No'Ala Shoals, January/February 2015

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

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January/February

features 22 Engagements

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

38

by David Sims

Bridals

122 50

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 Abraham Rowe Photography Alabella Studios Armosa Studios Butler Studio

©Abraham Rowe Photography

74

Wedding Album

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

by Sara Wright Covington ON THE COVER: Laura Ann Thompson and Cal Crawford Johnson Married at Bluewater Creek Farm May 3, 2014

by Abraham Rowe Photography

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no’ala advisory board Jeremy Britten Anne Bernauer Vicki Goldston Leslie Keys

editor’s letter « Allen Tomlinson

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 the lives of 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!

Tera Wages Ashley Winkle

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 to which you can contribute; 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 project ourselves twenty years into the future and take a look at how some of the decisions being made right now will impact growth In the h and prosperity in the Shoals.

Sh meantime, enjoy these winter months, and Shop op the Shoals!

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contents

BEAUTIFUL, BY HAND Hand-lettering makes a comeback!

112

© Courtesy of Christina Green

everything else 12 110

Calendar Selected Events for January/February 2015

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

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

130

Kudos by roy hall ©Abraham Rowe

134

The Vine “Gifts for Years to Come” by amy collins

136

Food for Thought “Let’s Be Ladies!” by sarah gaede

14 The Colors of a Continent

138

Parting Shot by kim box

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015 Volume 8: Issue 1 ••• Editor-in-Chief C. Allen Tomlinson Chief Operating Officer Matthew Liles Creative Director David Sims Advertising Director Heidi King Features Manager Roy Hall Graphic Designer Rowan Finnegan Retail Product Manager Ashley Winkle 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, Abraham Rowe Photography, Elite Photography, PbK Studio, Create Portraiture, Armosa Studios, Amanda Chapman Photography, Butler Studio, Alabella Studios, Kim Box Photography, Smiling Faces Photography, Spindle Photography, Serendipity Photography, Simple Blessed Studios, Breanna Fogg Photography, Cohart Photography, Simply Bloom Photography, Lauren Tomasella Photography, and Jessica McCravy Studios

The Shoals’ Indian community celebrates its heritage in a kaleidoscope of color and joy.

Standard postage paid at Florence, AL. A one-year subscription is $19.95 for delivery in the United States.

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

Advertisers are solely responsible for the content of their advertisements. © 2008-2015 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.

photos by Abraham Rowe text by Roy Hall

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

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

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calendar

Thursday, January 8 – Thursday, February 12 Works by Bethanne Hill Bold, richly patterned and colorful paintings will be exhibited by the Birmingham artist. Mon-Fri 9:00am-4:00pm; Free; Kennedy-Douglass Center for the Arts, 217 E Tuscaloosa St; (256) 760-6379 Sunday, January 18 – Monday, March 16 Carolyn Norris Fold Art from the Mississippi Delta Self-taught folk artist Carolyn Norris’s work depicts scenes from everyday life on the Mississippi delta. Norris’s subjects include portraits, farming, honky-tonks, baptisms, youth sporting events, rural scenes, and socializing among friends and family that relate history, life, culture, and personal experiences through art. Mon-Fri 9:00am-5:00pm, Sun 1:00pm-3:00pm; $5 adults, $3 students, Free Sundays; Tennessee Valley Museum of Art, 511 N Water St, Tuscumbia; tvaa.net; (256) 383-0533 Tuesday, January 27 On Stage presents The Stepcre Combining Ottawa Valley Stepdance, Irish Stepdance, and tap, the virtuosic cast of the StepCrew is comprised of the most respected dancers and musicians in the Celtic music scene today. 7:30pm; Admission charged; Norton Auditorium; onstage.ticketleap.com Thursday, February 5 – Sunday, February 8 Shoals Theatre Presents A Closer Walk with Patsy Cline Dean Regan’s musical follows legendary country singer Patsy Cline from her hometown in Virginia to stardom at The Grand Ole Opry, Las Vegas, and Carnegie Hall. Thurs-Sat 7:30pm and Sun 2:00pm; Admission charged; Shoals Theatre, 123 N Seminary St; (256) 764-1700; facebook.com/ShoalsCommunityTheatre Saturday, February 7 2015 Shoals Heart Ball The Heart Ball celebrates the work and mission of donors and volunteers; and—most importantly—the lives saved and improved because of everyone’s effort. 6:00pm-Midnight; $175; Marriott Shoals Conference Center; 800 Cox Creek Parkway S; (205) 510-1508; shoalsheartball.ahaevents.org Thursday, February 19 – Thursday, March 26 Watercolors by Bill Bailey Watercolors by the Memphis, Tenn., artist will be on exhibit. Mon-Fri 9:00am-4:00pm; Free; Kennedy-Douglass Center for the Arts, 217 E Tuscaloosa St; (256) 760-6379 Saturday, February 21 “Bluegrass at the Ritz” with Jake Landers & Friends The Jake Landers Bluegrass Festival includes Bobby Osborne, Jake Landers, Kay Bain, Iron Horse, New Home, and Wailin Wood. 1:00pm and 6:00pm; $10 for all or part of the day; Ritz Theatre, 111 W. Third St., Sheffield; (256) 383-0533; tvaa.net

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 | 

Photos by Abraham Rowe Photography » Text by Roy Hall

The Indian celebration of Navratri, or “Nine Nights,” honors the cuisine, spirit, and color of India and is held every year in late September and early October. This year, Florence’s Indian Family Cultural Association invited the community to join them over the course of five evenings as they observed Navratri at the Florence Convention Center.

The photographs, captured by Abraham Rowe, reveal the richness and grandeur of Indian culture, and remind us all, regardless of our heritage, of the importance of community, family, and tradition.

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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.

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• • • PLEASE SUPPORT YOUR LOCALLY OWNED INDEPENDENT RETAILERS, SERVICE PROVIDERS, AND NONPROFITS! • • •

Your BizHub Watchdog

If you’re interested in controlling costs with office equipment solutions for almost any business challenge, call me. We’re the specialists, because we’re the watchdogs.

—J.T. Ray

(256) 464-0010

450 Production Avenue, Madison, AL 35758

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scene

Collin King and Andrew Kerstiens Tony and Natalie Faggioni, and Heather Anderson

Ben and Will Powell Mary Leigh Gillespie

Sarah Franklin

Theresa Wood Una and Carmen Burkhalter

UNA Percussion Studio Students

Above: Shoals Dragon Boat Festival october ,  · mcfarland park

Below: Shoals Symphony at UNA Welcome Reception for Dr. Daniel Stevens october ,  · norton auditorium

Ian Loeppky and Alan Flowers Barb Hendricks with Joan and Wendell Hudiberg

David Black and Daniel Stevens Taylor Davis

Gretchen Perry and Connie Johnson

Wade Dillingham Dan Hendricks and John Thornell

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

Ruth, David, and Marlow McCullough

Chapel in Sheffield

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Engagements

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Michelle McCormack & Jake Wilkinson November 1, 2014

by Abraham Rowe Photography

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engagements

Hannah Hollis & Jordan Rowe August 2, 2014 Quanecia Fletcher & Jason Graham

by Elite Photography

Maggie Putman & Wes Bevis January 25, 2014

by Create Portraiture

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by PbK Studios

Emily Darby & Ty Kerstiens December 13, 2014

by Armosa Studios

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Natalie Gooch & Dustin L. McCown June 7, 2014

engagements

by Abraham Rowe Photography

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Anna Spurgeon & Kade Smith September 27, 2014

by Amanda Chapman Photography

Bree Lawson & Kevin Smith September 27, 2014

by Butler Studio

Amanda Caldwell & Myers Dean September 13, 2014

by Create Portraiture

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engagements

Amanda Johnson & Jamarcus Jackson June 7, 2014

Caycee Wilson & Lee Fowler September 6, 2014

by Elite Photography

by Butler Studio

Grace McLendon & Adam Philip Zills August 9, 2014

by Abraham Rowe Photography

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Brittany Greene & Matthew Greene October 11, 2014

by PbK Studio

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Anna Clark & Joshua Dawson June 7, 2015

engagements

by Alabella Studios

Ashley Hogan & Dusty Brown May 17, 2014

by Create Portraiture

Morgan Wingo & Brad Stout May 17, 2014

by Amanda Chapman Photography

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Shea Toner & Matthew Eubank September 13, 2014

by Alabella Studios

Katelyn Diane Parkes & Jonathan Mark Partridge June 14, 2014

by Butler Studio

Haleigh Anise Lisby & Skyler Chase Bain December 14, 2013

by Butler Studio

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Melissa Michelle Napier & Jason O’Brian Napier December 21, 2013

engagements

by Elite Photography

Sarah Daniel & Ryan Caldwell May 16, 2015

Kristy Blackburn & Zach Conlon May 31, 2014

by Alabella Studios

by Butler Studio

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Morgan Sandoval & Matthew Stevens March 22, 2014

by Amanda Chapman Photography

Christina Caufield & Trent Cronin October 25, 2014

by Armosa Studios

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engagements

Tracy Fowler & Chadwick Burdine May 24, 2014

by Abraham Rowe Photography

Erin Sprinkle & Daniel Mitchell October 5, 2014

by Create Portraiture

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Lindsi Gibbs & Kole Balentine May 3, 2014

by PbK Studio

Ashley Wallace & Jacob Feltman June 14, 2014

by Alabella Studios

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Bridals

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Krystal (Elliott) Taylor

by Amanda Chapman Photography

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bridals

Kristy (Blackburn) Conlon

by Butler Studio

Morgan (Parker) Minor

by Alabella Studios

Katelyn Diane (Parkes) Partridge

by Butler Studio

Lauren (Holden) Jones

by PbK Studio

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Anna Megan (Spurgeon) Smith

by Amanda Chapman Photography

Heather Nicole (Thigpen) Sutton

by Create Portraiture

Alexis (Cote) Lovelady

by Abraham Rowe Photography

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bridals

Morgan (Sandoval) Stevens

by Amanda Chapman Photography

Jessica Jo (Harrison) Killen

by Alabella Studios

Mary Ellen (McIlwain) Mayfield

by Abraham Rowe Photography

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Kara (Myhan) Posey

by Amanda Chapman Photography

Kathryn (Nelson) Rogers

by Amanda Chapman Photography

Laura Ann (Thompson) Johnson

by Abraham Rowe Photography

Tara (Rinks) Payton

by Kim Box Photography

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bridals

Susanna (Burkett) Stephenson

by Amanda Chapman Photography

Valerie Hope (Goode) Jones

by Abraham Rowe Photography

Caycee (Wilson) Fowler

by Butler Studio

Rebecca Butler-Young

by Smiling Faces Photography

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Jennifer Lynn (Osborn) Allen

by Amanda Chapman Photography

Morgan (Wingo) Stout

by Amanda Chapman Photography

Lindsi (Gibbs) Balentine

by PbK Studio

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bridals

Hannah (Hollis) Rowe

by PbK Studio

Grace (McLendon) Zills

by Abraham Rowe Photography

Jessica (Walker) Young

by Smiling Faces Photography

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Amanda (Burton) Martin

by Spindle Photography

Erin (Sprinkle) Mitchell

by Create Portraiture

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Wedding album

Tracy Fowler & Chadwick Burdine in Florence, Alabama Northwood Methodist Church GAS Design Studio, Tuscumbia, Alabama May 24, 2014

by Serendipity Photography

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Caitlin Gareri &William Carson Edgmon in Prospect, Tennessee Willow Oaks Farm (Groom’s Family Farm) June 7, 2014

by Alabella Studios

by Armosa Studios

wedding album

Shea Toner & Matthew Eubank in Lexington, Tennessee Toner Farm September 13, 2014

Morgan Wingo & Brad Stout in Panama City Beach, Florida May 17, 2014

by Amanda Chapman Photography

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Alison Cross & Brian Wikel in Florence, Alabama Daugherty Farm May 17, 2014

by Alabella Studios

Carrie Landers & Will King in St. Florian, Alabama Buffler House June 15, 2014

by Alabella Studios

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wedding album

Kristy Blackburn & Zach Conlon in Florence, Alabama St. Joseph’s Catholic Church The Love House May 31, 2014

by Butler Studio

Erin Sprinkle & Daniel Mitchell in Decatur, Alabama Point Mallard Prayer Chapel October 5, 2014

by Create Portraiture

Adelia Thompson & Quintin Thompson in Florence, Alabama Greater St. Paul A.M.E. Church April 26, 2014

by Smiling Faces Photography

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Laura Ann Thompson & Cal Crawford in Killen, Alabama Bluewater Creek Farm May 3, 2014

Marissa Castile & Barrett Wynn in Florence, Alabama Ava’s Place October 11, 2014

by Abraham Rowe Photography

by Simply Blessed Studios

Ashley Hogan & Dusty Brown in St. Florian, Alabama St. Florian Fiber Farm May 17, 2014

by Create Portraiture

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wedding album

Kelley Fretwell & Justin Fretwell in Phil Campbell, Alabama Alan and Tonya Rhudy’s Farm September 27, 2014

by Create Portraiture

Tara Rinks & Clinton Payton in Florence, Alabama Trinity Episcopal Church Turtle Point Yacht and Country Club September 27, 2014

by Kim Box Photography

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Maggie Putman & Wes Bevis in Rogersville, Alabama Whitehead Baptist Church January 25, 2014

by Create Portraiture

Kara Myhan & Cody Posey in Tuscumbia, Alabama Valley Grove Baptist Church June 7, 2014

by Amanda Chapman Photography

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Amanda Caldwell & Myers Dean in Fayetteville, Alabama Sacred Stone September 13, 2014

wedding album

by Create Portraiture

Erin Fielder & Chad Sykes in Muscle Shoals, Alabama Robert Trent Jones Golf Trial at the Shoals May 10, 2014

by Alabella Studios

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Lindsey Grigsby & Ryan Smith in St Florian, Alabama St. Florian Fiber Farms August 2, 2014

by Butler Studio

Grace McLendon & Adam Philip Zills in Muscle Shoals, Alabama The Love House August 9, 2014

by Abraham Rowe Photography

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Jessica Jo Harrison & Tyler James Killen in Tuscumbia, Alabama Belle Mont Mansion May 31, 2014

wedding album

by Alabella Studios

Morgan Sandoval & Matthew Stevens in Decatur, Alabama Westmeade Baptist Church Syke’s Place on Bank Street March 22, 2014

Lauren Taylor & Chad Bourland in Muscle Shoals, Alabama Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at the Shoals June 28, 2014

by Amanda Chapman Photography

by Create Portraiture

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Krystal Elliott & Zach Taylor in St. Florian, Alabama St. Florian Fiber Farm April 19, 2014

by Amanda Chapman Photography

Susanna Burkett & Robert Lance Stephenson, II in Huntsville, Alabama Huntsville Botanical Garden May 24, 2014

by Amanda Chapman Photography

Heather Nicole Thigpen & Joseph Dan Sutton in Guntersville, Alabama Lake Guntersville State Park Lodge June 14, 2014

by Create Portraiture

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Frances Diane Adams & William Brent Ledgewood in Florence, Alabama Adams Family Home May 24, 2014

wedding album

by Breanna Fogg Photography

Katelyn Diane Parkes & Jonathan Mark Partridge in Oxford, Mississippi Paris-Yates Chapel at Ole Miss The Lyric Oxford June 14, 2014

by Butler Studio

Haleigh Anise Lisby & Skyler Chase Bain in Tuscumbia, Alabama GAS Design Studio December 14, 2013

by Butler Studio

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Sabrina Willingham & Markess Gholston in Miami Beach, Florida Fontainebleau August 16, 2014

Alexis Cote & Aaron Lovelady in Muscle Shoals, Alabama Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at the Shoals May 24, 2014

by Cohart Photography

by Abraham Rowe Photography

Jennifer Lynn Osborn & Blake Nicholas Allen in Florence, Alabama Hudson Family Barn May 31, 2014

by Amanda Chapman Photography

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scene

Rachelle Crosswhite, Deborah Holden, and Brandi Randolph Jeff Daniel, Gwen Allen, Adam Collins, Ben Alexander, and Ryan Moore Beth Howard Mary Lord and Terry Wicker

Volunteers from Girl Scouts, ARC of the Shoals, SunTrust Bank, and the Warming Center

Regina Campbell, Melissa Bailey, Lyndsey Borden, and Tina Irons

Above: United Way 2014 Unite to Fight Hunger Campaign Kick-off and Day of Caring september ,  · florence-lauderdale coliseum

Mayor Mickey Haddock, Mary Lord, and Beth Haddock

Volunteers ready to pack meals

Below: Mefford Jewelers Grand Opening november ,  · florence

Halley Phillips, Noah Yeager, and Preston McAlexander

Russell Mefford and Kevin Hudson

Heidi King and Frances Ledgewood

Tabitha and Nick Franks

Russell Mefford, Karen and Stanley Goldstein

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

Susan Beckett

Donna Jean Godcheaux, Kevin Sledge, Micha York, and Bryan Farris Photos by Andy Keenum

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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.

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

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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See Anyone You Know?

For more than 30 years, Riverhill School has been educating students and imparting a lifelong love of learning. To help our students remain connected, we are beginning the Riverhill Alumni Association. Were you a Riverhill student? Do you know someone who was?

Please share your contact information so we can connect you to your Riverhill friends! www.riverhillschool.org

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Email your contact information to allen@noalastudios.com to become an Alumni Association Member!

IN TE R IOR S

WH EN S T RU C T U RE A N D BEAU T Y M ERGE .

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Couple: Erin Stephenson and Doc Dailey Date: October ,  » Place: McFarland Park

ERIN & DOC Photos by Abraham Rowe Photography Text by Sara Wright Covington

How They Met: Erin moved from her hometown of Elkmont, Alabama, to Florence in 2012 for work. When a friend offered to take her out on the town to meet some new people and enjoy Florence’s First Fridays, she met and instantly connected with Doc, who has been a big part of North Alabama’s music scene for several years. The two spent the entire night talking and went on their first date just a few weeks later. The Proposal: During last year’s W.C. Handy Festival, Doc played an acoustic set at the Billy Reid store. After his set was over, the two went to another show. When they got home after their night out, Doc asked Erin if she would sew up a hole in his pants pocket. “When he turned the pocket inside out, the ring appeared,” says Erin. “There was no hole. He had been carrying the ring around in his pocket for days. He was planning a bigger proposal later in the week, but he just couldn’t wait!”

Number of guests: 130 Vintage Vows: Antique Southern chic was the theme of the day, as the couple exchanged vows along the banks of the Tennessee River in McFarland Park.

Erin arrived to the ceremony in a blue 1960s Cadillac Convertible once owned by the late, famed record producer Sam Phillips. While planning the wedding, Erin and her mother shopped online and in antique stores to find serving ware, decorations, vintage cake stands, and old milk bottles for the flowers. She also used her late grandmother’s glassware and handkerchiefs for table centerpieces. White mums were the perfect finishing touch for a fall wedding celebration. Something Blue: Erin wore a hand-dyed indigo wrap, which exactly matched her blue vintage arrival car, and was the perfect accent for the crisp, fall day. She wore blue shoes as well.

Wedding Threading: Erin’s hands-on approach to her eclectic wedding didn’t stop short with the dress. As an employee of Alabama Chanin, North Alabama’s fashion warehouse known worldwide for its intricate, handmade garments, she had very specific ideas about how her dress would be made.

“I knew from the time I began working there that I wanted one of their dresses for my wedding,” says Erin. “I found a style I liked and created a flower design to go on the dress that was inspired by one of my grandmother’s kerchiefs.” Erin found a way to literally weave her friends and family into her dress, bringing her work-in-progress along on a bachelorette beach weekend planned by her sister and friends. “Everyone sewed part of my dress, even if they weren’t the best seamstress,” says Erin. “Some of the girls I work with also hosted a party and helped me work on my dress. I asked everyone who helped to stitch their initials next to the part that they sewed, so I will always have those memories in my dress.” Fall Fare: Guests enjoyed some of the bride and groom’s favorite Southern staples: Whitt’s BBQ, roasted jalapeno slaw, and macaroni and cheese. Imagine That Bakery provided a variety of cupcake flavors as well as a red velvet wedding cake.

Wedding Day Takeaway: “Sometimes you forget how many people you have in your life who are so amazing and how wonderful your family and friends are,” says Erin. “Seeing everyone there together from all parts and times of our lives certainly reinforces it.” january/february  | noalastudios.com | 

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MORGAN & STEPHEN Photos by Armosa Studios Text by Sara Wright Covington

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Couple: Morgan and Steven Sparks » Date: April ,  » Place: The Oaks Plantation

Seeing Sparks: The couple met in 2012 at a downtown Birmingham restaurant. Morgan was having a post-kick ball game drink with friends when she noticed Steven. “I spotted a handsome guy at the end of the bar,” says Morgan. “We eventually made eye contact and after a lot of smiling back and forth, he came over and we struck up a conversation.

By the end of the evening, we had exchanged numbers and made plans to see each other that following weekend.” Despite their plans to see each other the next weekend, the two spent the next day texting and decided they didn’t want to wait another week to see one another and made dinner plans for the following day after work. Morgan recalls not having time to go home after work to change clothes before their date that day and how her outfit choice would end up playing a significant role in their wedding. “Unfortunately for me, I decided to wear a pair of bright purple pants to work that day,” says Morgan. “Purple pants don’t exactly scream first date material, after all! Thankfully Steven looked past the crazy choice in outfit and we had a wonderful dinner and date.” Steven never forgot the purple pants, and the couple used the pant color as inspiration for their wedding color scheme. The Proposal: In December of 2012, Morgan and Steven went to a movie at the Alabama Theatre with Morgan’s parents and brother. After the movie, Morgan noticed a crowd gathering around the theatre marquee. “I turned around to see what all the fuss was about when I saw ‘Morgan, Will You Marry Me?’ written in lights on top of the marquee,” remembers Morgan. “Of course I said ‘YES!” Number of Guests: 220 Saying Yes to the Dress: After Morgan said “yes” to Steven, she made an appointment at Kleinfeld Bridal in New York City to secure her perfect gown. “My mom and I have talked for years about going to New York to pick out my wedding dress,” says Morgan. “So as soon as it sank it

that I was getting married, I got online and made that appointment.” Weeks later, Morgan flew to New York with her mom, grandmother, and maid of honor. After trying on just a few dresses, Morgan found herself saying “yes” once again. “I knew that it was my dress from the very moment that I saw it on the hanger,” she says. “It was beautiful! I slipped the dress on, and looked in the mirror. It was amazing. I practically bolted out of the dressing room and back to the show room to show my girls. They knew the moment that they saw it as well. THIS was my dress.” Southern Table: Instead of the typical buffet-style wedding spread of quiche and crab cakes, Morgan and Steven decided to serve guests in a way more suited to their old-South style wedding. “Our wedding took place on a large Southern plantation complete with a Southern mansion and little white chapel on the property,” says Morgan. “Instead of doing a buffet or a traditional sit-down dinner, we decided to do a family-style dinner.” Once guests were seated at outdoor tables beneath a cool canopy of lantern-draped trees, they were served muffins, cornbread, and biscuits with Southern jams followed by a dinner of roast beef with vegetables, pecan crusted chicken, stuffed peppers, and mini corn puddings—all by Kathy G. & Company. Wedding Day Takeaway: Morgan and Steven chose not to do a formal introduction once they entered the reception, waiting until after everyone had been seated for dinner before they entered. “As Steven and I made our way into the reception area, we happened to stop at the first table to say hello to guests,” says Morgan. “That led to us making our way to the next table, then the next, and eventually to each and every table. That was the only unplanned thing of the day and was actually one of my favorite parts of the evening. I loved that I knew without a doubt in my mind that I spoke to each of the 220 people there,” says Morgan. january/february  | noalastudios.com | 

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MARISA & MATT Photos by Abraham Rowe Photography Text by Sara Wright Covington

Couple: Marisa Keris and Matthew Green » Date: September ,  Place: Garden of First Methodist Church

The Meeting: Marisa and Matthew met by chance when Matthew’s band, Belle Adair, took some photos in front of Marisa’s paintings that were on display at Rivertown Coffee.

The artistic pair reveal little else about that first meeting, but suffice it to say they definitely connected. “Let’s just say that the stars aligned,” says Marisa. Number of Guests: 100 Change of a Dress: Marisa originally purchased the dress she planned to wear about a year prior to the wedding. “I loved it,” says Marisa, “but about a month before the wedding, I found the one I’m wearing in the photos. The texture is soutache embroidery and I ordered it online and it was a perfect fit. It just made me feel instantly comfortable.” The dress’s timeless tea length also showed off Marisa’s J.Crew snakeskin pumps. Using materials she found on ETSY, she made her own veil and also handcrafted a leather wedding clutch from her own line of leather bags called Scout by Two. “The whole outfit was ’it’ for me,” she says. “Any dress can be a wedding dress, as long as it makes you feel beautiful.”

Something Borrowed: Marisa wore a gold cuff belonging to her mother. Something Old: She also carried the Irish hanky bonnet she was given as a baby. “It’s an old Irish tradition to cut the strings of the bonnet and use the handkerchief on your wedding day,” says Marisa. Cozy Garden Chic: Marisa and Matt kept their focus on being able to enjoy the day and stayed close to a simple, classic theme. “We kept the decor simple,” says Marisa. “I prefer a clean, modern look, but also

wanted some romance. Our motto was less is more.” Marisa created the bouquets, arrangements, and garlands with help from family and friends using fresh garden roses, ranunculus, seeded eucalyptus, and Italian ruscus. Soul Style: After the ceremony, friends and family listened to the couple’s favorite selections of classic soul, R&B, and funk while sitting down to family-style fare, featuring healthy, gourmet specialties such as smoked paprika chicken, red quinoa salad with garam masala, lemony potato salad with dill, sweet corn and kale salad with feta, and roasted vegetables with rosemary—all catered by Rivertown Coffee. They also enjoyed a vanilla cake with almond buttercream icing from Aunt Bea’s in Tuscumbia. Wedding Day Takeaway: Because Marisa was raised in New Jersey and Matt is from Alabama, the couple have close friends and family from all over the North and South. So when planning their wedding, the private pair really just wanted to focus on the bigger picture of sharing time with their loved ones. “It was so important to us to have a small wedding so we would be able to greet everyone and enjoy the day with our guests. It turned out to be great and we got to spend time with everyone who came. My favorite part was not the party or the clothes but having our family and friends together and marrying the best man I’ve ever met. Everyone (including us) was so happy.”

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Couple: Ashley Wallace and Jacob Feltman Date: June ,  Place: Turtle Point Yacht & Country Club

ASHLEY & JACOB Photos by Alabella Studios Text by Sara Wright Covington

The Meeting: The couple first met while attending the University of North Alabama. After Ashley transferred to the University of Alabama her junior year, she returned home to the Shoals the summer before her senior year and the two hit it off again. The Proposal: Jacob had always told Ashley that he would never propose on her birthday because it was just too cliché. “I had a feeling the proposal was coming the summer it happened but knew it wouldn’t happen on my birthday,” says Ashley. “He told me he was taking me to a very nice restaurant a day before my birthday, so I just knew this was going to be it. I dressed up and had my nails done just in case. But, it didn’t happen.” The next day the two spent the day celebrating Ashley’s birthday with friends when Jacob asked her to go and watch fireworks with him at McFarland Park. “It was raining, I was the opposite of dressed up, and completely oblivious that my life was about to change for the better,” says Ashley. “He proposed there, on a blanket, with fireworks in the background, and it was perfect.” Number of Guests: 300 Waterside Wedding: Ashley and Jacob describe their celebration as “preppy chic,” but weren’t too rigid when it came to sticking to one specific theme. “We didn’t really pick a style and run with it,” says Ashley. “We mostly just went with what we liked. For instance, I love French macaroons, so we had those. We used a lot of navy and white stripes since we were by the water, but also to give it the extra preppy feel, along with the bow ties.” Something Old: Along with her bouquet, Ashley carried an heirloom Bible that was given to her mother as a gift for Ashley’s baby shower in 1988. Something New: Ashley’s dress and satin Kate Spade pumps. Something Borrowed: A sixpence loaned to her from her mother- and father-inlaw to be. Something Blue: A sapphire ring Jacob gave her for their first Christmas together. Family Affair: Ashley’s grandfather ministered the wedding, and both her father and stepfather walked her down the aisle. Nuptial Knot: “Jacob and I wanted to do something different in the ceremony other than combining sand or lighting candles,” says Ashley.

“We came up with intertwining three ropes in our wedding colors which represented God, Jacob, and me. We called it “God’s knot”. We intertwined them in the ceremony while my grandfather held them. It’s now hanging in our house.”

Wedding Day Takeaway: Ashley and Jacob both agree that their favorite memory of the day is seeing each other for the first time before the ceremony. “We met by the water at Turtle Point a little bit before guests arrived and saw each other for the first time that day,” says Ashley. “The weather was perfect, and the scenery was gorgeous. It was such a special moment for us.”

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KATHERINE & BLAKE Photos by Butler Studio Text by Sara Wright Covington

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Couple: Katherine Vandiver and Blake Clark » Date: May ,  Place: The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at the Shoals

Greek Meeting: Katherine and Blake first met in 2010 through mutual friends at the University of North Alabama. They took a prophetic first photo together on UNA’s Bid Day. “Blake was an ATO and I was a ZETA,” recalls Katherine. “I was dressed up as a strawberry in the picture for ZETA!” The Proposal: Early in their friendship, Blake and Katherine often went to the Splash Pad to just sit and talk. It was during one of those evenings of talking when stronger feelings began to develop. “So on the day of our proposal, Blake told me to get ready and we would have a few cocktails before our date that evening,” says Katherine. “Instead of taking me to the Marriott, Blake detoured down to the Splash Pad to where we would hang out. He then told me, ‘This is the place where I knew I really liked you and should have kissed you that night. So to make it up to you, I want to ask you to make me the happiest man on this planet and ask you to be my wife.’ My mouth instantly fell open with excitement and shock.

And of course, I said YES!” Number of Guests: 300 The Dress: Katherine wore a chiffon ball gown with a sweetheart neckline and a beaded silver belt as an accent. Special Deliveries: Throughout the day and while Katherine was getting ready, Blake found a way to make himself present with her although they were apart before the ceremony. “Blake had each groomsman bring down a gift for me,” remembers Katherine.

“The first gift was the movie Titanic. It was the first movie we watched together. The second was a box of Ghirardelli chocolate, which is my favorite. The third

was my favorite Moscato wine. Next was a bouquet of flowers because I kid with Blake that he never gets me flowers. My favorite gift was a Bible with my new name engraved on it. The final gift was a letter written from Blake.” Something Old: Katherine carried a lace handkerchief that belonged to her grandmother that she wrapped around her bouquet. Something Borrowed: Toasting goblets that have been passed from wedding to wedding in Katherine’s family. Signature Cocktails: Strawberry Margaritas and Old Fashioneds. Classic Soul: At the reception, guests danced the night away to classic/soul band Entice. The eight-man band featured trombones, trumpets, and saxophones and played everything from Motown to modern-day hits. Wedding Day Takeaway: After raining all morning, ominous clouds still hovered overhead right up until time for the outdoor, lakeside ceremony. “The bridal party was lined up ready to walk down the aisle and I saw it starting to sprinkle,” says Katherine. I looked frantically at Mrs. Skipworth, our preacher’s wife, and said, “why is it raining?” The bridal party kept on walking as if no rain was falling at all. As I began to walk out, the rain stopped and the clouds literally parted and the sun started to shine. When I got to Blake, I saw little raindrops on his glasses from where he didn’t wipe them off. The wedding went on and was completely dry the rest of the ceremony. Some of the guests even said that there were two doves that came and sat down on the railing behind us during the ceremony. Everything was perfect.”

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Couple: Ashley Neill and Jason Reynolds Date: October ,  Place: Woodmont Baptist Church

The Meeting: Jason and Ashley met in high school through mutual friends. Post-it Proposal: Jason managed to make a typical Wednesday wonderful. The two had been running errands after work when he brought her home to her apartment. “When we got to my apartment,” remembers Ashley, “there was a note on my door and when I walked inside, he had covered the inside of my apartment with over a 100 little Post-it notes. Each had a reason why I love you written on it.” Number of Guests: 300 Autumn Nuptials: Ashley and Jason made the most of the October fall foliage, using ribbon to tie the season’s vibrantly colored flowers and Jackson vine to the altar and to the wooden beams in the church ceiling. Rustic Chic: After the ceremony, guests celebrated the couple at Ashley’s family’s farm. “There were lights in the trees that you passed on the driveway,” says Ashley. “The entire barn ceiling was full of twigs and Jackson vine. We also had vintage chandeliers throughout the barn, with one large one in the center.” To complete the fall feeling, tables were covered in candles and golden leaves with mismatched china and gold flatware. Large white couches sat just beyond the dance floor, creating a lounge area. Toasted Treats: Guests enjoyed catering provided by Dish Café, including a finale of s’mores. “We had little flames in rustic buckets full of charcoal so that people could roast their marshmallows and then choose chocolate bars or Reese cups to put in their s’mores,” says Ashley. Taking the Cake: Guests also enjoyed a “naked cake”—meaning it was adorned with more flowers than icing—from Amy’s Cakes. “I was a little nervous because I had only seen these in pictures,” says Ashley, “but it was so beautiful and unique. My wedding planner, Ashley Winkle, found a tree trunk and we cut it down to make the cake stand, which was an awesome touch and added to the rustic, natural feel of the reception.” Personal Touches: Ashley enjoys using her creative instincts and crafting, so she let her wedding serve as an opportunity to create as many things as she could. “After I got the first proof of our wedding invitations, I decided they looked too much like everyone else’s invitations,” she says. “So I found a place in Michigan that screen printed the invitation onto wood. I had a wax seal stamp made with a logo I designed for the wedding and wax sealed all of the wedding programs (I only caught one on fire).” For the out-of-town guests, Ashley and Jason created handmade wine labels and had bottles of wine waiting for guests when they arrived to their rooms. Wedding Day Takeaway: After the couple got married, the wedding party gathered to take pictures, where they were interrupted by one of the family horses who got right in the middle of the pictures. “Afterwards, Jason and I rode down to the covered bridge and our photographer (Abraham Rowe) took photos of just Jason and me,” says Ashley. “It was such an awesome moment because it was kind of like the calm before all the craziness of the reception where we were finally together and could talk about the day and just be excited together about just getting married.”

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ASHLEY & JASON Photos by Abraham Rowe Photography Text by Sara Wright Covington

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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.

a return to elegance

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.

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image by abraham rowe

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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A SHOALS WEDDING Walk down the aisle along the majestic Tennessee River, perfectly manicured greens and Alabama Pines when you host your wedding at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at The Shoals. Dance the night away under the North Alabama stars, with your reception overlooking the water. Want an indoor option as well? The Clubhouse at RTJ at The Shoals has got you covered. Let our staff and certified wedding team help you make your dream wedding a reality, and capture your special day in the beauty of The Shoals.

CALL 256.446.4483 FOR MORE INFORMATION, OR TO BOOK YOUR WEDDING AT RTJ AT THE SHOALS.

THE ROBERT TRENT JONES GOLF TRAIL AT THE SHOALS 990 Sunbelt Parkway · Muscle Shoals, Al · 35661 rtjgolf.com · facebook.com/rtjtheshoals

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118 »

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120 »

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Jonathan Kayne Austria Heels ($172) Cherry Tree Lane (256) 767-4262

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

The Guide To

GETTING HITCHED WITHOUT A HITCH text by sara wright covington

“Many brides want outdoor ceremonies but it is important that your venue can provide you with a backup plan in case of inclement weather.”

• Sandy Nelson, Nelson Place

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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

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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

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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.”

“Be flexible with the menu until meeting with your caterer and picking the location.”

• Tracy Posey, Dish Café

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

kudos

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If you want to share some good news about a friend, neighbor, or colleague—or even toot your own horn—send your kudos to allen@noalapress.com.

by roy hall

Macke Mauldin (far left), and Fennel Mauldin (far right) with UNA’s Edward Fennel Mauldin scholarship recipients.

© Solea

The Lions Share The family of the late Edward Fennel Mauldin, represented

by Bank Independent president Macke Mauldin, presented four UNA students with scholarships established in honor of the bank’s former chairman at BI’s offices in Muscle Shoals, in October.

Set in 1940s Appalachia and inspired by the film version of Loretta Lynn’s life, Coal Miner’s Daughter, Buckley was the only Alabama student recognized and one of only six authors to receive the Star Author Trophy.

The worthy recipients are freshman Benjamin Ish, sophomore Brittany Michael, and juniors Logan Heflin and David “Drew” Fisher.

No Pain, Much Gain

The Edward Fennel Mauldin Endowed Scholarships will ultimately provide five concurrent, annual, renewable scholarships by 2016, benefiting a freshman, sophomore, junior, senior, and fifth-year student at UNA.

The Write Stuff Shoals Christian School senior Shelley Buckley has been rec-

ognized by the Houston Literacy Foundation for her short story, “Ora Lou.” One of only 59 student authors and illustrators recognized nationwide, Buckley’s story will appear in the Foundation’s anthology, I Write: Short Stories for Kids by Kids.

Shelley Buckley

Signature Smile has become one of only 50 dentists in the world to offer the world’s first computer-aided laser system for dental fillings. This cutting-edge system—the first ever to be cleared by the FDA—makes it possible for Signature Smile to remove decay from teeth or treat gums with a laser instead of a drill. That means no anesthesia, no shot, and no numb lip!

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

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scene

Linda and Mickey Haddock Emily McDonald, Anthony Brooks, and Jan Sheppard Joy and Sergio Portillo Pat and Bill Shoemaker

Greg and Betty Burdine

Gina and Bob Bailey

Debbie Collum, Kim Mitchell-Cole, and Pam Barnett

Photos by Glenn Bevis

Above: Muurder in Maaaybury A Benefit for Hospice of the Shoals october ,  · sweetwater depot

Back Row, from left: Lori Woolfolk, Meredith McClanahan, Blake Jarmon, Kristi Mitchell, Gary Mifflin, and Stephanie Pless; Front Row, from left: Tambra Howard and Joy House

Below: Hoedown for Horses september ,  · bluewater creek polo club

Back, from left: Donna Morrow, Steve Morrow, Caroline McClanahan, and Meredith McClanahan Front row: Cole McClanahan Jake and Rush Ramsey Erin Whalen

Polo Match

Reece Mitchell, Kay Mitchell, and Blake Mitchell

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

Teena Tucker and E. S. Robbins Hayride Photos by Xx

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

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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.

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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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 » Kim Box

A MOTHER'S WORK IS NEVER DONE

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

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

Choose a pharmacy that will be with you in sickness and in health.

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