No'Ala January/February 2012

JAN/FEB 2012 $3.95

noalamag.com

January/February 2012 | 1

We’re Loanly While many banks have tightened up on credit, we have plenty of money to lend.

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2 | No’Ala

WE PROVIDE THE DESTINATION. YOU PROVIDE THE MEMORIES. Your special day deserves the distinctive ambiance and hospitality of the Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa. Relax before the big event with pampering in the spa or a round of golf on the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. Be assured that your guests will enjoy fine dining and exquisite river views at our premier wedding destination.

MARRIOTT SHOALS HOTEL & SPA 800 Cox Creek Parkway South, Florence, AL 35630 Phone 256.246.3600, MarriottShoals.com A part of the Resort Collection on Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail

© 2011 Marriott International, Inc.

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{ contents }

ON THE COVER: More couples get engaged between Christmas and Valen tine’s Day than at any other time of the year, so it’s only natural to be interested in weddings this time of year. On the cover, Erin Speed Wittscheck, winner of the Shoals Perfect Wedding competition, prepares for her big day.

Below, Katie Gruber VanDervort poses for a bridal portrait before her New Orleans destination wedding.

COVER PHOTO BY ARMOSA STUDIOS KATIE VANDERVORT PHOTOGRAPHED BY ABRAHAM ROWE

6 | No’Ala

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{ contents } January/February 2012 Volume 5: Issue 1 ••• C. Allen Tomlinson Editor-In-Chief David Sims Managing Editor/Design Director Contributing Writers Christi Britten, Sarah Gaede, Paula Ross

Features 18 Worth the Wait: A Vow Renewal 24 Engagement Rings 26 Bridal Bouquets 39 The Wedding Album 74 The Shoals Perfect Wedding 94 Engagement Photography 113 Memphis, Our Facebook Dog Winner!

Everything Else 10 Contributors 12 Calendar 34 Shopping 104 Food for Thought 106 Twenty Questions 110 Bless Their Hearts

Contributing Photographers Armosa Studios, Christi Britten, Lauren Burrows Photography, Butler Studio, Captured Studios, Amanda Chapman Photography, Create Portraiture, Glass Jar Photography, Heather McAlister Photography, Leslie Adair Photography & Design, Danny Mitchell Photography, Abraham Rowe Photography, Shutterbeez Photography, Simply Bloom Photography Business Manager Roy Hall and Frances Adams Marketing Coordinator/Advertising Sales Lyndsie McClure Graphic Designer Rowan Finnegan Administrative/Editorial Assistant Claire Stewart Printing and Distribution The Ovid Bell Press ••• No’Ala is published six times annually by ATSA PO Box 2530, Florence, AL 35630 Phone: 256-766-4222 | Fax: 256-766-4106 Toll-free: 800-779-4222 Web: www.noalamag.com Standard postage paid at Florence, AL. A one-year subscription is $19.95 for delivery in the United States.

Signed articles reflect only the views of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the editors.

Advertisers are solely responsible for the content of their advertisements. © 2008-2012 ATSA, All rights reserved.

Wedding day for Josh and Linley (Craig) Mobley See more on page 70.

Photo by Armosa Studios

Send all correspondence to Allen Tomlinson, Editor, at the postal address above, or by e-mail to atomlinson@atsa-usa.com.

Letters may be edited for space and style.

To advertise, contact us at: 256-766-4222, or sales@noalamag.com.

The editor will provide writer’s guidelines upon request. Prospective authors should not submit unsolicited manuscripts; please query the editor first.

No’Ala is printed with vegetable-based inks on 100% recycled paper.

Join us on Facebook: No’Ala Mag

8 | No’Ala

{ editor’s letter }

BY

DAVID SIMS

Last year I attended only two weddings, and believe me they could not have been more different, or alike.

In late September, I was a guest at the wedding of Alex Wittscheck and Erin Speed.

Their wedding, otherwise known as the Shoals Perfect Wedding, was held on the open fields of Bluewater Creek Polo Club. Although I barely knew the couple when the contest started, I discovered during the months of planning that this young couple seemed as though they had been together their whole lives. They were at once calm and wide-eyed, which only inspired us all to make sure their day was the most special it could be. The wedding was well attended with hundreds of family and friends, and the pastoral setting was ideal for letting couples dance, musicians sing, children run, and paper lanterns rise high into the crisp fall sky. Jordyn Dean, Armosa Studios and all of the wedding partners came together in such a beautifully united way that I don’t think it could ever really be duplicated again. It was the perfect wedding.

In early November, I attended the wedding of an old friend and his longtime partner. Unlike Alex and Erin’s wedding, Jon and Robert’s wedding took place in Washington, D.C., just blocks away from the Capitol at a hotel which allowed pets, since the couple’s three Basenjis made up the rest of the wedding party. There were less than 50 people in attendance, made up of mostly family and close friends who the couple made very clear had played a very important part in their lives. After dinner Jon and Robert gave their mothers each a beautiful necklace and thanked them for their love and acceptance. Then the wine flowed, sumptuous wedding cake was passed, and three energetic dogs entertained the crowd for hours. And again, it was perfect.

This is not the usual editors letter. I won’t take the time to direct your attention to any one page of the magazine, but I will tell you that designing a wedding issue and attending two very different weddings have taught me two things: Love is present everywhere—even in the most opposite of settings. And that every wedding is the perfect wedding.

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{ contributors }

Paula Ross

Sarah Gaede

Christi Britten

Paula Ross is the staff producer for Leo Ticheli Productions in Birmingham, Alabama. In addition to her day job, she moonlights for local florists and caterers. If she ever marries, "Hey, Hey Paula" will not be on the set list.

Sarah Gaede seems to be channeling an Edwardian gentlewoman.

She is adept at many things, including matters both spiritual and temporal, without actually being paid for any of them (or at least not much!) God forbid a lady should be “in trade!”

Christi Britten is a Shoals area photojournalist (Real Beautiful Life), writer, mother, advocate, optimist, and enthusiast.

Thanks so much to these photographers for sharing with us their favorite engagement, bridal, and wedding photos of the past year. If you are newly engaged, please consider one of these talented professionals.

Armosa Studios 256-679-7449 armosastudios.com Christi Britten 253-230-1429 realbeautifullife.com Lauren Burrows Photography 256-702-4002 laurenburrows.blogspot.com Butler Studio 256-768-1751 butlerstudio.net Captured Studios 256-383-0803 capturedstudios.com Amanda Chapman Photography amandachapmanphotography.com Create Portraiture 256-710-9284 createportraiture.com Glass Jar Photography 256-797-1459 glassjarphotography.com

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Heather McAlister Photography 256-280-3057 heathermcalister.com Leslie Adair Photography & Design 256-221-4692 leslieadair.com Danny Mitchell Photography 256-386-0944 dannymitchell.com Abraham Rowe Photography 256-627-6480 abrahamrowe.com Shutterbeez Photography 256-394-2184 shutterbeezphotography.com Simply Bloom Photography simplybloomphotography.com

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Calendar of events January

January 8 Get out of Town Series at the Library– Debby and Bill Brown, “Argentina” Florence-Lauderdale Public Library, Wood Avenue, Florence; 2:00 pm; No admission.

January 17 On Stage presents The Tchaikovsky St. Petersburg State Orchestra

Our most popular lecture series returns for January 2012! Get out of Town is series of presentations about countries around the world, given by world travelers from the Shoals. Fight cabin fever this winter by traveling to four diverse countries, all without leaving town!

January 8 Huntsville Symphony Orchestra presents “From Brandenburg to Dumbarton Oaks…and Back” Thurber Arts Center, Randolph School, Huntsville; 3:30pm; $20 for open seating tickets. Tickets available at www.hso.org or by calling 256-539-4818 Music features Bach’s Brandenburg concertos No. 6, B-flat major and No. 5 in D major, and Stravinsky’s Concerto in E-flat, “Dumbarton Oaks.”

January 12–February 2 Small Steps to Health and Wealth Florence-Lauderdale Public Library, Wood Avenue, Florence; 11:30am, 2:00 pm; No admission.

Start the New Year off right with this weekly class by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Learn some easy tips for physical and economic health. Classes will be on Thursdays at 11:30 am for four weeks. More information, including specific topics, will be available soon.

January 14 & 15 Zodiac Players Auditions for Hairspray Shoals Theatre, 123 N. Seminary Street, Florence; 9:30am on the 14th and 2:00pm on the15th; 256-764-1700, or www.shoalstheatre.com January 15 Get out of Town Series at the Library– Zebulon Wallace, “China” Florence-Lauderdale Public Library, Wood Avenue, Florence; 2:00pm; No admission.

Our most popular lecture series returns for January 2012! Get out of Town is series of presentations about countries around the world, given by world travelers from the Shoals. Fight cabin fever this winter by traveling to four diverse countries, all without leaving town!

12 | No’Ala

© Columbia Artists Management Inc.

January 17 On Stage presents The Tchaikovsky St. Petersburg State Orchestra Norton Auditorium on the campus of UNA; 7:30pm; $35 adult, $15 student. Tickets available at the Kennedy-Douglass Center for the Arts in Florence or at www.shoalsonstage.com.

January 21 Huntsville Symphony Orchestra presents “Barbie Blue Meets the Firebird” Mark C. Smith Concert Hall, Von Braun Center, Huntsville; 7:30pm. Tickets $28-69 and are available at www.hso.org or by calling 256-539-4818.

Music features Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto in E-minor, Weber’s Overture to Oberon, Stravinsky’s Firebird Suite, and a world premiere of the Barbie Blue Overture-Fantasy, composed by HSO Music Director and Conductor Gregory Vajda.

January 22 Get out of Town Series at the Library– George Petty, “Bhutan” Florence-Lauderdale Public Library, Wood Avenue, Florence; 2:00 pm; No admission.

Our most popular lecture series returns for January 2012! Get out of Town is series of presentations about countries around the world, given by world travelers from the Shoals. Fight cabin fever this winter by traveling to four diverse countries, all without leaving town!

January 25–27 Wine Event 2012, Grape Expectations: A French Connection Huntsville Museum of Art, 300 Church Street, Huntsville. Times and admission available at www.hsvmusem.org or 256-535-4350.

Escape the winter doldrums with a taste of France at this year’s

February 11 2012 Heart Ball “Life is the Greatest Show on Earth”

Vine Art Wine Event at the Huntsville Museum of Art. The threeday weekend features the wines of Bordeaux, Champagne and Alsace and an outstanding collection of art, right here in the South. Browse the world-class museum; enjoy a luncheon program by Alabama chef James Boyce, and local Sommelier Suzan Boyce; taste delectable wines paired with local food, and dine with us at the Backers of Bacchus dinner.

January 29 Get out of Town Series at the Library– Lesley Peterson and Jeffrey Bibbee, “England” Florence-Lauderdale Public Library, Wood Avenue, Florence; 2:00pm; No admission.

Our most popular lecture series returns for January 2012! Get out of Town is series of presentations about countries around the world, given by world travelers from the Shoals. Fight cabin fever this winter by traveling to four diverse countries, all without leaving town!

February February 2–5 Zodiac Players present “Cabaret” Shoals Theater, 123 N. Seminary Street, Florence; 7:30pm Thurs.–Sat. & 2:00pm Sun. $10 adults $8 Students in advance, $12 adults $10 students at the door; 256-764-1700, or www.shoalstheater.com.

February 2–March 16 Paintings by John R. Kelley Kennedy-Douglass Center for the Arts, Florence; 9:00am–4:00pm, Monday–Friday. No admission charged; 256-760-6379 or florenceal.org.

Continued page 14 January/February 2012 | 13

Calendar of events

Continued from page 13

February 4 Huntsville Symphony Orchestra presents Cirque de la Symphonie Mark C. Smith Concert Hall, Von Braun Center, Huntsville; 7:30pm. Tickets $28-69 and are available at www.hso.org or by calling 256-539-4818.

This program features acrobatic fantasy and classical music, combined to create a beautiful and mesmerizing musical event.

February 11 The American Heart Association presents the 2012 Shoals Heart Ball, Life is the Greatest Show on Earth.

Marriott Shoals Conference Center, Florence; 6:00pm; Admission charged; black tie. For information, contact GSAShoals@heart.org or call 800-257-6941, ext 1553 A celebration of creating and sharing. Our evening celebrates our work and mission; our donors and volunteers; and—most importantly—the lives saved and improved because of everyone’s effort. The Heart Ball promises to be an engaging evening of fun and passion bringing community and philanthropic leaders together.

February 11 Greater St. Paul, AMC, Presents Black Gospel Heritage Celebration Shoals Theater, 123 N. Seminary Street, Florence; 1:00pm and 5:00pm. Matinee: $20.00 in advance $25.00 at the door; Evening show: $25.00 in advance, $30.00 at the door; 256-226-2559 February 11 Huntsville Symphony Orchestra presents “Something Old, Something New” Mark C. Smith Concert Hall, Von Braun Center, Huntsville; 7:30pm; Tickets $28-69 and are available at www.hso.org or by calling 256-539-4818.

Music features Mozart’s Symphony No. 36 in C-major, Brahms’ Piano Concerto No. 4, D-minor, and a UAHuntsville New Music Festival selection.

February 12 Kidz for a Cauze Shoals Theater, 123 N. Seminary Street, Florence; 3:00pm. $8.00; allstarzdance@gmail.com

UPCOMING: It’s not too early to begin planning for the Young Masters Art School, sponsored by the Kennedy-Douglass Center for the Arts.

Two sessions are planned: June 11-16 and June 18-23. Times are 9:00am to 11:00am for students entering grades 1-3 and 12:00pm to 2:00pm for students in grades 4-6. $50.00 for the first child in family, $45.00 for second child. Call the KennedyDouglass Center at 256-760-6379 for an application for your week of choice.

14 | No’Ala

Providing Insurance and Financial Services

Myron Gardner, LUTCF 1819 Darby Drive, Florence, AL 35630 Bus 256-764-2234;Cell 256-335-6080 Email myron.gardner.b17k@statefarm.com

Phil Wiginton 419 Cox Boulevard, Sheffield, AL, 35660 Bus 256-383-4521; Cell 256-762-5859 Email phil@philwiginton.com

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{ guess who I saw }

Front row: Burr Ingram, Frank Caprio, Joe Fuqua, Eddie Lambert, Tommy Brown, Randy Roper Back row: Jeremy Hon, Robert Akenhead, Eric Milberger, Ben Washburn, Ron Lankford, Donald Tomlin Lynn LePrince Lowe and Peter Loftis Lowe, Jr.

Katie Elaine Denney and Robert Steven Denney

Meredith Beverly Averbuch and Scott Owen Averbuch

Eric and Brenda Milberger, Bruce and Amelia Summerville, and Donna and Bill Shergy

Mary Allen Russell and Mark Selby Russell

Sarah Caroline Patterson and Michael Rawls Patterson

Claire Elizabeth Caruso and Gerald Luke Caruso PHOTOS BY MARK JAEGER

Above: 2011 Symphony Ball OCTOBER 22, 2011  VON BRAUN CENTER

Below: Barbara Long Retrospective Exhibition NOVEMBER 13, 2011 KENNEDYDOUGLASS CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Marge Cianchetti and Jo Beth Hurt Heather Russell-Gregory, and Joanne Peck

Kelly Long, Tammy Irons, and Sylvia Hill

Bob Hill, Marge Cianchetti, and Todd Long

Robert Long Tommy Mathis and Kathryn Rice 16 | No’Ala

Joy Trousdale, Evelyn Freeman, and Katherine Griggs

Sam, Robert, and Marge Cianchetti COURTESY OF BARBARA BROACH

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WORTH THE WAIT A SHOALS COUPLE FINALLY GETS THE WEDDING THEY ALWAYS WANTED

T

en years ago, Laura and Jacob Senecal decided to get married. Their romance was the stuff of Hallmark movies, fast and intense: surprise floral bouquets, mountain hikes, canoe rides, and serenades—it doesn’t get any better. They knew they wanted to get married after only four months of courtship. “I felt that I was already married to him in my heart,” recalled Laura.

Understandably, family and friends scratched their heads at their decision.

Some engagements can last months and even years, but Jacob and Laura did not want to wait for their future with each other to begin. So on January 26, 2001, Laura and Jacob got married at the Lauderdale County Courthouse, surrounded by just a handful of close family and friends. Laura said, “I remember laughing and smiling and being so happy that day. Seeing people struggle to make others happy on their wedding day makes me sad. It should be about you and your spouse, not who is wearing what, eating what, or sitting by someone they can’t get along with.”

That being said, Laura still dreamed of the wedding she never had. She would look at bridal magazines and admire friends’ weddings and think of how she would do it herself. With some encouragement from friends and many helping hands, when their ten year anniversary came around, Laura had that dream wedding, at Kitty Tilson’s rustic cabin in Lexington—surrounded by tons of loving friends and family.

That dream wedding just happened to be outside, in January. Forecasts were predicting a snow storm. Everyone

TEXT BY CHRISTI BRITTEN PHOTOS BY ABRAHAM ROWE AND CHRISTI BRITTEN

18 | No’Ala

From the photos strung outside the cabin on a clothesline, to the faces of the community surrounding them, you could see the impact their love has made over the last ten years

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waited and prayed pensively all week to see how it would work out. And then, the day of the wedding, sun and unseasonable 70 degree temps were a sure sign that this wedding was meant to be.

Friends and family busied themselves to make this wedding perfect. Their three beautiful young daughters, Anne, Madeline, and Lily were Laura’s bridesmaids.

Jacob’s brother, Micah, serenaded them.

Their friend Betsy Rainer helped coordinate the arrangements.

Laura is a food guru and fanatic, and wanted the food be memorable. Friends Laura Updike and Paula Slusher made Jacob’s family recipe for carrot cake into a beautiful wedding cake. Megan Dixon of Sweet Things made chocolate covered strawberries from Jack-O-Lantern Farms. Candy and sweets covered porches and decks.

Fortunately for Jacob and Laura, they are also friends with many local photographers, so they had full event coverage from at least three different photographers. They joked they would have the best documented ten year anniversary ever.

Of course, this vow renewal was not simply to have that dream wedding.

They acknowledged the journey they had been on together. They proclaimed a deeper purpose for themselves and their love. They thanked God for each other and prayed new blessings into their relationship. It also gave their community of friends and family a chance to recognize and celebrate their undeniable love for each other and their family.

The thing that set this wedding apart from the traditional wedding is that it told the story of Jacob and Laura. You could see the direct impact their love has made over the past ten years, from the photos strung outside the cabin on clothes line to the faces of the community surrounding them. Everyone watched with a teary eye as they celebrated a ten year love story. N

20 | No’Ala

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For all of life’s celebrations...

The “Tschaikowski” St. Petersburg State Orchestra Norton Auditorium January 17, 2012, 7:30 p.m.

Tickets on sale now at www.shoalsonstage.com

324 North Court St. Florence, AL 35630 256-766-1568 wineseller@att.net Offering the most unique selection of wine and beer in the Shoals area.

22 | No’Ala

Floral Design, Event Planning & Home AFFHVVRULHV s s North

Montgomery Avenue, Sheffield, Alabama January/February 2012 | 23

PHOTOS BY DANNY MITCHELL

Twinkle, twinkle, little star, Handmade, 14 Karat Rose Gold Setting; .5 Carat Mounting; 1.5 Carat Center Stone ($2,000–Mounting Only) · Grogan Jewelers · (256) 764-4013

18 Karat 1.12 Carat Total Weight; .68 Carat Center Stone from Belgium ($4,330) · Mefford’s Jewelers · (256) 764-2632

How I wonder what you are.

Platinum Oval Center Cut Diamond 18 Carat; 2 Trapezoid Cut Diamonds 41 Carat (Starting at $6,500) · Parker Bingham Jewelers · (256) 764-2032

Up above the world so high,

Engagement Ring by Elma Gil; 1.33 Carat Total Weight (Starting at $899) · Creative Jewelers · (256) 766-7650

Like a diamond in the sky.

Rectangular Halo Semi Mounting; Shared Prong 18 Karat White Gold; .84 Carat Total Weight ($2,360) · Jamie Hood Jewelers · (256) 381-6889 24 | No’Ala

New Year.

New You! Make a resolution this year to have something you really, really want: the very best looking you!

At Shoals Plastic Surgery, we can help you look as young as you feel—and you don’t have to leave town to do it!

Here is a partial list of the available procedures: Face: Botox Treatments • Injectible Fillers • Ear Surgery • Eyelid Surgery • Facelift • Nose Surgery • Cancer Removal Breast: Breast Augmentation • Breast Lift • Breast Reduction • Breast Reconstruction Body: Body Lift • Liposuction • Tummy Tuck • Arm/Thigh Lift Now featuring Vaser Liposuction • Now carrying Obagi Skin Care

Dr. Russell Jennings Shoals Plastic Surgery / Face & Body 203 West Avalon Avenue Suite 300 Muscle Shoals, AL 35661 Phone: (256) 386-1450 www.shoalsplasticsurgery.com

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· · · PHOTOS BY ARMOSA STUDIOS, AMANDA CHAPMAN PHOTOGRAPHY, & ABRAHAM ROWE · · ·

26 | No’Ala

Photo by Armosa Studios

Designed by Carl Casiday of Lola’s Gifts & Flowers for Erin Wittscheck, winner of the Shoals Perfect Wedding.

While Roses and Hydrangea are the most popular wedding flowers, unique buds and greenery like Fiddlehead Ferns, Dusty Miller, Thistle, Veronica, (even Rosemary and Succulents) appeared in the bouquets of our north Alabama brides.

Clockwise, from top left: A bridesmaid’s bouquet from the Shoals Perfect Wedding, by Lola’s Gifts & Flowers; Laura Senecal’s bridal bouquet by Will & Dee’s Florist; Amanda Stanfield carried a bouquet designed by Gatehouse Flowers of Huntsville; Kate VanDervort’s New Orleans wedding featured floral designs by Fat Cat Flowers.

Photo by Abraham Rowe

Photo by Armosa Studios Photo by Amanda Chapman Photography

Photo by Abraham Rowe

January/February 2012 | 27

28 | No’Ala

Photo by Abraham Rowe

Katie Oakley’s bridal bouquet, designed by Kaleidoscope Florist & Designs

A bridesmaid’s bouquet from Katie VanDervort’s wedding, by Fat Cat Flowers of New Orleans

Photo by Abraham Rowe

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Jenny Hill’s bouquet of pink roses by Lola’s Gifts & Flowers

Photo by Abraham Rowe

30 | No’Ala

Call me to help find a threshold to carry the bride over.

Your Special Occasion Place!

965 County Road 57, Florence, AL 35633

256-762-5354 sandybunch@comcast.net • www.thenelsonplace.vpweb.com Owned and operated by Sandy N. Bunch Weddings Receptions Bridal Showers/Teas Luncheons

Dinners Anniversary Parties Birthday Parties Tea Parties

Little Girl Tea Parties Meetings Any Special Event!

Make Every Occasion One To Remember!

I’m Anne Bernauer and I want to be your Realtor® — for life.

Call 256-740-0706 or 256-757-9008 Email anne@annewillsell.com Visit www.annewillsell.com January/February 2012 | 31

{ guess who I saw } xx

Tawanna Rickard, Mandy Holt, and Cristal Stewart

Hirbo Hirbo Bradley and Madelyn Willis

Melissa Hyde, Shawn Parris, Drew Parris, and Hailey Hyde

Woody Harrington and McKenna Pugh

Hannah Brake, Jack Mangum, Wilson Pieroni,and Bennett Brake

Lindsey Bonner and Michelle Adcock COURTESY OF JULIE COCHRAN

Above: United Cerebral Palsy “Life Without Limits” Half Marathon, 5K, & Fun Run

Below: Reception for Artist Bradley Gordon

OCTOBER 29, 2011  M ARRIOTT SHOALS HOTEL & SPA

Anne-Marie Gordon (right) with friends

NOVEMBER 22, 2011  BILLY REID

Anne Bernauer, Bob Himber, and Tom Minetree Derry de Borja and Bradley Gordon

Billy Reid and Bradley Gordon

Katy McNeill and Anne-Marie Gordon David Muhlendorf, Tammy Sharp, and Julie Muhlendorf 32 | No’Ala

Chelsea Prater, Jean McIntyre, Billy Hammock, and Brandi Clark

Nicole Conley, Hal and Kimberly Hughston COURTESY OF ANNE-MARIE GORDON AND BOB HIMBER

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{ shopping }

Charcoal and White Linen Napkins ($60 for set of 6) Hors D’oeuvres Gift Set ($49) Hand-Blown Wine Glasses ($20 each) The French Basket (256)764-1237

What to Cook and How to Cook It Holy Smoke ($39.95) Sweet Basil Café (256) 764-5991

Liquid Metal Bracelet ($155) The Village Shoppe (256) 383-1133

Vietri Incanto Tableware Stripe Charger ($64) Baroque Dinner Plate ($46) Ruffle Salad Plater ($38) Lace Cereal Bowl ($38) Halsey House Interiors (256) 702-8338

Magenta Heels by Allure ($85) Promenade (256) 386-0160

34 | No’Ala

Oval Knotted Casserole Dish ($50) Pitcher—Sophie Conran for Portmeirian ($38) The Yellow Door (256) 766-6950

Alex and Erin received a Ruched Sky Duvet Cover and Matching Euro Shams by Pine Cone Hill Bedding Halsey House

Alex and Erin received two place settings of Juliska’s “Berry and Thread” Dinnerware.

(Dinner Plate, Salad Plate, Dessert Plate, Cereal Bowl, Pasta Bowl, Bread & Butter Plate, and Mug) The French Basket

Perfect Gifts for the Perfect Wedding Couple!

Very unique!

Read the story on page 74!

OPI Nail Polish ($8.50) Facial Spa Cell ($12.95) Bath Mitt ($32.95) Manicures ($17) Pedicures ($35) Andy's the Professionals (256) 767-2800

Vintage Chanel Button Bracelet ($265) Side Lines (256) 767-0925

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{ shopping }

Bridal Note Cards ($10.50 per set) Save the Day Designs (256) 712-5635

Sorrelli Necklace ($162.50) Sorrelli Earrings (Bridal Collection) ($55) Side Lines (256) 767-0925

Silver Glitter Peep Toe Pump ($60) Cherry Tree Lane (256) 767-4262

“Here Comes the Bride” Kit

by Philosophy ($35) Smashbox Cheek Color ($26) Smashbox Lip Plumper ($24) Smashbox Lip Gloss ($22) Face 2 Face Boutique (256) 275-3527

Bridal “Love” Hanger (Personalization Available) ($24) Relique (256) 767-4810

36 | No’Ala

Two Color, Letterpressed Invitations and Envelopes by Martha Stewart for Crane & Co. ($748 per 100) Printers and Stationers, Inc. (256) 764-8061

One Round of Golf (Group rates available on request) Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail (256) 446-5040

The perfect outing for the groomsmen

Barber Pole Cigars (Hand-Rolled in Honduras) ($6 each) Truly Cigars (256) 275-3601

Men’s Grey Tweed Vest ($350) Billy Reid (256) 767-4692

Single Night Stay ($139-$179) Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa (256) 246-3600

Duet Massage (1hr $100) (1.5 hrs $185) Me Spa (256) 712-5524

Southern Tide Shirts Blue Gingham ($98) Pink Striped ($98) Adelaide Boutique (256) 767-2321

Toasts and Tributes ($14.99) Patterned Silk Tie ($59.50) Jos. A. Bank (256) 766-9789

January/February 2012 | 37

delicious Chef Eubanks Jeff invites to jjoin oyou i him to join at Table him at 18.the Conveniently Shoals veniently Area’s located Cypress C hef JJeff effChef E uban ksEubanks iinvites nvites you ated at atrestaurant, Cypress Lakes LakTable es Country Co18. untr y Club Club locnewest Conveniently in Country Shoals.

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Choral Masterworks The Florence Camerata presents a classical masterpiece March 6, 7:30pm

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North Wood United Methodist Church, 1129 Wills Ave., Florence

Admission $15 adults, $8 students florencecamerata.com 38 | No’Ala

88.7 FM Muscle Shoals • 100.7 FM Huntsville www.apr.org

OUR FAVORITE ENGAGEMENT AND WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY OF 2011

January/February 2012 | 39

The Wedding Album » 2011 »

W EDDING P HOTOGRAPHY

ROBB AND MORGAN (HAMM) WILLIAMS

BY SIMPLY BLOOM PHOTOGRAPHY JUNE 4, 2011 TUSCUMBIA , ALABAMA

40 | No’Ala

DANIEL AND KATIE MOORE

BY AMANDA CHAPMAN PHOTOGRAPHY AUGUST 13, 2011 FLORENCE, ALABAMA

PAIGE (BURCH) TATARA

BY CREATE PORTRAITURE JUNE 10, 2011 HUNTSVILLE, ALABAMA

January/February 2012 | 41

DEREK AND JULIE (BATSON) CARTER

BY ARMOSA STUDIOS SEPTEMBER 10, 2011 ST. FLORIAN, ALABAMA

JIMMY AND CHRISTY (GULLETT) EVANS

BY AMANDA CHAPMAN PHOTOGRAPHY JULY 16, 2011 LEIGHTON, ALABAMA

42 | No’Ala

KYLE AND KATIE (MONTGOMERY) OAKLEY

BY ABRAHAM ROWE PHOTOGRAPHY JULY 1, 2011 MUSCLE SHOALS, ALABAMA

BLAKE HALL AND JENNY HILL

BY ABRAHAM ROWE PHOTOGRAPHY JUNE 4, 2011 FLORENCE, ALABAMA

January/February 2012 | 43

MORGAN (MCCAIN) HARRIS

BY ARMOSA STUDIOS

SEAN AND JAIME (DISSPAIN) BRADFORD

BY LESLIE ADAIR PHOTOGRAPHY AUGUST 27, 2011 ASHEVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA

44 | No’Ala

JENNIFER (CURTIS) SMITH

BY BUTLER STUDIO

MAGGIE BEA (DAWSEY) R AY

BY ARMOSA STUDIOS

January/February 2012 | 45

ZAC AND JACQUE MCCUMBER

BY GLASS JAR PHOTOGRAPHY FIFTH ANNIVERSARY PHOTO ORIGINAL WEDDING DATE: AUGUST 1, 2006 HUNTSVILLE, ALABAMA

TYLER AND MALLORY (RICKMAN) GOBBLE

BY SHUTTERBEEZ PHOTOGRAPHY SEPTEMBER 10, 2011 TURTLE POINT YACHT & COUNTRY CLUB, KILLEN, ALABAMA

46 | No’Ala

January/February 2012 | 47

L AURA (MILLIGAN) WIMBERLY

BY BUTLER STUDIO

DAVID AND NICOLE (DSOUZA) PERRIN

BY GLASS JAR PHOTOGRAPHY SEPTEMBER 10, 2011 BURRITT ON THE MOUNTAIN, HUNTSVILLE, ALABAMA

48 | No’Ala

STEPHENIE (THOMPSON) SMITH

BY AMANDA CHAPMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

DEANNA (HILL) PUTMAN

BY BUTLER STUDIO

January/February 2012 | 49

CASEY (GUINN) STEWART

BY HEATHER MC ALISTER PHOTOGRAPHY

WELLS AND KATE (JANCAY) BECKETT

BY L AUREN BURROWS PHOTOGRAPHY JULY 30, 2011 FLORENCE, ALABAMA

50 | No’Ala

Glenwood Healthcare offers the help you need. We offer rehab services, and we were recently named one of the top facilities in the nation. We offer assisted living for those who need a little looking after but can still live independently.

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For rehab, assisted living or long-term care, Glenwood is the only name you need to know.

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A lifelong love of learning is just one of the things we teach.

Pre-K2 through 6th Grade Making the difference of a lifetime for more than 30 years Call us at 256-764-8200 or visit riverhillschool.org

January/February 2012 | 51

The Wedding Album » 2011 »

F EATURED W EDDING

LEE AND BRANDI (KILLIAN) KENNEDY

BY CREATE PORTRAITURE JULY 29, 2011 ST. LUCIA

52 | No’Ala

Mitchell-Hollingsworth Nursing & rehabilitation Center LLC

Summit Rehab at Mitchell-Hollingsworth specializes in: • Orthopedic Care (Fracture, Joint Replacement) • Stroke • Amputations • Cardiac Disease • Comprehensive recovery from surgery or illness

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• 222 bed skilled nursing facility • 24-hour skilled nursing services

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T Tues .-Thurr.S;: &T@)&SlS +". & Sat Sat. t. 10a 10am-7pm m-7p pm January/February 2012 | 53

The Wedding Album » 2011 »

F EATURED W EDDING

C ARTER AND B RANDI (P ENNINGTON ) M C G UYER

BY C APTURED S TUDIOS J ULY 1, 2011 A LYS B EACH , F LORIDA

54 | No’Ala

January/February 2012 | 55

The Wedding Album » 2011 »

F EATURED W EDDING

WADE AND MELANIE (MARTIN) TRIMM

BY CHRISTI BRITTEN JULY 9, 2011 BROOKSVILLE, ALABAMA

56 | No’Ala

January/February 2012 | 57

The Wedding Album » 2011 »

F EATURED W EDDING

ZACH AND AMANDA (ORI) STANFIELD

BY AMANDA CHAPMAN PHOTOGRAPHY OCTOBER 15, 2011 MONTE SANO LODGE, HUNTSVILLE, ALABAMA

58 | No’Ala

January/February 2012 | 59

The Wedding Album » 2011 »

F EATURED W EDDING

JAY BAKER AND TARA BULLINGTON

BY CHRISTI BRITTEN JUNE 4, 2011 LITTLEVILLE, ALABAMA

60 | No’Ala

January/February 2012 | 61

The Wedding Album » 2011 »

F EATURED W EDDING

NATE AND KATIE (GRUBER) VANDERVORT

BY ABRAHAM ROWE PHOTOGRAPHY SEPTEMBER 10, 2011 R ACE & RELIGIOUS, NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA

62 | No’Ala

January/February 2012 | 63

64 | No’Ala

DANNY MITCHELL PHOTOGRAPHY

WEDDINGS PHOTO RESTORATION SENIOR PORTRAITS COMMERCIAL ADVERTISING EVENTS SPORTS INTERIORS PRODUCT STOCK

1712 Birmingham Street Sheffield, Alabama 35660 256-386-0944 (office) 256-627-3056 (cell) www.dannymitchell.com

Member, Professional Photographers of America

January/February 2012 | 65

The Wedding Album » 2011 »

S HOALS P ERFECT W EDDING F INALIST

Marriage Alfresco For Josh and Lauren Potts, an outdoor afternoon with close family and good friends was the perfect setting for a perfect union

JOSH AND LAUREN (BURCH) POTTS

BY ARMOSA STUDIOS SEPTEMBER 3, 2011 DAUGHERTY FARM

66 | No’Ala

“I wanted a vintage Southern wedding,” said Lauren, and that is exactly what she planned. Family and friends gathered at the Daugherty Farm in Florence for a beautiful outdoor wedding that was both relaxed and casual—and very Southern chic.

“I love antiques and the fact that there is history behind them, and I wanted the whole day to be filled with them,” said Lauren. “I searched antique stores and thrift stores for days on end for everything from Ball jars to quilts to dishes.”

“I quickly realized I needed more hands and more time!” said Lauren. “I had a good friend, Ashley Winkle (now a wedding planner), there to save me. She was able to take all my ideas and put them to life. She finished off every detail of that day and made it even more perfect!”

Music was performed by Lee Taylor and friends. A photo booth included a Polaroid camera and props for people to snap pictures which they then hung from a clothesline. “One of Josh's favorite things is a good cigar, so to incorporate it into the wedding we had a cigar grove set up at the reception, complete with a cigar bar for our guests to enjoy. And something Josh and I enjoy doing together and with others is playing games. So at the reception we had a game area to play yard games such as bocce ball, cornhole, and horseshoes.”

Josh’s daughters, Liv & Reese, were included in the ceremony and created some of the favorite memories of the day. “Lauren & I made vows to them, gave them necklaces, and we ‘pinky promised’ with them after sharing our vows to them,” said Josh.

The Daugherty’s barn was the backdrop for the wedding and the location for the reception, which was catered by Jeff Burgess Catering using “bits and pieces of different foods,” she said. “He provided a wide spread of amazing finger foods that everyone seemed to enjoy.” N

January/February 2012 | 67

“I love antiques and the fact that there is history behind them, and I wanted the whole day to be filled with them.” —Lauren Potts

68 | No’Ala

January/February 2012 | 69

The Wedding Album » 2011 »

S HOALS P ERFECT W EDDING F INALIST

JOSH AND LINLEY (CRAIG) MOBLEY

BY ARMOSA STUDIOS AUGUST 17, 2011 THE CLIFFS OF MOHER , DOOLIN, IRELAND

Tying the (Celtic) Knot Josh and Linley Mobley crossed the Atlantic for a unique wedding high atop the Cliffs of Moher 70 | No’Ala

The wedding wasn’t big—eight people, including the bride, groom, and photographer—but it was memorable. Atop the spectacular Cliffs of Moher in Ireland, Josh and Linley exchanged their vows. “Because the wedding was small, we focused on feelings instead of a theme,” said Linley. “We wanted to show the way we love each other and allow our friends to share in that love with us. The day was truly about our love and us promising ourselves to each other.”

The night before, the eight people in attendance threw together a rehearsal dinner of cereal, honey and goat cheese toast, tomato soup and whatever else they could find in the hostel kitchen, and they sat around a big wooden table and talked about the couple’s relationship and their future. On the wedding day, Josh wore flip flops and Linley had a simple dress; she and the bridesmaids hand picked their bouquets from the gravel road outside the hostel. The big, traditional reception could wait until the couple returned from their Ireland trip; this wedding was spontaneous and beautiful. “Remember that the day is really about the two of you,” said Linley. “Don’t be pressured to stick with all of the traditions, and just be yourself.” N

January/February 2012 | 71

“Remember that the day is really about the two of you. Don’t be pressured to stick with all of the traditions, and just be yourself.” —Linley Mobley

72 | No’Ala

A setting worthy of your event.

St. Florian Fiber Farm - A place like no other.

s t f l o r i a n f i b e r f a r m . com E r i k a R o s e n b e rg - 2 2 6 0 Co u n t y R o a d 2 8 - Fl o re n ce A L - 2 5 6 . 7 6 6 . 9 8 8 8 Photography : armosastudios.com - lauracopelanddesign.com

For invitations and party supplies for weddings, showers and every kind of celebration, your party source is

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256-881-7780 January/February 2012 | 73

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74 | No’Ala

LO ER

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After a year of planning and a little help—actually, a lot of help from a lot of people—Erin and Alex become man and wife…and it’s perfect.

January/February 2012 | 75

On a late summer afternoon in September, the most talked about wedding in the Shoals went o without a hitch.

76 | No’Ala

O

n a bright, late afternoon in September, on the beautifully manicured lawns of Bluewater Creek Polo Club, Erin Speed and Alex Wittscheck exchanged their vows in front of two hundred fifty family members and friends…and it was perfect. Thanks to the help of a host of partners, the most talked-about wedding in the Shoals went off without a hitch.

Erin was radiant; Alex was beaming. There was fabulous food, wonderful music, and a great gathering of supportive friends and family. This couple had worked so hard to prepare their inspiration board to win the Shoals Perfect Wedding competition, and then had blogged about every step of the wedding planning process as their engagement year progressed; today was the day it all led up to. It was a memorable event.

Tom Speed escorts Erin down the aisle

Reverend Matt Buerhaus and Alex Wittscheck

James Gregory, Dillon Hodges, and Mark Evitts

January/February 2012 | 77

I saw so many people I love who had come to celebrate our marriage with us, and I had that feeling again—that safe feeling—and I knew everything was perfect.” —Erin Wittscheck Some couples like formal affairs; some prefer a wedding to be more casual. Erin and Alex had an idea of the type of wedding they wanted, to include the family, friends and music that are so important to the two of them. “Details are important,” says wedding stylist Jordyn Dean. “We tried to incorporate small things that were meaningful to Alex and Erin, and all of those small pieces added up to a memorable whole.” For example, because Alex is in the music business, music played an important part in the day. Guests would be invited to write personal messages of love and inspiration to the couple on vintage 45 rpm records. “It’s important to think through the entire process and make sure every little detail contributes to the feeling of the day,” said Jordyn. “And then, it’s important to relax and let it happen. If a couple will do that, their wedding day will be one of the best days of their lives.”

Because the couple had communicated their vision through an inspiration board and were chosen the winners of the Shoals Perfect Wedding competition, they were able to do things on a larger scale. But they still paid attention to every little detail.

The save-the-date cards and invitations had a hand-drawn feel; the ceremony would be outdoors, the flower girls would be barefoot, and groomsmen would not wear jackets. There were photos and momentos everywhere, to reflect the couple’s love for one another and to tell the story of how they met and fell in love.

On the evening before the wedding day, the couple and their families gathered for a rehearsal and dinner. They carefully practiced what they would do during the actual ceremony, and then everyone enjoyed a barbecue feast from Bishop’s Barbecue.

The details were in place: now it was time to get married.

Graphic Design/Signage/Invitations: Maggie Crisler, Magpie Photo/Design; Wedding Stylist: Jordyn Dean; Printing: Printers and Stationers (PSI); Flowers: Lola’s Gifts and Flowers; Rehearsal Dinner: Bishop’s Barbecue; Tents, Tables, Dance Floor: Party Pros; Sound: OverFlo Productions; Venue: Bluewater Creek Polo Club

78 | No’Ala

January/February 2012 | 79

80 | No’Ala

The morning of the wedding was beautiful. There was bright sunshine and not a cloud in the sky, and everything pointed to great weather for the outdoor event. But there was so much to do before the vows!

Andy Cagle styles Erin’s hair.

Erin began her day by opening and reading a letter from Alex, with the gift he had found for her of a silver locket.

Across town, Alex was opening and reading a letter from Erin; both letters expressed love, joy at this day, and hope for their life together. They both had time to reflect on the journey that had brought them to this place, before beginning the process of preparation for the ceremony itself.

There was hair to be styled, makeup to be done, and photos to be taken. Time would fly, and there was so much to be done...

Teeth Whitening: Coker Cosmetic and Family Dentistry; Spa Luncheon: Center for Skin Care and Wellness; Makeup: Natalie Faggioni; Hair Styling and Manicures: Andy’s the Professionals; Wedding Dress: Cherry Tree Lane; Fabric (dresses for flower girls and bow ties for ring bearers): Thread; Videography and Photography: Armosa Studios

Natalie Faggioni applies Erin’s makeup.

January/February 2012 | 81

At the polo field, an army of people were already there, putting everything together. The Party Pros people led the charge, putting up tents, tables and the dance floor and stringing lights, while flowers were being arranged, the caterers were beginning to arrive, and photos were being taken.

Erin wrote, “I met Alex out in the middle of a field, with nothing around us except a wonderous blue sky that had been growing more and more lovely as the day pressed on. I walked as steadily as I could, trying my absolute hardest not to bust out in a straight run just to get to him faster. I saw him standing over near the creek, all handsome in his nice wedding clothes, and my heart was beating like crazy. The thought did occur to me, ‘Erin, what is wrong with you!? It’s not like you’ve never seen Alex before, come on!’ Regardless, I kept on walking. The memory stands out to me even now: Alex looking into my eyes, brushing the windblown hairs away from my face, the warm sun shining down on our shoulders…that is a moment I’ll always treasure.

Anna Brasher, Erin Speed, and Megan Boone

“We got to take photos together, just Alex and me, and then with our wedding party and families. Time seemed to fly by, but I caught myself at random times just looking at my loved ones, etching the memory of that day in my mind. The time for the ceremony was drawing near, so Alex and I made our way back to the pavilion, courtesy of our dear friend Forrest, and a golf cart. I nervously awaited my time to walk down the aisle, adjusting my dress, checking my hair, etc…but I stopped fussing long enough to look out over the field to see the sun dip down past the horizon. I looked to the other side and saw so many people I love, all who had come to celebrate our marriage with us, and I had that feeling again—that safe feeling—and I knew everything was perfect.”

Alivia and Chalea Clemmons

82 | No’Ala

Bailey and Kade Clemmons

Megan Boone, John Byrd, Alex and Erin Wittscheck, Jonny Heinkel, and Anna Brasher

January/February 2012 | 83

84 | No’Ala

Although this day will never be forgotten, every wedding has its symbols to help to remind the couple of how special it really was. The wedding bands are outward signs of the commitment the couple has made; the jewelry, most hand designed and made specifically for Erin and her bridesmaids, will remind the wearer of this day every time it is worn. The pocket watches, presented to his groomsmen from Alex, will rarely be opened without the user remembering Alex, Erin, and this perfect wedding.

Wedding Bands: Mefford’s Jewelers; Jewelry for the Bride and Bridesmaids: Side Lines Jewelry; Groom’s Gifts to His Groomsmen: Jamie Hood Jewelers; Place Settings for the Couple: The French Basket; Linens and Bedding for the Couple: Halsey House Interiors (See page 35)

January/February 2012 | 85

Dish Gourmet Café Menu Sweet Potato Biscuits with Grilled Barbecue Chicken Breast Seasonal Fresh Fruit Turnip Green Dip with Applewood Smoked Bacon Served with Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread Muffins Potato Salad Pecan Pie ···

86 | No’Ala

Sweet Basil Caf茅 Menu European Artisan Cheeses and Breads Italian Pestos and Tapenades French Chutneys Fall Vegetables Mini Chicken Salad Canapes, Garnished with Sweet Basil Cardinal Shrimp and Gruyere Cheese Grits 路路路

January/February 2012 | 87

The Sweet Magnolia Café Menu Rotini with Italian Sausage in a Tomato Cream Sauce Chicken Venezia Herb Focaccia Magnolia Salad Red Velvet and Elvis Mini Cupcakes ···

88 | No’Ala

Table 18 Menu Parmesan Shrimp and Crab Dip Barbecue Pork Sliders Bacon Mac and Cheese Beef Tacos Panko-Breaded Fried Green Tomatoes Bourbon Pecan Pie 路路路

January/February 2012 | 89

“Time seemed to fly by, but I caught myself at random times just looking at my loved ones, etching the memory of that day in my mind.” —Erin Wittscheck

90 | No’Ala

The ceremony was simple, beautiful, and meaningful. The couple pledged their love in front of family and friends and walked down the aisle as man and wife. And then? The celebration! And what celebration is complete without food? In this case, the food came from four of the best restaurants in the Shoals, each offering a sample of their signature tastes and dishes. Guests piled their plates high, smiles on their faces, and sat down to a feast.

As the sun went down across the expansive green polo fields, the music heated up and the dancing, toasts and laughter continued.

Catering: Dish Gourmet Café, The Sweet Magnolia Café, Table 18, Sweet Basil Café; Wedding Cake: Sugar On Top; Champagne: The Wine Seller; Rolls Royce: Grogan Jewelers

Lyndsie McClure (No’Ala), with Jordyn Dean (right)

Tim Spidel (OverFlo Productions)

January/February 2012 | 91

The Bear

Wes and Tera Wages (Armosa Studios) with Erin and Alex

92 | No’Ala

There’s nothing that could have been added or taken away to make this event any more perfect. As twilight fell, the joyous occasion continued, until, finally, it was time to bring the event to a close. Guests ended the evening by lighting Chinese floating (sky) lanterns, which were released in a spectacular display of light; the final hugs were exchanged, and the bride and groom stepped in to the Grogan Jewelers’ Rolls Royce to be swept away.

It was the perfect ending to the perfect wedding. Thanks to the hard work and generosity of the Perfect Wedding Partners, Alex and Erin were able to begin their life together in style. We offer our congratulations and best wishes to this unique and wonderful couple as they embark on this journey; it has been our honor to share in this special event.

The entire event was documented by Armosa Studios, the originators and creators of the Shoals Perfect Wedding concept. A special DVD, for use by those planning their own Perfect Weddings, has been made possible by First Southern Bank and is available, while supplies last, at any First Southern location. N

January/February 2012 | 93

The Wedding Album » 2011 »

E NGAGEMENT P HOTOGRAPHY

BLAKELY SHERROD AND ALI GILBERT

BY GLASS JAR PHOTOGRAPHY

WELLS AND KATE (JANCAY) BECKETT

BY L AUREN BURROWS PHOTOGRAPHY

94 | No’Ala

MATT BEARD AND WHITNEY PETTUS

BY ABRAHAM ROWE PHOTOGRAPHY

JOSH AND L AUREN (BURCH) POTTS

BY ARMOSA STUDIOS

January/February 2012 | 95

TRACE STEWART AND CASEY GUINN

BY HEATHER MC ALISTER PHOTOGRAPHY

TYLER CORUM AND LEIGH CARL MCELYEA

BY ARMOSA STUDIOS

96 | No’Ala

110 South Pine Street Florence AL 35630

256-764-2141 www.alabamalandservices.com

Chris Bobo, owner

If you are buying or selling real estate, we should talk. At Alabama Land Services, our professionals can help you with title searches, title insurance and real estate closings from the convenience of our downtown Florence location. Our technology is state-of-the-art, but our dedication to service is 125 years old. Our experience makes it easy for you!

Light up your home for the New Year!

This year, brighten your home with elegant choices from SBS! Caspia Chandelier from Hinkley Lighting

625 South Cherry Street 'MPSFODF "- t www.sbselectric.com January/February 2012 | 97

TIMMY AND MAGGIE BEA (DAWSEY) R AY

BY ARMOSA STUDIOS

ZACH STANFIELD AND AMANDA ORI

M. CHAD AND JENNIFER (CURTIS) SMITH

BY AMANDA CHAPMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

BY BUTLER STUDIO

98 | No’Ala

January/February 2012 | 99

MEGAN GALBRAITH AND LUKE RETHERFORD

BY ABRAHAM ROWE PHOTOGRAPHY

JASON AND ROCHELLE (DUNN) ABBOTT

BY CREATE PORTRAITURE

100 | No’Ala

MATTHEW AND L AURA (MILLIGAN) WIMBERLY

BY BUTLER STUDIO

SCOTT AND STEPHENIE (THOMPSON) SMITH

BY AMANDA CHAPMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

January/February 2012 | 101

JIMMY AND CHRISTY (GULLETT) EVANS

BY AMANDA CHAPMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

TOMMY AND EMILY (SLOVER) WINDSOR

BY C APTURED STUDIOS

102 | No’Ala

January/February 2012 | 103

{ food for thought }

BY

SARAH GAEDE

WHEN I GOT MARRIED FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 1971, far too young, one of my most useful gifts was a blue Joy of Cooking, inscribed: “May you have many happy cooking days ahead and be as good a cook as your Mama!” My mama was a good, plain cook, who made the best apple pie in the world. But nothing exotic ever passed our lips in my childhood home, if you don’t count evaporated milk on cereal, which has left deep scars on my psyche, and that one aspic we all refused to eat. My husband’s mother subscribed to Gourmet. He could still remember every meal he ate when he went to France with his family as a teenager. I had a steep learning curve.

Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue Joy, as its fans called it, began with telling the reader how to set a table, and ended with recipes for such exotica as terrapin, tongue, and tripe. I used it for the basics, like roasting times, and supplemented with recipes from Women’s Day and Family Circle. In the late 70s, I became an apprentice at Rich’s Cooking School in Atlanta, presided over by Nathalie Dupree, where I learned to do such classic dishes as terrines, galantines and ballotines. This experience must have left me with an abiding belief that dinner parties required elaborate French food. My husband and I entertained once or twice a year, a major production that left me exhausted. Besides, we lived in I still have my Atlanta, with lots of restaurants. You could leave your kids at home with a old blue Joy on baby sitter and enjoy a night out with grownups. My, how times have my shelf, but changed. now I rely on Mark Bittman’s Shortly after I moved to Savannah in 1980, to write a cookbook for the How to Cook Pirates’ House Restaurant (having parted ways with the first husband), Everything I met my current husband. I’m sure his immediate attraction to me had (my favorite gift nothing at all to do with the fact that my kitchen was a recipe-testing for first-time factory. I’d go out into the highways and byways and compel people to brides) come in to taste three versions of Brunswick stew, or yet another attempt at red rice. When I started catering, I could turn out food for a gala reception for 200, but I still entertained at home only once or twice a year. It was just too much pressure to come up with something that would dazzle my guests.

In seminary, we didn’t have any extra money for fancy entertaining. In fact, one year we got an earned income tax credit, which we spent on good wine (as opposed to the five dollar a half gallon Carlo Rossi Chianti, which was all our budget allowed) and a vacuum cleaner. There was nowhere but the local burger place to eat, so, on top of my studies, I cooked dinner from scratch every night. Once a year, just to keep up my skills, I’d do a labor-intensive dinner party. After seminary we moved to Orlando, where there was Thai, Vietnamese, Japanese, Cuban and Italian, and French, among other ethnic dining spots, for nights out with friends. Again, home dinner parties were few and far between.

Eventually we moved to Florence. With so many friends, and so few restaurants that meet my standards, I have changed my approach to entertaining. I now set a pretty table, set out a bowl of nuts for an appetizer, do a simple, impressive salad as a first course, a lie-down-and-let-it-cook main dish, good bread, and a simple, impressive dessert. I still have my old blue Joy on my shelf, but now I rely on Mark Bittman’s How to Cook Everything (my favorite gift for first-time brides), cookinglight.com and epicurious.com.

104 | No’Ala

My go-to menu: The salad is a new favorite; I’ve been making the pots de crème for 40 years. During the winter months, I would serve Mark Bittman’s Pasta with Bones (on the Internet), beef short ribs, or gumbo. All of them taste better cooked the day before. In the summer, you could do grilled steak, tuna, or pork tenderloin for the main course, with corn on the cob, potato salad or pasta salad on the side, and good quality ice cream with homemade chocolate sauce for dessert.

Flexible, Fabulous First-Course Salad • Mixed baby greens, arugula, or arugula and spinach combo • Seasonal fruit—I like peach slices in the summer and sliced citrus in the winter (1 small peach, clementine, or navel or blood orange per person) • Roasted beets cut in wedges, 1/2 to 1 per person, depending on size (of beets, not persons) • Gorgonzola, Maytag blue, or Cambozola cheese, crumbled • Toasted chopped walnuts or pecans Champagne Vinaigrette (borrowed from the Neelys) • 1 small garlic clove, finely chopped or squooshed through press • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard • 2 tablespoons champagne vinegar (buy at the Wine Seller in Florence) • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice • 1 tablespoon honey • 1 or 2 dashes hot sauce • 1/4 teaspoon salt • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil Whisk everything together until emulsified.

Store in a jar and shake before using.

Toss lettuce in a big bowl, using a light hand on the dressing. Arrange on large salad plates. Artfully arrange fruit and beet wedges on lettuce. Sprinkle cheese and nuts on top; drizzle more dressing over all.

Serve as a first course.

Tried and True Pots de Crème au Chocolat • • • • •

1 cup semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate chips 2 large eggs 2 tablespoons strong coffee 1 tablespoon dark rum 1 tablespoon orange liqueur (like Grand Marnier or Citrónge) • 3/4 cup half and half • Sweetened whipped cream for garnish (Reddi-Wip is fine, but don’t you dare use Cool Whip) Place chocolate chips, eggs, coffee, rum, and orange liqueur in a blender or immersion blender beaker.

Blend until chocolate is finely ground. Bring milk to a full boil. I do this in the microwave in a glass 2-cup measuring cup, but you have to watch it closely. Turn on blender and pour boiling milk into chocolate mixture. Blend until chocolate is melted and smooth. Pour into crème brulée cups, custard cups, or Chinese tea cups (you get the idea) and chill for at least 4 hours.

Served with whipped cream. Serves 4.

January/February 2012 | 105

{ 20 questions }

BY

CLAIRE STEWART

20 Questions for Wedding Stylist, Jordyn Dean wouldn’t go anywhere else for wedding needs!

When it comes to planning a budget for your wedding… …make a list of priorities.

Decide what expenses are most important to include in your special day and which expenses you could possibly minimize or DIY.

Make your wedding experience memorable to your guests by… …creating an interactive environment.

A space for them to not only witness your marriage and reception but to also take part and enjoy the special day or evening.

A couple should get in touch with their wedding planner when… …they need help turning their ideas and dreams into reality and executing their day perfectly.

© Wayne Howes, Shutterstock

The newest fad that I have seen in wedding planning recently has been… …going back to simplicity. I’ve seen more classic and elegant white and natural weddings recently rather than the rustic and colorful trends that have been popular for a while.

“The parents of the bride and groom should help with planning by being supportive but not overbearing.

Remember it is their children’s most special day, not their own.”

Planning your dream wedding on a budget can be… …challenging, yet absolutely possible!

The best way to make your wedding unique and all your own is… …be hands on throughout the entire process, from start to finish. Don’t copy or recreate inspiration or ideas you’ve seen, but put your own thought and creativity into every detail. You’ll truly have a unique wedding day and experience.

Local wedding vendors in the Shoals… …are wonderful to work with and quite resourceful. I

106 | No’Ala

Wedding favors are… …a fun way to let your guests know their presence during your wedding day is appreciated and valued.

One of the most inventive wedding touches I have seen is… …a homemade wedding gown made from the bride’s mother’s and grandmother’s wedding dresses. What a special and personal gown!

The newest fad in clothing for weddings is… …wedding party attire that is practical, stylish, and easy to wear again and fit into the bridesmaid’s and groomsmen’s wardrobes.

The homespun wedding fad is… …anything heirloom or vintage.

When planning a wedding, many couples don’t take into consideration… …postage! Depending on how many guests are invited, postage can creep its way high between save-the-dates, invitations, and RSVP cards.

If you need to cut corners on your budget, take out… …anything that you, your family, or wedding party is tal-

ented at or capable of doing yourselves. Do you have an aunt that can make a beautiful and tasty cake? Any friends that are musicians? That kind of help or service could be considered a wonderful wedding gift. Or if appropriate, bartering can be a budget saver.

The color scheme of your wedding should… …be consistent from the ceremony to the reception and everywhere in between. Consistency is important.

We’ll Make You Shine For all of your special events, count on Party Pros to make it extraordinary. From tents and chairs to tables, lights and china—and now tuxedos!— trust your special event to the event specialists at Party Pros.

The parents of the bride and groom should help with planning by… …being supportive but not overbearing. Remember it is their children’s most special day, not their own.

Usually the bride does the majority of the planning and gets the most attention but… …an involved and supportive groom is definitely underrated!

You want the photographers of your wedding to be… …people you feel comfortable with and trust their vision.

Your photographers are with you and capturing every moment of your wedding day. Perhaps one of the most important components of the wedding!

256-766-6214

The biggest mistake I see couples making when planning their wedding is… …not having a set budget before beginning the planning and designing process. A couple may get their hopes up on a particular dress, location, etc. and then become disappointed when it is out of their price range.

Wedding budgets in this economy are… …usually tight. But with a great attitude and resourcefulness you can make those dollars stretch far and pull off an elegant wedding you’ll always treasure.

Always remember… …what the day is really all about. The beautiful love shared between you and your soon-to-be groom and the life-long commitment you are making to one another. Don’t let any stress or a budget overshadow that.

Jordyn Dean is a hopeless romantic and an admirer of details. She fell in love with weddings while creating her own a few years ago. Jordyn enjoys working with couples to assist in creating their special day—assuring their love and personalities are expressed through their wedding. Her services include event design and styling, engagement shoot styling, and consultation sessions.

We’ve always been your source for tents, tables and all of the details to make your entertaining perfect.

Now we rent tuxedos as well! Come visit our Party Store at our new location at Parkway Shopping Center, adjacent to Regency Square Mall.

Over 1,000 tuxedos in stock!

When it comes to your party, trust the Pros!

Your party headquarters: 2801 Mall Road Suite 5 in Florence.

Call 256-766-6214 or visit www.partyprosusa.com January/February 2012 | 107

{ guess who I saw }

Mark and Donna McCreary Tommy Mathis and Sylvia Towery

Ashli Smith Ed Tease

Sarah and Bobby Irons, Jill Englett

Lindy Blackburn

Barry Morris

Jill Englett Bill Cale

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE FLOR-ALA

Above: Marigail Mathis Portrait Unveiling OCTOBER 20, 2011  UNA, DEPT. OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES

Below: Bishop Automotive Group “Community Driven Event” NOVEMBER 17, 2011  GEORGE’S STEAK PIT, SHEFFIELD

Pat and Bill Shoemaker

Rick Hall, Brad Bishop, and Jim Bishop

Frank Potts, Jr., Tammy Sharp, Dixie Connell, and David Sharp

Jane Bishop Chris Roach

Darren Owen, Tammy Sharp, Brad Bishop, Bill Shoemaker, Elmer Pierce, and Jim Bishop

Mischa Bishop and Leigh Ann Pierce

Elmer Pierce and Brad Bishop PHOTOS BY DANNY MITCHELL

108 | No’Ala

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Chad’s Payless Pharmacy 501 W. College Street, Florence • 256-766-3298 January/February 2012 | 109

{ bless their hearts }

Advice to the Newlywed From the Neverwed As a little girl, I assumed that I would marry.

My childhood girlfriend and I shared a teen idol husband. I’m not sure how Bobby Sherman split his time between us, but it worked out until we moved on to another crush in Tiger Beat magazine. In college, when I had the opportunity to go to France for a month, my parents gave me a choice: Paris now or money later for my wedding.

BY

PAULA ROSS

come from “big wedding” people, and while my dad sometimes refers to me as his “spinster daughter,” I can’t say that I regret not making the trip down the aisle. At my age, I’ve got friends who hope the third time is the charm and friends who are still married to their high school sweethearts. I’m just evening out the statistics.

These days, I prefer to get paid to go to weddings. In addition to my day job, I moonlight for a catering company and a florist.

I’ve gained pounds working with the former and with the latter I have a nickname, “the flower (rhymes with more)”. Most weekends, I get to see beautiful dresses that deserve their own turntables, sample more wedding cake than I care to admit, and usually take home an armful of flowers all while making some pocket money.

So if you’ll indulge me, here’s a little advice from a never wed semi-professional to the first time almost wed: I’ve learned a few things while serving up some buttercream icing.

Decide what is really important to you, your groom, and your families. Have an honest dialogue about expectations. There are so many ways to celebrate. Make sure everyone is on the same page. In her early 40s, my childhood girlfriend finally got over Bobby Sherman I chose Paris. and married a great guy. Even though she commands the attention of first In my 20s, when I joked about getting graders, she did not want to commarried, it was always about The mand the attention of a church full Dress. of people. She and her groom chose to marry in front of their At my age, I’ve got friends I would marry in a small church immediate families and then who hope the third time is the charm with a red clay floor because all celebrated with friends and of my wedding budget would and friends who are still married to relations in the church recepgo into The Dress and it would their high school sweethearts. tion hall. It’s your wedding be a showstopper. To give day, and you and your I’m just evening out the statistics. family and friends a great groom’s preferences should view, my groom and I would be honored. Okay, your prefstand at the altar on a slowly erences should be honored. rotating turntable… my groom, a Macy’s mannequin. It was after all, about Once you’ve made the big picture decisions, it’s The Dress. I could figure out the groom part later. time to face the numbers. There’s a small tribe of people who At 50, I still haven’t gotten around to figuring out the “groom will help create your special day and the first thing they will part”. In all seriousness, I consider myself fortunate that as a want to know is your budget. I know, how romantic! I young woman, my mother’s only edict was to be happy… remember how shocked I was the first time I looked at oh, and if I got married, to elope. My parents recited the bottom line on a floral invoice. When I think about their vows in my grandparents’ living room. I don’t

110 | No’Ala

flowers, Casablanca lilies, French tulips, Lisianthus, and Bells of Ireland come to mind. My first thoughts are not about their fragility, their cross country or international overnight flight, or the time involved in their unpacking and cutting, being made into arrangements and finally, taken to the church on time by someone like me. A good florist, like a good caterer, or pastry chef will have recommendations to help you stay within your budget. Compromise—it’s good practice for marriage. So I’ve heard.

Take into account what kind of personality you and your groom have when choosing a reception venue. Do you want a dressy formal affair or a reception with a laid back feeling?

There are a lot of options available these days in addition to fellowship halls and hotel ballrooms—check out art galleries, B&Bs and restaurants.

If you’re looking for that perfect place for your outdoor wedding, decide what you’re going to do if Mother Nature decides not to cooperate. I’ve worked weddings where it stormed all morning and then the rain clouds cleared for sunshine an hour before the ceremony. I’ve also worked weddings where they didn’t.

If you are planning a fall wedding, check the football schedule.

Seriously. If you grew up here, you probably know this. I’m just confirming it’s the truth. Guests will be sporting earphones, checking cell phones, and may leave before you and your groom do if your reception interferes with watching kick-off.

Whether large or small, wedding receptions are similar to theatrical productions. The show begins with your entrance followed by a carefully choreographed series of acts: the father/daughter dance, the bride & groom’s first dance, the cutting of the cakes, greeting your well wishers, the bouquet toss, and the encore as you leave your reception as Mr. and Mrs. It may seem like a blur. Remember to breathe! Not long ago, as a young couple waited to make their exit to the limo, I heard the bride tell her new husband, “I can’t believe it’s over… tomorrow, we go back to being normal people”. True, but hopefully, with wonderful memories for many anniversaries to come.

If I’m not there serving up that buttercream icing, Congratulations!

January/February 2012 | 111

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{ guess who I saw } “Send in the Hounds,” a Benefit for the Florence Bark Park  OCTOBER 28, 2011  BUFFLER HOUSE, ST. FLORIAN

Lauren McClure, Nikki Koch, and Dena McClure Sydney Richardson, Anna Kate Poag, and Frances Adams Keith Sims and Catherine Baroco

Terri Whalen and Ava Garrison

Gary and Mary Mac Adams, Marty and Chuck Gilbert

Zoie and Brandi McGuyer

Jenny and Molly Hill

Anne Leslie and Jimmy Tompkins PHOTOS BY DANNY MITCHELL

TEAM UP TTO O SHOP!

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MEET MEMPHIS!

Memphis is the winner of No’Ala’s Facebook dog contest to help raise money to build the first dog park in the Shoals.

He is lovingly owned by Anna Kate Poag of Sheffield.

PHOTOS BY

UNA STUDIO PHOTOGRAPHY CLASS CARRIE COOK, CHRISTINA COVINGTON, NICOLE DEVANNEY, CAITLIN DICKENS, HEATHER ELLIS, CLINT FRENCHKO, CECILA GAUDIN, PHILIP HOLCOMBE, LISA KAWATA , ANNA LYLE, AMANDA ORI ERIN SKIPPER . DAVID SPEED, KEN RICKS, VLADIMER LAZOROSKI, AND ERICKA FORSMAN

January/February 2012 | 113

Our invitations make a wonderful impression.

When you plan your wedding, plan to let PSI help.

We can make sure you make a good impression.

Printing • Office Supplies • Furniture • Gifts 113 North Court Street, Florence AL 35630 256-764-8061 114 | No’Ala

For more than seven decades, we’ve been helping Shoals area couples begin their financial lives together. Mortgages, checking accounts, loans, mobile banking and a trust department—these are just a few things that First Southern can offer as you begin a new chapter in your lives. We know how to help you because we’ve been helping people like you for more than 70 years. Come visit your First Southern Banker and see what we can do for you!

We help couples begin their financial lives together.

Planning a wedding? Visit any of our five convenient locations for a free copy of the Shoals Perfect Wedding Planning DVD, while supplies last.

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MEMBER FDIC January/February 2012 | 115

Pick a pharmacy that will be with you

in sickness and in health.

As you start your life together, choose a pharmacy that will be with you all of your lives, in sickness and in health. For more than a century and a half, Shoals area families have chosen Milner-Rushing to keep them healthy, and for help when they are not.

Trust us!

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