No'Ala Huntsville, January/February 2015

BEAUTIFUL, BY HAND | DETAILS WE LOVE | GETTING HITCHED WITHOUT A HITCH

noalastudios.com

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 | noalastudios.com | january/february 

DREAMS UNVEILED. Say "I do" in elegance at the Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa, an award-winning, Four Diamond hotel in Florence, Ala. The 30,000-square-feet of event space can be transformed to meet your needs and the serene countryside offers picturesque locations for an outdoor ceremony or reception. Relax in our European-style spa before walking down the aisle, and let our certified wedding planners help bring to life the Alabama wedding of your dreams.

For more information, call 256.246.3615 or visit www.marriottshoals.com

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

© 2015 Marriott International, Inc.

january/february  | noalastudios.com | 

Now booking for weddings and special events! www.burrittonthemountain.com 256-536-2882

PHOTOS: Darla Hall, Authentic Photography, 256-651-8479; Liss Sterling, Liss Sterling Photography, 256-520-2167

It’s not too early to begin planning for your wedding at Baron Bluff at Burritt on the Mountain. Come look us over and let us show you how we can help you have an event of a lifetime with a fabulous view—at Burritt.

Memorable Weddings Deserve Memorable Locations  | noalastudios.com | january/february 

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January/February

features Featured Weddings

From the processional to the bouquet toss, telling our favorite wedding stories, in pictures and in words text by sara wright covington photos by Kerry Brooks Photography White Rabbit Studios Green Tree Photography Spindle Photography Simply Bloom Photography

16 Getting Hitched Without a Hitch Our insider’s guide to planning your big day

by Sara Wright Covington

102 Details We Love The sum of its parts: individual moments that add up to a beautiful day

by David Sims

36 Engagements

© Kerry Brooks Photography

58

46 Bridals

ON THE COVER: Willoughby Lucas and Joshua Hastings, married in Huntsville August 19, 2014

by White Rabbit Studios

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editor’s letter « Allen Tomlinson

no’ala huntsville advisory board Osie Adelfang ARC Design-Build, Inc. Sarah Brewer Click Photo Designs by Sarah Brewer Madeline Boswell Finery Bridal Boutique Macy Chapman Downtown Huntsville, Inc. Jennifer Doss Huntsville Hospital Leslie Ecklund Burritt on the Mountain Marcia Freeland Lowe Mill Arts & Entertainment Dan Halcomb Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Elizabeth Jones Burritt on the Mountain Ginger Penney Liles Guy McClure Athens State University Patrick Robbins Alabama Pain Center Ashley Vaughn White Rabbit Studios/Vertical Records Charles Vaughn Vaughn Lumber Company Anna Baker Warren Anna Baker Warren Interiors Andrew Wilmon Broadway Theatre League

Welcome to our annual bridal issue, a celebration of style, celebration… and love. This is our most popular issue, and we know of women who have saved these magazines for years as they plan for their own special day. As always, we hope to provide prospective brides with a treasure trove of ideas to make their wedding day extraordinary, and provide those of us who have already had our weddings with glimpses into couples who are starting their lives together. It’s a beautiful issue, if we do say so ourselves—if only because of the happiness portrayed in these pages!

Probably the question we get the most often is “how do I get my wedding in this magazine?” That’s complicated.

First, we only accept submissions from photographers, because they know how to give us the photos we need.

Pictures you take on your cell phone are different from the pictures a professional will take, and it’s important to us to present these beautiful photographs as well as possible. Secondly, we are looking for the unique and different, those little details that give an unusual and interesting twist on a ceremony that can otherwise be remarkably similar to the next one. Back in the day, a wedding was pretty traditional: there was the church, the procession, the vows, the recessional, and the reception; these days, brides are making their weddings a very personal representation of their personality. We are an idea book for other brides, so the weddings that capture our attention are those that express the bride’s personality in a unique way.

To help you, we have started a No’Ala Pinterest page. It’s a collection of the details we find fascinating, and it contains a few of our very favorite things. It’s available all year long, so you don’t have to wait for the annual bridal issue to view the new ideas we want to share. It’s also something you can contribute to; if you’ll tag descriptions of photographs you want to pin with #noalaweddings, we’ll review them and post the best to our Pinterest boards. Who knows? We might see something there that will lead to a feature in the 2016 bridal issue.

For our male readers (and any females who aren’t interested in weddings), we have something special planned for the March/ April issue. We’re going to honor our heroes, people who have made an impact on our communities, our region, and on us, individually, in some profound way. In the meantime, enjoy these winter months, and shop locally!

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contents

BEAUTIFUL, BY HAND Hand-lettering makes a comeback!

54

© Courtesy of Christina Green

everything else 10 14

Calendar Selected Events for January/February 2015

No’Ala Huntsville is published six times annually

by No’Ala Studios PO Box 2530, Florence, AL 35630 Phone: (800) 779-4222 | Fax: (256) 766-4106 Web: noalastudios.com

Cryin’ Out Loud “The Lost Art of Letter Wrting”

Standard postage paid at Huntsville, 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.

by sara wright covington

106

The Vine “Gifts for Years to Come”

Bless Their Hearts “Mother (Nature) of the Bride” by sarah gaede

112 114

Courtesy photo

by amy collins

108

Food for Thought “Let’s Be Ladies!”

32

by sarah gaede

Alabama Aria

Parting Shot

The Huntsville Symphony Orchestra will premier an original comic opera, Georgia Bottoms, in February. Over one year in the making, the piece represents a collaboration between composer Gregroy Vajda and librettist Mark Childress, who adapted his best-selling novel for the stage.

by white rabbit studios

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015 Volume 4: Issue 1 ••• Editor-In-Chief C. Allen Tomlinson Chief Operating Officer Matthew Liles Creative Director David Sims Advertising Director Heidi King Advertising Sales Roseanna Cox, Heidi King Features Manager Roy Hall Graphic Designer Rowan Finnegan Retail Product Manager Sara Wright Covington Proofreader Carole Maynard Intern Kali Daniel ••• Contributing Writers Amy Collins, Sara Wright Covington, Sarah Gaede, Roy Hall, David Sims, Allen Tomlinson ••• Contributing Photographers Patrick Hood, Danny Mitchell, NSight Photography, M. Newsom Photography, Erin Lindsey Images, Lauren Tomasella Photography, Jessica McCravy Studios, White Rabbit Studios, Kerry Brooks Photography, Green Tree Photography, Smith Squared Photography, Simply Bloom Photography •••

text by Allen Tomlinson photos by Patrick Hood

© 2008-2015 No’Ala Studios, All rights reserved.

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

Letters may be edited for space and style.

To advertise, contact us at (256) 766-4222, or sales@noalastudios.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.

Please recycle.

Connect with us on Facebook: No’Ala Huntsville and Twitter: @NoAla_Magazine

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calendar

Thursday, January 1 – Sunday, March 1 Grandma Moses: Visions of America The exhibit will feature original paintings borrowed from institutional collections nationwide and Galerie Street, Etienne, New York, the gallery that has represented Grandma Moses since 1940. Tues-Sat 11:00am-4:00pm, Thurs 11:00am-8:00pm, and Sun 1:00pm-4:00pm; Admission charged; Huntsville Museum of Art, 300 Church St; (256) 535-4350; hsvmuseum.org Friday, January 2 – Friday, February 27 (Fridays only) Friday Night Artists Market Featuring open artist studios, independent shops, hallway demonstrations, and performances. 5:00pm-8:00pm; Free; Flying Monkey Theater, Lowe Mill, Second Floor, 2211 Seminole Dr; (256) 489-7000; flyingmonkeyarts.org Friday, January 30 – Sunday, February 1 Anything Goes Cole Porter’s comedy includes some of musical theater’s most memorable standards, including “I Get a Kick out of You,” “You’re the Top,” and of course, “Anything Goes.” Winner of three 2011 Tony® Awards, including Best Musical Revival and Choreography. Recommended for ages 10 & up. Fri 8:00pm, Sat 2:00pm and 8:00pm, Sun 2:00pm and 7:30pm; Admission charged; Von Braun Center Concert Hall, 700 Monroe St; (256) 518-6155; broadwaytheatreleague.org Friday, January 16 Verdi’s Requiem Both majestic and accessible, Verdi’s Requiem is among the most important entries in the canon of Western music.

7:30pm; Admission charged; Von Braun Center Concert Hall, 700 Monroe St; (256) 539-4818; hso.org Tuesday, February 10 – Saturday, February 28 A Century of Fashions & Wedding Gowns With a scope unprecedented for Huntsville and North Alabama, this comprehensive exhibit, from the private collection of Gay Hinds Money, beautifully documents the evolution of fashion from the late 1800s to the present. $15; Weeden House Museum, 300 Gates Ave; (256) 536-7718; weedenhousemuseum.com Saturday, February 14 Mosaic of Love Enjoy this perfect Valentine’s gift for sweethearts featuring jazz favorite arrangements to delight audiences. 3:00pm and 7:00pm; Admission charged; The Cooper House, 405 Randolph St; (256) 519-2787; hsvmasterchorale.org.

Sunday, February 15 – Sunday, April 26 Rembrandt, Rubens, Gainsborough & The Golden Age of Painting in Europe The exhibition is comprised of brilliant portraits, religious paintings, landscapes, scenes of everyday life, still lifes, and interpretations of classical antiquity. Tues-Sat 11:00am-4:00pm, Thurs 11:00am-8:00pm, and Sun 1:00pm-4:00pm; Admission charged; Huntsville Museum of Art, 300 Church St; (256) 535-4350; hsvmuseum.org Saturday, February 21 Georgia Bottoms: A Comic Opera of the Modern South World premiere of an original comic opera based on the 2014 Harper Lee Award-winning national best-seller by Alabama author Mark Childress. Music by Gregory Vajda; Libretto by Vajda and Childress. 7:30pm; Admission charged; Von Braun Center Concert Hall, 700 Monroe St; (256) 539-4818; hso.org

University of NORTH ALABAMA F O U N D AT I O N Your Gift Matters!

Whether it’s a scholarship, an opportunity to study abroad or an internship, our students can’t succeed alone.

Because of the support from alumni and friends like you, the UNA Foundation was able to award close to $400,000 in student scholarships last year.

Because of you, UNA continues to climb toward higher levels of success.

Because of you, many students in northwest Alabama finally have the funds to attend college.

We Can’t Do It Without You!

CALL US TO LEARN MORE ABOUT UNIQUE WAYS TO GIVE UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION One Harrison Plaza Box 5113 U Florence, AL 35632-0001 256-765-4896 U jtjackson@una.edu www.una.edu/advancement january/february  | noalastudios.com | 

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scene

Susan Leighton, Cecilia Crandall, Mary Anne King, Jim Crandall, Mary Hawkins, Cheryl Bourn, and Rachel Sizemore

Guests dining under the Saturn V Rocket

Bobby Bradley, Todd McBride, and Dr. Mary-Claire King Judy Berkowitz Andrea Rosler, Jane Brown, Paula Lecher, and Suzanne Comer

Wendy Yang, Dr. Rick Myers (President of the HudsonAlpha Institute), and Dr. Mary-Claire King

Theresa Bayer

Liz Hurley and Olivia Hargrove

Above: HudsonAlpha Tie the Ribbons 2014 november ,  · davidson center for space exploration, huntsville

Below: EarlyWorks Society’s 12th Annual Supper with Santa december -,  · earlyworks children’s museum grand hall, huntsville

Jordan and Austin Tucker with Santa Lacey, Jozelyn, and Kaitlyn Franklin with Santa

Reagan Schoener

Aly, Jacksyn Ann, Karen, and Burke Garrett

Emma and Anna Holt with Santa

Caleb and Andrew Handley with Santa

* Names for photos are provided by the organization or business featured.

Jennifer, Reese, Rob, and Caroline Segrest

Ava Williams, Claudia Bloom, Campbell Berger, Hanna Bloom, Pajia Zipperer, and Shelby Layne Xx

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cryin’ out loud » Sara Wright Covington

I HOPE TO SEE YOU SOON: THE LOST ART OF LETTER WRITING During a recent chat with one of my many teacher friends, we lamented the lost art of letter writing, as penmanship no longer has a place in the elementary school curriculum. As we were talking, I remembered being a child at Highland Park Elementary School and using brightly colored, fat pencils to trace cursive letters onto paper with dotted lines as marginal guides. “Try not to let your pencil leave the paper when you write a word,” Mrs. Brittnell would say. A lover of letters even at a very early age, I traced those letters meticulously with intentional strokes, often rubbing holes into the paper as I erased imperfect loops and re-angled the slopes on my vowels and consonants. According to handwriting experts, you can tell a lot about a person by the way they write. Extroverts use larger, sinuous strokes, while introverts have a more thoughtful, controlled style. I don’t know if there is a scientific principle behind this, but my handwriting certainly seemed to change as I have evolved throughout the years. As I grew older and more confident, my handwriting went through various stages—my loops became larger as I came out of my shell in high school and college. Wide, languid script grazed my pages as travel, ambition, and adventure consumed my thoughts. My penmanship became more precise as I attempted to be taken seriously in graduate school. I tapped out timorous sentences and cautiously dipped my toe into the career world. I doodled my

A lover of letters even at a very early age, I traced those letters meticulously with intentional strokes, often rubbing holes into the paper as I erased imperfect loops and re-angled the slopes on my vowels and consonants. way through my first job, long after laptops had taken over as the primary means of expressing thought on paper. Over time I became more assured and independent, eventually signing my signature with a flourish, as I figured out who I was.

Now as a wife, mother, and journalist, my handwriting seems to have taken on an uncharted style of its own. It’s a hybrid of both cursive and print, slanting and straight, intentional but hurried, and—to be perfectly honest—a little scattered.

As fate would have it, only days after talking with my friend, I happened upon buried treasure in a popcorn tin of old pictures in my attic. Tucked into an old envelope at the bottom of that tin, I found a collection of old letters my father wrote to my great-grandmother when he attended Northwestern University in Natchitoches, Louisiana, on a track scholarship more than 50 years ago. Throughout my lifetime I’ve seen much of my father’s handwriting—a distinctive, often illegible, messy scratching—sometimes on loose paper, sometimes on the backs of photographs, and often enough on the insides of cabinet doors and desk drawers. A retired government accountant, he is a notetaker. While I was growing up, I watched him pen many a letter to the editor, the congressman, or the cousin so-and-so twice removed. As I recall, he even had a prison pen pal at one point, but I digress. As I looked at the print on the outside of that yellowed envelope, I

barely recognized the penmanship as his. Maybe he, too, evolved his handwriting as he aged.

It was fascinating to read the words of my young, not-yet father, so wholly oblivious of me.

As I held that same crumbled paper that had been handled by both my father and great-grandmother so many years ago, I remembered their mutual adoration of each other—built on a foundation of a shared love of baseball and blackberry cobbler. She was a tall woman, with thin shoulders that shook when she laughed, and I remember lying across her lap in my grandmother’s porch swing while she tickled my back with a broom straw in the summertime, a fan swirling overhead.

In my father’s letters to her, he described the weather, eating candy from vending machines in his dorm, late nights studying, and running “hell-for-leather” in the track meets that would eventually be the cause of his bad knees.

“It’s Indian Summer here now,” he wrote, “but the leaves are starting to fall faster every day, and it’s getting darker a lot more quickly. From my room I can see down a long grassy slope where our new coliseum is located and across the street is a lake that runs around the campus. It seems the longer I stay down here, the faster time goes by.”

In all of his letters, he concluded with “I love you, and I hope to see you soon.”

He seemed happy but hesitant. Wistful, and homesick.

Years later, he would deliver the eulogy at my great-grandmother’s funeral that he wrote the day before on the same kind of notebook paper as his college correspondence to her.

His written letters froze time for me, giving me a tangible sliver of his existence from a long-gone time in his life when I was but a gleam in his eye.

I read the uncertain, fate-yet-to-be-determined letters of my young father with an omnipotent pride that made me want to reach for my laptop and fire off an email of encouragement to 1964 to say, “You WILL make it. Your life will be a great success. You will be loved.”

Instead, I will probably pick up the phone and call him. If nothing else just to say, “I love you, and I hope to see you soon.”

january/february  | noalastudios.com | 

The Guide To

GETTING HITCHED WITHOUT A HITCH text by sara wright covington

“Things like food and flowers are super-delicate, and really should be left to a professional.”

• Kathleen Bernal, Kathleen Bernal Events

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Weddings have come a long way from modest, cookie-cutter church basement receptions with cake and punch.

And don’t get us wrong, simple and sweet can be absolutely perfect. But social sites like Pinterest have made us all believe that with a barn, a little raffia, and some Mason jars, we can pull off a wedding soiree worthy enough to grace the pages of Martha Stewart’s bridal issue. In reality, even an “effortlessly chic” event does not come off without a whole lot of effort.

Whether your wedding style is simple or super sophisticated, walking down the aisle should be a special, stress-free day for you and your fiancé. And in order to help navigate through all those “do and don’t” decisions before you say “I do,” we’ve compiled advice from some of the very best wedding planners, photographers, caterers, florists, and more.

So take a deep breath—and lots of notes—and allow North Alabama’s most adept professionals to guide you to the altar—and beyond.

First Things First

Making a Guest List: Before any of the wedding planning can properly begin, our experts agree that the first step should be creating the guest list. “The number you come up with will dictate your entire wedding,” says wedding planner Ashley Winkle. “More people means more invitations, food, plates, cups, drinks, etc., which can eat into your budget.”

Winkle also advocates talking to your fiancé and writing out a vision of what you both want the day to look like before making any specific plans. “This will help you to stay on track and not lose sight of what you want your day to be as you are bombarded with ideas from every vendor you talk with,” she says.

Venue, Venue, Venue

After tackling the task of the guest list, securing the venue is the next major step before more planning can ensue. When booking a location, there are several factors to keep in mind that may help in the decision process. Consider Logistics: “If your ceremony and reception are at different locations, make sure they are within a reasonable driving distance for your guests,” says Chelsea Kennedy of Coates & Kennedy.

The guest list should also play a major role in determining the venue, as it is mandatory there is adequate room for all of the guests. “If the venue you are renting has a capacity of 150, please don’t invite 300 people,” advises Cindy Hallman, the rental facility manager of the Huntsville Botanical Gardens. “You probably will not have 300 guests but you may have over 200, and you and your guests will be very uncomfortable.” Consider the Climate: Taking the weather into consideration is also key when making plans. “Many brides want outdoor ceremonies but it is important that your venue can provide you with a back-up plan in case of inclement weather,” says Sandy Nelson of Nelson Place in Florence.

And if you are having an outdoor wedding, it’s also wise to take into account where the sun will be at the time of your ceremony. “Make sure that your venue is in complete shade

at your start time,” says Hallman. “Unless your ceremony is in a completely treed landscape, 3 p.m. is a terrible time for an outdoor ceremony.” Know Your Needs: Lastly, whatever venue you choose, make sure it matches the vision you have for your wedding. “The venue needs to match your personality and your needs,” says Nelson. “It’s also important that your venue’s host or hostess truly is interested in making your wedding day your dream come true.”

Catering Is Key

Second only to the bride, the food at your wedding is likely to be the other star of the show. Guests will arrive to the reception hungry and ready to enjoy whatever spread you have chosen for them. Our catering experts at Dish Café, Sweet Basil Café, and Cyn Shea’s have years of wedding catering under their belts and believe these tips will help the food service go most smoothly at the reception. Consider the Venue When Planning the Menu: “Be flexible with the menu until meeting with your caterer and picking the location,” says Tracy Posey at Dish Café. “Not all venues are amenable to all menus.” The size of the kitchen will also dictate the type of service you should have, as a plated dinner for a wedding of 300+ is not feasible without the proper space to prepare.

Also, if the wedding is outdoors, consider whether or not there will be running water, electricity, and other amenities available or close by. Consider the Environment: Brides should have realistic expectations and pay attention to the setting when making catering choices. “Don’t use Pinterest as the ‘Wedding Bible,’” advises Katrina Hudson at Sweet Basil Café. “Many Pinterest ideas work only for destination weddings, certain climates, etc.” For example, brides should remember that certain foods won’t hold up as well in the extreme heat of an outdoor reception. Therefore, ice sculptures and elaborate cakes aren’t ideal for an alfresco Alabama summer wedding. Consider the Season: When it comes to the time of year the wedding is taking place, the seasons should definitely play a role in what foods are served. Choosing fruits and vegetables that are in season will not only save extra money in your budget, but they will also taste better.

“It’s definitely smarter to consider those seasonal items,” says Cynthia Hart of Cyn Shea’s. “One of my favorite times of year is spring because in North Alabama we have the luxury of local strawberries for only three or four weeks, so anything we can do in those spring weddings from late April to early May, we want to celebrate with those strawberries. And in the fall, you might use new apples, pears, and hard squashes to make your menu reflective of the season.” Listen to the Professionals: In addition to making practical decisions about the season and size of your wedding, take caterers’ advice for what will work best logistically the day of your wedding. Tracy Posey at Dish Café points out that although a kids’ buffet might seem like a good idea in theory, the adults usually end up eating most of it before the kids even see it.

She also stresses the importance of not letting a novice do a professional’s job. “Always let a professional cut the wedding

january/february  | noalastudios.com | 

Getting Hitched Without a Hitch cake,” says Posey. “Do not put your aunt in charge of cutting the cake if she has never done it before. Ask the caterer to provide someone or ask if the baker provides that service.”

Go with Your Gut: Lastly, and most importantly, make sure to hire a caterer who is right for you. “Choose a caterer who is prepared to spend a good deal of one-on-one time with the bride, groom, and mother of the bride,” says Katrina at Sweet Basil Café. “Based on your ideas, the caterer should be able develop a menu that is specific and unique to your wedding.”

Decorating Your Day: The Flowers and Finishes

When it comes to choosing flowers and décor for your wedding, the date, venue, and budget are all key factors. If you are looking to simplify or save money, be realistic about what you can and can’t easily accomplish. “Things like food and flowers are super delicate, and really should be left to a professional,” says Kathleen Bernal of Kathleen Bernal Events.

“Really, really consider what D.I.Y. items you can accomplish without it being overwhelming.” Decide what you want and keep these tips in mind. Reserve Rentals: Ashely Winkle suggests planning ahead for accidents when reserving rental items. “Order extra chairs, napkins, tablecloths, etc., in case one is damaged during setup or isn’t uniform looking. This will save you a mad dash on your wedding day.” She also recommends ordering samples if possible, and to always look at the items in person, as items look different on a computer screen versus in person. Make sure to schedule times for setup and teardown. And if you think you will need a tent, definitely rent one. Book Early: Carl Cassidy of Lola’s Florist suggests booking a florist as early as possible in the planning. “We have people book a year and a half and two years in advance,” he says. You used to hear the term ‘June bride’, but it’s not holding true anymore. Holiday weekends and fall weddings are increasingly popular now.” Pay Attention to the Season: Just as the menu should be influenced by the season, the floral selections should as well. When planning the vision for your wedding, take note of what flowers will be blooming on the date, and don’t let often-staged Pinterest posts dictate the type of flowers you think you should have.

“Yes, there are ways to import,” says Cassidy, “but the reality is that you get much lusher and prettier flowers when they are at their peak versus when things are forced and shipped around the world.” Using seasonal flowers will also allow for more flowers with your money. Be Flexible: Lastly, Cassidy says to allow your florist to have some artistic freedom. “Pinterest is great,” he says, “but I would recommend that girls let their vendors be creative and not copy a Pinterest wedding.”

Wedding Day Wear: The Dress and the Duds

For many brides, picking out a wedding dress is one of the most anticipated shopping trips of a girl’s life. Whether your dress style is an elaborate ball gown with sequin detail or a demure dress once worn by your great-grandmother, you will likely choose your particular gown because it means something to you. Madeline Sandlin, owner of Finery Bridal

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Boutique, specializes in helping brides find exactly what they are looking for and has several suggestions so you won’t lose focus in a sea of dresses. Have an Idea in Mind: Sandlin suggests having an idea of what you think you want before you begin the search. She also suggests keeping the tone of your wedding in mind when selecting a dress. “Time of day, venue, and time of year are all important components in deciding on your gown,” says Sandlin. “Heavy beading isn’t necessarily the best option for a Sunday ceremony followed by an intimate brunch reception.” And even if you do have an exact idea of what you want, don’t rule anything out. “My advice for brides who are unsure is to try on one ball gown, one fit-and-flare, and one A-line dress the first time they go shopping for their gown,” she says. “It’ll quickly become clear which silhouette works best for your shape.” Bring People You Trust: Wedding dress shopping can be overwhelming and it’s easy to get confused about what you want. “Bring people you trust and who will tell you the truth,” advises Sandlin. “All wedding dresses are beautiful, and it’s good to have an entourage to bring you back down to earth.” And once you find THE dress, stick to your instincts. “Stay true to what you love and then put the magazines and Pinterest boards away,” says Sandlin. And while she says it’s important to have people you trust to help you shop, this is one day you shouldn’t try to share with a friend who is also engaged and dress shopping. “Some experiences weren’t meant to be shared even with the closest of friends,” she says. “Book your appointments on separate days so that you can be present for each other and not in competition with each other.” Lastly, Sandlin stresses to just have fun and enjoy the process. “Remember what brought you to the planning process and who will be there after the party is over.”

Suiting the Groom

For the gentlemen in the wedding, picking out suiting may not seem as exciting as the bride’s search for the dress, but it’s still important to do it thoughtfully. Get Measured: “All suits seem to fit a little differently, and it is important to have someone measure you for a specific suit,” says John Posey of Coats Clothing. “A lot of guys tend to think that dress slacks and suit slacks will fit the same as the blue jeans they’ve had for a while. This is far from true. You want your slacks to be the perfect length to prevent them from bunching on the shoes, causing a puddle effect. If the pants are too long, you’ll end up walking on them and ruining your investment. And the same goes with the waist. You’re going to wear the slacks a little higher up on your waist than a pair of casual pants, so you want to have it tailored to your specific fit. You want the suit to look like it was made for your shape and size, not one that you borrowed from your friend’s closet.” Suited for the Setting: Whether you choose to rent or buy, make sure your selection is appropriate for the wedding. “We’re seeing a lot of attire that is more casual these days,” says Posey. “I guess in the right setting, it works just fine, but I’m a little more traditional when it

“My advice for brides who are unsure is to try on one ball gown, one fit-and-flare, and one A-line dress the first time they go shopping for their gown.

It’ll quickly become clear which silhouette works best for your shape.”

• Madeline Sandlin, Finery Bridal Boutique

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“You want your slacks to be the perfect length to prevent them from bunching on the shoes, causing a puddle effect.

If the pants are too long, you’ll end up walking on them and ruining your investment.”

• John Posey, Coats Clothing

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Getting Hitched Without a Hitch comes to a wedding. I think a nice tuxedo or suit is always a good way to go.”

Time to Shine: Makeup and Hair

Any bride who has been dreaming of her wedding day since she was in pigtails likely has a very definite vision about how she wants to look on her day in the spotlight. After the dress has been chosen, hair and makeup will complete that look.

And once again, it’s usually best on such an important day to allow a professional to help create your vision. “Definitely hire a professional make-up artist and hair stylist,” says Kathleen Bernal. “A lot of people do not realize what a difference it can make, but these professionals really know how to make you look beautiful in pictures, bright lights, natural lights, etc. It’s definitely different than an everyday look.” Trial Runs: Setting up trial runs with your stylist is very important to making sure you achieve the look you want on the day of the wedding. Andy Cagle of Andy’s The Professionals in Florence suggests at least two practice runs, as well as bringing photos of styles with front and back views that you are interested in trying. “Don’t forget to bring any accessories you are planning to use in your hair and bring a photo of your wedding gown to ensure that you hairstyle will complement your gown.” Know Your Style: Different types of hair require different preparation,” says Glenn King of Salon Ka-Terra. “For instance, with fine hair you should shampoo the morning of and not really use any conditioner.

Use a little mousse and blow dry it out, but don’t style. You should also never flat iron your hair. And for thicker, coarser, or textured hair you should shampoo it the night before and let it dry naturally.” Makeup Matters: When it comes to bridal makeup, King says to arrive to your appointment with clean, makeup-free skin. “The night before and the morning of, you should moisturize really well and drink lots of water,” he says. Lastly, let your makeup artist/stylist guide you into looking your best and don’t go overboard. “Be sure your goal is to bring out your best features, so keep it simple,” says Andy. “Sometimes less is more.”

Presence Requested: The Invitations

After months of planning, save-the-date cards and invitations will give your guests a glimpse into the excitement of the event to come. When it comes to ordering paper, Frances Ledgewood at Printers and Stationers, Inc. has several tips to consider. Over Order: The guest list will likely grow throughout the engagement, so ordering extra will save you time and headache later. Think Long-Term: There are endless possibilities and trends when it comes to invitations, from traditional to contemporary. “Go with something that you will look back on years from now and still love,” advises Ledgewood. “It’s easy to get caught up in current trends, but you want your invitations to be classic and timeless. Savethe-dates are where you can be more casual and fun with your design elements and incorporate any particular theme or color scheme you are using.” Order Locally: Online or-

dering has become increasingly simplified, and it’s tempting to think this is a less complicated option. But Ledgewood cautions against eliminating the in-person ordering experience. “When ordering online, you don’t ever know exactly what you are getting until it arrives on your doorstep,” she says. “It is great to order your stationery locally, just so that you get to see and feel the paper and printing process.” Plan Ahead: Invitations should be mailed a minimum of 4 weeks before the wedding, and in some cases 8 weeks ahead. “You need to keep in mind the time it takes to order, print, and process the wedding suite. Also include a time frame for calligraphy for the envelopes and time to stuff, seal, and stamp,” says Ledgewood.

Picture Perfect: The Photography

Of all of the vendor decisions you will make throughout your wedding planning process, the photographer will be one of the most significant. “At the end of the wedding, photos are all you have left,” says Armosa Studios photographer Tera Wages. “Hire someone who has experience and fits your personal style. Also, make sure your personalities work well together because you will spend more time with this person on your wedding day than anyone.” Once you have booked your photographer, be sure to listen to the advice of our experts to ensure the best pictures. Consider Light: When you are picking your venue, keep in mind where the sun will be at different times of the day. “If you want romantic, sundrenched sweetness with your love—which I highly recommend making time for—the best time to achieve this look is during the golden hour, which is the hour before sunset,” recommends wedding photographer Ashley Vaughn. “In the summer it’s around 7 to 8 p.m. and in the winter it’s from 4 to 5 p.m.” Also remember to consider where the sun will be at different points during your ceremony. “Think about where the sun is during your ceremony. You want it behind you or directly in front of you,” says Wages. Remember that natural light is always best, and plan to take some pictures outside no matter what time of year it is. For the indoor pictures, consider the light in even the simplest shots, like where you will get ready with the bridal party. Wages suggests finding a nicely lit space with window light and walls that are lightly colored as opposed to dark. “These photos are important,” says Wages. “This is where your photographer will capture the details and beautiful moments of you.” If the church or venue doesn’t have a space that will work well for photos, Wages suggests asking a friend or family member to borrow their home for this part of the day. Plan Ahead: Make sure to allot enough time for pictures throughout the day. Decide as a couple whether you want to see each other before or after the wedding and let your photographer work with your wedding planner to work out a timeline. And when it comes to family wedding pictures, make sure to have a plan ahead of time of what groupings you want and put someone besides the photographer in charge of getting family members together. “It’s best if someone in the family or the planner

january/february  | noalastudios.com | 

Getting Hitched Without a Hitch could be in charge of gathering the folks and checking off this list,” says Vaughn. “Doing so allows me to capture both the candid and posed moments with your beloved groups.”

Be Realistic: Choose to work with a photographer because you like his or her style, not because you are looking to replicate something you have seen on Pinterest. Have Fun: Ashley Vaughn suggests practicing posing with your fiancé by finding shots that you like in magazines, but to be yourself. “I love photographing real people in real love, so please don’t feel like you have to act like a model or do anything that doesn’t make you comfortable. If I do suggest a pose that doesn’t feel just right, don’t hesitate to make it your own! Get silly, smile, laugh, and most importantly—love!”

Eat, Drink, and Be Married

Our last bit of advice is one idea that ALL of our wedding experts can agree upon: DON’T STRESS “Hire a wedding planner,” says Cindy Hallman. “It can make planning your wedding fun instead of stressful. If you can’t afford a wedding planner from the start, hire one for the day of the wedding.

The last thing you need to worry about on your wedding day is decorating the reception venue, or whether the caterer/ photographer/DJ/etc. has arrived.” Chelsea Kennedy advises staying present throughout the day. “Don’t spend your wedding day on Facebook or Twitter,” she says. “Live in the moment.” Be Prepared: Make a list of everything you will need a month before the wedding. “Include everything from fire starters for the candles, boxes for packing up items, pens for signing, frames, frame holders, items for your own emergency kit, gifts for wedding party, etc.,” says Kathleen Bernal.

“And keep it updated, if anything changes. If you make it a month before the wedding, you’ll be much more clear-headed.” Also put together an emergency bag for you and your bridesmaids for the day of the wedding. Include things like chalk (to cover stains on your wedding dress), safety pins, bobby pins, deodorant, lipstick, fashion tape, Tylenol, and water. It’s also good to include first aid items, special medicines, and any other items you may need to help with getting dressed. Pack Ahead: Pack your honeymoon bag a few days before the wedding so you can enjoy time with family and friends and focus on the wedding. Also, don’t forget to pack a change of clothes for the day after the wedding. Eat, Drink, and Be Married: Lastly, give someone the job of making certain you sit down, rest, and eat the day of the wedding.

After spending months of planning the day, take time to enjoy it. And finally, just breathe. “Remember, at the end of the day it is about the marriage,” says Ashley Winkle. “The wedding is just one day out of the rest of your lives. Ultimately it is about the commitment you make to one another, not the flowers, the food, or the dress. So choose your mate wisely and make a wholehearted commitment to one another for a lifetime. Life will throw you curveballs, but it is up to each of you to choose to honor the commitment you make.”

 | noalastudios.com | january/february 

With This Ring: Tips for Ring Shopping

Before any of the wedding planning process begins, it is the ring that seals the deal. And although it is stereotypically the bride who will shine the brightest on the wedding day, the pre-engagement ring selection is ultimately the groom’s time to shine. “It is the purchase of a lifetime,” says Patty Klos of Parker Bingham Jewelers. “Through the years you will have new houses, cars, etc., but she will always treasure her original engagement ring.” But with endless styles, stones, cuts, and colors, the selection process can be more than a little daunting. So after talking to some of North Alabama’s diamond experts, we’ve put together a list to provide a little more clarity for finding “the one.”

Listen for Clues: “Don’t miss the hints,” says Jay Klos of Grogan Jewelers. “Keep an eye and an ear open when you are out shopping.” Jamie Hood of Jamie Hood Jewelers also suggests using social media sites like Pinterest to get clues as to whether she likes white or yellow gold or platinum. Also, let her friends guide you. “Whenever possible use her best friends as a guide to the right setting and diamond,” advises Hood. “It will strengthen your bond with her friends who, if they haven’t already, are about to become your friends too.” And there is no need to know her ring size before you begin shopping. Our jewelry experts agree that most rings can be sized to fit. Know the Stones: Hood suggests studying up on the 4 C’s when shopping: color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. “There are lots of resources online,” says Hood. “Most jewelers use them as a resource for diamond certification as well.” Shop Small Town: “Shop independent jewelers, as they will be able to offer you better service and better value for your money,” says Klos. “And if you ever need your ring serviced, they don’t have to ship it off.” Independent jewelers also often have trained gemological experts on staff and can likely make anything you want. Warranty is another aspect of service to consider. “Often chain stores will offer to sell you a warranty whereas most independent jewelers offer it free as part of the purchase,” says Hood. “They will welcome the chance to keep your ring looking great and you AND your fiancée happy with your purchase. Also, choose a jeweler who is sensitive to your needs and your budget whether you’re spending a few hundred dollars or $100,000. Independent jewelers want you as a customer for life and are usually going to go the extra mile to keep you happy.”

Bands for the Man: When it comes to the gentlemen, Klos suggests that it’s usually a good idea for them to come along when making a selection and to allow at least six weeks before the wedding, in case there are any special orders or sizing issues. “Consider what kind of work he does when picking out what you want the wedding band to be made out of. Also, ask to have the date engraved on the inside (He won’t forget your anniversary!), and also your initials and his.”

“It’s definitely smarter to consider seasonal items. One of my favorite times of year is spring because in North Alabama we have the luxury of local strawberries for only three or four weeks, so anything we can do in those spring weddings from late April to early May, we want to celebrate with those strawberries. And in the fall, you might use new apples, pears, and hard squashes to make your menu reflective of the season.”

• Cynthia Hart, Cyn Shea’s

january/february  | noalastudios.com | 

24 »

market » Sara Wright Covington » Photos by Patrick Hood The

Newlyweds

Green Water Goblets ($13.50 each) Interior MarketPlace (256) 539-9113 Assorted Dish Towels ($20.50 each) Picnic Basket ($96.75) Blue Tablecloth ($218) Yellow Napkins ($22 each) Wooden Wine Bucket ($150.50) Arte Italica Dinner Plates ($36 and $28) Lawren’s (256) 534-4428 64 oz. Growler by Southern Growler ($75) Liquor Express (256) 539-4333 southerngrowler.com Newly Wed Sign ($18) Christina Green theturquoisecardinal.com Leap of Faith Wine ($17.98) Church Street Wine Shoppe (256) 970-4097

 | noalastudios.com | january/february 

2015 Madison County Plat Book only available at Rockfordmap.com

News, classical music and more Introducing a new partnership for No’Ala Studios: Life on the Water. Southern Ways — Sunshine Days. Subscribe today! www.noalastudios.com/shoals/subscribe

88.7 FM Muscle Shoals • 100.7 FM Huntsville www.apr.org january/february  | noalastudios.com | 

26 »

market » Sara Wright Covington » Photos by Patrick Hood

The

Bridesmaids

Clarisonic Brush ($99) Spa Robe ($100) Bare Minerals Lip Gloss Set ($26) Terrame (256) 319-3003 Will You Be My Bridesmaid Card ($22.50/Set of 6) Christina Green theturquoisecardinal.com Assorted Soaps ($72.50) Clutch ($120) Lawren’s (256) 534-4428 Pink Scarf ($29.95) Grey Infinity Scarf ($13.50) Interior MarketPlace (256) 539-9113 Möet Champagne ($35.60) Liquor Express (256) 539-4333

 | noalastudios.com | january/february 

january/february  | noalastudios.com | 

28 »

market » Sara Wright Covington » Photos by Patrick Hood

the

Out-of-Town Guests

Betty Jo’s Gourmet Slaw ($9.95) Habanero Pepper Jelly ($9.95) Dixie Corn Chowder ($9.95) Piper & Leaf Tea ($9.95) Fred Bread ($5.00) Balsamic Red Onion Chutney ($11.99) Alabama Mugs ($28 each) Merry Cheese Crisps ($7.95) Interior MarketPlace (256) 539-9113 Boxed Truffles ($41) Pizzelle’s Confections at Lowe Mill (256)-513-9745 Picnic Basket ($82.50) Alabama Restaurant Book ($19.99) Guest Towels ($7 each) Dish Towel ($20.50 each) Lawren’s (256) 534-4428

LaunchYour Next GiantLeap

AT THE U.S. SPACE & ROCKET CENTER WITH NATIONAL HISTORIC TREASURES

You’re One Small Step From Your Perfect Day! spevents@spacecamp.com / 256.721.7183

Photo Credit: Allison Jansen Photography

ROCKETCENTER.COM january/february  | noalastudios.com | 

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market » Sara Wright Covington » Photos by Patrick Hood

Coastal Cotton Cap ($26) Patagonia Pullover ($65) Yeti Cooler ($249.99) 30 oz. Yeti Thermos ($34.99) Alabama Outdoors (256) 885-3561 Assorted Beers ($1.79 to $11.49) Liquor Express (256) 539-4333 32 oz. Growler by Southern Growler ($60) southerngrowler.com Shaving Kit ($26.50) Lawren’s (256) 534-4428

The

Groomsmen

I can help you

GROW

your own way.

Emily Taylor 5510 Promenade Point Pkwy, Suite 160 Madison, AL 35757 256-430-2781

1114-519HO

january/february  | noalastudios.com | 

Alabama Aria text by allen tomlinson » photos by patrick hood

 | noalastudios.com | january/february 

If only Eugene didn’t run on so long in his sermons, Georgia thought, a person might not have time to think about how hot it was in this church. Beads of sweat were trickling in a very personal path around each vertebra, into the waistband of her panty hose. It was September, but still summer held Alabama in a death grip. Georgia did not give a damn about global warming, because she knew Alabama couldn’t possibly get much hotter than this…

Before he wrote these opening lines for Georgia Bottoms, Mark Childress had already written six books, including Crazy in Alabama, which had been made into a hit movie from his screenplay starring Melanie Griffith and directed by Antonio Banderas. Mark’s style is easy and conversational, and the reader can’t wait to turn the page because fascinating—and oftentimes funny—things happen with lightning speed. Georgia Bottoms is the story of a woman who is, from every viewpoint, a model citizen of Six Points, Alabama: beautiful, worldly, a terrific cook, and a faithful member of the church. She also happens to have a discreet business on the side, “entertaining” six local gentlemen (one every night, with Mondays off ).

When the preacher, Eugene Hendrix, feels guilty and decides to confess their affair (he is Georgia’s Saturday night appointment) in front of the entire congregation, things get a little tense for Georgia—to put it mildly—and she sets out to save herself and her reputation.

A wonderful book—and, after Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Music Director and Conductor Gregory Vajda read it, the perfect book for a comic opera. “It has everything,” said Gregory, “from drama and intrigue to laugh-out-loud situations.

I read it and immediately wanted to set it to music and produce it as an opera.”

Mark Childress was born in Monroeville, Alabama, which also happens to be the home of Harper Lee and Truman Capote. His writing style is deeply rooted in a rich Southern tradition. Gregory, on the other hand, was born in Budapest, Hungary, to bassoonist József Vajda and operatic soprano Veronika Kincses. Gregory’s life is deeply rooted in classical music. Could two cultures meet and collaborate?

The answer is a resounding “yes.” And the world will see the result of their collaboration on February 21, when the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra presents the world premiere of Georgia Bottoms: A Comic Opera of the Modern South in the Mark C. Smith Concert Hall at the Von Braun Center.

Facing page: Soprano Rebecca Nelsen as Georgia Bottoms.

Just as this is not Mark Childress’s first book, this is not Gregory Vajda’s first composition—by a long shot. He conducted his own composition for the silent film

january/february  | noalastudios.com | 

The Crowd at the Auditorium of the Louvre, with American pianist Jay Gottlieb.

He has also recorded his piece Duevoe with the Hungarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, and premiered Barbie Blue Overture Fantasy in 2011 in Huntsville. His résumé is packed with vocal, orchestral and ensemble compositions, but this is perhaps the first time he’s had a chance to work with a piece of Southern Americana and the author who is responsible for putting the words on paper.

“Working with Mark has been a dream,” said Gregory. “His libretto captures the essence of the story, even though writing for song is much different than writing for a fiction reader.” It took over a year for Mark to finish the libretto, and he and Gregory consulted frequently to compare notes and make refinements. “Even though the score and the words are where we want them to be, when the actors step on stage, the piece will take on a life of its own,” said Gregory. “It’s a little nerve-wracking, but it’s very exciting. We can’t wait to see what this will become!”

Much of that will be up to Director David Gately, and the principal singers, who include American soprano Rebecca Nelsen as Georgia, and tenor Christopher Pfund as the Reverend Eugene Hendrix. There are eleven cast members in all, and all received their scripts and scores months ago; although some of the cast members are residents of North Alabama, most are not, and rehearsal the week before the performance will be intense. “Each singer will come to the rehearsals with their parts memorized, but we won’t do any blocking or staging until

“Even though the score and the words are where we want them to be, when the actors step on stage, the piece will take on a life of its own. It’s a little nerve-wracking, but it’s very exciting. We can’t wait to see what this will become!” —Gregory Vajda  | noalastudios.com | january/february 

Courtesy photo

the week prior to the February performance,” said Gregory. “We’ve chosen true professionals, so that’s not unusual—but as the composer, I’ll admit to being a little nervous.”

HSO CEO Dan Halcomb sees all of this from a different perspective. “It took Mark and Gregory more than a year to see this through to fruition, but it took a much larger group of people, playing a variety of supporting roles, to make sure this really happens,” he said. “There are expenses above and beyond the normal cost of staging an orchestra performance, because of props and costumes, makeup, staging, and the large cast of singers. Presenting this world premiere costs about twice as much as a normal concert, but the community stepped forward and underwrote this show. We could not have done any of it without them, and we think they will be very pleased with the final result.”

Facing page: Soprano Rebecca Nelsen; Above, left: Conductor and composer, Gregory Vajda, and author and librettist, Mark Childress.

Georgia Bottoms, the character, is a woman we all know—or think we do. A free spirit, she’s sassy and smart, and even though the story uncovers a side to her we never guessed existed, we still root for her and want to see her prevail. “Don’t let the word ‘opera’ scare you away,” Halcomb adds. “This is a story set to music, and it’s a funny, intriguing tale about a fascinating woman in a very small Southern town. It’s appropriate that this premiere happens here in Huntsville, because our audiences will recognize the characters, and the overall theme rings true: things are not always what they seem.”

To reserve seats for Georgia Bottoms: A Comic Opera of the Modern South, visit www.hso.org or call the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra at (256) 539-4818. The performance is Saturday evening, February 21, 2015, at 7:30 p.m. in the Mark C. Smith Concert Hall, VBC.

january/february  | noalastudios.com | 

Engagements

 | noalastudios.com | january/february 

Sarah Twigg & Michael Payne October 18, 2014

by White Rabbit Studios

Abigail Moeller & Andrew Fredelake September 26, 2015

engagements

by White Rabbit Studios

Anna DeVault & Nicolas Reinhart November 1, 2014

by Kerry Brooks Photography

Jennifer Wiley & Andrew Ceci March 21, 2015

by Lauren Tomasella Photography

 | noalastudios.com | january/february 

Candice Tittle & Zachary Cameron October 4, 2014

by White Rabbit Studios

january/february  | noalastudios.com | 

Sarah Snoddy & Matthew Schuster August 30, 2014

engagements

by Green Tree Photography

Heather Villanueva & Erin Gowdy October 5, 2014

by White Rabbit Studios

Lindsay Link & Chad Holloway November 1, 2014

by White Rabbit Studios

 | noalastudios.com | january/february 

Kaitlin Clark & Alex Finney July 3, 2014

by Green Tree Photography

Missy Backus & Alex Jones April 25, 2015

by Lauren Tomasella Photography

january/february  | noalastudios.com | 

Sarah Caskey & Ryan Adams November 21, 2015

engagements

by Lauren Tomasella Photography

Caitlin Bradford & Clay Chandler September 19, 2015

by Smith Squared Photography

Lacee Doucette & Jacob McCurry December 6, 2014

by Green Tree Photography

 | noalastudios.com | january/february 

Morgan Seeley & Robert Cooper May 9, 2015

by Lauren Tomasella Photography

Kara Collins & Jake Mann May 16, 2015

by Lauren Tomasella Photography

january/february  | noalastudios.com | 

engagements

Ali Barnette & Ben Hawkins November 1, 2014

by Green Tree Photography

 | noalastudios.com | january/february 

Jessica Raulerson & Aaron Amacker May 24, 2015

by Lauren Tomasella Photography

Sonia Erickson & Matthew Moran May 25, 2014

by White Rabbit Studios

january/february  | noalastudios.com | 

 | noalastudios.com | january/february 

Bridals

Camillia (King) Stanley

by NSight Photography

january/february  | noalastudios.com | 

bridals

Sarah (Norris) Booth

by M. Newsom Photography

 | noalastudios.com | january/february 

Holly (Stafford) Anderson

by M. Newsom Photography

Sarah (Wiley) Shaneyfelt

by M. Newsom Photography

Caitlin (Stancil) Witt

by Erin Lindsey Images

january/february  | noalastudios.com | 

bridals

Rochelle (Thomas) Cantrell

by Lauren Tomasella Photography

Maegan (Slaten) Biehn

by Spindle Photography

Demeka (Campbell) Kilgore

by NSight Photography

Eleanor (Harper) Patterson

by Jessica McCravy Studios

 | noalastudios.com | january/february 

C y n S h e a’ s

Personal Wedding Planner { Insert your personal 4x6 photo here }

2 0 YE AR S 1995201 5

Dear Brides-To-Be, Since opening my own catering business 20 years ago, I have had the honor of catering over 500 weddings and rehearsal dinners, allowing me to witness thousands of clients’, friends’, and families’ most joyful moments. The unveiling of each unique event and our clients’ satisfaction quickly built our reputation as "distinctively different" and among the best in our field, because we make every effort to provide exceptionally fresh and innovative foods.

Cyn Shea's Complete Catering, Inc. opened in 1995. The company expanded in 2002 to include Cyn Shea’s Garden Café in the Hampton Cove area. By 2007, we moved to downtown Huntsville into our much larger, casual-but-elegant bistro, Shea’s Express, where we introduced our Cynfully Delicious cake line.

The business was and is still today built by word of mouth and strong relationships with our clients, community and an expansive network of vendors. The results of these relationships have afforded us noted accolades featured in Southern Living, Southern Lady, and Southern Bride magazines. In 2011, we won the Torch Award from the Better Business Bureau for our marketplace ethics. While that same year, we were named the Small Business of 2011 Winner by the HuntsvilleMadison Co. Chamber of Commerce.

Yet one of the greatest honors we continue to receive as a company is being invited to share in one of the most intimate and memorable moments of life – your wedding. A wedding is much more than a day of celebration. It’s a miracle, uniting two people in a covenant relationship with God. Through my various walks of life – being an Entrepreneur and President of Cyn Shea’s, as well as a Mother, Wife and Grandmother of four – God has always been there for me, hand in hand.

Today, 20 years later, I am blessed to say that Cyn Shea’s is still known as one of the very best caterers in Huntsville, because we honor your invitation. I look forward to making new friends and memories as we continue to cater weddings, showers and rehearsals for you that are distinctively, deliciously, different!

Sincerely,

Cynthia Shea Hart President/Owner, Cyn Shea’s Complete Catering, Inc.

415 Church Street, Suite E-5, Huntsville, AL 35801 www.cynsheas.com • (256) 88-CATER; 882-2837 • cater@cynsheas.com

2 0 YE AR S 1995201 5

12 months

/ month

You're engaged—congratulations! Now the planning begins.

First things to consider: your wedding date and your budget. A lot hangs on these choices. Check with your preferred ceremony and reception venue(s) and reserve the date. Then give Cyn Shea's Complete Catering a call and book the best caterer in town!

¨ Set the budget and wedding date ¨ Reserve ceremony location ¨ Reserve reception site ¨ Book Cyn Shea's Complete Catering

Eleanor & Chip

year

11 months

/ month

year

At the drawing board

To make your wedding as stress-free as possible, find a talented wedding planner. And for those memories that last a lifetime, make sure you hire a great band or DJ and a wedding photographer to capture those perfect moments—the first dance, the kiss, cutting the cake.

¨ Hire a wedding photographer ¨ Consult and book a wedding planner ¨ Book the band or DJ for the reception

Vanessa & Tyler

Morgan & Taylor

10 months

/ month

year

Say yes to the dress and choose your guests!

It's time to go dress shopping. When you have that "aha" moment, you'll know it's the one. Also this month, compile a guest list and begin to organize their addresses. It will make it so much easier later!

¨ Select and order your wedding dress ¨ Compile a guest list and organize addresses

9 months

/ month

It’s not a wedding without cake and flowers… or a honeymoon!

Select your cake flavor, style and colors. Fondant or buttercream? Tiered masterpiece or cake bar?

Order your wedding cake and book a florist now. It's also time to plan your honeymoon! Booking tickets ahead can save money. And if you're traveling overseas, be sure those passports aren't expired.

¨ Order wedding cake ¨ Book a florist ¨ Start planning your honeymoon: buy tickets, book hotels, plan itinerary

Susanne & John

year

8 months

/ month

year

The wedding party

As a couple, talk about who you want your attendants to be on your big day and ask them now. Then select the bridesmaid gowns and men's formal wear and get your attendants' sizes. Don't forget matching shoes!

¨ Select your wedding attendants ¨ Choose attendants' gowns and formal wear

7 months

/ month

Come to my wedding!

Depending on your venue, you may need to rent equipment—tables, chairs, decorations. Get that all taken care of through a professional rental service. It's also time to order wedding invitations and send Save the Date cards.

¨ Reserve rental equipment for wedding reception ¨ Order wedding invitations ¨ Send out Save the Date cards

Emma & Arnold

Ali & Will

year

6 months

/ month

year

Gifts Galore

Everyone likes presents! Compile a gift registry at your favorite stores, selecting items that fit various budgets. And it's the perfect time to purchase your wedding rings. Have them engraved with something meaningful to both of you.

¨ Compile your gift registry ¨ Purchase wedding rings

5 months

/ month

year

Who's coming to the wedding?

Finalize the guest list. Whew! Now that that's down, you can plan your rehearsal dinner with Cyn Shea's Complete Catering and reserve room blocks at local hotels for your out-of-town guests.

¨ Finalize the guest list ¨ Plan the rehearsal dinner at Shea's Express ¨ Reserve room blocks at hotels for out-of-town guests

4 months

/ month

year

Pretty little details

You want to look and feel your best on your Big Day. Consult and book a hair and make-up artist who will make you the beauty queen of the wedding. Start looking for special gifts for your friends and family who are with you through all of the planning and details.

¨ Set a date with a hair and makeup artist for yourself and the bridal party.

¨ Purchase wedding party gifts and favors ¨ Start composing a day-of timeline to avoid any last-minute uncertainties.

Jessica & Andrew

3 months

/ month

year

It's just around the corner!

You're almost there, but you can't forget the one thing to make it official: the marriage license.

It's also a good time to select what's seasonally fresh for your flowers and bouquet and for your catered menu as well.

¨ Obtain your marriage license ¨ Meet with your florist to select your flowers ¨ Go over menu details with Cyn Shea's Complete Catering

Special Occasions 1021 Meridian Street Huntsville, Al 256.534.5701 www.mullinsrentals.com

Amy & Jonathan

2 months

/ month

year

You're invited

Your guests will start getting excited and so will you as you picture the perfect moments set to specially chosen music.

¨ Mail wedding invitations ¨ Meet with your photographr to discuss key wedding shots that you want ¨ Review your music playlist with your selected band or DJ

1 month

/ month

year

Last but not least

Make all of your final payments, notify Cyn Shea's Complete Catering of your final guest count, and make sure everyone knows their role in the wedding.

Now leave the rest in the capable hands of the professionals you have chosen.

Enjoy every moment of your Big Day as all your careful planning comes together, creating the perfect day, the start to the marriage of a lifetime!

¨ Finalize all the details with your vendors and send final payments ¨ Have your final dress fitting ¨ Notify Cyn Shea's Complete Catering of the final guest count for the reception ¨ Plan toasts and blessings for the wedding ¨ Enjoy a bachelorette party! The planning is over, your Big Day has arrived!

Christen & Jake

Ashley & Will

tips of the trade

Before scheduling your cake consultation, have all of your ideas and inspirations printed out. This will make comparing ideas easier for you in your finished design.

- Couture Cakes

When selecting your wedding team, be sure to hire full time professionals whom you can trust. A great idea is to ask your favorite vendors who they enjoy working alongside, then, follow your intuition.

- Metropolitan Disc Jockey Service Give your guests an edible or consumable wedding favor. They will think of you as they enjoy a delicious treat, and you will feel good knowing that it doesn't end up in a thrift store or the landfill when they do their spring cleaning.

- Decorous Dishes

Page 2 - Photo by Meghan Newsom Page 3 - Eleanor and Chip photographed by Jessica McCravy Studios. Calendar photos by Sonya Balentine Photography, Heather McAlister, and Jessica McCravy Studios.

Page 4 - Morgan and Taylor photographed by David Coker Photography. Vanessa and Tyler photographed by Allison Jansen. Calendar photos by Allison Jansen and Green Tree Photography.

Page 5 - Calendar photos by Sonya Balentine Photography and Jessica McCravy Studios.

Really get to know your photographer; be intentional about developing a friendship with them so you feel comfortable around them and fully trust their vision when your big day comes.

- David Coker Photography

Embrace the unexpected and find beauty in the imperfections. Sometimes the best moments are the ones we didn't plan for at all and end up being the most joyful!

- Sugar Rock Events No one knows your vision better than yourself. Let your creativity flow and trust your own style. This is your special day‌ Do it Once, Do it Fabulous!

- Kris Clark Designs

photo credits

Page 6 - Susanne and John photographed by Sonya Balentine Photography. Calendar photos by Jessica McCravy Studios and Geoffroy Daval.

Page 7- Calendar photos by Allison Jansen and Jessica McCravy Studios.

Page 8 - Emma and Arnold photographed by Geoffroy Daval. Ali and Will photographed by Brooke Glassford, Color Box Photgraphy. Calendar photos

by David Coker Photography and Jessica McCravy Studios.

Page 9 - Calendar photos by Allison Jansen and Geoffroy Daval.

Page 10 - Calendar photos by Sonya Balentine Photography and Geoffroy Daval.

Page 11 - Jessica and Andrew photographed by Green Tree Photography. Calendar photos

by Jessica McCravy Studios and Geoffroy Daval.

Page 12 - Calendar photos by Jessica McCravy Studios, Green Tree Photography, and Brooke Glassford, Color Box Photgraphy.

Page 13 - Calendar photos by Geoffroy Daval and Allison Jansen.

Page 14 - Ashley and Will photographed by Simply Bloom Photography. Christen and Jake photographed by Allison Jansen.

Calendar photos by Simply Bloom Photography and David Coker Photography.

The

Garden Room

by Cyn Shea's perfect for bridal luncheons BOOK EITHER SPACE TODAY: 256.88.CATER 415 CHURCH STREET | HUNTSVILLE, AL

2 0 YE AR S 1995201 5

perfect for rehearsal dinners and receptions

Amy (Rutherford) Haley

by Erin Lindsey Images

Heather (Zirbel) White

by Kerry Brooks Photography

Brittney (Lawson) Smith

by Lauren Tomasella Photography

january/february  | noalastudios.com | 

bridals

Brooke (Dryer) Alderman

by Erin Lindsey Images

Amber (Bryant) Colvard

by Kerry Brooks Photography

Melissa (Scott) Johnson

by Kerry Brooks Photography

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Renita (Montgomery) Woodson

by NSight Photography

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Beautiful, by Hand text by allen tomlinson

© Courtesy of Christina Green

Thirty years ago, the standard wedding invitation was engraved, using a formal font and a fairly standard pattern: Mr. and Mrs. John Doe cordially invite you to the wedding of their daughter, Mary Ellen, to John Campbell Smith, at 7 oclock in the evening at Christ Church in Anytown, Alabama.

An engraved invitation describes a particular way of printing, with black ink (usually) applied to a white or creamcolored paper. It was formal, beautiful, and to-the-point: the recipient knew what to expect.

Boy, things have changed. Weddings have become more personalized, less formal, and more an expression of the bride’s personality. As a result, hand-designed invitations by calligraphers have become popular. And having wedding invitation envelopes hand-addressed has always been a requirement, whether the invitation is casual or engraved; there is something special about receiving a beautiful handaddressed invitation.

Above: Place cards and a hand-lettered and illustrated wedding invitation by Christina Green. Facing page: A casual handlettered wedding invitation and directions insert by Rowan Finnegan, with illustrations by Chelsea Holeman.

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“There are two types of calligraphy,” said Christina Green.

“There is a very classical style, and there’s a modern form,

which is very popular now. The modern form you can’t find as a computer font, but it’s a much more casual style.”

Even though you can find classical fonts for computer-generated invitations, it doesn’t replace a hand-drawn piece, according to artist Rowan Finnegan. “I would describe my style as ‘imperfect,’” said Rowan. “My lines aren’t always perfect and I’m self-taught, rather than trained in calligraphy. I like to think that adds character to my designs.”

Which is exactly the point. Brides are looking for ways to get away from impersonal, computer-generated, or massproduced looks to something artfully and lovingly created by hand. It fits perfectly with the current trend of having the bride and her mother and friends creating gifts for the guests, or hand-making decorations for the day; the handcreated invitations can range from wildly whimsical, to shabby chic to extremely formal.

“The first wedding invitation I worked on was for good friends,” said Rowan. “Susan, the bride, had my roommate paint some watercolors for the invitation, and she was looking for someone to do some cursive to match the paintings.

She asked me if I could help. I told her I’d never done calligraphy before, but I’d give it a shot. Luckily, she was happy with the outcome.”

Christina has a similar story. “I have two master’s degrees, neither in art,” she said. “My mother was an artist, but not a calligrapher—she is an impressionist artist, but she was an influence on me. While I was at Birmingham Southern, a professor remarked that my handwriting looked like 15th century calligraphy. I’m not sure that was a compliment, but it made me interested in learning more about it. I began by doing things for friends, as a hobby.”

Both Rowan and Christina agree on several important points.

First, a hand-designed invitation or hand-addressed envelopes take a lot of time. “Wedding invitations vary in the time required,” said Rowan, “and take me anywhere from one hour, for something simple, to four or five hours per design. If I’m addressing envelopes, I can usually get about ten envelopes addressed per hour.” Christina asks brides to give her three to four weeks at a minimum to turn around a project, both because it takes time to complete and because of her workload.

“If you’re going to have someone hand-address your envelopes, make sure to order extra!” said Rowan. “There are

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Left: Christina Green designed this bright and casual menu to let wedding guests know what to expect. Right: This wedding invitation, designed by Rowan Finnegan, is an expression of the bride’s personality and gives guests a glimpse of the tone of the wedding.

© Courtesy of Christina Green

bound to be a few mess-ups.”

Area Artists and Calligraphers

The project begins Looking for an artist to do with a meeting besome hand-lettering or design? tween the artist and Rowan Finnegan the bride. It’s imporrkfinnegan@gmail.com tant that the artist understand the feelChristina Green ing the bride is trying www.theturquoisecardinal.com to convey, as well as the formality or casualness of the event.

If there are special details that the bride wants included, be sure to mention them. Creating a hand-made wedding invitation is intensely personal, so the artist needs to understand all of the relevant details before the project begins. “And please ask for samples of our work,” said Christina. “I want to make sure you like my style and will get what you want before the project gets started.”

The calligrapher will typically ask for a deposit before design begins, and will be able to give the bride a fairly firm estimate for the project, including any additional charges if the bride adds to the guest list or makes last-minute changes after the design has been completed. The bride and the artist should discuss all of the pieces needed.—will there be an invitation, envelopes, place cards for tables, a program for the wedding, or anything special to give as a gift to special friends or family members? The timetable should be established, and then the artist is ready to make the magic happen.

“I use water-based inks,” said Rowan. “I have a close friend whose grandfather was an illustrator. He gave me a variety of

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pen nibs from his grandfather’s old stash, and that’s what I typically use. If I’m doing small block letters, I tend to go with a micro pen.” Some artists sketch their designs in pencil, or letter in pencil to use as a guide when the ink is applied. But not always. “My script letters are typically freehand, but I may make a few marks in pencil to use as guides,” Rowan said. “For small block letters, I usually loose trace over some printouts.” Christina agrees, and uses pencil for formatting, going over it with watercolor and ink from an oldfashioned dip well.

To someone who is not an artist, it all sounds complicated—but what do the artists think are the hardest parts of their craft? Keeping a steady hand, mostly—and keeping those hands from cramping after a lot of time drawing, coloring, and inking.

The most important thing you can give the artist is time.

Unlike computer-generated invitations, a hand-crafted piece requires skill, finesse, and lots and lots of time. “We can turn things quickly if we have to,” said Christina, “but the final product will be better and you can avoid rush charges if you give us time to work.”

Traditionally, wedding invitations are mailed six to eight weeks before the wedding, which gives guests plenty of time to arrange their calendars and make travel arrangements, if they are coming from out of town. If it’s a destination wedding, it’s better to give guests three months’ notice, and many brides rely on “save-the-date” cards. Add four to six weeks for the calligrapher, at a minimum, and you’re looking at getting things started about six months prior to the big day.

If you are planning a traditional church wedding, an engraved invitation might still be the choice for you. If you are planning a more personalized event, a visit with a calligrapher is definitely worth your time. Either way, the invitation will give your guests their first glance into the beautiful affair they will be witnessing. It’s your personal statement.

Wedding Inviation Essentials We have this on great authority—none other than Emily Post. When you are considering the language and design of your wedding invitation, please, please follow Emily Post’s do’s and don’ts:

Do: Allow plenty of time. Your guests are busy people and need time to plan. Your wedding invitation designer needs time to make the invitation and envelopes personal and beautiful. The post office needs time to deliver everything. Plan ahead!

Get organized. Obviously, the first job is to put together the guest list, and sometimes that is a challenge in itself. Once it’s been decided, though, you need to make sure you have proper addresses for everyone. If you’re going to hand-address the envelopes yourself, you need a system for addressing, assembling, inserting into the envelope, sealing, and stamping. And while you’re developing this system, have you considered special stamps? The post office has a variety of options, but not everything is readily available. Be sure to factor in time for all of this!

Ask for help. Chances are you have friends or family members who would love to be a part of this project.

Use correct names and titles of all the guests. If cousin Mary is a doctor and her husband is named Carl, your invitation is much more personal and flattering if you address it properly. “Ms. Mary Smith and guest” doesn’t have the same personal touch.

Do Not: Include the registry or gift information. It’s considered very poor taste to insert a list of places where the bride and groom are registered or a checklist of the things they want.

Forget to include appropriate information. Maps, directions, hotel information, or other pertinent details can be included as an insert—but don’t forget to include them!

Send the guest list in waves. Invite your entire guest list at the same time, rather than sending out a first wave and then waiting to see who responds before inviting others.

Use address labels. You may not want to pay a calligrapher to handaddress your wedding invitation envelopes, and that’s fine—but you have to do it by hand yourself. Avery labels on invitations make the invitation look like junk mail or a mass mailing to thousands.

Use the phrases “No gifts” or “No children.” Indicating that gifts are not required might be a nice gesture, but it doesn’t have any place on a wedding invitation. And the way you address your invitation will let the recipient know if the children are invited. If they are, add them to the address: “Mr. and Mrs. John Smith, Ashley, Damien, and Jason.” If they are not, don’t include them: “Mr. and Mrs. John Smith.” If the recipient calls to respond to the invitation and asks if additional guests (including children) can come, deal with it then.

Pin your inviation to the bulletin board at work. Actually, you could do this if you’d like—but be prepared for everyone and anyone to show up! Anyone special enough to be invited to your wedding should be personally invited to your wedding.

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RAHDIKA & WILLIAM Photos by Green Tree Photography Text by Sara Wright Covington

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Couple: Rahdika Sud and William Biesanz » Date: June ,  Place: Private Residence, Madison

The Meeting: Rahdika and Bill were introduced by a mutual friend in September of 2012. Rahdika liked Bill immediately and kept wondering why such a good-looking, kind man was still single. “I was honestly scared to date him because I had a little feeling inside me that he would be the last man I would ever date,” remembers Rahdika. “Going against my own personal interests, I attempted to play matchmaker by introducing Bill to one of my friends. I had no idea that he had developed feelings for me. So when I asked him what he thought of my friend, Bill confessed his true feelings for me. I was flustered, happy, and surprised at the same time. It’s been an incredible journey.” The Proposal: In September of 2013, Bill and Rahdika had gone to visit her mother in Los Angeles.

Rahdika didn’t know at the time, but Bill had also coordinated the trip with Rahdika’s brother and sister-in-law. While they were all at dinner together, Bill brought up the subject of marriage and his future with Rahdika. “He is very traditional and wanted to ask my mother for permission prior to asking because my father passed away in June 2012,” says Rahdika.

“He asked my mother for permission to take our relationship to the next level and it was so sweet to see my mom reach across the table to hold his hand and say ‘you have mine and my husband’s blessings.’” Much to Rahdika’s surprise, Bill then got on one knee and asked her to marry him right in front of her mom, brother, and sister-in-law. “I was so surprised,” says Rahdika. “I honestly have no idea what he said, but I remember saying yes. It was absolutely perfect because we are a very close family.” Number of Guests: 125 The Dress: Rahdika says her style is usually simple and classic, but she still wanted to wear a traditional Indian bridal outfit. After searching locally and not having any luck, Rahdika finally turned to a family friend in India who custom made her dress. Her dress was handmade specifically for her measurements and arrived just three weeks before the wedding.

“Needless to say I was more than relieved when it showed up and even happier to know that it fit!” she says. Traditional Henna: Rahdika says that Indians don’t really follow some of the more American wedding traditions, but they do have some of their own. “Two days before the wedding, I had my henna done on my hands and legs,” says Rahdika. “It took about 4 hours and it was absolutely beautiful. Bridal Henna always is very intricate.” Marriage in a Monsoon: Rahdika and Bill were married in a traditional Indian ceremony where Bill entered on a decorated white horse. “This is called the Baraat,” explains Rahdika. “The Baraat is the arrival of the groom, his family, and friends on the day of the wedding at the wedding venue. He traditionally rides the horse with his youngest male nephew or cousin in hopes for the bride to have many sons! We had the baraat start down the street and he was greeted at the home by my family. We also had the traditional Indian altar called the Mandap.” After the ceremony and prior to a gigantic hailstorm, tornado warning, and torrential rain, guests enjoyed a rustic chic outdoor reception complete with café lights, white hydrangeas and lavender, and an outdoor bar beneath a chandelier. Just as Rahdika and Bill were entering the reception, rain had begun to pour so heavily that guests were being asked to move inside. Bill and Rahdika briefly danced on the patio to the song “Happy” just as the last of the guests were rushed inside, to what was luckily a very large home where the party could continue. Wedding Day Takeaway: Despite the fact that the rain meant they didn’t have a formal first dance or speeches, Rahdika and Bill had a special day surrounded by their family and friends and aren’t worried too much about missing out.

“We danced and partied the whole night!” she says. “And we have promised to throw an outdoor garden party for our five year anniversary with speeches and a first dance.”

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WILLOUGHBY & JOSHUA Photos by White Rabbit Studios Text by Sara Wright Covington

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Couple: Willoughby Lucas and Joshua Hastings » Date: August ,  Place: Bride’s Home, Huntsville

The Meeting: Josh and Willoughby met during the summer of 2012 while working at Southerland’s Photo, which is Josh’s grandparents’ business. The Proposal: Josh proposed during the SEC championship game by tying the ring box to their dog Goose’s collar. “When Goose walked into my line of sight during the game, I had a hunch,” says Willoughby. “I took a bunch of pictures and then Josh took the box from his neck and got down on one knee. Even though I had thought so much about it and my father had given his permission it still was shocking! I, of course, said YES!” Number of Guests: 730 Wedding Wear: The bridesmaids wore Liberty Print handmade dresses inspired by an early 1900s Givenchy pattern and the groomsmen wore coordinating bow ties. Willoughby wore an Anna Maier/ Ulla-Maija lace dress from Joan Pillow Bridal Salon in Atlanta, Georgia. “On the day of my appointment, there was an Anna Maier trunk show and the designer Charles Brunstine was there, so I was able to talk with him in person,” says Willoughby. “When I tried on his dress, he told me how the lace was made and how he developed the dress’s diagonally oriented pattern to appear more flattering on the curvature of a woman’s body. Between meeting him, the beautiful lace, and how easy it was to move around in, I chose his dress.”

East Meets West: Before moving back to Alabama, Willoughby spent time away at school in California.

As a tribute to her time in California, Willoughby used succulents of all sizes supported in white rock as outdoor decoration. Her family has also had a longtime affection for New England, so she used elements of the East Coast as well. “I’ve been lucky enough to visit both Cape Cod and Nantucket more than a few times, one of which Josh was able to come with me,” says Willoughby. “For that reason, there was a lot of New Eng-

land inspiration. The bridesmaids’ bouquets were arranged inside of Nantucket lightship baskets and the arbor Josh and I got married under was designed by my father and brother. They used copper plate and even an ivory-colored emblem to create a lightship basket inspired arch.” Warm Reception: After the ceremony at the bride’s home, guests enjoyed a feast of Southern/ New England fusion, featuring fried pies, milkshakes, catfish, hushpuppies, ham and biscuits, crab salad, and cucumber sandwiches all by Catering by Narvel.

As a special treat, guests also enjoyed goat cheese and melon balls dipped in honey—the honey provided by Hastings Honey owned by Josh’s parents. Because the couple’s drink of choice is a Tanqueray and Tonic, the reception also included a gin and tonic bar. Swinging Soiree: South Carolina based swing band the Swinging Medallions provided the music for the evening and were accompanied by a few of the couple’s best friends, including two of her vocalist bridesmaids from California, as they sang “We’ve Only Just Begun” by The Carpenters just before Willoughby walked down the aisle.

Something Old: Willoughby wore a charm bracelet her father had been collecting charms for from his many out-of-town business trips since she was born.

“He officially gave me the bracelet at the rehearsal dinner, literally bringing me to tears,” she says. Something New: Willoughby bought cuff links for Josh from the Little Green Store, purchased just an hour before the ceremony. Something Borrowed: Willoughby wore a David Yurman bracelet borrowed from Loring and Co., and also carried borrowed vintage Liberty Print handkerchiefs. Something Blue: “My blue was found in both my engagement ring and earrings, which Josh gave me for my 21st birthday,” says Willoughby. “Both were turquoise.”

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TENESHIA & ANTHONY Photos by Kerry Brooks Photography Text by Sara Wright Covington

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Couple: Teneshia Acklin and Anthony Lee Daniels, Jr. » Date: September ,  Place: Trinity United Methodist Church and The Historic Roundhouse Depot, Huntsville

The Meeting: Teneshia had just moved to Huntsville in 2011 when mutual friends suggested she meet Anthony so he could show her around the city and introduce her to some new people. The Proposal: In August of 2013, Teneshia and Anthony had scheduled a trip to Washington, D.C. Anthony had arranged for them to have a driver for the entire long weekend of their trip, and they spent their first day touring the Capitol and other monuments. After their dinner that evening, Anthony had planned for them to attend the evening prayer service at the Washington National Cathedral.

After attending the 20-minute prayer service together where they were the only two people in attendance, the couple headed back outside to meet their driver. When the driver didn’t immediately appear, Anthony asked Teneshia to take a walk to the rose garden with him. “While proceeding down the steps to the garden,” says Teneshia, “I heard a saxophone playing our favorite song, ‘Share My Life’ by Kem. I looked at Anthony and asked if they played music in the garden all the time. He replied that he did not know. Then Anthony started mumbling something to me, but I couldn’t understand a word that was coming out of his mouth. We finally stopped walking and his eyes were filled with tears and he said, ‘You know the very first time I met you, I knew you were the one.’ The next thing I know he got down on one knee and I didn’t hear anything else from that point. I was so excited!!

After I got myself together, I assumed he asked me to marry him and I just remember saying ‘yes, yes, yes!’” Number of Guests: 400 The Dress Times Two: “My ceremony gown was custom designed by Veejay Floresca out of Makati City, Philippines,” says Teneshia. “This designer presented on Project Runway Philippines in 2008. The first time I saw his

work I knew he had to make/design my wedding gown. I contacted him via email and from there the process began. I have an amazing tailor, here in Huntsville, who worked with Veejay on getting my correct measurements. It was an amazing experience. My reception dress was a Lazaro gown from Bridals by Lori, out of Atlanta, Georgia. This gown was the first and only gown I tried on ever. I fell in love with this gown the first time I saw it.” Roundhouse Glamour: After the wedding ceremony at Trinity United Methodist Church, guests attended the couple’s Roundhouse reception, where they were greeted by the dramatic glamour of sheer white draperies, large crystal chandeliers, and tables topped with centerpieces of large silver branches and purple and fuchsia flowers. The couple’s six-tier cake stood four feet tall and was topped with a handcrafted jeweled egg and covered in a cascade of white sugar flowers. Signature Cocktails: Blushing Brides and Southern Gentlemen Something Old: “My something old was a gold coin that my father gave me the night I graduated from dental school,” says Teneshia. “He passed away three years ago; therefore, that was very special to me. I wore this coin under the layers of my ceremony gown.” Something Borrowed: “My something borrowed was an old pendent that I attached to my bouquet,” says Teneshia. “This pendent was originally owned by my great -grandmother, but borrowed from my mom.” Something Blue: Teneshia wore a blue garter under her dress. Wedding Day Takeaway: Because Teneshia’s father had passed away, her brothers played a very special role in the wedding ceremony. “They were dressed in their military uniforms and they both gave me away,” says Teneshia. “It was the best.”

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TISH & KRZYSZTOF Photos by Simply Bloom Photography Text by Sara Wright Covington

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Couple: Tish Peterson and Krzysztof Madej » Date: May ,  Place: St. Mary’s Visitation Catholic Church and Hampton Cove Wedding Plantation, Huntsville

The Proposal: Krzystof proposed on Christmas Eve of 2013 when the couple exchanged gifts at Tish’s house. “I couldn’t wait any longer for him to open some of the gifts I got him,” she says. “He went to a different room to get my gift and, of course, I followed. We were standing in the hallway when he got down on one knee and he told me he couldn’t wait another day to ask me to be his wife. As soon as he started kneeling, my heart began to race and tears came down my face. It was the perfect simple proposal coming from my simple kind of man, and I will never forget that moment.” Number of Guests: 250 The Dress: Tish had already scoped out a dress she loved in a magazine and found the exact dress, a Mori Lee, while out shopping with her mom and bridesmaids. “It fit perfectly and seemed to be made for me,” she says. Wedding Party Wear: The bridesmaids wore Alfred Angelo chiffon gowns in a shade of pink called “Love’s First Blush,” while the Matron of Honor wore a pale pink chiffon and beaded gown by Aidan Mattox. The groom wore an Alta Moda Black Slim Fit Tuxedo and his groomsmen wore Wilke Rodriguez Modern Fit Suits in Black, all with bow ties. Royal Reception: Following the ceremony at St. Mary’s, which is the oldest Catholic Church in Huntsville and required little decoration, guests attended a Marie Antoinette-inspired reception complete with a cigar bar, an electric violinist, and yard

games—including croquet and Bocce ball. The flowers provided by 333 Designs included the bride’s favorite Juliet and Garden Roses, Lamb’s Ear, and Dusty Miller. The couple sat at the head of a 48-foot-long table adorned in blush lace and Tish’s own collection of milk glass and gold accents, all from local thrift stores. Outside the reception, guests could pose for pictures in a photo booth with Marie Antoinette props.

Blending Backgrounds: Catering by the Chef Next Door featured a Polish plated dinner, as tribute to the groom’s Polish roots, as well as some Korean dishes provided by Trish’s mother for some of their Korean family. The desserts by Slice at a Time sat atop an antique desk and included a tower of French, pink macaroons and a three-foot-tall wedding cake.

Decorous Dishes provided vintage tea and china for both the dinner and the coffee and tea stations. Something Old: The bride carried a vintage locket with her late father’s picture inside wrapped around her bouquet. Something Borrowed: One of Tish’s bridesmaids loaned her a bracelet to wear for the day. Something blue: Beneath her dress, Tish wore blue high heals. Wedding Day Takeaway: Tish and Krzysztof both agree that the best part of their special day was getting to spend it with the family and friends who traveled from all over the world to share it with them.

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TARYN & RYAN Photos by Spindle Photography Text by Sara Wright Covington

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Couple: Taryn Ely and Ryan Hodinka » Date: July ,  Place: Whitesburg Baptist Church Chapel and The Roundhouse, Huntsville

The Meeting: Taryn and Ryan met in their first year of law school and began dating in their second semester. The Proposal: While in law school, the couple would walk their dogs together each day at the University of Alabama Arboretum.

“It became a very special place for us because it was where we would spend quality time together—no textbooks, no phones, no distractions, other than our crazy dogs,” says Taryn. “Ryan proposed at the UA Arboretum when we were in Tuscaloosa for a football game. We went there on our way into town, and Ryan proposed while we were walking in a quiet, beautiful area of the park.” Number of Guests: 300 Wedding Wear: Taryn wore a mermaid-style lace gown from the Something Blue Shoppe in Hartselle, although she originally thought this was the one style of dress she would never choose. “It fit like a glove and had the most beautiful lace I had ever seen,” says Taryn. “It was the one that made me feel like a bride!” Romance at the Roundhouse: Taryn and Ryan wanted to create an ambiance of romantic, sophisticated style in the Roundhouse and used a mostly neutral palette of whites and creams with a hint of blush. “Mark at In Bloom decorated it perfectly,” says Taryn. “We used ivory and taupe tablecloths with gold chiavari chairs, and table centerpieces consisted of three different floral arrangements to create depth. Some tables had tall, lush arrangements, some had mid-size, full arrangements, and the pub tables had smaller arrangements.” Candles and café lighting added the perfect romantic touch to the evening. Southern Chic:

Narvell Patton catered the event, which began with appetizers of tomato bruschetta and squash fritters, followed by salmon, shrimp and grits, pork tenderloin, and fried chicken bites served alongside colorful fruits, vegetables, and cheeses. The groom’s table added even more Southern color, as the Crimson Tide cake featured white chocolate-dipped strawberries and Alabama shakers. Sentimental Somethings: “I loved my somethings!” says Taryn. “My something old was my grandmother’s Chi Omega pin—I wore my own pin pinned under my dress over my heart and hers pinned under the right side of my dress. My something new was my dress, veil, shoes, and my jewelry. My something borrowed was my grandma’s handkerchief given to her by my parents on their wedding day—we pinned it under the skirt of my dress. My something blue was my garter. And I had a sixpence for my shoe!” A Wedding Song: During the ceremony, the couple’s wedding singer sang “A Wedding Song,” which was sung at Taryn’s parents’ wedding ceremony. “It was a nice tribute to their marriage,” she says. “Ryan and I are blessed to have both sets of parents still happily married; they are wonderful examples for us.” Wedding Day Takeaway: Taryn’s favorite memory of the day is the first dance she and Ryan shared as man and wife. “We danced to ‘Just The Way You Are’ by Billy Joel,” she says. “The wedding ceremony went by in a flash, and there was so much going on. But during our first dance, time seemed to stop and we were able to just enjoy the moment and have fun finally being married.”

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REBECCA & SAMUEL Photos by White Rabbit Studios Text by Sara Wright Covington

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Couple: Rebecca Harmon and Samuel Petersen » Date: May ,  Place: Mooresville

The Meeting: After encouragement from her coworkers, Rebecca signed up for Match.com in August of 2012. After connecting with Samuel and emailing back and forth for three days, they had their first date at Grille 29. “We had an instant connection and spent hours talking about our love of kitchen gadgets and Cary Grant movies,” remembers Rebecca. “We didn’t even realize how much time had passed until the employees were vacuuming the floors. By our second date, we decided we were officially a couple, and we’ve been inseparable ever since.” The Proposal: Although their oneyear anniversary was quickly approaching, Samuel had convinced Rebecca that the proposal wouldn’t happen that day.

Even though they had agreed not to exchange gifts, Samuel gave Rebecca flowers and a medium-sized white box, which he told her she could open after their dinner at Cotton Row. “Inside the box was a very sweet note,” says Rebecca. “Attached to the note was a long green ribbon, which was buried in the jelly beans, and at the end of the ribbon was my engagement ring! When we were first dating, we were driving in the car on our way to a camping trip, and I was feeding him different flavor combinations of jelly beans. Sam told me later that was the moment he fell in love with me.” Number of Guests: 120 Dream Dress: After trying on several dresses both in and out of state, Rebecca finally found “the one” at Finery in downtown Huntsville. It was the very last dress she tried on. To add her own finishing touches to her bridal ensemble, she made her own veil. D.I.Y. Details: The couple hired a decorator for the ceremony and used green and blue vintage items to decorate the windows of the church, accent-

ed with some fresh fruits and vegetables. Rebecca and Samuel spent weekends prior to the wedding scouring local thrift stores for old picture frames to repurpose for family photos they could hang on the church pews. They also took on the task of the flowers all on their own. “All the flowers were a do-it-together effort and made out of paper,” says Rebecca.

“I made all the bouquets and Sam made the boutonnieres.”

Rebecca is also an avid baker and wanted to have a hand in the desserts served at the wedding as well. “I knew that I wanted our wedding desserts to first and foremost taste great,” she says. “I didn’t want a large, fancy decorated wedding cake that had been baked days before the wedding and then frozen. We ended up getting five pies and five smaller cakes, many from my very own tried and true recipes, which tasted amazing.” Bridal Brew: Samuel’s brother-in-law and groomsman offered to brew all of the beer as a wedding gift.

“He brewed two different varieties,” says Rebecca. “It was a huge hit!” Something Green: Rebecca told her bridesmaids to choose any dress they liked, as long as it was green. “None of the dresses matched,” she says, “but they all coordinated together really well.” The groomsmen also picked their own green ties. Something Old and Something Borrowed: Rebecca carried her grandmother’s locket in her bouquet.

Something Blue: Rebecca’s aunt made the blue garter she wore. Wedding Day Takeaway: “We took photos at 1818 Farms,” says Rebecca. “I loved holding farm animals, including chickens and a newborn lamb. And I’m so glad we took photos with our dog, Finn. These ended up being our favorite photos from the wedding.”

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MARLEY & JORDAN Photos by Green Tree Photography Text by Sara Wright Covington

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Couple: Marley Mitchell and Jordan Fleming » Date: September ,  Place: Sacred Stone, Fayetteville

The Meeting: The stars aligned, quite literally, the night Jordan and Marley met at a Jason Aldean/Luke Bryan concert in February of 2012. “God must have been on ‘Team Marley+Jordy’ because there were multiple reasons we never should have crossed paths that night,” says Marley.

“For one, I never would’ve bought tickets to this particular concert; my mom put one in each of my family members’ stockings for Christmas in 2011. Then, once we were at the concert, my sister and I completely changed seats TWICE, to end up in the seats we were in. Long story short, Jordy and a friend stopped and chatted us up for a minute and he fed me a shockingly smooth pick-up line while asking for my number, so I gave it to him. We texted every couple weeks after that for FIVE MONTHS before going on our first date in July of 2012. And the rest is history.” The Proposal: Jordan proposed to Marley on a trip to Orange Beach on Memorial Day of this year. Number of Guests: 200 The Dress: Marley wore a lace V-neck gown from Mary’s Bridal in Leighton, Alabama. Simple and Sweet: The wedding was an outdoor ceremony, with green grass and countryside as the backdrop.

Marley walked down an aisle scattered with pink rose petals and met Josh beneath a chandelier that hung from a garland-covered trellis where they stood and exchanged vows.

“I hand-lettered a chalkboard sign that leaned up against an old whiskey barrel on the left at the start of the aisle,” says Marley. “The sign had all the ceremony and wedding party info, and served in the place of programs.” After the cer-

emony, guests attended a reception in the barn of Sacred Stone. Ivory linens, blush roses, bells of Ireland, and hydrangeas, adorned tables lit by simple tea lights, and strands of café lighting hung over head. Wedding Wear: The groom and groomsmen wore navy suits and suspenders, while the bridesmaids were given the freedom to choose their own ecru dresses. Simple Spirits: Guests enjoyed Trader Joe’s wine, as well as Red Rebellion from Yellowhammer Brewery of Huntsville. Something Old: “My mom gave me one of her mother’s handkerchiefs to keep my eyes dry on the day of the wedding,” says Marley, “and I also had a locket that belonged to my dad’s mom tucked in my dress over my heart— I was her only grandchild at the time she lost her battle to cancer when I was two, and the locket has my picture in it, so it means a whole lot to me.” Borrowed and Blue: Marley wore her mother’s diamond ring that had once belonged to her grandmother on her right hand and earrings with hints of blue. Wedding Day Takeaway: Although the couple initially planned to not see each other before the wedding, they changed their minds at the last minute and decided to have a first look before the ceremony. “It was just such a sigh of relief to be able to see and touch and talk to the man I love in the midst of all the nerves and craziness of the day. I needed it. I loved that it was so private. It was just us as I walked up behind him under a willow tree. It was perfect. I can guarantee I wouldn’t remember his face anywhere nearly as vividly as I do, had he seen me first walking down the aisle.”

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ERIN & BO Photos by White Rabbit Studios Text by Sara Wright Covington

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Couple: Erin Haynes and Bo McGuffey » Date: March ,  Place: The Church of the Nativity and The Summit at PNC Bank, Huntsville

The Meeting: The couple met at a restaurant in San Antonio, where they both live, when Bo noticed one of Erin’s business cards for the salon where she works. “I gave him a card and he started coming in for haircuts and sending his friends in to get their hair cut as well,” says Erin. The Proposal: Bo and Erin were visiting some friends’ ranch just north of San Antonio when Bo suggested they go on a hike. While standing on a cliff that overlooks a creek, Bo proposed at dusk.

Number of Guests: 200 The Dress: Instead of scouring bridal boutiques for the perfect dress, Erin’s dress arrived by mail, by way of her mother-in-law-to-be. “The dress came first,” says Erin. “Bo’s mother shipped us the dress because we wanted sentimental family heirlooms, and I was shocked when it fit me like a glove. I did make some alterations, because I wanted a sleek and more fitted look. I did want to incorporate a sense of style into the dress. We added a key hole in the back. We also took pieces of the original veil and added them to the back of my waist to accentuate the train of the dress.” Artfully Adorned: Erin and Bo got married the last weekend before Lent, and the Church of the Nativity was displaying the artwork of Russian artist Ludmila Pawlowska in the sanctuary. “It was a worldwide art tour that was arranged by the church for that time,” says Erin, “and we were fortunate enough to have such beautiful images within

the chapel for our ceremony.” Garden Party at the Summit: Erin wanted the wedding to have a garden party feel, and chose to incorporate as many elements of nature as possible into the loft space. In lieu of traditional flowers, Erin used succulents in plants accentuated by pine cones and mushrooms. Tree trunks, owls, birds, and birch tree limbs on the tables helped to achieve a rustic look and feel. Moonshine Salute: At the reception, Bo offered a toast with moonshine brought over from the Blue Ridge Mountains by Erin’s father.

According to Erin, none of the ample supply lasted through the reception. Something Old: Bo’s mother’s wedding dress served as Erin’s heirloom item. Something New: Erin’s parents gave her a single pearl and diamond necklace. Something Borrowed: Erin wore a borrowed fur shawl from the church to the reception. Something blue: On the bottom of Erin’s high heels, “I HEART BO” was written in blue script.

Wedding Day Takeaway: On two small tables at the entrance to the Summit, Erin and Bo displayed mismatched black and white bridal photos of friends and family. “I really wanted a sentimental touch to the wedding,” says Erin.

“Most of the decorations in the reception were crafted or constructed in a unique fashion by members of our family, and we have kept all of them in our new home.

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EMRY & SAM Photos by Simply Bloom Photography Text by Sara Wright Covington

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Couple: Emry McKay and Sam Bryan » Date: March ,  Place: First United Methodist Church and The Ledges, Huntsville

The Meeting: Emry’s family actually knew and liked Sam really well before she officially met him, as he had built a house for her sister and brother-in-law, and was in the process of building a home for her parents as well. Their first conversation began through email, as Sam questioned Emry about the paint color selection for her mother’s dining room. “It was a bit out of the box for my mother, and Sam sent me a friendly message asking if I was responsible for the color choice,” says Emry. “I admitted I was the culprit. Through a few conversations, I got to know him better and we had our first date at I Love Sushi on March 12, 2013.” Little did they know at the time, but they would be married almost exactly one year later. The Proposal: Sam and Emry took a trip to the beach with Emry’s family about three months after they began dating. Unbeknownst to Emry, Sam had already asked her father’s permission for her hand in marriage and bought a ring before the trip. Emry worked late that day, so they left for the trip after the rest of her family, arriving around 2 a.m.

“We were standing on the balcony and everything was so quiet and the moon over the ocean was so pretty,” remembers Emry. “Sam told me how much he loved me and I told him I felt the same way. Then he knelt down and asked me if I would marry him.” Number of Guests: 200 The Dress: After visiting several bridal boutiques, Emry selected the

very first dress she tried on at the Something Blue Shoppe in Hartselle—a trumpet style dress with beading and a long train accompanied with a cathedral length veil accented with crystals. Marriage Material: Emry and Sam were married in an intimate ceremony at First United Methodist Church in the romantic ambiance of candlelight and pink flowers. “Our flowers were done by In Bloom,” says Emry. “The church had candelabras at the altar, hurricane lights at the stained glass windows, and torches lit from the pews in the aisle.” Following the ceremony, guests celebrated the couple with cocktails and dancing while the band Juice performed at The Ledges.

Sentimental Somethings: “I had a handkerchief pinned into the layers of my gown that was a piece of Sam’s aunt’s wedding dress that was hand embroidered and initialed by his grandmother,” says Emry. “I wore a new crystal necklace that clasped in a crystal bow and hung down my back.

On my bouquet, I had a small green crystal four leaf clover that was my mother’s, not for luck but for blessings. And I wore a blue topaz and diamond ring that I was given when I graduated college by my parents.” Wedding Day Takeaway: “I have had the blessing to witness what true love looks like from my parents all my life,” says Emry. “They have shown me what I was looking for in my own relationship, and I am blessed that God brought Sam and me together.”

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AARIKA & ZACHARY Photos by Kerry Brooks Photography Text by Sara Wright Covington

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Couple: Aarika Boggs and Zachary Mitchell » Date: June ,  Place: Creekside Plantation at Collier’s End, Mooresville, Alabama

Young Love: Aarika and Zach had known each other as small children in preschool, but they began spending time together in middle school. “Zach used to take me riding on his four wheeler and motorcycle through the Tennessee hills,” says Aarika. “He introduced me to honeysuckle during those days—a really sweet memory. We started dating in high school and continued to date through our undergrad years at Auburn.” Park Proposal: Zach proposed while they were on a trip to New York City in Central Park. Their two friends who were traveling with them caught the entire proposal on video. Number of Guests: 300 White Wedding: Jeannie Pirtle of Athens was the couple’s floral designer and helped in creating Aarika’s vision in white. “All of my flowers were white,” says Aarika. “I just love that. Orchids are my favorite, so Jeannie incorporated orchids into basically everything. White roses and hydrangeas were also used quite a bit, and then, of course, baby’s breath to fill everything in.”

The reception was held at the plantation’s pavilion, and garlands of greenery and white flowers adorned the doors and hung from three rustic chandeliers overhead. The Dress: Aarika wore a dress from Bella Couture in Mount Laurel, Alabama, called the Casablanca from Enzoani’s Blue line. “It reminded me of old Hollywood with lots of lace and ruching at the waist,” says Aarika. Comfort Cuisine: Scott Curry of Curry’s in Decatur catered both the rehearsal dinner and the reception, which both featured a mashed potato bar. For

the rehearsal dinner, guests enjoyed barbeque chicken and pork, baked mac-n-cheese, and baked beans. The following day’s reception featured prime rib, poor man’s crab cakes (catfish cakes), grilled chicken and vegetables, and a huge assortment of breads. Something Old: Aarika wore pearl and diamond earrings given to her by her grandmother several years earlier. Something New: Aarika’s parents gave her a diamond and sapphire ring for the occasion. Something Borrowed: “My something borrowed was an old handkerchief and brooch from my mom, given to her by a late greataunt,” says Aarika. “They were used to wrap my bouquet. We also displayed photos to honor deceased grandparents at the reception.” Something Blue: The bride wore blue shoes

by Badgley Mischka. Wedding Day Takeaways: “Because Zach did not want to see me before the ceremony, we did not have a bride and groom ‘first look’ as so many couples do today,” says Aarika. “However, I did have a ‘first look’ with my daddy, and it was basically the first thing we did once I was ready. It was a perfect start to the day. My daddy also wrote me a very long letter that I read prior to the ceremony. That was the most emotional part of the day for me. Finally, one of my bridesmaids, Courtney Wray, sang a surprise song for my mom at the reception. While she was singing, my cousins brought out my mom’s old bridal portrait and displayed it beside mine. It was truly a beautiful moment.”

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DETAILS WE

There's something very chic about these Chiavari chairs adorned with woven lengths of sumptuous fabric. They add a romantic touch to a sitdown dinner.

©Simply Bloom Photography

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Imprinted wine glasses filled with a sweet surprise are a simple, useful favor. Take a photo of yourself toasting the bride and groom on their first anniversary, tag them, and post it to your favorite social media.

©Lauren Tomasella Photography ©Lauren Tomasella Photography

Made from recycled wine bottles, these aisle markers can be casual, wrapped with jute (here), or more formal, wrapped with satin ribbon or cord. Add a few flowers, greenery, or even twigs for a coordinated look.

©Armosa Studios

We absolutely adore this handlettered and illustrated wedding program. Sure, it includes all the pertinent information, but we love that it also lists the wedding vendors, who aren't usually recognized.

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Extend a small floral budget by mixing in seasonal finds with more expensive flowers.

Here, small, white “Baby Boo” pumpkins are surprisingly g chic in multiples.

©Jessica McCravy Studios

©PbK Studio ©Amanda Chapman Photography

A bride and groom with a sense of humor!What a cute way to pass the time while you wait for the festivities to begin.Great for guests with children too!  | noalastudios.com | january/february 

T smart phone is here to stay, The so why not have fun with it? These pre-ceremony selfies add a whimsical touch to the wedding album.

Cool ol cak cakes! kes! !

This “Naked Cake” by Amy’s Cakes is stunning in its simplicity.Perfect for this rustic wedding!

The deckled edges of this thinly rolled fondant remind us of ruched fabric or the delicate petals of a peony.

Spectacular! Cake by Peggy Ann Bakery

©Abraham Rowe Photography

©Jessica McCravy Studios

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the vine » Amy Collins

GIFTS FOR YEARS TO COME When it comes to selecting a gift for newlyweds, most of us choose an item or two from the registry, have it wrapped, and voilà, it’s done. Obviously most of what’s on the wish list is something the couple actually wants. But, it’s just stuff, and while the happy couple (or one part of the happy couple) may be dying for that KitchenAid mixer, it’s not a particularly unique gift. Okay, so a KitchenAid mixer is a pretty awesome gift and maybe not the best example in this scenario. A bottle or two of top tier wine, however, that will develop in complexity and gain nuance over the years, is a whole other ball game. I’m doubtful anyone is going to spend their fifth wedding anniversary mixing up a batch of cookies over candlelight, but expensive wine is always sexy.

Especially the Burgundy.

The true beauty of an aged wine is in how it changes over time.

A red wine will mellow in color, a white will become more saturated with gold tones. In red wines, which are typically, but not always, the best candidates for tucking away, the tannins will grow softer and the vibrant fruity notes of the young wine will settle down, allowing secondary and tertiary qualities of earth and mushroom to prevail.

White wines too will grow softer as acidity becomes less prickly, and nutty aromas will start to show. Isn’t that a fitting metaphor for matrimony? What we want most in an aged wine is for it to change for the better and surprise us with unexpected deliciousness that awakens all our senses. Admittedly, I know nothing about marriage, but I think such a goal is well within reason and the ideal.

Consider giving a bottle for the couple to save and open on their first, third, or fifth wedding anniversary. I promise it will make an impression.

Opposite is a list of suggestions from various parts of the world. Without going into detail about each one, they are all from reputable producers with great cachet. I’d be happy with any one of them (especially the Burgundy).

These wines typically run between $40 and $150 per bottle retail. All are available in North Alabama, though you may have to request a special order from your favorite wine store.

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I’m doubtful anyone is going to spend their fifth wedding anniversary mixing up a batch of cookies over candlelight, but expensive wine is always sexy.

Amy’s Gift Recommendations Reds Stags Leap District “Cliff Lede” Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, Napa Andrew Geoffrey Diamond Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon 2009, Napa Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Napa La Rasina Brunello 2008, Central Italy Ciacci Piccolomini d’Aragona Brunello 2009, Central Italy Fratelli Brovia Barolo 2010, Piedmont Italy Parusso Barolo 2010, Piedmont Italy Chateau Mongravey Margaux 2011, Bordeaux Chateau Fleur des Ormes Pomerol 2010, Bordeaux Chateau Gaudin Pauillac 2010, Bordeaux Chateau Braude Haut Medoc 2010, Bordeaux Domaine Forey Morey Saint Denis 2011, Burgundy Maison L’Oree Bourgogne Rouge 2010, Burgundy Ghislaine Barthod Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru “Les Chatelots” 2010, Burgundy Domaine Arnoux Corton Grand Cru Le Rognet 2011, Burgundy Whites Lallier Brut Millesime Grand Cru 2005, Champagne Jacquesson Brut NV, Champagne Billecart Salmon Brut Rose NV, Champagne Giardin Puligny Montrachet Ville Vignes 2011, Burgundy Albert Boxler Riesling Brand Kirchberg Grand Cru 2010, Alsace Robert Weil Riesling Spatlese Tradition 2013, Germany

Follow Amy at pigandvine.com for more stories and wine suggestions. january/february  | noalastudios.com | 

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bless their hearts » Sarah Gaede

Nature spits on the seasonal calendar. No month is a safe bet.

MOTHER NATURE OF THE BRIDE As one who catered weddings for eleven years, and has officiated weddings as an Episcopal priest for almost twenty years, there is one thing I know beyond a shadow of a doubt: when it comes to weddings, NATURE IS NOT YOUR FRIEND. Now, I know you young brides-to-be want to be one with nature by having your wedding ceremonies and receptions out in the wild. Here’s what decades of experience say to that: Save nature for your honeymoon. You will be much less stressed if you get married indoors, in a heated or air-conditioned space, and your guests will be much more comfortable. (Believe it or not, your wedding is not just about you.) Until the 1960s and the whole back-to-nature movement, no one would have considered being married outdoors. Weddings were special occasions that took place as far from nature as possible. Think church, or fancy hotel ballroom, or Las Vegas. Nature is bugs and snakes, thunderstorms and heatwaves, snow and ice. Nature is wild, fickle, treacherous, and sly. It is not your BFF, and will turn on you in a heartbeat. I know this from personal experience, examples of which I share below.

It’s not just the dog days of summer, with a guaranteed combination of humidity and temperature in the upper nineties, that are a poor choice for outdoor weddings.

Nature will seduce you with a vision of perfect spring weather and flowers blooming everywhere, meanwhile erasing all memory of the biting insects that accompany said perfect weather. The guests will reek of Avon Skin So Soft or the dryer sheets tucked in their sleeves or bodices as insect repellent. The bride will have to cut the cake immediately after the ceremony for photographic purposes, since her bosom is breaking out in welts from no-see-um bites.

Nature spits on the seasonal calendar. No month is a safe bet. Nature can time an enormous cold front in October, accompanied by torrential rain, to push through just as the guests arrive from a church wedding (as God intended) to your mama’s tented backyard. Normally a tent would provide protection, but Nature will not be denied. In the fury of the storm, the wa- ter will begin to lap around the extension cord heating the tenderloin warmer, threatening electrocution, and creep farther and farther into the leaking tent. The bar manager will slip and injure her back. The temperature will plummet 30 degrees, and the guests will be wet and cold.

Nature will trap the wedding musicians in a cave on a nature preserve, as a band of violent thunderstorms moves through. The band, protective of their expensive instru-

ments, will be stuck there for hours with no food or drink, until finally the mother and father of the bride bring them watermelon in exchange for a private concert. They will be ferried out by Gator long after the wet guests, the food, and the wine have all departed.

Nature is capable of a surprise heat wave in Atlanta during Memorial Day weekend, which usually has ideal weather for an outdoor wedding. The officiant, dripping sweat, will begin to talk slower and slower, like Reverend Lovejoy on the Simpsons. She will look so distressed that one of the guests will consider running up and throwing cold water on her halfway through the ceremony. To recover, she will take off as much as is decent, including her shoes, stand in front of the giant fan in the reception tent, and guzzle a beer as quickly as possible. She will also insist on being photoshopped out of all the wedding pictures because she looks like a drowned rat. As God is her witness, she will NEVER do an outdoor wedding again. Never, ever, ever. There is not enough money in the world. So don’t even ask.

My daughter Martha, who lives in Charleston, South Carolina, got married on October 4 at the ripe old age of 39, in her historic downtown church, as God intended. Despite knowing the risks, she opted for an outdoor reception at a private club in the country—with a huge tent and a large clubhouse that could hold all the guests in comfort in case of inclement weather.

It drizzled at the end of cocktails on the terrace at Martha’s rehearsal dinner (no big deal—we just toddled to the bar inside), but the weather for the reception could not have been more perfect. Ideal temperature, no humidity, no bugs. We are all convinced the gorgeous weather was due to a ritual I’d never heard of, but am happy to pass on for those of you who still have your hearts set on a wedding in the not-sogreat outdoors. Exactly one month before the wedding, bury a full, unopened bottle of bourbon, upside down, at the site of the festivities. You don’t want to sacrifice your precious bottle of Pappy Van Winkle, but it should be something decent. After the ceremony, dig up the bottle and share it with the wedding party at the reception. This ritual worked perfectly for Martha and Charley, along with a well-thought-out contingency plan for both foreseen and unexpected weather catastrophes, a positive attitude, and the understanding that there is no such thing as a “perfect” wedding. Something unforeseen will always happen. There are worse things than bad weather (like, say, one of your bridesmaids being so hungover she throws up in the church while waiting to process down the aisle, but that’s a story for another day). God willing, whatever surprise comes your way, you will be laughing about it at your 50th anniversary, which I hope you will have the good sense to hold indoors.

january/february  | noalastudios.com | 

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scene

Seated: Trey and Samantha Bentley, Tony and Pam Gann (Ball Chair), Moss and Leslie Crosby Standing: Charlie and Wayne Bonner, Michele and David Lucas, Barbie and Ricky Peek, Lori and Kevin Webber, April and Mark Russell

Gary Smith and Rachel Givens

Alexandra Herring and Jeff Herring

Anna Katherine Kimbrough and Hal Kimbrough Harold Stephens and Harper Stephens

Seated: Trey Bentley, Randy Roper, Pam Gann (Ball Chair), Moss Crosby, and Kevin Webber Standing: Mark Russell, Wayne Bonner, David Lucas, Tony Gann, and Ricky Peek

Tom Birchfield and Lindsay Birchfield

Richard Buchanan and McCarley Buchanan

2014 Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Guild 51st Debutante Ball november ,  · von braun center, north hall, huntsville

Above: Seated (left to right): Spencer Anglin, Lindsay Birchfield, Merrill Boles, Emily Brown, Lillie Brown, McCarley Buchanan, and Eleanor Burke Standing (left to right): Beth Byers, Sanders Clayton, Callie Cole, Emily Cragon, Elizabeth Earles, and Caroline Easterling Right: Seated (left to right): Alexandra Ferguson, Bailey Geiger, Rachel Givens, Grace Greco, Lauren Hammond, Allie Hergert, and Alexandra Herring Standing (left to right): Carol Ann Kelly, Anna Katherine Kimbrough, Emily Knowling, Anna Lee Lawson, Brinn Loftin, and Emily Mantooth

Above: Seated (left to right): Cecilia Masucci, Katherine McCown, Caroline McCrary, Allie Murphree, Kalli Scherlis, Cara Sharpe, and Madison Sheible Standing (left to right): Alice Stallworth, Darby Steinberger, Harper Stephens, Emily Sutphin, Brooke Taylor, and Allison Vann

* Names for photos are provided by the organization or business featured.

Winter Verdi’s Requiem With four principal vocalists, the Aeolians of Oakwood University, and the Huntsville Community Chorus Friday, January 16, 2015, 7:30 p.m.

Mark C. Smith Concert Hall, VBC

WORLD PREMIERE Georgia Bottoms: A Comic Opera of the Modern South Music: Gregory Vajda Libretto: Mark Childress, based on his novel Georgia Bottoms Saturday, February 21, 2015, 7:30 p.m.

Mark C. Smith Concert Hall, VBC

For Michael — The Music of Michael Jackson A Jeans ‘N Classics presentation with the HSO Saturday, February 28, 2015, 7:30 p.m.

Mark C. Smith Concert Hall, VBC

Tickets available now at hso.org or 256-539-4818 january/february  | noalastudios.com | 

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food for thought » Sarah Gaede

Sooner or later, all the ladies who put on church receptions are going to call it quits, one way or another, and then where will we be?

LET’S BE LADIES! Once in a while, it’s nice to remember, or learn, how to act like a lady. One of the things ladies do is dress up for genteel “tea” parties, with yummy little things to eat on pretty plates, with cloth napkins and fresh flowers. If you don’t know any women like this, ask a gay man for advice. You can borrow china, silver, and linen from him, and chances are he will share his mama’s deviled egg recipe with you.

Learning to host, or at least provide food for, a lovely afternoon event will stand you in good stead. Sooner or later, all the ladies who put on church receptions are going to call it quits, one way or another, and then where will we be when someone dies, or has a small, quiet chapel wedding with reception at the church, or a christening party?

Those of us who live in the South might as well face it. These occasions, and the food to accompany them, are not going away any time soon. A small afternoon event with your dearest friends is a good way to practice. Everything can be done in advance, so you have plenty of time to change into your prettiest frock and powder your nose.

I love finger sandwiches, even though they can be tedious to assemble. I’ve been making this chicken salad recipe for more than 30 years. I got it from my dear friend Sally Bird Newton Combs of Atlanta. She’s a redhead in every sense of the word, but she can act like a lady when she has to. Other good choices for sandwich fillings are pimento cheese, egg salad, cream cheese and olive, cucumber and butter, and smoked salmon (Ina Garten has a great recipe for smoked salmon tea sandwiches). Make sure to use thin bread, like Pepperidge Farm Very Thin White and Whole Wheat, or party rye and pumpernickel. You can also get whole loaves sliced thin at Publix. If you are pressed for time or short of patience, you can serve one or two sandwich varieties, and spread the rest of the fillings on crackers. Shrimp Paste is a staple of the Low Country, home of the best shrimp in the world. The recipe is from my friend Damon Lee Fowler, food editor of the Savannah Morning News.

If you y want some color,, steam fat asparagus until just tender, chill, and wrap with slices of prosciutto, or stuff cherry tomatoes with herb cheese. Deviled s eggs are alway always welcome. Cheese straws are essential, homemade or bought.

For sweets, I like to serve lemon squares b cut very ssmall, and bowls of fresh raspberries or strawberries topped top with sweetened whipped cream. (Ladies do not serv serve Cool Whip to guests.)

You Yo can, of course, serve iced tea or Methodist Ch Chardonnay (white grape juice punch). But if you i are inclined that way, a dry white wine or Honeysuckl Lemonade is perfect for a long, lazy, ladies’ suckle lunch luncheon, although probably not a good idea for a r church reception, even if you are an Episcopalian.

Chicken Salad Sandwiches • 2 whole chicken breasts (4 halves, with skin and bones) • 1 cup water • 1 cup dry white wine or vermouth • 1 medium Vidalia onion • 2 ribs celery • 3 tablespoons sweet pickle relish • Juice of 1/2 lemon • 1/2 cup good quality mayonnaise • 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon curry powder • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste • Extra-thin Pepperidge Farm white and/or whole wheat sandwich bread • Mayonnaise for assembly Simmer chicken in water and wine until done, 20 to 25 minutes. Cool in liquid, remove skin, and bone chicken. Chop chicken fine in food processor; remove to a large bowl. Chop onion and celery fine in food processor and add to chicken. Add next five ingredients and combine well. Refrigerate overnight before making sandwiches.

To assemble, lay out 16 slices of bread and spread with mayonnaise. Spread 8 slices with a generous layer of chicken salad. Top with remaining bread, mayo side down. Trim crusts; slice into 4 squares or triangles.

Layer sandwiches in an airtight container between sheets of wax paper. Place a damp towel over the top layer before putting the lid on. You can make these the night before and let them sit out a few minutes before serving to take the chill off. Makes 32 sandwiches.

Low Country Shrimp Paste • 1 pound peeled shrimp, cooked, or 1 1/2 pounds shell-on shrimp, cooked and peeled • 1 stick unsalted butter, softened • 2 tablespoons grated Vidalia onion • Salt, cayenne pepper, and freshly grated nutmeg to taste • Melba toasts, water crackers, or pita chips for serving Pulse the shrimp in a food processor until coarsely ground. Add butter and grated onion and process until the mixture comes together—there should still be some texture. Season to taste; pulse to incorporate seasonings. Butter a 3-cup mold and press paste firmly into it (or just pile into a pretty little bowl if you aren’t skilled in casting out molds). Cover with plastic wrap and chill until firm. Unmold onto a serving platter and let stand until soft enough to spread.

Honeysuckle Lemonade • 2 cups Cathead Honeysuckle Vodka • 4 cups fresh Nathalie’s Natural Lemonade or Simply Lemonade • Fresh mint Combine vodka and lemonade in a pitcher; pour over ice in a pretty glass or julep cup. Garnish with mint.

For a really big batch, combine a fifth of Honeysuckle Vodka and a 1/2 gallon jug of lemonade.

january/february  | noalastudios.com | 

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parting shot » White Rabbit Studios

MAN’S BEST MAN

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