SPRING 2014
WILSoN AND KRISTEN VICK
2 | SOCIETY WEDDINGS
W e dding
Arundel Bell & George Hunter Publisher: Patricia Martin
Weddings.................... 2-9 engagemenTs....... 10-11
Features ........................... 12-15 Wedding Resources......18-19
EDITORIAL
O P E R AT I O N S
A DV E R T I S I N G
Editor Dan Koller
Associate Publisher Dorothy Wood
Senior Marketing Consultants
Senior Editor Todd Jorgenson
Business Manager Alma Ritter
Kim Hurmis Kate Martin
Art Director Elizabeth Ygartua
Distribution Manager Don Hancock
Marketing Consultants
Administrative Assistant Monica Lake
Consulting Editor Jeff Bowden Contributing Writer Karley Kiker Interns Claire Casner Angel Cordova Marley Malenfant
Clarke Dvoskin Geraldine Galentree Cam Willis Intern Marissa Lopez
Cover Photo: Jess Barfield Photography Society Weddings is published twice a year by CITY NEWSPAPERS LP, an affiliate of D Magazine Partners LP, 750 N. Saint Paul St., Suite 2100, Dallas, TX 75201. Copyright 2014. All rights reserved. No reproduction without permission. Submissions to the editor may be sent via e-mail to editor@peoplenewspapers.com. Correspondence must include writer’s name and contact number. Main phone number: 214-739-2244
inwood village
Happily Ever After 5550 w lovers lane • #149 dallas, texas 75209 www.saffronjewelry.com 214.373.6602
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rundel Hartman Bell and George Bender Hunter were united in Holy Matrimony on Oct. 5, 2013, at Church of the Incarnation. Father Greg Methvin officiated with nuptial music by organist Scott Dettra. Following the ceremony, the reception was held at the Rosewood Crescent Hotel Gallery with music provided by Moving Colors Band. On the eve of the wedding, the parents of the groom hosted a rehearsal dinner at the Crescent Club. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Barron O’Beirne Bell of Highland Park. She is the granddaughter of Mrs. Robert Arundel Bell of Houston, and the late Mr. Robert Arundel Bell, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Edward Allen Huscher of Higginsville, Mo. The groom is the son of Ms. Mary Hyden Mann Hunter and Mr. Joseph Aigner Hunter of Waco. He is the grandson of Ms. Mary Louise Mann of Waco and the late Mr. Robert A. Mann, and Mrs. Joseph Bernice Hunter of Waco and the late Mr. Joseph Bernice Hunter. The bride wore a gown designed by Lilly Pulitzer and carried the groom’s family prayer book adorned with cascading gardenias created by the Garden Gate. Attending the bride as matron of honor was Lola
Lara Bierner Photography
Hashem Ali. Bridesmaids included Morgan Bell, RoseEllen DeSimone, Emily Grace, Elspeth Huscher, Elizabeth Johnson, and Julia Therrell. Members of the house party were Amy Ananian, Lisa Brinser, Amanda Grubb, Laura Robinson, Shacie Rogers, Tinsley Smith, and Sharon Sorrell. Assisting the groom as the best man was Dr. Forrest Beau Swann. Groomsmen included Barron Bell Jr., Chandler Brown, Scott Crespi, Ryan Kirkham, Dan Moore, and Matthew Story. Ushers were John Jackson, Trey Jackson, Sam Khurana, and Paul Sartin. The bride is a graduate of the Episcopal School of Dallas and received a Bachelor of Arts in television communications from Southern Methodist University. Arundel is the owner of Gingersnaps Media, a social media company. The groom is a graduate of Vanguard Preparatory School and received a Master of Business Administration from Baylor University and a Bachelor of Business Administration from Southern Methodist University. George works at Greystone Communities and is a member of the Real Estate Council. The couple escaped to St. Martin for their honeymoon before making their home in Dallas.
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Wedding
Mary Palmer & Jeff Hoffman
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ary Blair Palmer and Jeffrey Alan Hoffman were united in marriage at the historic Italian Renaissance James Leary Flood Mansion in San Francisco on Aug. 3, 2013. The Rev. Sindy Wilkinson officiated the ceremony, held outdoors in the courtyard overlooking a panoramic view of San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge. A stringed trio provided music for the service and for the cocktails in the courtyard afterward. A seated dinner and dancing followed in the Mansion’s Grand Hall with its sweeping views of the bay. The newlyweds chose “I Only Have Eyes For You” for their first dance. The bride and groom cut their wedding cake with the bride’s parents’ silver cake knife from their wedding. They toasted each other with heirloom silver toasting flutes from the bride’s family, engraved with the couple’s new initials. On the eve of the wedding, members of
Margot Landen Photography
the wedding party climbed aboard a private cable car to attend the rehearsal and dinner afterward at the Epic Roasthouse on the shore of the East Bay, which was hosted by the parents of the groom. A bridal luncheon was held earlier that Friday at the historic Presidio Social Club and hosted by Rebecca Meyer, Kathleen Blair, Connie Blair, Mary Clare Finney, and Sharon Jackson, all from University Park. The bride is the daughter of Dr. and Mrs. David Odell Palmer of University Park. She is the granddaughter of Mr. James Houston Blair of Dallas and the late Mrs. Blair, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Presley Odell Palmer of Amory, Miss. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Rick J. Hoffman of Olathe, Kan. He is the grandson of Dr. Charles A. Anderson of Mission, Kan., and the late Mrs. Anderson, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Clyde V. Hoffman of Lenexa, Kan.
The bride was presented in marriage by her parents. She was escorted down the aisle on the arm of her father. The bride wore an elegant ivory silk gown by Romona Keveza Couture for Stanley Korshak. The strapless neckline featured asymmetrical draping that fell softly into the gown’s chapel-length train. The bride accented the waistline with a custom crystal-andbeaded belt. Flowers were predominately white orchids with white roses, tulips, and hydrangeas. Attending the bride as maid of honor was Natalie Quintanilla. Her bridesmaids included Ashley Waghorne, Laura Reeder, and Jennifer Hummer. Assisting the groom as best man was Douglas Cooper. His groomsmen were John Dunlap, Richard Graham, and Kyle Hummer. Emily Amacker and Joseph Wilner were greeters. The bride is a 2003 graduate of High-
land Park High School. She received a Bachelor of Business Administration from SMU in 2007. She is a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority. Mary works in University Development Special Events for the University of California San Francisco Medical Center and Graduate Schools of Health Sciences. The groom is a graduate of Shawnee Mission Northwest High School in Kansas City. He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration and a Master of Professional Accounting from the University of Texas in 2006. He is a member of Phi Kappa Psi fraternity. Jeff is currently pursuing a Master of Business Administration at the University of California Berkeley Haas School of Business. Following their honeymoon in Costa Rica, the couple have made their home in the San Francisco Bay area.
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Wedding
Patricia Murphree & Joseph Lauinger
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atricia Jean Murphree and Joseph Kirk Lauinger exchanged wedding vows on Oct. 19, 2013, at First United Methodist Church Richardson. Their ceremony was officiated by Dr. Clayton Oliphint, senior pastor. Wedding music was provided by organist Martha Wainwright and the St. Mark’s School of Texas Choir. A reception followed at the Northwood Club. While the wedding party was being photographed, guests enjoyed a beautiful fall evening and rising moon outdoors with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. A seated dinner followed with traditional toasts and dancing into the night to the rhythms of the band Motion. All details of the wedding and reception were handled superbly by Caroline Fair of Caroline Events. On the eve of the wedding, a fiesta-themed rehearsal dinner served up mariachis and merriment for family, wedding party, and out-of-town guests. It was hosted by the
Joshua Aull Photography
parents of the groom at Ku De Ta. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Daniel Murphree Jr. of Richardson. She is the granddaughter of Mrs. William McClester Campbell and the late Mr. William McClester Campbell of Dallas, and the late Dr. John Daniel Murphree and Mrs. Dorothy Murphree Shepherd of Mineola, Texas. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Thomas Lauinger of Dallas. He is the grandson of Mrs. Linda Brown Keith and the late Mr. Langford Keith Jr. of Silver City, N.M., and the late Mr. and Mrs. Philip Charles Lauinger of Tulsa, Okla. The bride was given in marriage by her parents and two siblings and was escorted down the aisle on the arm of her father. Patty wore a custom gown created exclusively for her by Patti Flowers Design Studio in Dallas. Her gown of white, Italian silk satin featured a delicate overlay of French Chantilly lace. The molded bodice
with natural waistline featured a fit-withflare skirt flowing to a court-length train. Complementing her gown, the bride wore an heirloom Brussels lace veil, brought back from Europe in the early ’50s and originally worn by the groom’s maternal grandmother for her wedding. For the reception, the bride enhanced her gown with a hand-beaded belt of Swarovski crystals and a fingertip-length silk illusion veil. Attending the bride as matron of honor was Patty’s sister, Carrie Robbins. Bridesmaids included Julie Best, Toni Bonuomo, Kelly Crawford, Lucia Sorensen, and Barbara Teaford. Among the members of the house party were Patty and Joe’s cousins: Rachel Jones, Madison Jones, Lily Keith, Blair Strong, and Cameron Strong. The flower girls were Joe’s nieces: Ellie Best, Lucy Best, and Kylie Best. Flowers were from Branching Out Floral & Event Design of Dallas.
Attending the groom as best man was his brother, George Lauinger. Groomsmen included Tom Lauinger, Drew McDonald, Garrett Murphree, Kace Phillips, and Ben Schramm. Ushers were Cole Jones, Robert Keith, Jack Lauinger, and Will Lauinger. Ring bearers were Patty’s nephews: Campbell Robbins, Harrison Robbins, and Andrew Robbins. The bride is a graduate of the Hockaday School. She received a Bachelor of Arts in psychology, with a business minor, from Arizona State University. Patty has worked in project management for web design and development for six years. The groom is a graduate of St. Mark’s School of Texas. He received a Bachelor of Arts in philosophy from Georgetown University. Joe is a broker with Mohr Partners. Following their wedding trip to Thailand, the couple has made their home in Dallas.
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Wedding
Kristen Turpin & Wilson Vick
Jess Barfield Photography
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risten Michelle Turpin and Kenneth Wilson Vick exchanged wedding vows on Oct. 5, 2013 at Park Cities Presbyterian Church. The Rev. Mark Alan Davis officiated. A reception of dining and dancing to music provided by Signed, Sealed, and Delivered followed at the Dallas Country Club. A rehearsal dinner hosted by the parents of the groom was held on the eve of the wedding on the rooftop terrace of the original downtown El Fenix. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Adam Turpin of University Park. She is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Don Mann of Dallas, and Mr. Jack A. Turpin Jr. and the late Mrs. Sally Turpin of University Park. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs.
Thomas Kenneth Vick Jr. of San Antonio. He is the grandson of Mr. Ellis Miles Wilson III and the late Mrs. Sarah Wilson of San Antonio, and Mrs. Ann Vick and the late Mr. Thomas Kenneth Vick of Dallas. The bride was given in marriage by her parents. Kristen wore a beautiful trumpetshaped gown with an illusion neckline and embroidered bodice designed by Lela Rose. The intricate embroidery featured seed beading and scattered crystals. She wore a butterfly-shaped cathedral-length veil of ivory tulle. After the ceremony, she added a matching embroidered peplum to her gown, which gave a light-hearted, fun look for the reception. Assisting the bride as matron of honor was her sister Allison Turpin Dowell. Her
bridesmaids included her sisters-in-law Allison Pearce Turpin, Whitney Fleming, and Leah Bull, as well as Kelly Catalani, Laura Bailey, Paige Dobbins, Meredith Maclay, and Luci Meredith. Members of the house party were Daley Bennett, Lindsey Fleming, Ellie Gilchrist, Mallory Hardage, Hutton Hipps, Hannah Kendall, Megan Michelson, and Emily Robinson. Flower girls were the groom’s nieces, Auden (honorary) and Lila Fleming. Attending the groom as best man was Cheston Goudge. His groomsmen were his brothers-in-law Scott Fleming and Jack Turpin, as well as Jason Buck, Trey Catalani, Matt Mitchell, Austin Roberson, Joseph Trahan, and Buster Williams. Ushers included brothers-in-law Jonathan
Bull and Will Dowell, as well as John Christie, James Clingman, Drew Crawford, Travis Jaggars, Garrett Loose, and Nate Miller. The honorary ring bearer was the bride’s nephew, Finn Dowell. The bride is a graduate of Highland Park High School. She received a BBA from Baylor University in 2012. Kristen is an instructional assistant at Bradfield Elementary School. The groom is a graduate of San Antonio Christian Schools in San Antonio. He received a BBA from Texas A&M in 2013. Wilson is an analyst for Transwestern Commercial Services. Following their honeymoon trip to Antigua, the couple have made their home in Dallas.
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Wedding
Elizabeth Boone & Blake Perez
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lizabeth Kiel Boone and Blake James Perez were united in the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony on Aug. 3, 2013, at St. Anthony of Padua Church in New Orleans. The nuptial Mass was celebrated by Father John Restrepo. A reception followed at the Windsor Court Hotel. A rehearsal dinner on the eve of the wedding was hosted by the groom’s parents at Desi Vega’s Steakhouse. Creative Images Photography was on hand to record all the magical moments for posterity. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Kiel Boone of Highland Park. She is the granddaughter of the late Dr. and Mrs. Paul Rutledge Flowers Sr. of Dothan, Ala., and the late Mr. and Mrs. Oliver Kiel Boone of Dallas. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Vincent Perez of New Orleans. He is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Merlin James Beals Sr. of New Orleans and Mr. and Mrs. Vincent Joseph Perez, also of New Orleans. The bride was given in marriage by her parents. She walked down the aisle on the arm of her father. For her wedding, Elizabeth selected a gown of Alencon lace featuring a V-neckline and back detail, with cap sleeves. Its elegant full skirt contrasted sharply with the fitted bodice of her ball gown. She wore a necklace given to her great-grandmother by her great-grandfather on their wedding day. The veil was a family heirloom of Venetian lace, also worn by her mother. Assisting the bride as maid of honor was Katie Frink. Bridesmaids included Delia Boone Robinson, Dorothy Boone Wofford, and Mary Florence Boone, sisters of the bride; Kaitlyn Perez, sister of the groom; and Stephanie Rice. Scripture readers were Jessica Houte, Claire Ligon, and Ashlee Murphy. Attending the groom as best man was Leland Smith. Groomsmen were Robert Boone, brother of the bride; Preston Perez and Russell Perez, brothers of the groom; Michael Broussard; and Jimmy Stockton. The ushers included Adam Robinson, Trey Wofford, and Stephen de Filippis. The ring bearer was James Stockton. The bride is a 2006 graduate of Highland Park High School. She received a Bachelor of Arts in history in 2010 from the University of Richmond, where she was a member of Alpha Chi Omega and Phi Beta Kappa, the nation’s oldest academic honor society. Elizabeth is a law student at Tulane University Law School. The groom is a 2005 graduate of Jesuit High School in New Orleans. He received a Bachelor of Science in psychology and a Master of Applied Statistics, both from Louisiana State University. Blake is employed by People’s Health Insurance. Following a wedding trip to St. Thomas, the U.S. Virgin Islands, the couple have made their home in Metairie, La.
Creative Images Photography
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Wedding
McCary Wyly & William Gilbert
Andrea Polito Photography
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cCary Wyly and William Gilbert exchanged wedding vows at Arlington Hall at Lee Park on Nov. 23, 2013. Pastor Joseph Martin of Trinity Church Dallas officiated. A reception of dining and dancing followed. The band was Big Swing and the Ballroom Blasters out of Atlanta. The rehearsal dinner, hosted by the groom’s parents, was held at their home the preceding evening. The bride is the daughter of Barbara and John Turner and Evan and Kim Wyly of University Park. She is the granddaughter of Mr. Bill Beattie and the late Mrs. Justine Beattie of Highland Park, and Mr. Sam Wyly of Highland Park and the late Ms. Rosemary Acton of Highland Park.
The groom is the son of Margaret and David Gilbert of Dallas. He is the grandson of Mrs. Jimmie White and the late Dr. Robert White of Galveston, the late Ms. Martha Gilbert of Dallas, and the late Mr. Thomas Gilbert of Dallas. Presented in marriage by her parents and escorted down the aisle on the arm of her father, the bride wore a couture Monique Lhuillier, A-line gown of silver Chantilly lace with sweetheart neckline and corset bodice. She added a delicate beaded belt in tones of silver and gold and a stunning gold-tulle-and-Chantilly-lace veil. The bride carried a hand-tied bouquet of white peonies, garden roses, and Dusty Miller by Garden Gate Floral of Dallas.
Assisting the bride as matron of honor was her sister, Lucy Rose Conklin. Bridesmaids included Jordan Anderson, Tricia Case, Jordan Dinkins, Claire Gilbert, Audrey Priest, Mary Anne Robertson, and Anne Marie Walker. Among the members of the house party were Sarah Gottsacker Bateman, Bonnie Lokey, Kara Mathews, and Kellie McBride. The flower girl was the bride’s niece, Savannah Grace Conklin. Attending the groom as best man was Alex Gass. Groomsmen were Peter Cheatham, Thomas Gilbert, Robert Gilbert, Gradie Folmar, Joseph Imber, William Smith, and Mitchell Wyly. Ushers included John Bateman, Thomas Eggleston, Kyle Jahnke, Jayson Montoya, Warren Wallace,
Kevin Zlotnik, and Brian Zwart. The ring bearer was the bride’s nephew, McAmis Kyle Conklin. The bride is a graduate of the Episcopal School of Dallas. She received a B.A. in English writing and rhetoric from St. Edward’s University. McCary is in training to be a Montessori primary guide. The groom is a graduate of Highland Park High School. He received a B.A. in Spanish from the University of Texas. Will is client development manager for Research Now. Following their honeymoon to the Big Island of Hawaii, the couple have made their home in Dallas with their two dogs, Wesley and Waylon.
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E n g agemen ts
Lake - Sikora
Trimble - Luby
s. Stacey Beckham Lake and Mr. Jim Lake Jr. of University Park are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Monica Lake, to Tristan Sikora, son of Ms. Rita Costa and Mr. Gary Sikora of Calgary, Alberta, Canada. The bride is a graduate of the Alexander School in Richardson. She received a Bachelor of Arts in journalism, public relations, and new media from Baylor University, where the couple met. Monica currently works for D Magazine. The groom is a graduate of R.E Mountain Senior Secondary in Langley, British Columbia. He received a Bachelor of Administration in finance from Baylor University. Tristan works as a financial analyst for Brookfield Johnson Controls in Calgary. The couple will exchange vows June 28 at the Dallas Arboretum, where Tristan proposed. They plan to move to Calgary after the wedding with their dog, Charlie, and cat, Felix.
r. and Mrs. James William Trimble of Jacksonville, Fla. are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Sarah Josephine Trimble, to Kyle Prather Luby, son of Mr. James Jay and Mrs. Lisa Luby Ryan of University Park and Mr. Lawrence Prather Luby of Dallas. The bride is a 2006 graduate of the Bolles School in Jacksonville. She graduated summa cum laude with a B.S. in biology from Washington and Lee University in Lexington, Va. Sarah Jo will graduate in May with a V.M.D. from the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine and will go on to complete an internship in equine practice in Rhinebeck, N.Y. The groom is a 2004 graduate of Highland Park High School. He graduated magna cum laude with a B.A. in economics from Washington and Lee University in Lexington. Kyle is the managing partner of Stream Realty Partners’ office in Washington, D.C.
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George Street Photo and Video
BRAD BRADLEY
The couple plan to marry on May 10 at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Jacksonville. A reception will follow at the Florida Yacht Club.
Hopkins - Sepulveda
Washburne - Nicholas
r. and Mrs. Robert Lawrence Hopkins of University Park are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Garland Gene Hopkins, to Matthew Allen Sepulveda, son of Mr. and Mrs. Carlos Miguel Sepulveda Jr., also of University Park. The bride is a 2003 graduate of Highland Park High School. She received a Bachelor of Fine Arts in studio art from Baylor University. Garland is a graphic designer for GuideStone Financial Resources in Dallas. The groom is a 2004 graduate of Highland Park High School. He received a Bachelor of Business Administration in marketing from Baylor University. Matthew is the recycling program manager for Interstate Batteries. The couple will exchange vows in early April at Park Cities Presbyterian Church, with a reception following at Brook Hollow Golf Club.
rs. Lucy Hunter Washburne and Mr. and Mrs. Richards P. Washburne of Highland Park are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Mary Lamar Addison Washburne, to Adam Joseph Nicholas, son of Mr. and Mrs. Steven L. Nicholas of Mobile, Ala. The bride is a 2008 graduate of Ursuline Academy of Dallas. She received a Bachelor of Arts in English and history from Vanderbilt University in 2012. Mary Lamar is an administrative and budget coordinator for the Georgia Office of the Child Advocate. The groom is a 2008 graduate of St. Paul’s Episcopal School in Mobile. He received a Bachelor of Engineering in civil engineering from Vanderbilt University in 2012. Adam is a software consultant for PowerPlan Inc. The couple will exchange vows June 28 at Woodmont Christian Church in Nashville, Tenn.
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Perez photography
Jess Barfield Photography
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e n g agemen ts
Howley - Mills
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r. and Mrs. John Alford of Fort Smith, Ark., are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Jane Anne Alford, to Max Paul Meggs, son of Dr. and Mrs. Paul Meggs of Plano. The bride received a Bachelor of Arts from the university of Kansas and a fashion design degree from the Art Institute of
ALI WooD PHoToGRAPHY
Dallas. She works as a personal assistant. The groom received a Bachelor of Business Administration from the Cox School of Business at Southern Methodist university. He is a regional sales director at The Hartford in Frisco. The couple will exchange vows April 12 at Highland Park united Methodist Church.
Meacham - Bryant
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atherine McKnight of university Park, and Dr. Joseph Meacham of Highland Park, are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Jennifer Alexis Meacham, to Andrews Scott Bryant, son of Richard and Bridgette Lane, of Edmond, okla., and Steven Bryant Sr., also of Edmond. Jennifer is a 2007 graduate of Highland Park High School. She received a BBA in finance from Texas A&M university. Jennifer is employed as an information technology consultant for occidental Petroleum Corp and is completing her professional MBA at Rice university. Andrews is a 2007 graduate of Edmond North High School. He received a BBA in energy management from the university of oklahoma. Andrews is employed as a landman for Conoco Phillips Company. A July wedding in Colorado is planned.
LESLEY BRoWN/MARFALITE STuDIoS
MERRELL HARMoN WITH ANNA MERRELL PHoToGRAPHY & DESIGN, KANSAS CITY
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r. and Mrs. Steven Patrick Howley of Scandia, Kan., are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Clarissa Anne Howley, to Edward Douglas Mills, son of Ms. Emily Gill Mills and Mr. Robert Linwood Mills of Virginia Beach, Va.
The groom is the grandson of Mrs. G. Douglas Gill and the late Mr. Gill, of Dallas. The couple will exchange vows May 31 in Lawrence, Kan. After the wedding, the couple will make their home in Dallas. PHOTO: KARLISCH PHOTOGRAPHY
Alford - Meggs
Patty and Joe Lauinger’s adventures in Thailand last fall included riding on an elephant and interacting with monks at Buddhist temples. “Going to Thailand really motivated us to do different activities every day and get outside of the resort,” Patty said.
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N o t yo u r av e r a g e h o n e y m o o n
After Tying Knot, Off to Thailand
COURTESY PHOTOS
The newly married Patty Lauinger practices her driving at Blue Canyon Country Club in Phuket, Thailand.
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By Karley Kiker he wedding announcement for Patricia Jean Murphree and Joseph Kirk Lauinger reads like many other traditional nuptial notices. It said a choir from the groom’s alma mater, St. Mark’s, provided music. Patti Flowers Design Studio created the bride’s custom gown. A reception was held at the Northwood Club. But there was not a “Saint” to be found in the description of Patty and Joe’s honeymoon — no St. Bart’s, no St. Thomas, and no St. Lucia. That’s because this adventurous pair opted for a tropical, but not so typical, getaway in Thailand. “We both wanted to do something once-in-a-lifetime,” Patty said. “We both were really attracted to the idea of being on the beach but also having this zen-like atmosphere, because it’s so relaxing. I think that’s one of the most unique things about Thailand — there was always
water running and all of these really tranquil surroundings, which you can’t find if you go to Mexico.” Although the South Pacific has emerged as a travel hotspot — mostly thanks to those iconic over-water bungalows celebrities are always booking in Bora Bora — Thailand remains off the radar for most honeymooners. The reason? While direct-flight destinations allow couples to get from wedding reception to rose-petal-scattered suite as quickly as possible, getting to Thailand requires a bit more effort. “We went Dallas to Chicago, which was two hours and change. Chicago to Hong Kong was 15-and-a-half hours, and then Hong Kong to Bangkok, which was another four,” Joe said of their travel itinerary. After touching down in Bangkok at midnight, the couple snagged a few hours of rest at a hotel. By 6 a.m., they were headed back to the airport to board the plane that finally took them to Chiang Mai — a city in mountainous northern Thailand nestled along the banks of the Ping River. Despite their lengthy travel, they resisted the urge
to simply relax in the Rice Terrace Pavilion at the Four Seasons Chiang Mai. “Going to Thailand really motivated us to do different activities every day and get outside of the resort,” Patty said. Among those off-resort activities: riding elephants at Maesa Elephant Camp, interacting with monks at Buddhist temples, ordering fried rice at as many authentic Thai restaurants as possible, and spending time at an orchid and butterfly farm. And that was just in Chiang Mai. The couple also spent several nights at Trisara, a boutique resort in the coastal city of Phuket. Trisara, by the way, means “The Third Garden of Heaven” in Sanskrit. It’s easy to understand the name when Patty and Joe describe their stay: scenic golfing at Blue Canyon Country Club, a boating tour of stalagmite formations, and beautiful sunsets were all part of their beachside experience. “There were a couple of nights where we just sat on the beach, had a drink, and watched the sunset and took pictures,” Patty said. “It was absolutely gorgeous.”
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S t y l e F OR THE A I S LE
From Bride to Business Partner
COURTESY photos
Sitting in the Nardos Imam boutique, a customer could easily imagine she was in the private dressing room of a princess, rather than in a Preston Center storefront.
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By Karley Kiker t didn’t take long for MacKenzie Brittingham Sumrall to say “yes” to husband Adam’s proposal, “yes” to getting married in Aspen, Colo., and “yes” to a pair of Christian Louboutins with distinct aisle-style. But until meeting Nardos Imam, her search for the perfect wedding gown always ended with the same response: “no.” “I wanted to have a mink fur wedding gown,” Sumrall said. “I had this idea in my head that I knew was going to be really difficult to achieve, so I searched all over and met with a lot of designers.” The CEO of Nardos Imam LLC is seated on a Frenchstyle settee in the middle of what is now Nardos Imam, the boutique. The sofa is both light and luxe, perfectly at home among the ethereal gowns lining the walls of the studio. Although Sumrall’s wedding date was relatively recent, it’s
clear that much has transpired since her first consultation with Nardos Imam, the designer. “She was almost disappointed by then,” Imam said, recalling Sumrall’s lack of enthusiasm for another designer’s interpretation of a wedding-day look that included a jacket — a piece both women felt was decidedly more “mother of the bride” than “bride to be.” Although Imam had never created a mink gown, the designer’s creativity is closely linked to the adage “anything is possible.” Besides, fur was just another fabric — and Imam had handled plenty of textiles while working her way up from tailor to designer at Stanley Korshak. “Nardos made me feel so confident and comfortable that she would make my dreams come true,” Sumrall said. Imam delivered on that confidence by sketching a sophisticated silhouette that featured a strapless sweetheart neckline, crystal detailing near the waistline, and a bell-shaped skirt accented by tiers of white mink fur.
“From there, we hit it off,” Imam said. That “we” included Sumrall’s father, Bobby Brittingham, who saw more than just a gorgeous gown upon viewing Imam’s sketch. “He told me, ‘You have something going on. If you can please MacKenzie, no doubt, there isn’t one person you’re not going to please in this industry. Do you have a plan?’” Imam recalled. At that point, she didn’t. As it turned out, though, Sumrall had a few ideas of her own. A native of Highland Park, Sumrall graduated from SMU with an accounting degree and worked for her family’s commercial real estate business with much success — but she was ready for something new and creative. “I just felt like there was something I wanted to accomplish for myself that was independent of my father’s legacy,” Sumrall said. “I wanted to be looked at and respected for achieving something on my own, and working hard toward that goal.”
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Hard work and goal-setting are also familiar subjects for Imam, who is a native of Eritrea in Northern Africa. Her intimate knowledge of every aspect of design — sketching, fitting, fabric selection, sewing, beading — stem from her mother’s work as a seamstress, her training at El Centro College, and that aforementioned tutelage at Stanley Korshak. Which leads to her present vision: “I want to be the Vera Wang of Dallas,” she said simply. And why not? Thanks to the marriage of Sumrall’s business background and the designer’s creative vision, she’ll likely get there. “She’s worked so hard and built herself up from starting as a tailor to being one of the top custom designers in Dallas,” Sumrall said. “Her dream is to be an international designer, and I’m here to provide the business and the backing to support her dream.” For the moment, however, Sumrall and Imam are staying focused on what began their partnership in the first place: making even the most impossible-sounding dreams come true, as client Leah Henry knows full well. “When I went to see Nardos, all I expected was an alteration, and she made me the dress of my dreams from scratch in 10 days,” Henry said. “She never made me feel like it couldn’t be done or I couldn’t have exactly what I wanted, even with the time constraints.” As for Sumrall and Imam’s future plans? They’re as gilded and glamorous as their brand-new bridal salon: think ready-to-wear lines for Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman, additional boutiques, mentorship programs for aspiring designers and entrepreneurial-minded women, and eventually, yes: Paris Fashion Week. “Give us a year or two,” Imam said — although it’s clear that “watch and see where we’ll go” is not only politely implied but strongly believed by both members of this design duo.
Inspired by the unusual gown Nardos Imam designed for her wedding, Mackenzie Sumrall proposed that the two go into business together. They aspire to open more boutiques on the East and West coasts.
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C e lebr ati o nS
Mary Blair Palmer & Jeffrey Alan Hoffman Aug. 3, 2013, at the James Leary Flood Mansion in San Francisco, Calif. Margot Landen Photography
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C e lebr ati o nS
Kristen Michelle Turpin & Kenneth Wilson Vick Oct. 5, 2013, at Park Cities Presbyterian Church Jess Barfield Photography
Arundel Bell & George Hunter Oct. 5, 2013, at Church of the Incarnation Lara Bierner Photography
18 | SOCIETY WEDDINGS
WEDDING RESOURCES Owner and fashion designer Paulette Martsolf offers ladies apparel and jewelry inspired by her Newfoundland roots, design studies, and life travels. Designed and created in her Dallas workshop, her collections include everyday and special-occasion wear, including mother-of-the-bride/groom attire, with custom designs available.
JEWELRY BACHENDORF’S www.bachendorfs.com The Plaza at Preston Center 8400 Preston Road Dallas, TX 75225 214-692-8400 The Galleria 13350 Dallas Parkway, Suite 1415 Dallas, TX 75240 972-392-9900
Patti Flowers Design Studio
BRIDAL GOWNS Patti Flowers Design Studio 3624 Fairmount Street Dallas, Texas 75219 214.369.7027 studio pattiflowers.com Classic yet current Patti Flowers designs your wedding gown, mother of the bride gown (or groom) evening, cocktail and special day dresses with you as the center of the design.
CALLIGRAPHY & STATIONERS Tara Jones Calligraphy www.tarajones.com 214-724-0545 tara@tarajones.com Instagram: @tarajonescalligraphy Envelopes addressed in calligraphy for wedding invitations and save-thedates. Calligraphy also available for place cards, escort cards, menus, table numbers, seating charts, and wedding invitation suite.
Working with the most exquisite fabrics and artisans from around the world,
CATERERS
created especially for you and your
Experimental Table PO Box 140537 Allen, TX 75214 214-752-6851 www.experimentaltable.com
special day. Watters sales@watters.com www.watters.com Offering luxurious designer bridal gowns, innovative bridesmaids dresses, classic special occasion dresses for mothers of the bride and groom, and adorable flower girls and junior bridesmaids dresses around the world.
Experimental Table, a full-service catering company, is owned and operated by renowned chefs Katie and George Brown, formally of George Catering. Experimental Table is focused on providing produce and meats grown and raised by local farmers, and it capitalizes on farm-picked and sesonal ingredients.
EVENT DESIGN Carmen Bright Weddings & Events Carmen@Bright5Productions.com 214-770-4969 www.carmenbright weddingsandevents.com From the big picture to the smallest detail, Carmen Bright Weddings & Events will help you plan, design, and realize your event. With more than 15 years of experience as a professional photographer, Carmen Bright (TWP) brings her savvy sense of fashionrelated photography to the wedding and event planning industry.
The Shops at Legacy North 7401 Lonestar Drive, Suite B100 Plano, TX 75024 972-596-2090 EISEMAN JEWELS NorthPark Center 8687 N. Central Expressway, Suite 514, Dallas, TX 75225 214-369-6100 eisemanjewels.com Susan Saffron Jewelry Boutique 5550 West Lovers Lane, #149 Inwood Village Dallas, TX 75209 214-373-6602 saffronjewelry.com
JACQUELINE EVENTS & DESIGN, LLC 25 Highland Park Village Suites 100-186, Dallas, TX 75205 580-678-7534 jacquelineevents.com
Located in Inwood Village, one of Dallas’ premier shopping boutique destinations, the newly designed store features many new jewelry designers. On-site custom jewelers can help you design a perfect engagement ring, or re-design a piece from a family collection. In business since 1985, Susan Saffron and staff pride themselves on high quality and personal service to their clients.
FORMALWEAR
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Allie-Coosh 6726 Snider Plaza Dallas, TX 75205 214-363-8616 www.allie-coosh.com
boothBOOTH 15570 Spectrum Drive Addison, TX 75001 972-669-2274 boothbooth.com
SOCIETY WEDDINGS | 19
VENUES.
f8 STUDIO 15570 Spectrum Drive Addison, TX 75001 972-669-2274 f8studio.com Gary Donihoo, Kym Skiles, Carter Rose, and Ashley Langford are four wedding photographers with a commitment to photographing real, meaningful, and powerful moments from the wedding day. With high craftsmanship, a sense of humor, and appreciation for family, these f8studio photographers create imagery that reveals the day moment by moment.
ANDREW ORMSBY AT CITYPLACE EVENTS 2711 N. Haskell Ave., Suite 100 Dallas, TX 75204 214-515-5100 www.cityplaceevents.com Personalized service, breathtaking views, and exceptional cuisine are the hallmarks of Andrew Ormsby at Cityplace Events. Each rehearsal dinner, ceremony, and reception is tailored to reflect your unique style. Our experienced team will ensure a celebration that is perfectly you. Catering services are also available for off-premise events.
HAYNSWORTH PHOTOGRAPHY 3737 Atwell St., Suite 204 Dallas, TX 75209 1-800-728-9272 haynsworthphotography.com The Haynsworth name has been trusted by countless families throughout several generations, and our portraits are celebrated in some of the finest homes in the country. We set the highest standards in quality and customer care in the industry. From service to production, our staff truly cares about our clients.
Chapel at Ana Villa 5921 Stone Creek Dr. The Colony, TX 75056 972-624-8017 chapelanavilla.com Dallas’ newest wedding venue opened in June 2013. The Spanish-inspired chapel seats 275, and brides can choose from two unique reception spaces. The Main Ballroom features a floating staircase, 21-foot ceilings, and a built-in bar/lounge area, while La Cava offers the more intimate feel of a wine room.
KARLISCH PHOTOGRAPHY INC 214-224-9995 karlischphotography.com Hailed as Dallas’ “go-to” photographer for the chicest weddings, Stephen Karlisch has been photographing some of the most memorable events for more than 13 years. Using his signature style — a mix of spontaneous documentary fashion, classic portraiture, and calm, effortless details — Stephen puts everyone at ease with a subtle sense of humor and gentle nature.
SKIN CARE & MAKEUP DESIGN
PEREZ PHOTOGRAPHY 501 S. Second Avenue Suite C Dallas, TX 75226 214-707-7729 perezweddings.com
Kim Rozell 214-507-7821 kim.rozell@hotmail.com Kim is a French-trained, Dallas-based makeup artist whose brides always look flawless as they are walking down the aisle on their wedding day. As a premier makeup artist, Kim’s signature look of timeless, classic beauty has won her national recognition, and her uncanny ability combined with her personal warmth has made her a favorite with blushing brides.
Carmen Bright Photography
CosMedica Specialty Laser Spa Skin Fitness Center Preston Center 6160 Sherry Lane, Suite 110 Dallas, TX 75225 214-206-1788 www.CosMedicaLaserSpa.com
The Fairmont Dallas 1717 N. Akard St., Dallas, TX 75201 214-720-5261 fairmont.com/dallas For more than 43 years, the Fairmont Dallas has hosted many of the city’s finest weddings. From a glamorous ceremony for 1,000 to an intimate afternoon reception, our wedding experts ensure your special day is simply unforgettable. Amenities include two grand ballrooms, incredible fourstar cuisine, and exceptional service.
Travel
WARWICK MELROSE HOTEL 3015 Oak Lawn Ave. Dallas, TX 75219 214-521-5151 warwickhotels.com
Regent Travel 5952 Royal Lane Dallas, TX 75230 214-363-8800 judy@regent-travel.com
Wilshire Baptist Church 4316 Abrams Road 214-452-3100 wilshirebc.org/worship/weddings
GREG DANIELS PHOTOGRAPHY
Designed for the mother of the bride and groom.
6726 Snider Plaza Dallas, TX 75205
214.636.8616 allie-coosh.com
Hours: Monday - Saturday 10am – 6pm