The Wedding Issue
Bridal Featured Sip Around Toy Courage the World Bash Thru Cancer Fashion Weddings
7807 Radford Ridge Road
7819 Dr. Martin Ln.
$1,875,000
$1,595,000
Germantown, TN 38138
Germantown, TN 38138
Distinctive custom estate nestled in Germantown's gated Radford. Savor a luxurious and private lifestyle featuring 5 bedrooms, 6.2 baths, state-of-the-art kitchen, dedicated theater room, exercise/bonus room, library area, bar/butler's prep area, 2,000 bottle refrigerated wine room, 5 fireplaces. A backdrop of lush landscape frames an outstanding outdoor entertaining area boasting of screened porch, covered patio, grilling porch, 64-jet hot tub, sensational swimming pool and guest/pool house! The epitome of excellence in a class by itself!
Cathy Banks
Kathy Counts
901.606.2374 banks@collins-maury.com
901.493.3701 counts@collins-maury.com
Amazing views of a gorgeous lake in the gated Radford subdivision in Germantown. Living large with contemporary decor and generous spaces for a 3 Bedroom (1 Down) luxury home with dynamic courtyard, fabulous kitchen, 4 car garage and pool house with more heated/aired square footage.
Cathy Banks
Kathy Counts
901.606.2374 banks@collins-maury.com
901.493.3701 counts@collins-maury.com
4073 Robinwood Cove Memphis, TN 38111
$597,500
Beautiful soft contemporary home filled with lots of natural light and situated on a tree-lined cove. It features 4 bedrooms and 51/2 baths with 3 bedrooms downstairs including master bedroom which has his and her baths. 2 fireplaces, den, living room, large dining room, sitting area off kitchen and a loft perfect for office or exercise room. Awesome screened in porch, large side yard and dip/cocktail pool. Check out true YouTube video!
Jeanne Billings 901.493.0100
Marina Brinkley 901.619.4023
Laura Flaniken 901.508.1682
Ruben Lopez 901.497.5352
Laura Clark 901.483.2117
Jessica Collier 901.832.4294
Barbara McKee Milleigh Pearson 901.550.1517 901.277.2821
Bill Maury
901.751.4311 maury@collins-maury.com
Silvana Piadade 901.647.6661
Collins-Maury.com
Kendra Robson Kathleen Sampson 901.610.1851 901.359.6800
5865 Ridgeway Center Pkwy Ste. 105 3276 Goodman Rd. 968 Civic Center Drive Ste. 103 Memphis, TN 38120 Collierville, TN 38017 Southaven,MS 38672 901.259.8550 901.259.8500 662.548.2000
Nathan Tyler 901.414.8976
Contents January 2017
Features
From the Publisher • 8 Reflecting on the past and looking to the future.
Signature Memphis • 10
Events
Rabbi Micah Greenstein Local Rabbi and proven city leader Micah Greenstein takes time out of his day to share some of his favorite things with RSVP.
StreetSeen • 22 Tyler Guthrie After 42 years in the framing business, he is now devoting most of his time to creating his own art.
RSVPhillippi • 73 Presidents Precedents Dennis Phillippi shares lesser known facts about our country’s former commanders in chief.
Daniel Reid and Jane Atkins
Sip Around the World • 12 Raising glasses and funds to benefit the National Kidney Foundation of West Tennessee.
Kia Robinson and Rebecca Ugwueke
Memphis Moments • 24, 26, 56, 57, 62, 63, 68, 70 & 71
Ann Dandridge and Lester Brown
Toy Bash • 58
Wedding Features
Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis brightened the holidays for thousands of local children.
Casey and Joel Canady
Courage Thru Cancer • 64 Championing the cause of the human spirit during cancer treatments at the WINGS Supportive Care Division.
Cover Photo
RSVP Bridal Fashion • 29 Rhodes to Romance Showcasing wedding gowns, accessories, and style ideas against the romantic Gothic architecture of Rhodes College.
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RSVP Featured Weddings • 40 Glimpses into the unforgettable days of nine couples.
January 2017
Carly and Hunter Adams at the Sundeck on Ajax Mountain, Aspen, CO Photo by Tindall Farmer Photography
Table of Contents Photo
The Paul Barret, Jr. Library Apse at Rhodes College Photo by Krista Geyer
RSVP Staff Volume XXII • Number I
January 2017 Publisher Roy Haithcock Editor Emily Adams Keplinger
Chris Pugh
Copy Editor Ruth Cassin
Account Executive
Contributing Writers Bill Bannister Ruth Cassin Suzanne Thompson Cozza Virginia Davis Ashley Dunn Dennis Phillippi
Chris has been exercising his talent in the advertising world since 1999. He joined the RSVP team in 2009 and brought with him a love for laughter and creativity. Originally from New Albany, Mississippi, Chris has settled in Memphis and enjoys being active in the fashion community.
Art Director Krista Geyer Photographers Blake Billings Don Perry Steve Roberts Account Executives Chris Pugh Kim Johnson RSVP Memphis is published monthly by Haithcock Communications, Inc. First class subscriptions are available for $55.00 per year. Send name and address with a check to:
Haithcock Communications, Inc. 2282 Central Avenue Memphis, TN 38104 For advertising information contact:
Roy Haithcock Phone: (901) 276-7787, ext. 101 Fax: (901) 276-7785 publisher@rsvpmagazine.com
Kim Johnson
Account Executive Kim has worked in advertising for thirty years in the Memphis area, starting with The Memphis Business Journal, radio, television and now back to print. She loves meeting new friends as well as helping the old ones with their advertising needs. Going to movies, shopping, cooking and playing with her dog are among her favorite activities! RSVP feels like an extension of her family.
Visit us online at:
www.rsvpmagazine.com For editorial information or to request coverage of an event, please contact RSVP Magazine one month prior to the event:
Call: 901-276-7787, ext. 105 Fax: 901-276-7785 editor@rsvpmagazine.com Follow us on:
Krista Geyer RSVP Memphis Magazine
Copyright 2017 Haithcock Communications, Inc.
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Art Director
Krista has spent most her entire life in the Mid-South area. She moved home after earning her bachelor’s degree from Auburn University and is thrilled to be able to work on something as “Memphis” as RSVP Magazine. When not working you can probably find Krista at Shelby Farms with her husband and her dogs or riding her horses.
From the Publisher
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January
O
ur first issue was published in October 1995. We were one of the first magazines of our kind—The Original Society Pages. David Tankersley, another Towery Press alumnus, joined me in founding RSVP Magazine. And over the last 21 years there have been quite a few changes, not just in our publication, but in the field of print media, as well as in our Greater Memphis community as a whole. 1995 was a different world. There were no smartphones and no fast internet. Everything operated through dialup service with AOL or BellSouth. When RSVP started there was a Symphony Ball—no more. And there were not nearly as many nonprofit fundraisers as there are today. Now we have to juggle our coverage to try to work everyone into our pages, but back then there were times that we had to hunt for events to photograph. In fact, I remember shooting a keg party of a group of young lawyers one rainy, summer night because there was nothing going on that summer, in terms of nonprofit fundraisers or galas. I recall another time that I went to Destin, FL to shoot a July 4 party at Michael and Becky Rivalto's condo. While there I met a soon-to-be UT senior by the name of Peyton Manning at the pool. Nice guy—but not the household name he is now. Through the years I’ve heard several nonprofit organizations credit RSVP with the creation of their paid parties as their main fundraisers. The first party we shot was Zoo Rendezvous, and the second one was shot the next day at Symphony in the Gardens at The Dixon. I remember that I was looking for a pretty lady in a hat for our cover. I found her—Diane Swain, then Director of Le Bonheur Surgery Center. Fortunately for us and for Memphis, both of those events have grown and continue to flourish today. Through our coverage of events and fundraisers around the city, I’ve had the opportunity to meet and get to know a wide range of people. I fondly remember John Tigrett, such a gentleman; Sam Phillips, quite the orator; and Imogene Pierotti whose words of advice to me were, “Roy, always take the high road". She was such a gracious Southern lady and RSVP fan! We started shooting with film cameras, used Fox Photo and Wolf Camera to process our pictures, and FedEx to deliver materials to our printer. Now everything is digital—all desktop publishing and Internet transfer to our printer, with a website and online version of our magazine available 24/7. I just want to say, “Thank you” to all of our loyal readers and supporters and let you know that we’re continuing to change with the times. Starting with this January issue, RSVP is bringing on a new editor. She is likely to be a familiar name and face to many of you—Emily Adams Keplinger. With over 30 years of being one of Memphis’ biggest cheerleaders, we are excited to share her genuine love of and enthusiasm for our city and our many nonprofits. Her multi-media expertise is expected to bring more traffic to our website between our monthly printed issues as we showcase her brand of “putting a positive spotlight on good people doing good things to move our city forward.” So we hope you will join us as we say, “Cheers and a Happy New Year!”
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Roy Haithcock publisher@rsvpmagazine.com
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Signature Memphis
January
Rabbi Micah D. Greenstein, D.D.
Senior Rabbi of Temple Israel and Executive Board Member of the National Civil Rights Museum Hometown: Jacksonville, FL Best Memphis Hangout: Levitt Shell Favorite Southern Idiom: Shalom, Y’all. Favorite Place to Travel: Israel and Cambodia My Best Quality: My well-intentioned energy Favorite Restaurant in Memphis: The Beauty Shop Favorite Song: You Can Close Your Eyes (James Taylor) My Dream Dinner Guest: Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Who Would Play Me in a Movie: Joel Osteen or Tom Hanks Place I Go to Think: On the road during my early morning runs. Advice I’d Give My 20-year-old Self: Life is a marathon, not a sprint. One Goal I’d Still Like to Accomplish: Writing a book on the human spirit. Favorite Spot in Memphis: Lately, it’s been the patio of Loflin Yard on Sundays with my family. Favorite Book: Talking To God by Naomi Levy (best non-denominational prayerbook ever written) My Most Annoying Habit: Losing my keys or cellphone somewhere in Temple over and over. My Favorite Thing to Eat in Memphis: It’s a tie between Erling Jensen’s lamb chops and River Oaks Grille’s halibut.
The Best Part
of My Job:
Greater Memphis community
Favorite
this March!
Making a difference in the lives of my congregants and the
wedding you’ve ever attended: I know it’s going to be my own daughter’s wedding
What is the most fulfilling aspect of being the board for the National Civil Rights Museum? Representing Memphis Favorite wedding destination: My wife planned a wedding for a client on the California coast, and I got to tag along!
Favorite
wedding tradition:
canopy by their parents.
What
When the bride and groom are both escorted to the Jewish wedding
is the most memorable wedding in which you have been included?
Nickleodeon’s “Gameshakers” TV show (to be aired this season)
The one I did on
Proudest Moment of My Life: Whenever I’m known by people I meet as Cara, Jake and Julia’s father instead of being recognized as Rabbi Greenstein. Your
daughter’s getting married soon. What are you most looking forward to?
family and friends in the same place at the same time and celebrating the future of Cara and Alex!
Having
of My Day: Family dinner—we sit down at the table together every single night, even if just for 15 minutes or at 5 p.m. I’m grateful to Sheril for making sure there’s something always on the table.
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Photo by Steve Roberts
The Highlight
Sip Around the World
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January
Sip Around the World
W Daryll and Qualice Seymour
Steven Glennon and Sarah Woodard
Benefiting The National Kidney Foundation of West Tennessee
ith a crescent moon adding to the ambience of an evening spent lakeside at the FedEx Event Center at Shelby Farms Park, guests enjoyed tasting over 300 wines from over 100 wineries at the 22nd annual Sip Around the World wine tasting event. Fine wines and live music by the Jeremy Shrader Trio (comprised of Jeremy Shrader on trumpet, Ed Finney on electric guitar and Bob Buckley on bass), flowed as guests dined on hors d’oeuvres and made their way through tables of silent auction items. The auction items continued the evening’s wine theme with an offering of different vintages, many paired with hand-painted wine glasses and overnight stays at area hotels. In addition to the silent auction, a wine pull contributed to the evening’s proceeds. In the VIP Tent, guests tasted luxury champagnes, along with some of the most highly rated red and white wines on the market. As pairings for these selections of fine wines, Chef Cullen Kent, owner of Café Society, and Michel Leny, the cafe’s former owner, prepared goat cheese croquettes, baconwrapped shrimp with horseradish cream sauce, wontons offered with a tarragonDijon sauce, and wild mushroom bread pudding. Simply Delicious Catering prepared the other foods that were served in the main ballroom. Following the theme See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
of wines from around the world, the buffet consisted of a variety of international foods including wild mushroom tartlets with creme fraiche, imported cheeses and crackers, braided turkey and cheese sandwiches, skewers with sausage, cheese and pickle slices, kale and roasted beets with balsamic vinaigrette, fresh fruits, and antipasti station, sandwiches of spinach, sun-dried tomatoes and parmesan cheese, Caesar salads served in mini cups made of baked parmesan cheese, butternut squash ravioli with sage and brown butter, Italian cured meats, spanakopita, pretzel nuggets with cheese fondue, BBQtinis, sweet and sour meatballs, Caprese salad skewers, gorgonzola cheese with strawberries, and more. Touted as one of the largest wine tastings in Tennessee, the event was presented by Athens Distributing Company as a benefit for the National Kidney Foundation of West Tennessee. “Athens Distributing has been proud to partner with the National Kidney Foundation of West Tennessee for the past 22 years to present Sip Around the World, the organization’s premier annual fundraising and awareness event,” said Jack Aaron, CEO of Athens Distributing. “This annual tasting tradition of over 250 wines, with a silent auction, live entertainment, hors d’oeuvres, a wine pull, and signature cocktails, is a not-to-be-missed event in West Tennessee.”
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Kristina Woo and Judge Mark Ward
Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Blake Billings
Mark Towne and Samantha Towne
Leslie House and Brad Callicut
Brittani Ramsey and Brad McGinnis
Isaac and Angela Singleton
Mike Aaron, Jack Aaron, Ginger Wilkerson and Johnny Aaron
Chelsey and Jeff Savage
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Patty Jenkins, Inglish Maffitt and Teresa Starnes
Henrietta Wilson, Becky Crosswine, Brandy Britton, Cheryl Middleton and Jackie Nichols
Ree Liverance and Donna Infurchia
Erin and David Perkins
Retha Moore, Mark Pender, Ramona Rork and Clyde Keenan
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Kate Morisse and Henry Hague
Ally Covington and Loghan Smith
Alaric Wilkins and Kathleen Motl
Stephanie Brown with Keith and Lisa May
Amy Wood
Hairstylist & Makeup Artist º Hair Color º Hair Extensions º Makeup, Lashes & Brows º Eyelash Extensions º On Location/Event Styling Studio LaRue 5131 Wheelis Drive Memphis, TN 38117 901.685.8266
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Beautiful and lasting memories are as simple as www.rsvpmagazine.com More pictures than would ever fit in a magazine are online and available on our website. If you’re looking for a photo that one of our photographers took at a major social event and is featured in our magazine, that photo may be readily available through our web address. Just go to our site, click on the event, and remember the password: rsvp.
January 2017
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Sip Around the World
January
Chandler Young, Amber Fletcher, Amy Beth Halsey, Laura Skelton and Rebekah Heislin
Kevin Leahy, Jennifer Kuehn and Billy Strouder
Chris and Theresa Murray
Judson and Dana Naifeh
Kathryn Beazar and Melissa Pope
Jonathan Keith, Natalie Humphries, Dr. Noah Gray, Lori Bealer, Austin Bell, Emily Keith and Tracy Bell
Collins Mikell and Sara Bell with Christopher and Ashley Jamieson
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Patrick Hendricks and Kontji Anthony-Hendricks
Marlin Ross, Jaquisha Jackson and Allandus King
A Lifetime of Art A Look at Tyler Guthrie’s Passion for Painting Story by Emily Adams Keplinger Photos by Steve Roberts
January
F
or Tyler Guthrie, his artistic inclinations seemed to start around 1968. He was in fourth grade at Havenview Elementary in Whitehaven and found that he liked to spend his time drawing. “I just drew stuff, and people could tell what it was,” recalled Guthrie. “I just liked to draw and found it rewarding to create. And I came to realize that this natural inclination was a gift. I found it was a real thrill to be able to take something that was flat or two-dimensional and bring it to life by making it look three-dimensional. I didn’t take lessons, I’m a selftaught artist.” Now 60, Guthrie has found that art has played a large role in his life. Since the age of 18, he has been the owner of a frame shop called Tyler’s Gallery. And he has continued to draw. About 20 years ago he began to work with watercolors. “Working with watercolors was so different for me,” said Guthrie. “I was actually afraid of painting. I thought you had to hold the brushes a certain way and I wasn’t sure of myself. Over time I came to realize that you hold a brush
however it works for you, and that there are several ways to hold brushes, depending on the strokes you want to achieve.” Guthrie still remembers his first watercolor image. It was of the steamboat Mary Woods II, set in Newport, Arkansas. He said the image was so popular that he took it to a print shop to have limited edition lithographs made and sold the lithographs through his frame shop, as well as wholesale to other shops. The image remains on his website as a reminder of his earlier days. When asked who influenced his art, Guthrie is quick to credit his father, Ken Guthrie. “Dad was a commercial artist and a fine artist at that,” said Guthrie. “It was his advice that really set me on the path to being a real artist. He told me to quit doing artwork from other people’s photographs. He encouraged me to take my own photographs, or make my own sketches. He said that by doing plein air painting, an artist can choose their own angle. He guaranteed that my art abilities would go up a notch — and it was true.” From 2000 to 2002 Guthrie lived in the Brandywine region of Pennsylvania. It was the first time that Guthrie was able to devote himself fully to painting and he found his work was extremely well received.
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StreetSeen
“In that area of the country, the galleries have invitational miniature shows. Each piece must be no larger than 6 inches x 8 inches — they are all tiny originals,” explained Guthrie. He was accepted into every show he entered and sold everything he painted. He returned to Memphis in the Spring of 2003 and reopened Tyler’s Gallery, this time on Poplar Pike in Germantown, and found that being a full-time framer didn’t leave him much time to paint. However, he is moving into a new phase, and while he still frames by appointment, he is opening up his schedule to allow him to spend more time painting. Now Guthrie does as much as he can with his camera to lock images into his memory. His style is more realistic than fantasy, but he says he is branching into a looser style, trying not to make things too complicated. And he has continued framing as a stream of supporting income. “While most people remember me for my framing, my art is where my life lies," said Guthrie. "Picture framing is a craft which complements my artwork, but painting is now my career, as well as my passion. I’m trying to leave a mark by creating art that people enjoy.” To learn more about Tyler Guthrie and his artwork, visit his website at tylersgallery.com.
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Memphis Moment
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January
40th Anniversary of Facing History and Ourselves Memphis Benefit Dinner
T
he Facing History and Ourselves Memphis branch celebrated the national program’s 40th anniversary with a benefit dinner, held at the Memphis Hilton, to continue the national conversation about equality and justice through humility and self-reflection. The evening began with a cocktail hour. Nearly 700 guests then proceeded to the ballroom where President and CEO Roger Brooks, welcomed everyone to the program. Khamilla Johnson, a student at Overton High School, discussed the impact that Facing History and Ourselves had on her family and stressed the importance of asking “why, not just asking what,” stating that doing so enhances growth and power to make change. Central High School student, Amal Altareb, and Overton High School student, Quintin Griffin, continued the program by sharing their powerful experiences. Facing History alumna, Magda Sakaan, encouraged guests to donate to the program. Dinner included: a wedge salad, followed by salmon and chicken stuffed with asparagus, risotto and carrots, completed by chocolate mousse and vanilla cake. The evening concluded with a moving performance from Charles Holt who brought to life 14 Upstanders' voices through spoken word and song. Facing History and Ourselves reaches over 4.8 million students each year while using history to confront prejudice and unrest through empowering students to become adults encouraged to make the world equal.
Marqui Fifer and Tari Harris
Story and Photos by Ashley Dunn
Dawn and Thor Kvande
Kayla and Jason Salomon
Jill Shanker, Andie Uiberall and Susan Graber
Steve Horler, Jody Shutzberg and Jeffery West2
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Emily and Jay Philpott
Chondrea Black, Nancy Walls and Penny Hill
Cheryl Griffin and Doc Buckhalter
Marty Kelman and Dr. Dale Kelman
Roy, Tyjauna and Brandon Smith
Kesha Whitaker and Glenn Phillips
Jim and Martha Boyd
Anita White and Clarence McClain
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Memphis Moment
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January
Annual Methodist Healthcare Foundation Cancer Center Luncheon Featuring Award-Winning Actress as Keynote Speaker
T
he annual Methodist Healthcare Foundation Cancer Center Luncheon was held at The Peabody in the Grand Ballroom, benefiting the West Cancer Center. Award-winning actress Laura Linney was the keynote speaker of the luncheon. Linney discussed her life, career and personal experiences of her family’s battle with cancer. Linney’s experiences led to her winning an Emmy as the lead actress in “The Big C,” a Showtime series about a mother coping with cancer. The luncheon raised over $120,000. All proceeds went to the West Cancer Center, whose mission is to “provide the highest quality cancer care and clinical research throughout the cancer journey, while respecting the quality of life – physically, emotionally and spiritually.” The West Cancer Center is a regional leader in medical advancement, providing nearly 30,000 patients each year with treatment. Presenting sponsors of the Annual Methodist Healthcare Foundation Cancer Center Luncheon included the West Cancer Center and Cigna Healthcare.
Patti Elrod and Merikay Presley
Story and Photos by Ashley Dunn Pat Luttrell and Lovie Raines
Pam Harris and Laura Bettis
Jason Larson and Shad Williams
Mickey Schaffler, Wynn Scott and Ellen Fones
Fred Van Cleave and Alex Escobar
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January 2017
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Borgmeyer+ Gambrell 5-28-16
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obert David Matthew (Matt) Gambrell of Memphis, and Katherine Elizabeth (Katie) Borgmeyer of St. Charles, MO made the decision to marry where they first met while attending school at The University of Mississippi in Oxford. Since then they have shared a love of everything Ole Miss, so when the time came to select a location for their wedding, their choice was obvious. Woodson Ridge Farms set the stage for Matt and Katie’s rehearsal dinner, the barn on the property came alive thanks in part to catering by Elizabeth Heishell and floral by Twisted Twig. The beautiful courtyard at Castle Hill outside of Oxford provided the backdrop for the young couple to say “I do,” surrounded by their friends and family. The reception in the ballroom of Castle Hill featured catering by Castle Hill and was highlighted by music from Emerald Empire Band. The couple would like to thank their parents and everyone involved who made the wedding truly a once in a lifetime experience.
Photos by Russell Hays Photography rhbrides.com
Brown + Maury 4- 30-16
T
he wedding of Huxley Brown, daughter of Cary and Keith Brown, and Taylor Maury, son of Becky and Billy Maury, was held on April 30, 2016 at Idlewild Presbyterian Church. The bride’s gown, designed by Olia Zavozina, came from Maggie Louise in Memphis and bridesmaids wore Joanna August gowns of various colors from Bella Bridesmaid. The reception was held in the ballroom at The University Club, where wedding planner Mona Dunlap and Garden District’s Greg Campbell and Erick New created a stunning display of candlelight and fragrant gardenias. Jackson Vine was draped along the ceiling of the ballroom, and hydrangeas cascaded down the center cake table, highlighting the wedding cake, which was created by The Flour Garden. A tent containing white, gold, and Lucite furniture by Liz Luxury Events was set up outdoors, where Life of the Party, a 15-piece band from Atlanta, performed a variety of songs, including a medley of Michael Jackson hits. The bride and groom wore Michael Jackson themed jackets while the guests partied with sequin gloves and tambourines. Krystal burgers were served late-night, and the Raiford’s limo whisked the bride and groom away in classic Memphis style.
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Photos by Blest Studios bleststudios.com
Chambers + Berry 7 - 16-16
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ative Memphians Anna Chambers and Zach Berry were married July 16, 2016 after a courtship that has taken them thousands of miles and through various cities, including New York City, Chicago, and finally, Nashville. After the groom proposed in Savannah, GA, the couple immediately began planning. The bride already had her eye on a unique Claire Pettibone gown, that as luck would have it, was available at The Dress Theory in Nashville—the only boutique in the state to carry it. They chose to wed at The Cordelle, after the groom found, by chance, a profile of the owners in a local magazine. The planning was a family affair, with the groom’s sister-in-law providing vintage rentals and decor through her Memphis-based company The Eclectic Berry, and the bride’s mother creating the party favors – her famous toffee through her company Southern Toffee. Not wanting to leave anything to chance, the couple reached out to Ashley at Sweet James Events for help with last-minute details and wedding coordination. The bride and groom’s close friends, the Geyers, brewed specialty beers for the occasion, including a grapefruit shandy, an IPA and a citrus cider. One of the couple’s favorite memories of the night was the first dance, in which the groom surprised the bride with a special song selection.
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Photos by Thankfully Taken Photography thankfullytaken.com
Conlee + Loy 11- 12-16
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auren Easley Conlee, daughter of Tom Conlee and Bethany Overton, and Ian Scott Loy, son of JT and Kelly Loy, were married in a magical and intimate ceremony at the Farmer’s Market at Agricenter on November 12, 2016. In preparation for the wedding, the couple, along with close family and friends, festooned the wooden walls and pillars with thousands of sparkling lights, transforming the Big Red Barn into their dream wedding venue. Handcrafted chalkboards, wooden accents, rustic décor and beautiful floral arrangements by wedding planner Lisa Childers and Connie’s Flowers completed the enchanting look. The bride remembered her late maternal grandparents by fashioning an antique locket around her bouquet and having her grandfather’s beautifully restored 1949 Chevy at the celebration. After the ceremony, which was officiated by Jarad Bingham, guests enjoyed local brews, southern food by Clancy’s Cafe, homemade strawberry cake created by the groom’s mother and amazing music performed by The Dantones. A big surprise came when the bride’s aunt, Jenny Vergos, a former member of The Bouffants, sang a song for the happy couple. During Lauren and Ian’s departure, guests waved giant sparklers and popped streamers. The newlyweds reside in Memphis, Tennessee with their two adored rescue dogs. The couple extends a special “thank you” to everyone who made 11/12/16 the best day ever!
2531 broad avenue, memphis, tn 38112 • 901.275.8784 20twelvedesign.com
Photos by Amy Hutchinson Photography amy-hutchinson.com
Dunaway + Coors 8- 6-16
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aylor Marie Dunaway and George Russell Coors II were first introduced at a Phi Delta Theta and Chi Omega date party while both were students at University of Mississippi, and their relationship blossomed into a proposal of marriage. On August 6, 2016, Taylor became George’s bride at the historic Calvary Church in Downtown Memphis. Prior to the wedding ceremony, members of the bridal party, which included 25 of the couple’s closest friends, were pampered at The Peabody Hotel. After the nuptials, the newlyweds were surprised with a second line band that led them and their guests to a reception at the Cadre Building. For their first dance, the bride and groom danced to “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” performed by the band Majii. An elegant repast catered by CFY was served and included a stunning seven-tired cake created by Flour Garden. Le Fleur designed the floral arrangements, Mona Dunlap served as wedding coordinator and Liz Luxuries Event Rentals provided the reception furnishings. At the end of this wonderful evening, Taylor and George were whisked away by a horse drawn carriage to the River Inn for their wedding night.
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Photos by Kelly Ginn Photography, LLC kellyginnphotography.com
Forbis + Stubbins 10- 8-16
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hen Sarah Forbis married Dave Stubbins, it was an international affair. But then their entire courtship had taken place across continents, too. It all began in 2012 when Sarah was accepted into a one-year program at the Mountbatten Institute to get her master’s degree in International Business. She accepted a position at Barclay’s Bank while in London, and met the man of her dreams in the process. The first time they went out for coffee, they ended up spending hours talking and realized there was something special going on. Sarah graduated and returned to The States, quickly landing a job with Barclay’s in New York City. For a year, Sarah and Dave continued their courtship, flying back and forth “across the pond.” When the bank created a position for her in London, Sarah returned in 2014. A year later, the couple went on holiday to Spain, where Dave proposed. That’s when the real whirlwind began. With Sarah’s parents, Ann and Jim Forbis, planning a wedding in Memphis and Sarah flying back home to make decisions and confirm details, the Forbis-Stubbins wedding took place on Oct 8, 2016 at St. John’s Episcopal Church. The reception was held at the Annesdale Mansion, with Sarah’s sister, Katie Forbis Guelzow, serving as Matron of Honor and Robin Formanek as Maid of Honor. Over a third of the guests came from the United Kingdom, others from Spain and Brazil. Felicia Suzanne’s catered the event and the Soul Shockers provided the tunes that kept the party-goers dancing the night away.
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Photos by Zanone Studio zanone.com
Freitas + Richardson Richardson + Cobb 10- 28-16
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n October 28, 2016, Nicole Danielle Freitas became the bride of Hunter Holland Richardson, and Christian Lea Richardson became the bride of Steven Tyler Cobbin in a double wedding ceremony and reception held at Annesdale Mansion. Dr. Page B. Walley, Lea’s and Hunter’s uncle, officiated. Lea and Hunter are the children of Mr. and Mrs. John Daniel Lichterman and Mr. Charles Holland Richardson II. Nicole is the daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Robert Freitas and Tyler is the son of Mrs. Susan Barry Cobb and the late Mr. Robert Steven Cobb. A cocktail party following the rehearsal, the evening before the wedding, was held at the Harbor Town townhome of Mr. Danny Richardson and hosted by Nona and Rusty Jones. Mona Dunlap was wedding planner and Fork it Over Catering prepared and served a sumptuous wedding feast. Beth Luscombe Trio, The Jeremy Schrader Orchestra, and Douglas Dauson provided music. Special highlights of the festive occasion were a cigar and rum bar, furnished by Brett Rodriguez, and a vintage automobile to transport the newlyweds, courtesy of Chuck and Jeanette French.
Photos by Tindall Farmer Photography tindallfarmerphotography.com
Taylor + Adams 07- 23-16
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arly Taylor and Hunter Adams are both originally from Memphis, Tennessee, but it took going to Aspen, Colorado for the two to finally meet. Both attended the University of Alabama, but still did not cross paths until the winter of 2012 when Carly moved to Aspen after graduation. When it came time to decide where the couple would be married, it was pretty clear that Aspen was the spot. The couple really wanted their family and friends to be able to see just why Carly and Hunter loved this place so much. The venue the couple chose for the July 23, 2016, ceremony and reception was the Sundeck on top of Ajax Mountain, a place where the couple had spent much of their time skiing and hiking. The venue sits at 11,212 feet overlooking the valley’s cherished Maroon Bells. Guests enjoyed a serene gondola ride up to the site. Local event planner Gold Leaf Event Design and Production served as the wedding coordinators. The Little Nell catered the reception and local florist Carolyn’s Flowers designed the flower arrangements and décor. Tindall Farmer Photography of Germantown, Tennessee was the photographer. Quitman Deloach of Memphis, Tennessee and Cos Bar out of Aspen did the bridal party’s hair and makeup.
Photos by Sully Clemmer Photography sullyclemmer.com
Tighe + Ware 6- 18-16
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ara Hallie Tighe, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Bowman Stirling Tighe, Jr. of Jackson, Mississippi and William McPherson Ware, son of Mr. and Mrs. William Harold Ware of Memphis, Tennessee were united in marriage on June 18, 2016 at Saint James Episcopal Church in Jackson, Mississippi. The candlelight ceremony was officiated by The Reverend Seth M. Walley. Given in marriage by her father, the bride wore a designer gown by Monique Lhuillier with hand-stitched lace, pearl and beaded flower applique. Following the ceremony, the bride’s parents hosted a joyous celebration at the Country Club of Jackson. The celebration began with a first dance to “Come and Get your Love” by Redbone, which was performed by Al Paris and the Heartbreakers of Memphis, Tennessee. The bride’s cake was a multi-tiered creation with layers of spun sugar peonies and roses, her favorite flowers. The bridegroom’s cake was a replica of his favorite food, a cheeseburger. The bride’s father surprised the bride and bridegroom by bringing a little bit of Memphis to Jackson with an Elvis Presley impersonator, who dedicated a special song to the newlyweds, and a late night “Paula and Raiford’s Disco” room, a favorite spot of the Memphis couple, complete with a disco ball and photo booth. The newlyweds enjoyed a trip to St. Lucia, Virgin Islands and now happily reside in Memphis.
Memphis Moment
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JLM’s Merry Marketplace Holiday Shopping at the Racquet Club
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he Junior League of Memphis held its annual holiday shopping event, Merry Marketplace, at the Racquet Club of Memphis. The preview Girls Night Out, presented by Baptist Memorial Health Care, was a big hit with the ladies. Live music by the Patio Pilots, cocktails and appetizers provided by the Racquet Club of Memphis, a Kendra Scott photo booth, a wine pull and silent auction were just a few of the evening’s highlights. The one-of-a-kind shopping extravaganza got underway, filled with new events that included live music and a happy hour. The Beauty Bar, presented by Gia Marina and Studio 901, allowed shoppers to pamper themselves with a 15 minute styling session and a visit to the brow and lash bar. Closing out the weekend, Pinot’s Palette Sip & Paint Holiday Party hosted a paint class coupled with mimosas for guests to enjoy. The Junior League of Memphis is an organization of women that strives to develop the potential of women and to improve our community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.
Brooke Helsley and Donna Mullen
Dianna and Stephanie Simpson
Story and Photos by Ashley Dunn
Jackie Watson, Annie Low, Elizabeth Low and Julie Chow
Katharine Miller and Kaitlin Skahan
Carol Griffin and Wonda Brooks
Melissa Still, Jackie Hall and Nina Gourley
Vickie Stealman and Maddie Stealman
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Morgan McIntyre and Ashley Ward
Kate Van Namen, Cara Sievers and Bethany McRae
Sally Perry and Brook Bailey
January 2017
Manesha Hathcock and Suzanne Harvey
Sherri Reid and Cindi Smith Cole
Kate Dowd and Jami Lazarov
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Memphis Moments
Josephine Circle Holiday Luncheon A Festive Celebration at the Crescent Club Carole Pruett, Becky Barton, Brenda West, Patti Russell and Martha McIntosh
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embers of Josephine Circle gathered for a Holiday Luncheon, chaired by Tommie Pardue, in the Main Dining Room of the Crescent Club. The group’s president, Brenda West, welcomed the attendees and thanked the executive board for all of their hard work throughout the year. The organization raises funds to provide financial assistance to deserving college students. Students from the Cordova High School Choir, led by choir director Adrian Maclin, provided musical entertainment for the event. The choir added to the festive atmosphere, with young ladies wearing floor-length gowns with black bodices and emerald green skirts and young men attired in tuxedos with matching emerald green bow ties and cummerbunds. To everyone’s delight, the choir performed a Holiday remix of Christmas classics. As the luncheon drew to a close, the group’s vice president, Patti Russell, joined West in recognizing the organization’s new members and presenting each with a “holiday happy.” Story and Photos by Emily Adams Keplinger
Will Wilson, Kelsey Milem, Skylar Bursi, Dajai Washington and Adrian Maclin
Carol Pruett, Hope Cook, Karen Dunavant, Patricia Cook and Bunnie Olivere
Annette Poole, Linda Ashmore and Rita Garrigan
Selma Johnson, Lisa Johnson and Mary Pat Custer
Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary Sip, Snack, Shop Fundraiser
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embers of the Salvation Army’s Women’s Auxiliary and their guests gathered at Millstone Market and Nursery for the Salvation Army “Sip, Snack, Shop.” Nancy Hays and Susan Coe were the event co-chairmen and their committee members included La Brubaker, Eula Horrell, Susan Madden, Lisa Morrison, Cheryl Parker and Judy Weatherly. The event was catered by Off the Square Catering. Millstone owner Tricia Hunt demonstrated how to make a Fairy Garden. And in preparation for the event, numerous wreaths and floral arrangements were prepared for purchase, with 10 percent of the day’s proceeds benefiting the auxiliary. Peggy Duke, President of the Women’s Auxiliary, said, “This is the third year we’ve held a holiday fundraiser at Millstone. This year we added several local vendors, like Judy Pound Cakes, Discovery Toys, and Bingham and Broad, for our shopping experience.” An original watercolor by Dr. Tim Hacker, depicting the first red kettle set out for donations, was auctioned, and Christmas cards featuring his artwork were available for purchase. Tabletop-sized replicas of the Salvation Army’s red kettles gave guests another way to support the cause, with donations up to $500 matched to increase “the give.” Proceeds from the event came to over $3,000 and an anonymous donation of $5,000 was given to the kettle campaign. Jan Morrell and Mary Ellen Chase
Cheryl Parker and Charlotte Neal
Story by Emily Adams Keplinger | Photos Submitted by Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary
Pam Proctor, Cindy Straube and Rita Solberg
Cheryl McCormack, Captain Shelley Bell, Holly Hitt, Captain Zach Bell and Mary Lawrence Flinn
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Toy Bash
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Toy Bash
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Russ and Monica Williams
Fred Langston and Kathy Simonetti
Mark and Traci Strickland
Boys & Girls Club of Greater Memphis
ropcellar Vintage Rentals in the Broad Avenue Arts District was the scene of the 2016 Toy Bash to benefit Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis. It was truly a night to remember for all who attended. Complimentary valet parking was provided upon arrival by Johnny, Jessica and Omar of Valet Memphis Parking Company. More than 600 guests showed up in their holiday best to show their support and to make sure the goal of a gift under the tree for each of the 4,000 members of the Boys & Girls Clubs was achieved. U of M Pom Squad elves Elise, McKenzie and Ashley greeted gift bearing party-goers at the front door and filled a big truck with Christmas delights for the kids. Inside it was warm and cozy with Christmas trees lined up side-byside, where The Grinch was seated in his big green chair posing for pictures next to the Bacardi Bar. Antique television sets were scattered across the room and guests relaxed on vintage 1950s and 1960s furniture as they enjoyed their favorite libations from the fully stocked open bar, which included a wide assortment of fine wines, craft beers and premium liquors. Food was provided by Corey Bush of CFY Catering. Tasty delights began at the Italian Station and included a Penne Pesto Cream with roasted tomato, spinach and black olives. There were also antipasto, capicola, salami and Peppadew peppers stuffed with a goat cheese mousse. The shrimp and grits station was a huge attraction, serving up shrimp and grits topped with a creole tomato glaze, See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Robin Poston and Jeff Flaherty
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then drizzled with shredded cheddar and bacon. Flank steak and chicken Spindini was served up at the Greek Station, along with Hummus, Tzaziki, Babaganoush and cous cous. The desserts were provided by BGCM’s Garden to Grocery Program and Babalu Tacos and Tapas and featured such sweet delights as peanut butter fudge, chocolate covered strawberries and cookies served on a bed of Christmas ornaments. The familiar vintage trailer of Jamie Harmon’s Amurica Photo Booth was parked near the back of the room, where Hannah Doohen and Nel Davis escorted guests inside to pose with a huge assortment of eclectic props such as sombreros, mannequins and rubber chickens. Of course Santa was on hand for the food and festivities, too. The party went on until 11 p.m. as guests moved and grooved to the sounds of The Memphis Soul Revue featuring Jessica Ray and Terreigh Barnett on vocals. Sponsors for this year’s Toy Bash included BNSF Railway, Coca Cola, First Tennessee Bank, Kendra Scott, Wunderlich Securities, Universal Collection Systems, Orion FCU, Juice Plus, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Tennessee Community Trust, Duncan Eye and Pro Tech. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis provide a world-class experience that assures success is within reach of every young person who enters its doors, with all members on track to graduate from high school with a plan for the future, demonstrating good character and citizenship and living a healthy lifestyle. Story by Bill Bannister Photos by Don Perry
Dalton Marin, David Higgins and Brendan Bennett
Wendy and Matt Van Cleve
Liz Hutton and Jessie Williams
Shannon and Josiah Williams
Kevin and Pam McAdams
Bartlett Performing Arts and Conference Center
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Toy Bash
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George Scarborough and Olivia Nichols with Savannah and Michael Hughes
Maurice and Sonja Butler
Hannah and Mike Moton
Brendan Powell, Kayla Rice, Kristin Rice and Brianna Smith
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Tia Owens, Oneka Todd and Kim Bailey
Tamara and Carlos Fifer
Angie Smith and Patrick Donnelly
Jon and Donna Van Hoozer
Rob and Tamara Vance with Sara and Fred Day
January
Chris and Kristen Coles
Charlotte and Bill Mitchell
Sara Hall and Ken McCown
Cameryn Fishel and Alton Alexander
Gwendolyn and Craig Woods
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Paulo and Priscilla Teixeira
Autumn and Glenn Goerke
Kelly Shaefer, Taylor Boswell and Meghan Wieboldt
Teddy Gorman and Nicole Lauchaire
Brooke and Matthew Fields
Gina Deutsch and Wesley Grace
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Memphis Moment
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Meat Me in Memphis
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5th Annual Monogram Foods Foundation Fundraising Gala
n the decades since the ‘30s, King Cotton-brand meats have graced countless Southern tables at mealtimes. A cadre of noted cooks added their own take on the tradition during Monogram Foods’ 5th annual Meat Me in Memphis Gala at The Columns. The assignment: conjure recipes that incorporate Monogram Foods products, such as King Cotton and Circle B, as ingredients, prepare and serve. The result: a lip-smacking success that benefits Monogram Loves Kids Foundation. Since its inception in 2012, the foundation has funneled more than $800,000 in grants to organizations that serve the needs of children in communities where Monogram Foods operates. About 700 guests sampled the culinary pizzazz of chefs Phillip Ashley Rix, Ernest Dickson, Michael Francis, James Gentry, Erling Jensen, Cullen Kent, Michael Patrick, Mark Polito, Eric Waldkirch and Gary Williams. The amount of money raised by the 2016 event surpassed totals from previous years, according to Niki Schoggen, gala director. Monogram is a privately held manufacturer and marketer of precooked bacon, corn dogs, jerky, hot dogs, sausages, pet treats, gourmet foods and frozen appetizers.
George Roden, Joelyn Goodman, Leonard Kaye, Rick Goodman and Faith Kaye
Story and Photos by Virginia Davis
Jamie Delahaye and Brooks Crone
Vickie Terry and Patrice Robinson
Chef Michael Patrick and Victoria McLaurin
Emily Schoenberger and Megan Hughes
Cherese Daniel and Russula Douglas
Brett Freede and Donald Lee
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Scott Krisiak and Lyn Passeri
Claretha Sanford, Arnettie Rix and La Miracle Richmond
Matthew Pasquariello, Parker Morris, Audrey Pasquariello, Hunter Morris, Valerie Byrd and Payden Taylor
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Memphis Moment
Women’s Foundation for a Greater Memphis Power of the Purse
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he University Club was the setting for The Power of the Purse Auction, a fundraiser for The Women’s Foundation for a Greater Memphis. Soft jazz music provided by Reni & Ashley, and featuring saxophonist Marqué, drifted throughout the club as guests browsed silent auction items. Most were luxury items, like furs and jewelry and, of course, the auction was packed with purses galore—from evening bags to satchel totes in every color imaginable. Special guest Sheila E, dropped in at the party, which was held the night prior to her performance at the Cannon Center. “Continue doing what you’re doing,” she said. “Empowering each other as women and uplifting each other. It’s all about love.” The event was co-chaired by Susan L. Springfield, executive vice president at First Horizon National Corporation and Susan Stephenson, president and co-chairman of Independent Bank. The Women’s Foundation for a Greater Memphis seeks to break the cycle of poverty by encouraging philanthropy, fostering leadership among women, and supporting programs that enable women and children to reach their full potential. Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson Cozza
Tom Stephenson and Katie McDermott
Susan Springfield and Susan Stephenson
Beverly Sakauye, Annie Bares and Trevia Chatman
Lynne Walker, Angelia Allen and Phyllis Fickler
Ritche Bowden, Dr. Marcia Bowden, Alicia Willis and Pamela Clary
Sandra Burke and Cynthia Sadler
Candice Anderson and Sankedra Hudson
Courtney Tipper, Dennis Thomas and Ashante Hodges
Beverly Cross and Amy Schaefer
Regina Walker and Shelley Baur
Lillian Granger and Jacquie Herrero
Angela Lee and Karen Johnston
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Courage Thru Cancer
January
Courage Thru Cancer
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Justin Parks and Pam Kimery
Holly and Sander Snowden
Fundraising for a Cause
ncouraged by the success of its inaugural event last year, Courage Thru Cancer threw another fabulous celebration party this year at Minglewood Hall in Midtown. All proceeds went to the University of Tennessee/West Institute for Cancer Research and WINGS Cancer Foundation Supportive Care Division. This division was formed in 2015 in order to “help people with cancer and their loved ones understand cancer, manage their lives through treatment and recovery and find the emotional support they need” at no cost to the patients. The 2016 honorees were Allie and Debbie Allen, Gina Hollenbeck, Teri Trotter, Adam Cruthirds, Harold Byrd, Virginia Steele, the late Brian Churchill and the late John “Bad Dog” McCormack. Goodies galore were up for bid in a silent auction and included a Pike Yoga Package, two Piotet Limoge pieces, a More Therapy Shopping Party with wine, sweets and a discount for all guests on their total purchases, Virginia Steele’s book “Mommy Has Cancer and That’s Okay,” The Skin Clinics HydraFacial & Massage package, a one-of-a-kind framed photography display from the See all the party photos at rsvpmagazine.com Password: RSVP
Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. Charity Polo Event donated framed photos of Prince William and Prince Harry, Katie Toombs Art gave an original artwork entitled “Champion,” and Garden District provided an ivory colored vintage porcelain compote. Some of the “big ticket items” were four tickets to the Memphis Grizzlies vs. Atlanta Hawks game in Atlanta, GA, a seven night stay in a condo at Orange Lake Resort in Orlando, FL, and a three-month membership including tennis lessons to the Racquet Club of Memphis. Guests happily lined up to participate in the wine and jewelry pulls and came away with lots of surprises. A tasty spread was put on by some of Memphis’ favorite eateries— Buckley’s Grill, The Germantown Commissary and Simply Delicious Catering. The highlight of the evening was an electric performance by the Memphis Soul Revue, one of the hottest groups touring the South and beyond. Special thanks go out to those who helped to get this project off the ground, including Bud Davis Cadillac, Inc., Bank of Bartlett, Gerry Finney and Lucy Blackmon, The Drake/Zeke Foundation and Clay and Land Insurance.
Lil Rudd and Pam Davis
Gina True and George Kawell
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Jasmine Ammons and Matthew Orians
Story by Ruth Cassin Photos by Don Perry
Terry and Jessie Morris
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Martha and Mike Hess
January 2017
Jeanie Gundlach, Steve Conley and Lucy Blackmon
Steve Alford and Shannon Sims
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January
Bob Talley and Beth Riley with Gerry and Roy Cook
Babbie Lovett, Charlotte Neal and Allie Allen
Chris and Renee West
Denise and Mike Hamby
Todd Brown, Paul Fermi and Scott Knowles
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Katie and Rick Dugan
Bailie Bryson and Stephen Wong
Kristin and Tim Bourdon
Shirley Ward with Virginia and Reg Steele, Doris McLendon and Marshall and Mary Jane Criss
Memphis Moment
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Chefs’ Celebrity Gala Cooking Up Funds for Memphis Child Advocacy Center
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he 2016 Chefs’ Celebrity Gala was held at the Holiday Inn University of Memphis. Sponsored by the American Culinary Federation Greater Memphis Chapter, the dinner had over 100 celebrity servers who waited on nearly 600 people. A highlight of the evening came in the form of Teddy Bear Surprises, which sold for $250, $500 and $1,000 and contained envelopes with donated mystery items such as vacations, jewelry and gift cards. A silent auction featuring items such as Pandora rings, a guitar and a CD autographed by Carrie Underwood and two floor seats to a Grizzles game, were up for grabs to the highest bidders. When Andy Childs and his band took to the stage, guests took to the dance floor to show off their moves. The gala is the oldest and most successful fundraiser for the Memphis Child Advocacy Center. Story by Emily Adams Keplinger | Photos Submitted by Sarah Rossi Photography
Almida Smith and Georgia Smith
Robert S. Shaw Jr. and Vickie Shaw
Anthony and Lauren Mabon Price with Shawn Mathews
Susan Lawless and Richard Glassman
Jerry Patton, Nina Patton and Lori M. Patton
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Tom Clifton, Kacky Walton and Michael Detroit
Tony and Arris Murphy
Amy Webb and Bobby Martin
Denise Kerlan, Jenny Herman, Jeff Kerlan and Larry Herman
Jenny Herman, Jill Shanker and Larry Herman
Dennis Whitehead-Darling and Stanton Brown
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Memphis Moments
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January
Cancer Card Xchange Gala People are Good!
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ince the Cancer Card Xchange (CCX) was started five and a half years ago, almost 2,300 gifts have been send to cancer patients, totaling over $200,000 in gifts cards. “We believe that a small act of generosity and kindness can change the world,” asked Emily Tickle Thomas, executive director of the nonprofit organization. “Cancer Card Xchange collects monetary and gift card donations and then distributes gift cards to verified cancer patients simply to brighten their day.” Recently guests gathered at The Quonset, just off the Collierville Square, to support The Cancer Card Xchange at its annual fundraiser. Food was provided by several local restaurants including Brian Thurmond of 148 North, Mac Edwards from Pharm2Fork, Booya’s, Frost Bake Shop and Curbside Casseroles. Local musician Charvey Mac provided entertainment for the event. In all, over $12,000 was raised in gift cards and monetary donations, setting an all-time high for the amount raised at a single Cancer Card Xhange event. For more information about CCX, go online to www.cancercardxchange.org.
Isabella Porcarro, Katie Hicks, EmaDella Conners and Ellie Beard
Story by Emily Adams Keplinger | Photos Submitted by Red Bardes Jeff Emerson, Richard Tickle and Sherry Emerson
Emily and Joe Thomas
Seann Davidson and Darren Arnoult
Bill and Laura Todd
Pam and Chris Guernsey
Todd and Amy Farris
Duration Fine Arts Club Christmas Luncheon
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he Duration Fine Arts Club’s Christmas luncheon was held at Chickasaw Country Club, which was decorated from stem to stern in holiday style, offering the impression that every fixture, railing and surface was adorned with a shining bell, bustling bow, gleaming ribbon or twinkling light. Kay Price, club president, made welcoming remarks before Annemarie Bobay, treasurer, read a short devotional message entitled “Love and Kindness.” Price then announced the entertainers, “Take Note,” a group of singers who perform around the city spreading holiday cheer. Guests were treated to seasonal favorites like “Dashing Through the Snow,” “Silver Bells,” and “We Need a Little Christmas,” as the singers accented Mary Lawrence’s piano accompaniment by jangling the bells attached to their red scarves. Lunch began with a creamy artichoke soup with lemon and thyme, such a crowd favorite that Chef Tom Hughes generously distributed the recipe to anyone who wanted a copy. Pork tenderloin, served with whipped sweet potatoes and asparagus spears topped with julienned vegetables followed. A dessert of fruit-topped crème brulee finished the meal.
Ann Gallina, Jane Curtis, Ann Wieties and Becky Treace-Entrekin
Story and Photos by Suzanne Thompson Cozza
Ruthie McCallen and Gerry Thomas Donna McManus and Karen Gahan Betty Lu Jones and Norma McCrory
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Tommie Pardue and Brenda Glass
Norma McCrory, Annemarie Bobay, Gail Thompson, Frances Dear and Kay Price
Gladys Hamilton, Judy Belisomo and Hilda Mullen
January
• Memphis Moment
66th Annual Holiday Bazaar Supporting MCA and Local Artists
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emphis College of Art’s Rust Hall in Overton Park was the site of the 66th annual Holiday Bazaar Art Sale. Hundreds of art lovers and holiday shoppers took refuge from a rainy evening to peruse the enormous cornucopia of delights. There was everything from glassworks, pottery, Christmas ornaments made of knitted copper wire by artist Susan Younger, as well as jewelry and accessories fashioned from glass, metal and wood. Textile artist Aundra McCoy was on hand with a beautiful selection of holiday inspired scarves and Pete Schmidt showed off an impressive array of wooden kitchenware in his exhibition “Trees to Tools”. Refreshments included a tasty IPA from Stone Brewery, along with a lager from Ghost River Brewing Co. Kathy and Claire Riley offered delicious Unicorn Chow. All proceeds raised at this year’s event went to benefit the college’s scholarship fund, which disburses nearly $5 million in scholarships each year. Leigh Powell, Kathy Ake and Martha McGeachy
Story and Photos by Bill Bannister
Katie and Keith Cole Doug and Jan Booker
Gracey Smythe and Loren Powell
Amy Rhodes and Virginia King
Liana Pierce and Melissa Farris
Sam Miller and Alice Higdon
Cathy and Pete Gross
Aundra McCoy and Susan Younger
Eddie and Misty Lamb
Kathy Riley and Claire Riley
Chuck Pope and Kerry Brooks
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Crossword
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RSVP Crossword Edited By Ruth Cassin
ACROSS 1 Memphis to Dallas dir. 4 November birthstone 9 Epic work by Homer 14 Green group 15 Excuse, in a way 16 Jargon 17 Damage
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18 Civet cat's cousin 19 Allow entry (2 wds.) 20 The I in FYI, briefly 22 Clothes 24 Only 25 TV lawyer Matlock 27 Scrambled food 29 Extra portion, plus one 32 Hurts 35 Twain 36 Summary 38 Winds around 40 Am not, in uneducated speech 42 Pull on loose thread 44 Labor 45 Mope 47 Interior design 49 Japanese food fish 50 Checks over paper 52 Sir Galahad, for one 54 Former USSR's secret police 55 Billion years 56 Able 59 Small filament 63 Appeal 67 Philippine dish with marinated chicken or pork 69 Aural, briefly 71 Building addition 72 Betting game 73 Stallion
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74 Deer relative 75 Audibly 76 Stock unit 77 Map legend
DOWN 1 18 wheeler, for short 2 Bridge 3 Jetty (var.) 4 Children's game 5 Poisonous evergreen shrub 6 US liquid unit 7 Assist in wrong doing 8 Pasta type, often baked 9 Banned 10 Deception 11 Really like 12 "I ain't fer ya, or ____ ya" 13 Terminated 21 Kimono sash 23 Sleep stage 26 Be incorrect 28 Cultivate 29 Cheep 30 Respect 31 Tons 32 Particle 33 A fairy might leave money for one 34 Jack who could eat no fat 35 Bar bill 37 Street (abbr.) 39 Slalom, i.e. 41 Removed
43 More isolated 46 Canine chow (2 wds.) 48 River (Spanish) 51 National police 53 Economic measure 56 Syllables used in songs (2 wds.) 57 False god graven image 58 Dorothy's dog 60 Singing voice 61 Baseball's Babe 62 Notion 64 Onion-like vegetable 65 Women's magazine 66 Sot 68 AC unit 70 Lyric poem
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eorge Washington attended the Second Continental Congress wearing his spiffy colonel’s uniform. While it’s been claimed that it was a blatant implication that he wanted to be the first Commanderin-Chief, there is no written evidence that was the case. If he had not become By Dennis Phillippi the first boss he might just be remembered as the crank that wore his uniform around. Think about it, if he hadn’t been such a huge hero he would’ve looked like kind of a nut. Thomas Jefferson, while clearly brilliant, what with writing the Declaration of Independence and designing his own house and all, was also a terrible public speaker, kept mockingbirds as pets, his favorite being named “Dick”, and was frequently seen in public wearing carpet slippers. Set aside the accomplishments and he’s a mumbling bird owner in house shoes. Oh, while visiting England he also stole a piece of Shakespeare’s hair. A mumbling, bird owning, slipper-wearing thief. John Quincy Adams routinely skinnydipped in the Potomac in the early morning. Think about that; the President of the United States took a daily naked swim in a river. Andrew Jackson had such an out-of-control temper he participated in as many as 100 duels, in the course of which he took a bullet to the chest and one to the arm. Most of these were fought in defense of the honor of his wife, Rachel. That is literally a hair-trigger temper. Martin Van Buren managed to write a 776page autobiography and failed to mention either his wife or his time in the White House. He also never once mentioned his wife in any speech. William Henry Harrison was so hard headed he refused to wear a coat or hat to his own inauguration, despite freezing, wet weather. At the event he read, outdoors, a two-hour speech. After the swearing-in he went to several balls, dancing until late in the evening. Within weeks he was dead of pneumonia. Millard Fillmore’s first wife was his teacher at New Hope Academy in New York. Again, President Millard Fillmore married one of his teachers. Franklin Pierce was arrested, during his presidency, for running down a woman with his horse. Not surprisingly, what with his being president and all, the charges were dropped from lack of evidence. Still, he was arrested during his presidency. No other president holds that distinction. Andrew Johnson made his own suits. Rutherford B. Hayes had not one, not two, not three, but four horses shot out from under him in the Civil War. That’s either heroic, or very loony horsemanship.
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Chester A. Arthur owned 80 pairs of pants. Count how many pairs of pants you have. I don’t know about you, but 80 seems like a pretty insane number. I’m not sure if I own 80 garments all together. While a sheriff of Erie County, Grover Cleveland pulled the lever on two different hangings. Benjamin Harrison was the first president to have electricity in the White House, but neither he nor his wife would come near it because they believed that touching a light switch meant risking electrocution.
Chester A. Arthur owned 80 pairs of pants. Count how many pairs of pants you have. I don’t know about you, but 80 seems like a pretty insane number. I’m not sure if I own 80 garments all together.
______William McKinley usually wore a red carnation in his lapel for good luck. In 1901 he took it off and handed it to a little girl and seconds later was shot by an assassin, dying six days later, probably as much from doctors monkeying around with his wounds without washing their hands as from the bullet wounds themselves. When McKinley died, his vice president, Teddy Roosevelt, became, at 42, the youngest president in US history. Among other things, Teddy Roosevelt was blinded in one eye while boxing in
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the White House, information he kept to himself. He did stop boxing, and took up ju jitsu instead. Oh, he was also shot on the campaign trail, and finished his ninety-minute speech with a bullet lodged in his chest. This information, by the way, he did share with his audience, saying that he “did not give a rap about being shot.” It’s possible that William Howard Taft, who went on to become Chief Justice of the Supreme Court after being president, may have gotten his enormous girth stuck in a bathtub in the White House. Warren G. Hardin married a widow by the name of Florence “Flossie” Mable Kling DeWolfe, five years his senior. Flossie. Calvin Coolidge was famously shy and rarely even grinned, earning him the sarcastic nickname “Smiley”. Despite this shyness, he was often seen walking around with a raccoon perched behind his neck. He also enjoyed pretending to be a cowboy while riding a mechanical horse. Herbert Hoover had two pet alligators—in the White House. As many people know, Eleanor Roosevelt was Franklin Roosevelt’s fifth cousin. Just so we’re clear here, we once had a president who married his own cousin. The “S” in Harry S. Truman doesn’t stand for anything. Truman was held in such low esteem as vice president he was never made aware of the Manhattan Project or the Atomic Bomb until he took office upon Roosevelt’s death. JFK was a huge fan of James Bond, and even hosted Bond Author Ian Fleming at a dinner party where they allegedly kicked around ideas of how to get rid of Fidel Castro. During his presidency, LBJ is said to have repeatedly exposed himself to people because he thought it was hilarious. Richard Nixon, ah, do we really have to do this one? Gerald Ford was a fashion model as a young man, and even appeared on the cover of Cosmopolitan. He also had a poor sense of balance, and hit several people with golf balls during his tenure. Jimmy Carter claimed both to have been attacked by a rabbit while fishing, and to have seen a UFO. The UFO thing was so significant he reported it to the Air Force. There are so many weird facts about presidents that I’ve run out of space.
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n 1953, pretty Janet Kathryn McKay of Staten Island, NY, caught the eye of native Memphian James Edward McDonnell at a party at the Newport, RI Naval Officers’ Club, and he asked her to dance. “Jim,” a graduate of Vanderbilt University stationed aboard the USS Haynsworth, and Janet, a graduate of Notre Dame College (St. John’s University), were both Lieutenants in the United States Navy. On November 25, 1954, this handsome couple exchanged vows in Janet’s hometown. They made their home in Memphis, raised six children and remained happily married until Jim passed away in 2006. Photo courtesy of Janet McDonnell If you have a past photo you would like to share with RSVP readers, please contact Emily Adams Keplinger at 276-7787 ext. 105 or e-mail the photo and caption to editor@rsvpmagazine.com. All photos will be returned promptly.
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