married,” Jessica said. “We chose to have our reception at the beautiful home of my family (The Parsonage) where I spent much time growing up.”
The bride wore a Jenny Yoo floral detailed gown for the ceremony.
Her attendants included Danielle Nicole Givens of Natchez as maid of honor and Sidney McLeod David of Natchez as matron of honor. Bridesmaids were Olivia Pate of Natchez, Molly Butts Adams of Natchez, Hannah Driskell Butts of Nat-
chez and Kate Huesman Orso of Natchez.
The attendants wore black floor-length dresses in the style of their choice. Hair and makeup was provided by Wesley Anderson at Reverie Natchez.
Attending the groom were best man Russ Butts of Natchez and groomsmen Josh Adams of Natchez, Jared Hedrick of Ferriday, Louisiana, Ryan Rachal of Natchez, Elliot Meng of Frogmore, Louisiana, Chandler Massengale of Colorado, and Ben Moffett of-Natchez. They wore classic black tuxedos from Magnolia Mariee Bridal in Natchez.
Church flowers and wedding party flowers were created by Moreton’s Flowers. The church flowers were created by very special women in the lives of the bride and groom and of Trinity Church. The reception flow-
ers were designed by Mary Lessley.
A reception was held after the ceremony at the Parsonage. The four-tiered wedding cake was adorned with pearls. The classic chocolate groom’s cake featured a B monogram. Both were created by Rose Atwood of Rose Bakes.
The couple’s first dance was to L.O.V.E. by Michael Buble’, a classic and fun choice. Kate Orso created a champagne tower for photos and the couple enjoyed celebrating until after midnight with friends and family.
The couple are continuing to build their life together in Natchez, their hometown.
Assisting with the wedding were Pam Harris, director; Vincent Bache, organist; DJ Matt Woods, music; Emma Hogue, photographer; and Rene Adams, caterer.
JuliaAaron
Julia Rachel Kuehnle and Aaron Dahl Palmer were married April 27, 2024, at St. Mary Basilica with the Very Rev. Aaron Williams officiating.
Parents of the bride are Mr. and Mrs. Bruce M. Kuehnle Jr. of Natchez. The bride’s grandparents are the late Mr. and Mrs. Noland Edward Biglane of Natchez and the late Dr. and Mrs. Bruce M. Kuehnle of Natchez.
The groom is the son of Carolyn Marie Dahl of Madison and Mr. and Mrs. James Brent Palmer of Brandon. He is the grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. Carl Otto Dahl, Jr.of Kansas City, Missouri; the late Mrs. Bonnie Ann Wilmouth Summers of Lees Summit, Missouri; and the late Mr. James Gene Palmer of Kansas City.
The bride is a 2015 graduate of Cathedral High School. She graduated Mississippi State University in 2019 with a bachelor of business administration degree and in 2023 with a Master of Business Administration. She is a bank examiner
with the Mississippi Department of Banking and Consumer Finance and has achieved the designation of Certified Operations and Credit Examiner.
The groom is a 2010 graduate of Madison Central High School and has served as a firefighter for 15 years. He currently works with the Madison Fire Department.
The ceremony took place in the historic St. Mary Basilica, with music provided by Matthew Buller, organist, and Emily A. Malloy, vocalist. Joanna Biglane McNeel and Megan Marchesini Napier provided readings during the Liturgy of the Word and Presley Taylor Jennings offered the Prayers of the Faithful.
The bride’s gown was designed by Oxford Street and purchased from Elle James in Ridgeland. It was reimagined by Fashion Post in Ridgeland. The dress featured a flattering A-line silhouette, crafted from layers of soft, flowing organza that was cinched at the waist with a sparkling, jewel-encrusted belt. The highlight of the ensemble was the blusher veil, which was which was embroidered with intricate floral lace appliqués.
She was attended by Pepper Taylor Self of Germantown, Tennessee, and Alicia Pepper Ledbetter of Vaughan, both matrons of honor. Bridesmaids included Katherine Dahlander Bennett of Austin, Texas; Emily Thompson Dahlander of Dallas, Texas; Mary Margaret Dahlander of Dallas; Ansely Grace Thompson of Memphis, Tennessee; and Kayla Cauthen Thornton of Natchez. Flower girls were Nora Katherine Taylor and Sims Dorothea Self.
The attendants wore gowns in a mix of styles in French blue tulle from Revelry.
Attending the groom were Joey Carver Black of Madison and Barry Scott Hollingsworth Jr. of Madison as best men. Groomsmen were Benjamin Joseph Gaudet of Madison; Dylan Holy Gregory of Madison; Benjamin Chapel Loftin of Madison; Brayden Noble Magee of Brandon; and James Crimmon Thornton III of Brandon. Hugh Taylor Jennings was the ring bearer.
Serving as ushers were William Wesley Self and John Hunt Taylor. Program attendants were Grace Ann Biglane, Linley Ray Biglane, Elenor Lynn Gilly and Adele Katherine Middleton. Proxy bride was Lindsey Paige Kuipie.
Inspired by “Bridgerton,” the wedding featured timeless romantic details and colors. “We wanted our wedding day to feel like everyone was at a ball at Bridgerton,” said the bride.
The reception was held after the ceremony at Dunleith Historic Inn.
John Grady Burns of Next provided the florals,
playing into the Bridgerton feel with a variety of pastels to create a lush garden party. “Dunleith is already so beautiful without flowers, but John Grady Burns enhanced her natural beauty and tied into our true spring wedding. The main arrangement was a large urn on the center table in the main hall that highlighted our pastel color pallet and included crystals dripping from the flowers that towered over guests walking underneath,” Julia said.
The five-tier wedding cake was designed with top three tiers being slightly taller for a dramatic effect. The flavors were alternating tiers between Lemon Cake with Lemon Curd and Vanilla Buttercream and White Almond Sour Cream Cake with Strawberry Filling and Vanilla Almond Buttercream. The outside of the cake was covered with vanilla buttercream and "painted" flowers in a variety of pastel colors. The cake was created by Rose Atwater of Rose Bakes.
The groom’s cake was created by Mollie Manning and featured three traditional cheese cakes with a golf green design on each including bunkers, pins, and golf carts. The table was decorated with green satin, golf memorabilia, and photos of the groom and his father golfing. To the side of the main table, there were mini cheesecakes along with a toppings bar.
The couple’s first dance was to “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley.
The guest book was the Yeti book “Ducks” “since Aaron and I originally bonded over duck hunting and love to hunt with our two black labs,” Julia said.
Since the dogs couldn’t participate in the wedding day, the pups were highlighted on the napkins at the reception.
The couple focused on personal touches throughout the wedding planning and the wedding day. Julia personally designed the invitations, which were printed by Thomas Printers. The three-piece suite included the invitation, RSVP card and information card wrapped in a ribbon with a custom tag featuring their wedding log. The inner envelope of the suite was lined with a. photograph of Dunleith.
“Our favorite part was dancing the night away with our families and close friends,” the bride said.
The couple honeymooned on a Hawaii to Vancouver cruise and are at home in Madison.
Assisting with the event were Blakely Santos of Belle Amour Weddings and Events, as wedding director; Angela Wagoner and Tina Cox of Anruss Salon, who created the hairstyles; Wesley Anderson of Reverie, who provided makeup services; Creek and Stone Fine Art, Brnadi Woodruff as photographer; Dear Little Films, videography; Dunleith Historic Inn, catering; and Meet the Press, reception band.
JohnKaileyAshton
Kailey Lane Hutchins and John Ashton Hicks were married on July 6, 2024, at Jefferson Street Methodist Church with the Rev. Dr. Doug Broome of First Baptist Church Natchez and the Rev. Will Wilkerson of Jefferson Street Methodist Church officiating.
The bride is the daughter of Skeeter and Chris Hutchins of Natchez and the granddaughter of Stephanie and Alan Hutchins of Natchez and the late Mary and Joe Brumfield of Natchez.
The groom is the son of Courtney and John Hicks of Natchez and the grandson of Brenda Jones and Betty Lou and John
Hicks, all of Natchez.
The bride is a graduate of Trinity Episcopal Day School, Mississippi State University and the University of Mississippi Medical Center School of Nursing. She is a registered nurse at Trinity Medical and is scheduled to earn her family nurse practitioner certification by May 2026.
The groom is a graduate of Cathedral School, the University of Mississippi and the University of Mississippi School of Law. He is an attorney at the Lewis Law Firm in Natchez.
The couple’s wedding day was modern and tailored to be exactly what they both wanted. “It all come together so beautifully,” Kailey said.
For the wedding, the bride wore a Kelly Faetanini gown that featured a Mikado fit-to-flare styling with an all over lace applique and a strapless sweetheart neckline.
She was attended by Maids of Honor Madalyn Falkenheiner and Lucy Pyron, as well as bridesmaids Paige Day, Emily Hicks, Erin Hicks, Marty Lewis, Erica Lott, Caroline Ray, Taylor Roseberry, and Mckenzie Smith. The flower girl was Reagan Brumfield-Derr.
The attendants wore Alfred Sung Nora strapless satin maxi dress with cascading ruffle peplums in a mist colorway. The gowns, as well as the bride’s gown and mothers’ gowns, were all from the Bridal Path in Madison.
Hair and makeup were provided by Reverie Natchez.
Bouquets and arrangements were provided by Moreton’s Flowerland and. Inspired by a fresh, clean and air look completed with cream-colored roses (Delta Gamma official flower) and blue hydrangeas (the brides’ favorite flower) enhanced with greenery.
Attending the groom were Best Man, John Hicks, and groomsmen Jesse Ball, Craig Bradley, Bryce Crego, John Tal Day, Connor Mire, Gabe Smith, Devin Spear and Will Wallace. Serving as ushers were Michael Baldecchi, Andrew Beesley, Colter Cauthen, Austin Cole, Jacob Jenkins, and Conner Simmons. Serving as ring bearers were Hood Brumfield and Reese Brumfield-Derr.
A reception was held at the Natchez Civic Center after the ceremony.
The wedding cake was created by Rose Hawley Atwater of Rose Bakes. The six-tier cake featured alternating flavors of strawberry, lemon, and wedding cake flavor with buttercream icing. The simple but elegant cake was frosted in white buttercream with blue and gold accents enhanced with fresh florals and finished with a model of the couple’s dog, Hank, peeking out of the cake.
The groom's cake was created by Molly Manning and was an Ole Miss inspired three-layer cake (layers included: brown sugar cake with cookie dough buttercream, yellow butter cake with chocolate buttercream and chocolate cake with bourbon buttercream. It was presented atop an enclosed display case featuring an Ole Miss football signed by head coach Lane Kiffin.
The couple’s first dance was to “Dance with Me” by Morgan Evans (featuring Kelsea Ballerini). “One of my favorite things to do is dance with John Ashton, and this particular song talks about the dance through life together and how you can get through anything that life throws at you if you have each other,” Kailey said.
She went on to say “the whole day was perfection in our eyes. It was everything we could have dreamed of and more.
“We didn’t take a moment for granted of having all our favorite people together to celebrate with us. Dancing together all night long at our reception was the most fun. John Ashton even got on stage and sang ‘Ain’t No Mountain High Enough’ (one of our favorites) with the band, which was the hit of the night and something we will never forget.”
The couple honeymooned at Sandals Resort Royal Barbados and are at home in Natchez.
Assisting with the day were wedding coordinator Blakely Santos with Belle Amour Events in Baton Rouge, La; instrumentalists and singers of the First Baptist Church in Natchez and organist Anna Rose Glidden of Jefferson Street Methodist Church; photographer Stacy Landers and videographer Ellen Upton Media; and caterer Rene’ Adams.
Kaelin Sean
On Saturday, March 2, 2024, in a small, intimate ceremony of family and friends, Kaelin Ann Daye and Sean Austin Russell were married at the ancestral home of the bride’s family, Oakwood Plantation, in the Kingston community just outside of Natchez, Mississippi.
The bride is the daughter of Senator Melanie Sojourner of Natchez, Mississippi, and Holly and Derek Daye of Tolar, Texas. She is the granddaughter of Sandra and Jackie M. Sojourner, and Penny Dean and Donald L. Daye. The groom is the son of Teri Nicole “Nikki” Britt and Stuart Shaifer and Destin and Benjamin “Benjie” Russell, all of Natchez, Mississippi. He is the grandson of Charlotte Britt, Virgil Bolyer, and Cassie and Alva Benjamin Russell.
The ceremony, officiated by Bro. Glen Roberts, took place one month shy of the 200th anniversary of the first wedding ever held at Oakwood. That ceremony, in 1824, was of the bride's 4th great-grandparents, Hardy and Missouri Thomas Sojourner, who were married ten years after Hardy purchased the property in 1814.
The bride was escorted on horseback from the family's home to a water-side ceremony by her grandfather, Jack Sojourner, on horses provided by the Carter family of Double C Ranch. The bride was handed off to her father, who then walked her down halfway, and handed her to Dayne Daye, her brother, who walked her down the aisle. This progression allowed
all important men in the bride's heart to play a role. The couple’s son, Justin Russell, and the groom's niece, Grace Russell, walked down the aisle ahead of the bride, with Justin carrying a sign that read, “Daddy, it’s time to give mama our last name.” The groom's brother, Joseph “Joey” Russell, stood near the end of the aisle with the rings, then handed them to the couple's son once he was at his father's side. The couple shared tears and hand-written vows in a heartfelt and genuinely emotional exchange.
The bride wore an enchanting wedding dress that exudes timeless elegance designed by Eddy K. The gown featured a delicate sweetheart neckline with off-the-shoulder lace straps, transitioning into a fitted bodice adorned with intricate soft shimmering lace appliqués that trail down the waist to the full tulle a-line skirt adding a touch of subtle sparkle, with a veil to match and cowboy boots that were a gift from her mother. The bride carried a silver sixpence in her boot, a 17th-century tradition.
The bride's “something old” was a diamond horseshoe necklace that her paternal grandfather gave her grandmother, Penny Daye, when the bride’s father was a contestant in the 1994 National Finals Rodeo. Her “something new” was a pair of earrings from A Gallerie, a boutique owned by the bride in downtown Natchez. Her “something borrowed” was a Scottish pin, an heirloom of the groom's family, passed down through many generations, which was in her bouquet, provided by O’ So Pretty Flowers. Her “something blue” was a bracelet featuring a blue butterfly that included a photo of the couple’s late son,
Wyatt Russell, gifted by dear friends.
The bride was assisted throughout the day by her dearest friend, Sarah Godbold Cangemi, and her hair and makeup were done by local hair & makeup artist Macee Crouch. Stacy Landers Photography beautifully captured the ceremony. Music played during the bride's horseback ride to the ceremony was “Ashokan Farewell” by Jay Ungar and Molly Mason. The bride walked down the aisle to “Salvation” by Gabrielle Aplin.
Following the ceremony, guests were treated to an intimate reception at the bride’s family home, built in 1836. Guests enjoyed a gumbo meal prepared by the groom's stepmother, Destin Russell, and a three-tier semi-naked cake, with the top two layers being strawberry and the bottom layer chocolate provided by Misty Lee. The couple's cake table featured a cake topper from the 50th-anniversary cake of the bride’s maternal grandparents and was served using silver passed down for many generations by the bride's family.
Laughter and joy echoed across the hillside and the home as guests shared the evening with the couple. They watched the couple’s first dance to the song “Then” by Brad Paisley, picked out by the groom. The bride and her father danced to “When She Grows Up” by Craig Campbell. The groom and his mother danced to “Her Little Man” by Jami Grooms, and the groom and his stepmother to “Step by Step” by Brandon Davis. The occasion was beautiful and intimate, an experience that everyone will remember! The couple will be living in Natchez, Mississippi.
JonSerra
Serra Lynn Thibodeaux and Jonathan (Jon) Wayne Broussard were married among friends and family on October 5, 2024, at Memorial Park in Natchez with their friend Allen Booty officiating.
Parents of the couple of Tommy and Paddy Thibodeaux of Arabi, Louisiana, and Gerald and Pat Broussard of Kentwood, Louisiana.
The bride is a graduate of Andrew Jack-
son Magnet High School in Chalmette, Louisiana, and Delgado Community College in New Orleans. She is an inside sales representative at Retif Oil & Fuel.
The groom is a graduate of Jewel
Sumner High School in Kentwood and Southeaster University in Hammond, Louisiana. He is a plant operator at Valero Refinery in Norco, Louisiana.
Angel Booty of Natchez served as
maid of honor and Annsley Broussard, the groom’s daughter, served as bridesmaid. Allen Booty of Natchez served as best man and surprised the couple at the altar by officiating the ceremony. Ashton Broussard served his father as groomsman.
The bride wore a mermaid fit ivory gown with a sweetheart neckline, cap sleeves and a lace applique from Peral’s Bridal in Metarie, Louisiana.
The bridesmaids wore emerald and sage chiffon dresses. The bride and attendants carried bouquets of ivory roses, eucalyptus and lambs ear designed and created by Comfortable Southern LLC.
A reception was held after the ceremony at the Natchez Community Center. The couple’s entrance song was “Thunder-
struck” by AC/DC and the guests lined the entrance and played their friend group’s drinking game with Whiteclaw seltzers. The couple’s first dance was to “I Love Doing Life With You” by Kelsey Hart, a song which the bride says describes the couple perfectly.
River City DJs by Jamie Tyson provided the music for the ceremony and reception.
Catering was by 569 Eats and Treats by Tiffany Ferguson.
The bride’s cake was a four-tiered round almond/vanilla cake with raspberry, pineapple and strawberry jam filling and a white almond buttercream. The groom’s cake was a four-layer round, rich milk chocolate cake with semisweet chocolate ganache filling and milk chocolate buttercream topped with
the Valero Refinery logo. Both were created by Farmhouse Cakery by Christina Peoples.
The couple plans a “friend-moon” this summer in the Bahamas with their close friend group. They currently reside in Destrehan, Louisiana, but are planning to move to Natchez.
“We couldn’t have pulled this wedding off without our best friend/planner/maid of honor/doer-of-all things Angel Booty,” the bride said, “as well as all our amazing friends pitching in to help with everything. And we are forever grateful to them all.”
Angel Booty at Comfortable Southern LLC served as wedding director. Hair and makeup were provided by Wesley Anders of Reverie Salon in Natchez and Jada Grayson served as photographer/videographer.
Engagement
Kaitlynn Elizabeth Long and Hayden Hewitt McFarland announce their engagement.
The bride-to-be is the daughter of Tina McKinley and Ricky Long of West Monroe, Louisiana, and the granddaughter of Karen and Johnny Navarro of Monroe, Louisiana.
She is a graduate of West Ouachita High School and Central Louisiana Technical College. She is the store/front manager at RRuss & Co. in Vidalia, Louisiana.
The prospective groom is the son of Hilie and Jason McFarland of Ferriday, Louisiana, and the grandson of Homer and Judy Hewitt of Ferriday.
He is a graduate of Delta Charter School and is a shift supervisor and maintenance technician at Marcal Paper in Natchez.
The couple plan to be married April 5, 2025, at The Historic Planters Building with Holly Rabalais officiating.
Attending the bride will be maid of honor Jordan Willis of West Monroe and bridesmaids Melanie Johnson of West Monroe, Brooke Wooden of Rayville, Louisiana, Mackenzie Helmer of West Monroe, Brittany Prevost of Natchez, and Jacelyn McFarland of Ferriday. Cason McKinley of West Monroe and Bentley Prevost of Zachary will serve as ring bearers.
Attending the groom will be best man Jason McFarland of Ferriday and groomsmen Ben Davis of Ferriday, Dawson Woodruff of Monterey, Louisiana, Trenton Miller of Vidalia, Ryan Lance of Ferriday, Rex Burley of Ferriday and Justin Prevost of Zachary. Ushers will be Caden Long of West Monroe and Hunter Smalling of West Monroe.
Kaitlynn Hayden
