Natural
TEXA LIFE IN THE PINES OF SHELBY COUNTY
MAY /JUNE
2016
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FROM GABBY
Reflections Putting this issue together has been so much fun! While working on it, I have realized how quickly technology can change. Five years ago when I was married, I never even
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knew there was an “I Do” Pintrest and Etsy. It never crossed my mind to utilize the online tools for planning and convenience that brides can use today. What a difference a few years make! This entire issue has given me the blessing of reflecting on my own engagement and wedding. Becoming engaged is a day I’ll never forget. To some, I may not have had the picture perfect proposal. My husband is not the “fancy” type, so the effort he put forth to propose to me was perfect for me and I wouldn’t change it if I could. Remembering the pendulum of emotions from the moment of the proposal to the long-sought-for “I do!” has been amazing. I can remember the excitement of beginning a new life and how it so quickly fell into a tunnel-visioned time bomb. The more the time ticked, the more there was to do, it seemed. By the time I walked down the aisle, I felt too exhausted to make the trip! My mother claims I was a bridezilla, but, I beg to differ! When it all boils down, every girl dreams of the day she finds her prince charming and I did just that about seven years ago! So, to all newly engaged couples, “Congratulations!” Maybe this issue of the Natural Texan can be helpful in the planning of your special day and the journey will be a bit less stressful!
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DEPARTMENTS
18
ON THE COVER
Get to know our lovely cover Brides and their wedding day details.
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WEDDING CHECK
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PROPOSAL STORY
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BLOOMIN’ TEXAS
You’ve got the groom. Now what? Our Wedding Checklist will help you finalize every detail and not miss a thing!
What do the beach, jeeps, and a ring have in common?
We asked local floral designers to create beautiful bouquets inspired by a few of our favorite East Texas trees and flowers.
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NEWLYWED$ The honeymoon is over. Now it’s time to get on the same page financially and begin making smart money decisions!
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OLD & NEW What has been borrowed and what has been changed in our wedding day ceremonies and traditions.
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HONEYMOONERS Going near or far romance and adventure can be found in some amazing places.
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LOCAL MARKET Find just what you’re looking for at the Shelby County Local Market. You can advertise in the market too! Just call us!
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S Prop Planes & Proposals And bears, salmon, wolves, rivers, and lots of adventure.
It was a complete surprise. That summer in Alaska could not have been any better, from stepping onto a prop plane in Anchorage to flying all the way to Katmai National Park with my mother and (then) boyfriend. I never imagined the adventures they had planned. We hiked among brown bear sleeping with full bellies of Salmon. We photographed bears and Grey Wolves fishing for these “ ever so important” summer meals along the famous Brooks Falls. At the viewing decks, above dozens of bears and wolves, hundreds of spawning salmon, and cold, clear July water my mother asked to take a photo of me and Adam with heaven in the background. As we smiled for the camera, I became frustrated. I wanted my mother to be in the picture with us so I kept attempting to convince her to get in the photo. Then, it happened! I can remember the time slowing, the noises dimming and only seeing Adam laugh and smile as I began to cry. The photos we have are genuine. The memories we have are irreplaceable. The moments we shared with the bears and salmon are some of the best moments in history. I said, “I do” and we have for an amazing 9 years. Katmai National Park, we will see you again!
Natural
TEXA
Mother & Daughter Somewhere, a love affair begins, a wedding takes place and a family is created. Finding ourselves between a family tree and our future dreams is paramount for self-identity and I can’t imagine attempting to know who I am without knowing my mother. Mothers are graceful enough to inject qualities into our personalities unbeknown to us yet, strong enough to bring out the best in us at that very moment when it matters most.
Publisher | Editor-in-Chief GABRIELLE WEST
Strength and wisdom that defines every mom somehow sifts down through generational ambivalence. Whether its humor, consistency, spontaneity or laid-back take-it-easy, every mom has her own style that speaks as the nuclei of her integrity.
Layout & Design: SAMANTHA MILLER Editor REBECCA MOTT
Understanding which trait defines her strength is beneficial to a flourishing relationship between mothers and children. Whichever it is, we know our moms breathe identity into us. As a daughter, I understand the anticipation of looking forward to a new life in marriage. For me, it was not so much the fantasy of having the “dream wedding” but rather the “happily ever after” in life. Understanding we both are
Contributors: Whitney Burgay Vicky Hudson Blaine Goodwyn Sarah Ryder Jade Campbell
imperfect and loving each other despite our shortcomings with patience and humor is the “perfect” relationship in my eyes; a principle instilled in me by my mother. The very quality that frustrated me so much with her while growing up has given me resilience as an adult. Is there a part of me that my daughters see as a flaw that will bring them strength in the future? Finally, any woman who embraces motherhood and marriage with eagerness and dedication should be celebrated. Both are exciting and scary. For either journey to be successful, we must accept the quality of selflessness. We should use the camera often and we learn to laugh even if laughing may not seem appropriate at the time. We should be soft when it’s unexpected yet strong when no one else can be. Choose your battles wisely and refuse anything shy of a pure heart. Never be afraid but anticipate the turn of each page in life and when our story is written, it will tell of our very own “happily ever after.”
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Wedding Planning Checklist
by Celebration Events & Travel
Congrats! You’re engaged! Start (or add to) your wedding Pinterest boards or purchase a wedding planning binder and magazines. Just start getting some inspiration for your big day! Set a date! Before you book anything, you have to have a date to tell your vendors. Work out a budget. This doesn’t have to be exact, but it’s important for you, your fiancé, and both your families to agree on how much to spend.
10 – 12 months before Choose your bridal party (and have your fiancé choose his groomsmen). Start looking at venues. Be sure to check availability for your date. Some venues book over a year in advance, so it’s important to start this search as early as possible. (If a venue you love is booked on your date, you may consider changing the date.) Consider booking a wedding planner. Planners can assist in booking vendors and keeping everything on track so the bride (and groom!) can focus on what’s important. Start drafting a guest list. Talk with your fiancé and both of your families so you don’t leave anyone out. Start looking for a photographer/videographer. These vendors also book months in advance, so be on the lookout for photographers you love, and don’t hesitate to contact them about their availability and prices sooner rather than later. Research a wedding insurance policy to protect deposits to suppliers.
6 – 9 months before Book florist. Use your inspiration, and don’t be afraid to show your florist pictures of what you love. Dress shopping! Take your mom, your bridesmaids, and go shopping for your perfect dress! This may take a few trips, but it’s okay to be picky! Be sure to allow around 6 months for alterations. Bridesmaid dress shopping. Bridesmaid dress alterations typically take less time than bridal alterations, but allow 6 months for these, as well. Finalize guest list. Cake tasting. This is one of the more fun wedding tasks. Choose your favorite flavor and book! Decide what the groom and groomsmen will wear. Take your groom to a tuxedo/suit rental store and have him choose some things he likes, then make your decision together. After that, all the groomsmen need to do is go get measured. Typically, the groomsmen can pick up their suit a few days before the wedding after they’ve been fitted. Decide on your hair and makeup artists.
Decide if your bridesmaids are also getting their hair and makeup done. Book in advance so they’ll be available on your date. Send out Save the Dates. These are typically sent out 5 to 6 months in advance. Choose a caterer. Caterers book quickly, so don’t hesitate when you find your favorite. Book a DJ or band. Engagement pictures. These should be taken closer to 9 months in advance. Bridal pictures. These can be taken anytime before about 2 months before the wedding. Choose officiant. Research and book honeymoon. Consider consulting a travel agent to help with choosing the best location and getting the best deal. Register for gifts and start preparing for bridal shower.
2 – 4 months before Get your undergarments, jewelry, and shoes. By this time you should have your dress chosen and altered, so you can easily match shoes and jewelry. Send out invitations. These are typically sent 6 to 8 weeks in advance. Be sure to include an RVSP card so you know how many guests to expect. Buy wedding bands (bride and grooms) Choose music. This includes first dance, mother/ son dance, father/daughter dance, etc. Finalize wedding schedule (readings, order of service, etc.) Call to confirm all vendors. Bachelor and bachelorette parties Bridal shower Order or make wedding favors.
3 weeks before Arrange a seating plan if you have one. Write vows. Book spa treatments (facial, teeth whitening, etc.). Prepare a list for your photographer of photos you’d like to take.
1 – 2 weeks before Cut and color hair. Delegate small tasks for day of wedding (if you do not have a wedding planner). Get engagement ring cleaned and polished. Start packing for honeymoon.
Night before your BIG day! Rehearsal and rehearsal dinner Get a good night’s sleep!
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Beach, Jeeps & a Ring. Shane and I had been dating for about two years. We had a great relationship. One weekend in May of last year, we went to Crystal Beach with friends, Jeremy and Ashley Snider and Chris Snider to enjoy the Go Topless Jeep Ride there. Having a blast like you do on the beach, they decided to ‘stack’ the Jeeps. After the guys had stacked the Jeeps, of course, we had to get a cool picture! Shane and I stood there smiling forever. I thought are we good to go but, Chris just kept taking pictures. Little did I know Ashley and Jeremy were climbing up in the Jeeps behind us with “Will you marry me?” signs. As we finished pictures (so I thought), I started walking off and noticed the signs. Shane got down on one knee. Overwhelmed with emotions and the most perfect proposal I could imagine, it took me a while respond. The man of my dreams asked me to be his wife and, of course, I said “Yes!”
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Bloomin’ Texas Bouquets inspired by the flora of East Texas
We asked local floral designers to create beautiful bouquets inspired by a few of our favorite East Texas trees. Bringing the outdoors into your wedding is a favorite trend of ours and we cannot think of a better way to celebrate the nature of Texas than with hand-crafted, native flora-inspired bouquets.
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Longleaf Pine (Pinus palustris) by: Shana Brittain, Southern Seasons The tree that shaped the history of East Texas, while unusual in a bouquet, can add a classy yet unexpected twist to your wedding florals.
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Flowering Dogwood
(Cornus florida)
by: Shana Brittain, Southern Seasons Signature white blooms of the Flowering Dogwood brighten a forest and will brighten your wedding bouquet. Keep it simple and clean with neturals and greens.
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Wildflowers by: Elizabeth Pinkston, Center Floral Take off your sandals and go wildflower pickin’. We can’t think of anything more Bohemian and earthy than gathering your own florals.
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MKD-8652A-A
May is a popular month for weddings.
If you're getting
married this month, you no doubt
have
many
exciting
details to discuss with your
Investing is about more than mo
spouse-to-be.
But after you
get back from the honeymoon, you'll want to have another
At Edward Jones, we stop to ask you the que It might not sound glamorous, “What’s important to you?” Without that ins but couples who quickly “get on theand same page” regarding a real understanding of your goals, inves their financial situation are actuallyholds taking a step that canmeaning. little discussion about your finances.
help them immensely as they build their lives together.
Contact your Edward Jones financial adviso a one-on-one appointment to discuss what’ really important: your goals. • Separate or joint checking/savings accounts
NEWLYWED$ As you start talking about your finances, be sure to cover these areas:
Some couples create joint checking and savings accounts, others keep everything separate and still others find a middle ground joint accounts along with smaller separate account. There’s really no one “ right” way for everyone, but whichever method you choose, make sure you’re both aware of where
Vicky R Hudson, AAMS®
your money is, how it can be accessed, and by whom.
Financial Advisor• Debts .
by Edward Jones Vicky R. Hudson, AAMS Financial Advisor 720 Hurst St. Suite 1 Center, Tx 75935 Bus : 936-598-5011 Toll Free: 1800-927-0766
www.edwardjone as student loans or credit cards, to the marriage. You don’t Member SIPC 1 Both you and your spouse may be bringing in debts, such
720 Hurst St Ste necessarily have to do everything possible to get rid of these Center, TX 75935debts immediately, but should set up reasonable payment plans that will allow you to lower your overall debt load so you 936-598-5011 can free up money to invest for the future.
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Investing is about more than money. At Edward Jones, we stop to ask you the question: “What’s important to you?” Without that insight and a real understanding of your goals, investing holds little meaning. Contact your Edward Jones financial advisor for a one-on-one appointment to discuss what’s really important: your goals.
Vicky R Hudson, AAMS® Financial Advisor .
MKD-8652A-A
720 Hurst St Ste 1 Center, TX 75935 936-598-5011
•
Spending and Saving
•
www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC
Investment Styles
Newlyweds are often surprised to discover how different they
Both you and your spouse will unquestionably need to invest
are from each other in the area of spending versus saving. You
if you are going to achieve your goals, such as a comfortable
don’t have to try to radically change each other, but you both
retirement.
need to be aware that your spending and saving decisions now
investment style - for example, one of you might be an aggressive
have greater consequences than when you were both single. To
investor, willing to take more risk for the possibility of greater
illustrate: if one of you is more of a spender and is used to
returns, while the other is more conservative, ready to accept
running up big credit card bills, these actions can clearly affect
lower returns in exchange for greater preservation of principal.
both of you. To avoid problems of this type, you will need to
To pursue your strategy for reaching your objectives, each of
communicate clearly with each other.
you may have to compromise somewhat on your “ investment
However, each of you may have a different
personality”. To achieve this balance, you may need to consult
• Goals
with a financial advisor. Finances are an important part of any
It’s important for married couples to clearly establish their
marriage. By communicating regularly and working together,
financial goals. Do you want to purchase a house?
you and your spouse can build a solid financial foundation for
If so.
When? If you’re going to have children, will you want to help
your lives together.
them pay for college? When do each of you want to retire? And what sort of retirement lifestyle do you have in mind? By answering these and other key questions, you’ll be formulating a set of goals.
And from there, you can devise a strategy for
attaining these goals.
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Blaine & TJ
What is your most memorable moment of your wedding? I never have been the type to like flowers. I honestly thought they were a waste of money. But since my Mom was planning the whole wedding, I had flowers. She asked my Aunt Kris Rash to do them. I went from not liking them to wanting to keep every flower arrangement in that church! The most memorable moment of our wedding to me was the beautiful flowers that my Aunt did; they were amazing! That sense of relief after it was all over was a great moment, too! Relationship advice or wedding planning advice? I did not have to be concerned with the wedding plans, since my mother, sister and Aunt did all of that for me. I am a terrible planner. After being together for four years (and being married for 9 months), the relationship advice I would give is that compromise, communication, and supporting one another is everything. How did you meet your husband? I have known TJ my whole life. He went to school with my older sister (who was my maid of honor). But about four years ago, I messaged TJ on Facebook to see how he was doing. He was in college at LSU. When he came in for winter break, he took me fishing and it all started from there. WEDDING VENUE McClelland Community Church in Shelbyville FLORIST Kris Rash MAKE UP Amanda Miller (Elite Hair Design) HAIR STYLIST Sandy Chavez (Elite Hair Design) PHOTOGRAPHER Shaw Photography by Alex Shaw WEDDING CAKE GCS – Cakes by Cindy Metteauer CATERING We had finger foods and cookies made by Cindy Metteauer & Pralines from MiMi’s of Baton Rouge WEDDING DRESS Azarue’s Bridal & Formal in Bossier City Louisiana
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Sarah & Ashton What is your most memorable moment of your wedding? The most memorable moment of my wedding would be when my dad gave me away to Ashton. I had dreamed about that very moment since I was a little girl. Relationship advice or wedding planning advice? My advice would be to find a Godly man who puts God first in his life, our marriage and our home, who loves you and supports you in all that you do. How did you meet your husband? I met Ashton through one of my good friends from college. Her boyfriend grew up with Ashton and knew that we had lots of things in common. We both like to hunt, fish and enjoy the outdoors. They thought that we would make a great pair and set us up on a blind date. That’s all it took. WEDDING VENUE
Boles Field, Sabine National Forest
FLORIST Huxley MAKE UP
Texas Florist Watson Tucker Florist (Yondi Watson and Jade Hogue)
HAIR STYLIST Rena Horton & Sandy Chavez with “Elite Hair PHOTOGRAPHER Charity Arwine with “As you Wish Photography” WEDDING CAKE Janice Butler CATERING Shelby county cookers and Jerrod Nutt! WEDDING DRESS Brides and Belles in Tyler Texas Amy Atherton Design”
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Jade & Chase What is your most memorable moment of your wedding? My most memorable wedding moment makes me smile. Our wedding day started as such a beautiful day. I was patiently waiting for my walk down the aisle when we suddenly saw a down pour of rain. My special and memorable wedding day, with the outpouring of rain for over an hour, was not affected by the weather. People make a wedding, and my moment was after the rain. Relationship advice or wedding planning advice? Be patient. You both might grow at different times and in different ways, so give each other time to make your relationship last forever. How did you meet your husband? My husband and I met in middle school. We dated though high school and have been inseparable ever since! We got married on our original 8th year Anniversary.
WEDDING VENUE Union Springs Wedding and Event Venue FLORIST Southern Seasons Florals & Gifts MAKE UP Amy Atherton HAIR STYLIST Teri Bolton from Chop Shop Hair Salon PHOTOGRAPHER Craig Bryon Photography WEDDING CAKE GCS – Cakes by Cindy Metteauer CATERING Patti Istre (family member) WEDDING DRESS Azarue’s Bridal Formal
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some things... OLD & NEW OLD TRADITIONS
NEW CELEBRATIONS
Bridal showers originated in Holland for brides who were refused dowry from their fathers. A woman’s friends would give her several gifts to allow her to have the necessary dowry to marry whatever man she chose.
Bridal showers are relaxing gestures for the bride given to her by her maid of honor.
Bridesmaids in the ceremony originated as a technique of confusing evil spirits as to whom the actual bride was. It was believed the evil spirits wanted to curse the bride.
Bridesmaids and groomsen are the ones most dear to those getting married - best friends, brother or sisters, roommates, etc.
Many centuries ago, marriages were arranged. At the altar when the women saw who they were to marry, they often would attempt to run away. The “best man” was chosen because he was deemed to be the “best man” to recapture the woman and drag her back to the altar.
“Best man” serves as the groom’s personal aide and adviser before and during the wedding, helping him with such activities as preparing for the bachelor party and chauffeuring the couple after the marriage ceremony.
Centuries ago, women were actually property of their fathers. Fathers actually “gave their daughters away” to their future husbands, hence transferring ownership.
A bride’s father walks down the aisle as a show of moral support for the union.
The ceremonial kiss that traditionally concludes the ceremony originated in the Roman era. Then, a kiss was used to seal legal bonds and contracts. A marriage, a type of lifelong contract between two people, was sealed with the ceremonial kiss. It was believed that this kiss allowed the couples’ souls unite as one.
“You may kiss the bride” ........
The term “honeymoon” comes from ancient Germanic weddings. Then, weddings were held only when there was a full moon. For an entire month, they would drink honey wine, hence their “honeymoon”.
Celebrated as a time of enjoyment before the couple begins their life together.
The saying “tie the knot” supposedly originated in the Roman Empire when the Bride wore a girdle that was tied in knots; the Groom untied the knots prior to the consummation of their marriage. This custom grew to actually tying the couple’s hands together as part of the ceremony. They were not allowed to remove it until they had consummated the marriage.
In America today, “tying the Knot” has become a term we use when referring to getting married.
It was believed that rice and wheat were symbols of fertility and prosperity in the old world. Therefore, wedding guests would throw them at newly married couples to bring them good luck and many children.
Guests use more environment friendly forms of well-wishing such as bird seed, balloons, bubbles or maybe releasing doves.
In 5th century Sparta, a groom and his military comrades would gather on the eve of the wedding to feast and toast to good fortune, thus a bachelor’s party.
They represent the last hurrah for the groom before he becomes a responsible husband.
As an African American and Appalachian tradition, a couple would have a broom placed in their path following the ceremony which they would leap over together to signify crossing from single life to married life.
Couples most often use a decorative broom to signify the tradition.
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N O O M Y E E’ HON
‘SUIT
r a f & near
Branson, Missouri
(Distance from Center, TX - 8 hours by car) For a variety of entertainment options, Branson offers a great deal for your honeymoon trip. Regardless of personal preferences, there is something for everyone in this worldrenowned tourist destination.
Things to do: Dixie Stampede Silver Dollar City Lake Cruises Titanic Museum Limousine Wine Tour
Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure Zip Line USA TNT Old Time Photos Seasonal Shows
Things to do: Numerous beaches Gulf State Park & Fishing Pier Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo Zip Line & Aerial Adventure Parks Mini Golf
Showboat Branson Belle Ol Blue Gemstone Mining Table Rock Lake The Track Family Fun Parks
Kayaking & Canoeing Paddleboarding Spas Parasailing & Paragliding Scuba & Snorkling Gourmet Seafood Restaurants
Gulf Shores, Alabama
(Distance from Center, TX - 8 ½ hours by car) Gulf Shores offers the beauty and relaxation of the beach without having to foot the expense of a cruise, a flight, or a pricey resort. Sparkling white sand awaits the tourist just a short distance away from the comfort of your hotel or condo.
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Dominican Republic This tropical paradise has everything you would expect of a dream vacation. All-inclusive hotels provide guests with food, drink, various amenities, first-class service, and locations that put you in the middle of the fun. Things to do: Numerous beaches Scuba & Snorkling Sightseeing Tours Nature & Wildlife Tours Zip Line & Aerial Adventure Parks Damajaqua Cascades Waterfalls Hoyo Azul Swimming Cave Catedral Primada de America
Ocean World Adventure Park Marina & Casino Boat Tours National Park of the East Teleferico Puerto Plata Cable Car Agora Mall Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park Mount Isabel de Torres
Cozumel, Mexico Enjoy a leisurely cruise to the sparkling blue-green water and white sand of Cozumel. Activities abound that will fit any pace you desire from just relaxing in the shade to a rousing game of beach volleyball or the amazing experience of swimming with a graceful, beautiful dolphin. Things to do: Palancar Reef Scuba & Snorkling Santa Rose Wall Mr. Sanchos Beach Club Columbia Reef Sightseeing Tours Dolphinaris Cozumel Punta Celerain Lighthouse
Playa Mia Grand Beach & Water Park Food Tours Archaeology Tours Kayaking & Canoeing Cooking Classes All-inclusive cruises
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LOCAL LOCAL MARKET MARKET
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LOCAL LOCAL MARKET MARKET
Thank you to our amazing local florists for providing the cover bridal bouquets. (L to R - Center Floral, Hughes Florist, Watson Tucker Florist)
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Outtakes at Union Springs Step onto the set of our cover photoshoot. Thank you Union Springs for the beautiful setting and venue.
Union Springs Wedding & Event Venu 200 CR-162 | Garrison, TX (936) 462-3323 or (936) 615-6385 www.unionspringsvenue.com
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PANOLA IS OPPORTUNITY “A chance to pursue my dream of becoming a nurse” - 2015 Student, RN Program
PANOLA.EDU #LIVEPANOLA
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