Vestavia Hills Magazine, February/March 2021

ABSTRACT ART BY NICOLE KIRKLIN • HELEN CHEF ROB MCDANIEL • INSIDE VESTAVIA HILLS NUTRITION

2021

WEDDINGS FEBRUARY/MARCH 2021 VestaviaHillsMagazine.com Volume Five | Issue One $4.95

TEN REAL WEDDINGS PANDEMIC LOVE STORIES

ROMANTIC BRIDAL HAIRSTYLES VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 1

2 February/March 2021

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 1

56

WEDDINGS 54

COLE & SHIVER 56

WEBB & STUTTS 58

MARTIN & NEWCOMB 60

IRELAND & RILEY 62

PREWITT & WHITE 64

POUNDS & CRUTCHER 66

WILSON & DORTCH 68

70

TATUM & STUDSTILL 72

HAND & DELOZIER 2 February/March 2021

PHOTO BY HEATHER DURHAM

MANDABACH & OLIVET

19

PHOTO BY CARY NORTON

arts & culture

11 Pieces of Me: Abstract Art by Nicole Kirklin 18 Read This Book: Childhood Inspirations

food

& drink

19 Planting Roots: Helen’s Rob & Emily McDaniel at Home 26 Five Questions For: Vestavia Hills Nutrition Owners

weddings

in every issue 4 Contributors 5 From the Editor 6 The Question 7 The Guide 74 Out & About 78 Marketplace 80 My Vestavia Hills

28 Just the Right Fit: Inclusivity in Bridal Fashion 35 She Said Yes: Proposal Stories You Shared with Us 36 Six Romantic Wedding Hairstyles 43 Love in the Time of Coronavirus: Quarantine Stories 46 Fall Florals: Choose-Your-Own Setting Edition

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 3

contributors EDITORIAL

Alec Etheredge Madoline Markham Keith McCoy Scott Mims Emily Sparacino

CONTRIBUTORS

Kaitlyn Baker Kathryn Bell James Culver Lindsey Culver Mary Fehr Hillary Stegall Gamble Michelle Love Christiana Roussel

DESIGN

Jamie Dawkins Connor Martin-Lively Kimberly Myers Briana Sansom

Kathryn Bell, Photographer

Kathryn is a freelance photographer with a recent degree in art from the University of Montevallo. Her photography has led her to photograph presidential candidates and create fine arts work inspired by the classics.

She fancies herself a plant lady and enjoys the challenge of keeping rare and difficult plants alive and enjoys exploring Birmingham!

Lindsey Culver, Photographer

Originally from the Midwest, Lindsey is a photographer who lives in Homewood with her husband, Chris, and two mischievous children, Smith and Roland (along with their dachshund puppy, Sweeney Todd).

When not working as a baby and child photographer, she can be found with her hands in the dirt of her flower and vegetable garden, with a cup of coffee in hand around the clock, hosting hot tub parties for her friends and attending every local musical theater performance.

MARKETING

Darniqua Bowen Kristy Brown Evann Campbell Jessica Caudill Kari George Caroline Hairston Rachel Henderson Kinley Johnson Rhett McCreight Viridiana Romero Brittany Schofield Lisa Shapiro Savana Tarwater Kerrie Thompson

ADMINISTRATION Hailey Dolbare Mary Jo Eskridge Daniel Holmes Stacey Meadows Tim Prince

Mary Fehr, Photographer

Mary is a wedding and portrait photographer based out of Birmingham.

She studied art and art history at University of Montevallo. She likes to teach and plans on getting her MFA in order to do so. Mary also loves to travel and has a goal of photographing a wedding in every state! She enjoys reading non-fiction, going to concerts and spending time with her family.

Christiana Roussel, Writer

Christiana is a Birmingham-based food, travel and lifestyle writer who loves nothing more than meeting new people, discovering new things and finding ways they all work together. Sharing these stories with a wider audience through print feeds her passion. Recent stories have run the gamut from shotguns to flower arranging, and gallery openings to aquaculture.

Vestavia Hills Magazine is published bimonthly by Shelby County Newspapers Inc., P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051. Vestavia Hills Magazine is a registered trademark. All contents herein are the sole property of Shelby County Newspapers Inc. [the Publisher]. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without written permission from the Publisher. Please address all correspondence (including but not limited to letters, story ideas and requests to reprint materials) to: Editor, Vestavia Hills Magazine, P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051.

Vestavia Hills Magazine is mailed to select households throughout Vestavia Hills, and a limited number of free copies are available at local businesses. Please visit VestaviaHillsMagazine.com for a list of those locations. Subscriptions are available at a rate of $16.30 for one year by visiting VestaviaHillsMagazine.com or calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 532.

Advertising inquiries may be made by emailing advertise@vestaviahillsmagazine.com, or by calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 536.

4 February/March 2021

from the editor

2

Madoline with her sister-in-law and brother, the bride and groom

ON THE COVER

A Meaningful Setting

Meg Cole and Austin Shiver moved their wedding ceremony to family property in Blount Springs due to the COVID-19 pandemic and later held their reception at Vestavia Country Club.

Photo by Eric & Jamie Photography Design by Connor Martin-Lively

2020 started off with a bang on Jan. 18 as I watched my brother’s bride process up to him at the altar of the Episcopal church where she’d grown up in Richmond, Virginia. A few hours later, the two of them— not usually ones for the spotlight—were up on the stage at their reception singing along to my brother’s favorite Tom Petty songs as the band rocked out behind them. In front of them danced a crowd clad in colorful hats, boas, sunglasses and balloons that my cousins and I had passed out to pump up the party ala a family tradition that began when one cousin married a Peruvian and introduced us to the Latin American “hora loca” (“crazy hour”).

Two months later, the New York Times posted a set of readersubmitted videos of “powerful scenes from crowded places that feel almost unthinkable now.” Though I didn’t send one in, that dance floor would have been mine. Looking back at pictures, it’s so apparent that we had no concept of social distancing in our minds and no idea of what was to come.

I didn’t know that by spring, I’d attend my cousin’s wedding ceremony on Zoom, putting on the dress I’d planned to wear (the first time I’d changed out of stretchy pants in who knows how long), pouring a glass of wine and opening my computer screen. I didn’t know that by summer bridesmaid duty would look like dropping off surprise gifts at the bride’s doorstep on wedding week and showing up to her parents’ house on wedding eve with a four-layer cookie cake I’d made. In the moments that followed I chatted on the back porch with their immediate family that made up all of the wedding guests, all of us in T-shirts and shorts.

To the brides and grooms of pandemic-era 2020, your resilience astounds me. And while this wedding issue may, at first glance, look similar to ones we’ve published in years past, a closer look reveals its words and images are distinct to the pandemic year we’ll never forget.

Dates were moved, guest lists were cut and unknowns were rampant.

And yet, as the couples in this issue recount, after all the stress of changed plans, they were full of intimate, meaningful moments as they began their married lives together. Be sure to read all their accounts in the pages to come in this issue, along with our coverage of inclusion in the wedding dress industry, hair styles on trend, reader-submitted engagement stories and more wedding prettiness that will hopefully brighten cold winter days for you.

Wishing you a warm and healthy start to 2021,

madoline.markham@vestaviahillsmagazine.com VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 5

“ ” THE QUESTION

What do you or your guests remember most from your wedding?

We did our pictures before the wedding, and he was wearing white patent leather shoes! I almost passed out right there! We had a good laugh after he assured me he had the real shoes.

-Kellie Thomas Box

-Ashley Tucker Hicks

We married just after the Auburn National Championship in 2011. I have pictures of my husband and I rolling Toomer’s corner and striking the Heisman pose.

Instead of tossing my bouquet to all the single ladies, I gave mine to the couple who was married the longest. The couple was married for 68 years!

My dad George Pierce got tripped up in my veil as he was turning to give me away. It flew out of my head, and everyone in the audience gasped then burst into laughter!

My husband is from a small town in Texas (Brenham) that just happens to be the home of Blue Bell Ice Cream, so we had a Blue Bell ice cream sundae bar.

The hundreds of crickets my brother put in our getaway car!

Ten years after getting married in Fairhope, every year on our anniversary, I get reminded by at least a few people how much they enjoyed the grilled oysters during our reception.

-Kristen Collins Machen

-Ali Pierce Pilcher

-Sheila Garrick Freeman

6 February/March 2021

My dad passed away before my wedding, so I had my three uncles give me away.

Instead of the traditional father/daughter dance, my extended family and I danced to “We are Family.”

-Pamela Thompson Hickman

-Aren Williams

-Matt Spikings

THE GUIDE

DINNER AND DIAMONDS FEB. 20 Virtual You can bid on auction items from the comfort of your own home as this annual event goes virtual this year—all to benefit academic “extras” such as professional development, technology and classroom enhancements for Vestavia City Schools through the Vestavia Hills City Schools Foundation.

We’re sharing a photo from last year’s in-person event too to remind you of the feels from this cause. Find more information at vestaviafoundation.org.

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 7

THE GUIDE AROUND TOWN SCHOOLS

Check for event updates closer to dates based on COVID-19.

TIME FOR APPLAUSE This school year’s Teachers of the Year have been announced for Vestavia Hills City Schools. They are nominated by each school’s respective faculty and staff, and a district-level team selects the Elementary and Secondary Teachers of the Year who will represent Vestavia Hills City Schools on the state level, where they will be considered for Alabama Teacher of the Year honors. uStacey Anderson, Vestavia Hills Elementary Dolly Ridge uKim Conn, Vestavia Hills Elementary Liberty Park uAmy Cook, Liberty Park Middle School uMadison Escue, Louis Pizitz Middle School

THROUGH FEB. 7 Jacob Lawrence: The American Struggle Birmingham Museum of Art, Jemison Galleries THROUGH MARCH 2021 All Things Bright and Beautiful Exhibit Birmingham Museum of Art, Pizitz Gallery

uBen Osborne, VHHS Freshman Campus uKim Polson, Vestavia Hills Elementary Cahaba Heights uMandy Smith, Vestavia Hills Elementary West uHeather Hurt, Vestavia Hills Elementary East (Elementary Teacher of the Year, pictured) uJerell Horton, Vestavia Hills High School (Secondary Teacher of the Year)

WE WILL RISE

Annual Rebel Run (5K and Fun Run) uMarch 13, 8 a.m. uVHHS Front Parking Lot 8 February/March 2021

FEB. 5 Men Are From Mars Women Are From Venus The Lyric Theatre FEB. 14 The Great Backyard Bird Count 2021 Oak Mountain State Park Interpretive Center FEB. 15 Presidents Day

VHHS

Each year Vestavia Hills High School students fundraise to support the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center at UAB through RISE (Rebels Impact through Service and Engagement) and as of publishing, they have three events planned for it this spring. You can donate to the cause through UAB at go.uab.edu/ vhhsrise, and follow @vhhsrise on Instagram or Twitter, “RISE at VHHS” on Facebook or their website (sites.google. com/vhcs.vestavia.k12.al.us/ylvh/rise) for updates. To become a RISE sponsor, email vhhsrise2021@gmail.com for details.

THROUGH MAY 2021 An Epic of Earth and Water: Clare Leighton and the New England Industries Series Birmingham Museum of Art, Arrington Gallery

FEB. 25 Jo Koy Just Kidding World Tour The Alabama Theatre FEB. 27 Columbiana Cowboy Day Columbiana

Annual Character Meet & Greet uApril 3, 8:30-10:30 a.m. uVHHS Freshman Campus (Old Pizitz Building) RISE Day Community Festival uLive Music, Food, Family Games uApril 9, 4-10 p.m. uVHHS Athletic Fields

MARCH 5 Alabama Wish Night Benefitting Make-A-Wish Alabama Ross Bridge Welcome Center MARCH 6 Shelby Humane Paws for the Cause 5k and 1 Mile Tail Waggin’ Trek (Obstacle Fun Run) Veterans Park, Hoover

THE GUIDE MARCH 6 ASPIRE Wine 10K and Benchmark First Responder 5K The Finley Center, Hoover Met MARCH 13 GreenWise Market Village 2 Village 10K and 7.5K Mountain Brook Village MARCH 18-21 James and the Giant Peach Jr. Virginia Samford Theatre MARCH 22-26 Spring Break Vestavia Hills City Schools MARCH 27 Rumpshaker 5K In Person or Virtual Options Homewood Central Park MARCH 28 Darci Lynne & Friends BJCC Concert Hall

LIBRARY

VALENTINES NOT CANCELLED Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest is still open for check-outs and offering programs with social distance. Below we highlighted a few programs planned around Valentine’s Day for all ages, and you can find a full list of library events and more at vestavialibrary. org. It is now open Monday-Saturday 9 a.m.-2 p.m., and curbside pickup is offered Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

KIDS Dial-A-Story Secret Message February 1-13, Anytime Call the Dial-a-Story line at 205-584-0600.

Decipher the message at the end of the story, and then come to the library and give them the secret message to collect a prize.

Take Home Valentine Bags February 13, Library, All Day Come by the library and pick up your craft bag full of Valentine’s craft ideas and supplies.

TEENS Valentangles February 17, p.m., Zoom Grab some paper and pens to learn how to make your own zentangle crafts.

ADULTS Tara’s Creative Corner – Heart Art on Canvas February 11, 3 p.m., YouTube Free Take & Make Bags available while supplies last. Call 205-978-4678 or email terri.leslie@vestavialibrary.org to reserve your bag.

Library Libations: Shirley Temple and Dirty Shirley February 12, 6 p.m., YouTube Festive Galentine’s Day cocktails and mocktails are perfect for your girls’ celebration.

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 9

[Newbor n + Child + Family Por traiture] info@apeppermintphoto.com + 205.807.6431 w w w . a p e p p e r m i n t p h o t o . c o m 10 February/March 2021

&CULTURE

ARTS

PIECES OF ME

For Nicole Kirklin, art is an honest reflection of both places of significance and the little flaws in life.

BY MICHELLE LOVE PHOTOS BY KATHRYN BELL VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 11

N

Nicole Kirklin is not afraid to try new things. She encourages her two children (Sophi, 10, and Ben, 11) and friends to always do so, even if it seems intimidating or scary. It’s a principle she believes is the difference between living a mundane life and “feeling alive.”

“I’m still learning,” she says. “I think to be an adult and still be learning new things, that’s refreshing. That’s an exciting part of this type of art—the fact that you’re ever evolving, and just when you think you know exactly how to do something, you need to learn how to adapt.”

It’s this same belief that encouraged her to begin her journey as an artist. After working for 15 years in the Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery Research at UAB, she decided to stay at home where they live in Vestavia Hills and raise her family.

While she loves being a wife and mother, Nicole says she had the need for creative fulfillment.

“Do you ever have that feeling in the pit of your

12 February/March 2021

stomach where you’re like, ‘I want to do that, or I want to try that’? I never felt like I was really brave enough to do it because it is really scary trying something new,” she says.

Nicole confided in her husband, Adam, that she had always wanted to create art but felt a twinge of hesitancy at doing something so personal. As a surprise, he gifted her with art supplies for their anniversary. “I was so touched because it’s such a thoughtful gift,” Nicole says. “It was awesome, but it was also scary because I thought, ‘Well, here we go!’”

From there; Nicole began experimenting with acrylics and found she was especially drawn to alcohol ink and how its colors are so bright. “There is something about when you add the resin on top of it, it just brings the colors and detail out even more.

It’s really fun,” she says.

Each of her abstract pieces has alcohol ink splayed out in an almost kaleidoscopic style across

Nicole Kirklin paints with greens and blues in her Vestavia Hills home.

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 13

the canvas. While many of them have an aquatic blue motif, she isn’t afraid to experiment with other colors. On the backs of her paintings, she draws a specific Chinese character that symbolizes happiness.

All of Nicole’s pieces represent something special to her life, from where she grew up in Singapore to the vibrant colored saris worn around the streets of Northern India or the sunsets of China where she has travelled. She is frequently inspired by the beauty of nature around her. “A lot of the times I

find one of the things that calls to me when I’m in my artistic space is water,” she says. “Growing up I was a swimmer, and I just love the colors and the way it moves.”

She doesn’t always start the artistic process with a plan though. “Sometimes I have a vision, and sometimes I just kind of think, ‘Let’s see what happens,’” she says. “And there’s something refreshing about that. For me, I don’t like things to look perfect, and I think maybe that’s what I like about it. Sometimes it can be a little bit messy, and

The Heart Knows There Is Only One Right Choice

Compassionate veterinary care, boarding & grooming

1471 Montgomery Hwy VestaviaAnimalClinic.com

(205) 823-7485

14 February/March 2021

Paid for by John & Melody Greene

Mending kids’

HEARTS It’s what we do best.

Our team of more than 325 healthcare professionals is recognized for its excellence in providing world-class cardiac care in an environment best suited to the needs of our patients. From tiny babies to teens, we care for Gabby Bolden and every child like our own.

About our Center then it turns into something beautiful, which can be also said about life! Life is not perfect, but it can be so beautiful.”

After she finishes her paintings, she applies a thick UV coat over the canvas to prevent fading and then applies a chemical resin that brings a unique shine and shimmer to the painting.

Lastly, she “torches” it with fire to set the resin in place and remove all air bubbles from the appearance. “You see these artists looking all poised and polished, and I’m in my space with a gas mask and lab goggles on,” she says with a laugh.

The entire process, from first idea jitters to completion, gives Nicole a sense of rejuvenation to her spirit. “It makes you feel alive. It’s like you get in this zone, and I think it must feel like that when you’re doing things you’re passionate about, when work doesn’t really feel like work. It’s a beautiful feeling.”

Nicole shares her pieces on Instagram and on Facebook and admits there is a certain vulnerability to putting pieces of yourself out into the world but also freedom in sharing who she is. “When someone reaches out and says, ‘Hey, I really like this.

Can I buy it?’ I’m very touched because it is a piece of me, and it feels so good to know that it speaks to someone else or it’s special to someone else,” she says.

While she knows she can’t keep all of her work, letting go can be difficult, but she loves the idea of her paintings being loved in a home of their own. “Something I think is so special about

l

l

l

26 board-certified cardiologists, intensivists, anesthesiologists and surgeons 435 cardiac surgeries performed in 2020, including 4 heart transplants More than 675 cardiac catheterization and electrophysiology procedures performed in 2020

For Children’s Financial Assistance information, call 1.844.750.8950 or visit www.childrensal.org/financial-assistance

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 15

16 February/March 2021

“I think in life there’s all these ebbs and flows, and when you find something that you like and you have fun doing, it just feels good to feel alive.”

- Nicole Kirklin original art is that maybe it will be something people will pass down to their kids or have like a gallery type of room in their house where they can move different pieces around to enjoy,” she says. “I don’t know, it’s real exciting to think about my art sitting in someone’s living room in like Virginia or San Francisco.

It’s nothing I take lightly, honestly. I think about it all the time and all the people who have supported me.

“Art tells a story. It’s a connection, and you can remember it and it tells a story.”

Going through each of her pieces that hang on the walls of her art room, she smiles at the small fractions of her paintings that she says are her favorite. She points out one, a small corner of a bright blue piece where the ink bleeds into a crisp white background. Each piece has given her another sense of vitality, she says. “When you get to a point where your creativity is working for you, it reminds you that you’re alive,” she says. “I think in life there’s all these ebbs and flows, and when you find something that you like and you have fun doing, it just feels good to feel alive.”

Follow Nicole’s work at @nkirklin_art on Instagram.

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 17

ARTS & CULTURE

READ THIS BOOK

Childhood Inspirations Recommendations from

Holly Parker

Children’s Department Library Assistant Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest

I have always loved stories. There’s something about the way words come together and create something special. As a child I continually had a pen in my hand and a vivid imagination. Later I won “wonderful writer” awards at school and essay contests and was a library aide. Looking back, it’s not hard to see that reading shaped me and led me to the job I have today at the Vestavia Hills Library. Here are some my favorite childhood inspirations that made me realize my love of stories and writing.

Meet Kirsten

by Janet Shaw Meet Kirsten is the first book in the American Girl “Kirsten” series and follows the story of a young pioneer girl named Kirsten Larson and her family as they move from Sweden to the Minnesota prairie in 1854. I loved these books because I loved reading about a different time and learned from Kirsten that no matter where your story takes you, you can make it a good one. This series taught me that there are stories all around us, and we should record them.

Sarah, Plain and Tall

by Patricia Maclachlan This book is a charming story about a woman who answers an advertisement to be a mother and wife to a family she has never met before. Although Sarah’s arrival is not without some growing pains, the family comes to discover that she just may be what they need. I loved this book because I instantly fell in love with the characters and felt a connection to Anna through her love of writing as she records everything that happens.

Little House on the Prairie

by Laura Ingalls Wilder Based on the real-life adventures of Laura Ingalls, this book will make readers believe they are in the wagon alongside the family as they head to their new home in Kansas. Life on the road for Laura and her sisters is full of surprises and hardships, but is also full of possibilities. Reading about young Laura’s adventures inspired me to create my own adventures through writing and helped me see that our lives are made up of stories that are worth sharing.

Anne of Green Gables

by Lucy Maud Montgomery Anne Shirley’s tale is about a young orphan girl who is thought to be a mistake but turns out to be exactly what her adoptive parents Matthew and Marilla need in their lives. Anne tries to be on her best behavior but often finds herself in predicaments before ultimately winning the hearts of all those she meets. Full of spunk, imagination and charm, Anne will be sure to become a kindred spirit. She made me laugh and want to make the world a brighter place.

Little Women

by Louisa May Alcott With laughter and tears woven throughout, sisters Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy will captivate you from cover to cover as they grow from little women to women who impact the world around them. Heartwarming, classic and full of love and spirit, this book will not let you down. Josephine March is one of my all-time favorite characters and the writer I most aspire to be like someday. She reminds me that the heartbeat of every good work is found in the strength of your own story.

18 February/March 2021

&DRINK

FOOD

PLANTING ROOTS

Emily and Rob McDaniel have found their “something more” with their new restaurant Helen.

BY CHRISTIANA ROUSSEL PHOTOS BY CARY NORTON VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 19

Y

You can imagine that there might be nothing better than living year-round on gorgeous Lake Martin in nearby Eclectic, Alabama. You helm the kitchen at the most coveted dining spot for miles. You’re married to your best friend who is killing it in the second home real estate market. Y’all have been blessed with a pair of the cutest twin girls you’ve ever seen. As a family, you spend days off tooling around on the lake or foraging with friends.

But, still. There is something missing. That is exactly where Chef Rob McDaniel found himself a couple of years ago.

20 February/March 2021

Emily and Rob McDaniel moved to Vestavia Hills when they opened their restaurant Helen in downtown Birmingham last year.

Sure, as executive chef of the SpringHouse Restaurant, he was a five-time James Beard Foundation Best Chef - South semifinalist (20132017) and was honored as Auburn University’s 2012 Outstanding Hotel and Restaurant Management Program Alumnus. And yes, his wife, Emily, was consistently selling vacation homes to customers from Birmingham, Atlanta, Montgomery and all points in between. But, the couple longed for just a bit more than lake life afforded them. In early 2019, Rob met with a group of investors and began making plans to return to Birmingham and open a

A TASTE OF HELEN Nestled into a 1920s era two-story building in downtown Birmingham, Helen is at once convivial, intimate and yet spacious enough to handle social-distancing indoor dining requirements. Chef McDaniel draws off of the culinary memories of his grandmother, the restaurant’s namesake, with a modern approach that is neither fussy or unfamiliar. The menu changes regularly but will always feature small plates, shareable sides as well as entrees from both land and sea. Think warm angel biscuits, braised button mushrooms, creamed Anson Mills hominy, porchetta, lamb T-bone and seared fish. Rob outsources the desserts to Kristen Farmer Hall of Bandit Pâtisserie, a move that is not only bold and smart but just downright efficiently delicious. There is a small bar downstairs and a larger version upstairs, and the wine list is tight and well-considered. Reservations can be made for lunch or dinner, via the Resy app. Find their menu and more at helenbham.com.

restaurant of his own, Helen, in downtown Birmingham. He had previously worked under more than a few notable chefs, including Chef Chris Hastings of Hot & Hot Fish Club before decamping for Eclectic in 2009, so the Magic City was a natural landing spot.

The only question was where would the family of four put down roots?

It turned out not to be a real question at all.

While the McDaniels checked out several overthe-mountain communities, Vestavia Hills was an easy choice. An easy commute to downtown could be had from other suburbs, but from Vestavia Hills Rob and Emily can just hop on Highway 31 and scoot downtown to their 2nd Avenue restaurant. “It

is a long enough drive to decompress in the evenings for us, before getting home,” Emily says.

“Sometimes, I like to come home from picking up the girls (3-year-old twins Rosemary and Amelia) on I-65 to see all the lights that are on in the tunnels.

We also love to see Vulcan on the way home.”

But there were more factors to consider. What kinds of amenities had they been missing at the lake? Convenience to essentials ranked high on the list. After all, who doesn’t appreciate having fantastic grocery stores, retail and top-notch schools all within minutes of your driveway? As Emily tells it, “Rob visits that Publix on Highway 31 right behind our house, literally every day. Snapper Grabbers has an amazing fish and wine selection.”

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 21

22 February/March 2021

An avid exerciser, Emily notes, “I like the gyms like the Orange Theory there, and I work out at Pure Fitness, behind Diplomat Deli.” Speaking of the famed Vestavia Hills dining institution, she adds “Oh, we LOVE Diplomat Deli because we can go with the girls and sit outside – they have live music and a great beer selection. There are so many things we love that are less than two minutes away.”

But perhaps the biggest driving force in the relocation process was family. Emily’s sister and her family live in Vestavia Hills and they love living close to one another again. In fact, the crews get along so well together that Sunday night family dinners happen more often than not. Rob and his brother-in-law are known for firing up the grill while the sisters catch up and all of their girls run around and play. It is this exact work-life balance that was the biggest motivator for the McDaniels in their move to Birmingham. About Lake Martin living, Rob says, “Something was missing. We were living in a small town that didn’t give us everything that we wanted. We had great friends but wanted more.” Emily adds that life here allows for a different kind of family structure: “Rob gets to take the girls to school every day, and I get to take them home every afternoon. And then of course, we have Sundays and Mondays off and that is pure family time.”

It is worth noting that all of this change—moving with two small children and opening a new restaurant—came in the midst VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 23

DYK?

Coming back in 2021 for a 5th Year

did you know?

When you call our customer service line during business hours, you can always choose to speak with a real person, who is trained to help.

The only pick-your-own tulip field in the Southeast The Festival runs mid-February through March

*(depending on bloom time) Check our website or Facebook page for opening date and field conditions before your trip.

Open Monday-Saturday 10-4, Sunday 12-4 during bloom time

The American Village

3727 Hwy. 119, Montevallo, Alabama

www.americanvillage.org • (205) 665-3535 24 February/March 2021

For all your backyard playground needs!!

“You have to find ways to rejoice or otherwise it is too much to bear.”

- Rob McDaniel of a global pandemic. But to hear Rob and Emily tell it, the timing could not have been more perfect. Rob lays out the timeline this way: “There are so many lessons here. First of all, we had already planned to be unemployed before the world shut down.” Loss of restaurant business was not felt by the family as they had already worked out an exit strategy. Rob adds, “Emily still had her job as a successful real estate agent at Lake Martin, which was going gangbusters – everyone wanted a place at the lake for quarantine! She was super busy, and I got to be home with the kids for three months and it was just amazing family time at the lake.”

Few people have the luxury of this timing or this perspective, but the McDaniels take none of it for granted. “My hope is that people can see that fortunate situation in light of all the negativity,” Rob says. “For us, we have chosen to only look at the positive things. I mean, there are so many things that have happened to us in 2020 that have been life goals, major accomplishments. It has been a difficult year to rejoice but at the same time, you have to. You have to find ways to rejoice or otherwise it is too much to bear.”

CALL

205-408-4386 for more info!

NOW ALSO SELLING AY COMMERCIAL PLAY EQUIPMENT! CALL 205-408-4386 86 FOR MORE INFO!

3165 CCahaba h b VValley lle RRoadd Birmingham, AL 35124

www.backyardalabama.com VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 25

FOOD & DRINK

5

FIVE QUESTIONS FOR

Jay & Erica Culpepper

Vestavia Hills Nutrition Owners PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

Meal replacement protein shakes and flavorful loaded teas are coming to Highway 31 next to the Merle Norman store. As of the time of printing, Vestavia Hills Nutrition was planning to open by mid-January 2021 with a high bar to place orders to-go or sit for a while at a table or bar stools. If you’ve looked around Birmingham lately, nutrition concepts like this have been popping up seemingly everywhere. To find out more about why that is, we chatted with the owners of this one about why they are opening one here. Follow them on Facebook or Instagram @vestaviahillsnutrition for updates.

How did you discover this nutritious shake and tea concept?

We live in Mississippi, and my primary job is an orthopedic surgeon. Two and a half years ago we started going in nutrition clubs in Mississippi that had opened. As a physician I was able to do the research and see it was a healthy option. We loved the drinks and the positive enthusiastic atmosphere and thought it would be fun to bring to our town in Greenwood, Mississippi.

And then what happened?

Two years ago we opened our own location in our hometown. It was a really good thing for us, and from there we started looking at other places to open them. Mississippi had caught on fire, and there are now 250 stores there. We looked into Georgia, Alabama and Tennessee. We have opened one in Nolensville, Tennessee, and now we are opening ones in Villa Rica, 26 February/March 2021

Georgia, and in Vestavia Hills and Sylacauga in Alabama in early 2021.

Tell us about your shake and tea offerings.

We serve meal replacement protein drinks that are under 250 calories and are low carb and low fat. The goal is to be healthy and help people lose weight. Our loaded teas are an energy drink that contains vitamins. Those are 24 calories and 0 grams of sugar and 2-4 net carbs.

Those are what made the business take off.

We also offer post-workout shakes with whey protein and beauty drinks that contain collagen, and we offer protein bars and a la carte items.

What are the most popular flavors?

The most popular shakes are banana pudding, Snickers, strawberry cheesecake and chocolate caramel cappuccino. The most popular teas are cucumber

watermelon, Captain America (a strawberry and blue sweet tart flavor) and gummy bear. We also offer kid friendly drinks, like a gummy worm drink, that come in different flavors and colors. Most are named after Disney characters. They are hydration drinks—essentially flavored water with no sugar and no caffeine.

Why do you think this nutrition concept is spreading so quickly?

I think any time you give people the option of great flavored drinks that are also healthy it catches on quickly. I think a lot of it is customer service. People love the atmosphere, and I loved going in initially because everyone is nice and friendly. We try to make everyone working in our store distributors so they have an investment in the business so they can open their own club in the future. We have them work with us prior to opening and train them on site.

weddings vestavia hills

A GUIDE TO ALL THINGS WHITE, BRIGHT & BEAUTIFUL PHOTO BY MADDIE MOORE PHOTOGRAPHY

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 27

WEDDINGS

JUST THE RIGHT FIT Saying yes to the dress is no small moment for a bride, and that’s why designers and retailers are recognizing it’s important that she have the shopping experience she’s always dreamed of, no matter her size.

BY MADOLINE MARKHAM PHOTOS BY MARY FEHR Can I open this article with a confession? I have been wedding dress shopping with friends numerous times. We’ve looked through racks of lace and tulle and ooed and ahed each time the bride stepped out of the dressing room in a new look, anticipating how stunning she would look as she walks down the aisle to her groom. Saying yes to a wedding dress is no small moment in a woman’s life, and for most it’s the most notable shopping experience she will have and the biggest investment she’ll make in her lifetime. And yet, given my bias based on my dress size and size of the friends I have been with, never had I given thought to size availability at dress retailers.

But then I talked to Christina Sloan, owner of the new Refined Bridal Boutique in downtown Birmingham.

Here’s what I learned from her: At most wedding dress shops, the average sample size of dresses for brides to try on is a 12. Because wedding dresses tend to run smaller than everyday clothing, that 12 fits more like an 8.

Add to that equation that the average woman in America is a size 16-18, and you quickly see that many brides aren’t able to try on sample dresses in traditional boutiques, that they aren’t able to have that dream-fulfilling shopping experience I have had with friends and their moms. Often these brides have seen no choice but to order their wedding dress online without being able to try it on.

As a wedding planner for six years, that’s just what Christina was seeing with brides she worked with, and why 28 February/March 2021

WEDDINGS

“I felt like brides shouldn’t have to compromise their experience” - Christina Sloan

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 29

she wanted to open a shop with a different set of sample sizes.

“I felt like brides shouldn’t have to compromise their experience,” she says.

She recognizes that for wedding dress shops it’s hard to carry a standard selection of sizes and also carry a great selection of curvy or plus sizes, so her shop carries exclusively size 14 or above, with sample sizes starting at 16 and going up to size 40. It’s one of few shops in the Southeast with these offerings and the only one in Alabama. Christina also notes that the dress selection is just as important. “So often plus size dresses are not stylish or trendy,” she says. “They are old fashioned. I wanted to bring designer dresses in the curvy and plus size realm.”

In fact, Christina has consulted with several wedding

30 February/March 2021

dress designers to develop a curvy line as part of their collections.

“Almost any dress can be modified to plus-sized,” she says.

“Adding a bit of boning and shape wear inside the dress and making sure there is added structure and support in there are key. You can still have the plunging V-necks but have support in the bust cups.”

It’s also important to see these designs on size-inclusive models on the runways and print and social media too, Christina notes. “I think every bride wants to be able to see herself, and it’s so hard to do that when we are looking at (thin) models,” she says. “We need to have representation of what we really look like as women.”

Photographer Mary Fehr, who took the photos in this article and modeled in some of them, speaks to the importance of size inclusion from her side of the wedding industry too. “People put VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 31

their best work out there, and a lot of times that means they are showing off thin white people,” Mary says.

“When you are only showing that in your portfolio, then diverse bodies and people aren’t seeing themselves represented. It’s important because that’s how people see themselves.”

Christina is hopeful that the wedding dress industry is heading in good directions in this regard as she is seeing more designers wanting to add plus sizes to their collections and hopes to see their size charts go up to 30-32 or above to accommodate the curves of women in designs that are still stylish. And that, in turn, will mean that brides don’t have to settle for less than the dress experience of their dreams.

“Size inclusivity is coming a long way in fashion, and it’s making its way into bridal,” Christina says. “I’m excited to see where it goes.”

32 February/March 2021

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 33

34 February/March 2021

WEDDINGS

SHE SAID YES Proposal Stories You Shared With Us

My boyfriend of seven years called and said his parents wanted to see me before they left the farm. I bumped through a stop sign (that was newly posted next to Vestavia Methodist Church) and was pulled over on Mountain View. Officer Penrose (recently retired SRO at the former Pizitz campus) gave me a lot of grief until Superman rescued me. My now husband jumped out from behind my car in a full Superman costume rescuing me from my ticket with a proposal.

I showed up at Susan’s apartment unannounced at 4 a.m. and convinced her to jump in the truck with me. We got in a hot air balloon at the Bessemer Airport, and the balloon drifted right over a banner that read, “Susan, Will you marry me?” When she saw it and turned around, I was on one knee, speechless, with tears in my eyes, holding the ring, one thousand feet up in the air with the sun rising. She hugged me tight and continually said YES!

-Lori Rowell Ennis

-Jarrod Walls

My then boyfriend (now husband of nearly 16 years) and I went to see Santa at Brookwood Village before a date. We posed for the picture and then he asked Santa, “Well aren’t you going to ask me what I want for Christmas?”

Santa asked him what he wanted, so he pulled the ring out of his pocket and said, “I really want my girlfriend to marry me.” Luckily, the sweet photographers realized what was happening and started snapping pics.

My fiancé and I grew up going to Vestavia Hills Baptist together.

We were only ever friends until he asked me out on a date the summer before he left for college.

We dated that summer, broke up for a couple of months and then got back together. Four years later he proposed at the same church we grew up in. We’re getting married in that church June 12th!

Vestavia Hills Baptist is such a special place!

-Casey Skewes O’Dell

My best friends from VHHS Class of 2003 started a tradition of a friends’ Christmas party our junior year, and in year 13 we decided to finally include significant others.

My boyfriend at the time (now husband) knew how important those girls are, and that night is to me so proposed during our annual photo. Then he had both our families at my house ready to celebrate.

-Meredith Jones Lawson

-Jessie Stevens

In December 1995 I roped Kevin into chaperoning the Pizitz Middle School Christmas dance with me.

When he came to pick me up at my door, he presented me with a beautiful corsage. I thought it was cheesy yet endearing. When I opened the box, I realized there was a ring box around the wristlet, and he popped the question.

After the dance, he explained to me that his dad asked his mom to marry him before a dance with a corsage!

-Kimberly Green Hunton

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 35

WEDDINGS

6

ROMANTIC

WEDDING HAIRSTYLES

PHOTOS BY LINDSEY CULVER | STYLED BY SALON U

old fashioned glamour This vintage-inspired half-up, half-down style is fresh but also old fashioned, and works great with long naturally wavy hair.

Hair & Makeup: Kat Love Model: Ann Katherine Williams

36 February/March 2021

WEDDINGS

bohemian fairytale For a different take on wearing your hair down, this whimsical loose braid features pearl pins that pop against dark hair.

Hair: Gwyneth Morales Makeup: Holly McClendon Model: Naomi McClendon

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 37

WEDDINGS

with a twist This romantic flat twist protective style updo is all the more romantic with a beaded accessory.

Hair: Gwyneth Morales Makeup: Holly McClendon Model: Cami Green

captivating elegance An elegant clip completes this half-up, half-down look that works well on long hair.

Hair & Makeup: Lindsey Martin Model: Kaylee Armstrong

38 February/March 2021

WEDDINGS

floral flourish This bohemian updo is finished off with baby’s breath for an extra touch of white.

Hair: Paige Goodwin Makeup: Holly McClendon Model: Gaby Delatorre

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 39

simply romantic This chic updo is light on texture for an old Hollywood look for brides with long hair.

Hair: Heather Chaney Makeup: Holly McClendon Model: Jaclyn Beener

40 February/March 2021

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 41

The new LUXE by Skin Wellness area in the Homewood location is a fresh aesthetic with a customized personal touch. Whether you are purchasing a product or checking out from a service, you feel important and comfortable.

DR. COREY HARTMAN founder and medical director of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Homewood and Chelsea, Alabama, Allergan Advanced Injector Trainer

Breeze in for

Botox 8am-1pm

HOMEWOOD Tuesdays and Thursdays CHELSEA First and third Tuesdays of the month

To schedule an appointment: Call 205.871.7332 or visit skinwellness.com HOMEWOOD 3415 Independence Dr, Suite 200, Birmingham, AL 35209 CHELSEA 398 Chesser Drive, Suite 6, Chelsea, AL 35043 42 February/March 2021

WEDDINGS

backyard dance party

Wesley and Emma Photography

Caitlin and David had a private church ceremony followed by a small backyard party. My favorite moment was watching the bride and groom dance to some of their favorite songs on the small back porch, most memorably “My Heart Will Go On” by Celine Dion—even my assistant and I were singing along.

Submitted by Courtney Bell, La Belle Vie Weddings

LOVE IN THE TIME OF

CORONAVIRUS

a place of significance Meagan and J.D. had a mini ceremony on her parents’ back porch. “This spot brought us full circle to all the times we had taken pictures there for high school dances beginning when we were sophomores seven years ago!” Meagan says. “I also was able to fulfill my dream of baking my own wedding cake!”

Submitted by Stephanie Whitaker, Engaged Wedding Library

an intimate seated dinner

2020 quarantine weddings might not have gone according to Plan A, but they were still full of uniquely sweet celebratory moments.

Here wedding planners share some that stand out from their year.

Heather Durham Photography

Instead of a large 300-person cocktail reception, Sarah and Ross decided to cut their guest list and have a seated dinner reception.

Even though it wasn’t the original wedding plan that the couple had envisioned for their big day, they were able to enjoy an intimate evening with their close friends and family.

unexpected photo op Sloane and Brock had to move their wedding an additional two times making for three wedding dates total.

One of my favorite aspects of their larger celebration—after a private ceremony on their original date—was the evening pictures Heather Durham took of them in their masks at the Elyton Hotel. They are such classic photos with a 2020 twist that will be forever remembered!

Submitted by Anna Wynn Rodgers, Anna Wynn Event Designs Leslie Hollingsworth

Submitted by Ashley Stork, Magnolia Vine Events

surprise drive-by We told April and Troy we were going into the front yard for a group photo, and then cars of friends and family started driving by. They were so surprised, and their friends were able to see her in her beautiful dress. It was the most tender moment I have seen at a wedding!

Submitted by Ashley Berkery, Ashley Copeland Inc.

Spark Photography

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 43

25,000 acres of unspoiled forests in the center of Lake Martin’s 880 miles of pristine shoreline.

Unique venues, chef-prepared menus and a Southern hospitality of a simpler time.

Say I do at our place or yours and experience the memory of a lifetime.

44 February/March 2021

for more information, contact

256-794-1397

or visit

RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 45

WEDDINGS

Fall Florals With autumn comes a luscious color palette for weddings, so it’s no surprise florists wanted to showcase it in these two styled shoots: one indoors and one outdoors.

Indoors

PHOTOS BY MARY FEHR Warm, moody lighting and a rich floral palette complemented an urban brick backdrop for this modern ode to autumn. The cozy dinner party setting contrasted the saturated florals with the simplicity of the bride’s ivory gowns and soft tablescape tones, bringing to life the organic beauty and inviting romance of a fall wedding.

46 February/March 2021

WEDDINGS

Dresses: Build-a-Bride by Heidi Elnora

Florals, Styling & Paper Goods: Laurel & Sage Venue: Iron City

Model: Jaselle Houghtlin VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 47

WEDDINGS

48 February/March 2021

WEDDINGS

Outdoors PHOTOS BY JE VOIS PHOTOGRAPHY This shoot created an intimate feel for a small, at-home wedding that 2020 saw many of with the rise of COVID-19. Its style highlights that trend as well as fall colors and the antique craze that’s on the rise.

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 49

CALL OR CONTACT US ONLINE TODAY TO BOOK YOUR TASTING G WITH OUR WEDDING CAKE ARTISAN.

50 February/March 2021

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 51

WEDDINGS

52 February/March 2021

WEDDINGS

Florals: Birdsong in Bloom Dress: Bridal Bliss

Antiques: Mary & Wilma Cake: Pen & Pastry

Cookies: Creative Sweets and Treats Stylist/Art Direction: Hagen Stegall Model: Audrey Rice

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 53

WEDDINGS

cole

shiver

MAY 16, 2020 PHOTOS BY ERIC & JAMIE PHOTOGRAPHY

54 February/March 2021

How We Met: Meg and Austin met at UAB where Meg is a nurse in the TBICU unit. Austin’s grandfather was a patient on her floor, and Austin’s mother insisted that when he came for a visit, he needed to meet the nurse who had been caring for his grandfather. Austin was immediately smitten and asked her for a dinner date.

Favorite Moments: Meg was planning the wedding of her dreams when COVID-19 completely upended the plans.

Finally, just three weeks before the date, Aunt Sue Anne came to the rescue. She is

the owner of the family property in Blount Springs, Alabama, that once belonged to Meg’s great-grandparents, Julia and Jack Cole, and she insisted that it would be the perfect location for the wedding as a long list of family brides has been married there over the past 100 years. It could not have been more perfect in such a beautiful and meaningful setting. After their first dance to “Diamonds or Twine” played by the string quartet, Meg changed from her wedding gown into her great-great-grandmother’s stunning garden party dress (circa 1902) for the

WEDDINGS cake cutting and reception.

Favorite Details: The large celebration was postponed until Oct. 16 at Vestavia Country Club ballroom, which was transformed to a gorgeous bohemian living room by HotHouse Designs. They also designed a photo wall to display photos from the Blount Springs wedding and a special photography booth featuring large acrylic cutouts of their dogs, Butch and Emma. At the grand sparkler exit Austin dropped Meg into a dip before setting off in the 1962 Rolls Royce Silver Cloud convertible, a true fairy tale ending!

the details

Wedding Venue: Blount Springs Family Property Celebration Venue: Vestavia Country Club Wedding Planner: Rachael Grammar, Two Hearts Weddings Florist/Props/Linens/Draping/Lighting: HotHouse Design Wedding Caterer: Kim Martin Celebration Caterer & Cakes: Vestavia Country Club Wedding Cake: Barb’s Cakes

Videographer: Rush Videos Invitations: Alex Fly Designs, Artwork by Sherri Arias Wedding Dress: Heidi Elnora Bridesmaid Dresses: Bella’s Bridesmaids Hair & Makeup: Perfectly Undone Beauty, Cosmetics by Mackenzie Groom/Groomsmen Attire: Mr Burch Formal Wear Music: Music Garden – Fountain City Players, Angela Flaniken – string quartet Transportation: Rare Transportation

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 55

WEDDINGS

webb

stutts

OCTOBER 3, 2020

PHOTOS BY HEATHER DURHAM

56 February/March 2021

How We Met: When a mutual friend set Phillip and me (Lyndsey) up on a blind date, we realized we had met the year before at a wedding. He has a large family, and for our second date he wanted me to meet “several” family members. Little did I know I was meeting the large extended family at his sister’s Krewe Ball. I was so welcomed and felt part of the family immediately.

The Proposal: Phillip cooked dinner at his house on a random Monday, and I went over with wet hair and work-out clothes. Phillip, an avid woodworker,

had carved many things for me while dating. That night he got on one knee in the living room and asked me to marry him. Not only did he surprise me with a gorgeous ring, but he had it set in a ring box he had hand carved. This is exactly how my dad proposed to my mom 30 years earlier, when she had come home, wet hair and all, from a pool.

Favorite Moment: After postponing our original date from May to October, we had changed venues to be able to safely celebrate with our guests, and the new venue was on the lake. Our wedding

WEDDINGS

planner and her parents took us from to the reception on a pontoon boat and provided dinner and champagne. We were so excited to finally be married after months of planning, postponing and replanning. As we arrived, God painted the most beautiful sunset ever to remind us of His gifts and blessings.

Favorite Details: I surprised Phillip by designing a Home Depot-themed cake with all his favorite things like DeWalt, Stihl, Alabama football and his own pet duck, Woodford, named after his favorite Bourbon cocktail.

the details

Ceremony Venue: Church in the Pines, Lake Martin Reception Venue: The Lodge at Cocktail Slough Planner: Meghan Cease, M. Elizabeth Events Florist: Southern Posies Caterer: Kathy G & Co. Cakes: Barb’s Cakes Videographer/Lighting: On-Site Productions Invitations: Annabelle’s

Wedding Dress: The White Room Bridesmaid Dresses: Bella Bridesmaids Hair & Makeup: BOMA Beautiful & Carol and Leslie Artistry Groom/Groomsmen Attire: Mr Burch Formal Wear Transportation: Rare Transportation Musicians: I Love This Band (East Coast Entertainment) & Cahaba River Strings Tents/Rental: Pre-Event Resources Audiovisual/Lounge Seating: AG Lighting & Events

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 57

WEDDINGS

martin newcomb AUGUST 29, 2020 PHOTOS BY MARY FEHR- OH HONEY PHOTO CO.

58 February/March 2021

The Proposal: Derek and I (Lakyn) went to a nice dinner for my birthday and then walked through the Tinsel Trail in Huntsville’s Big Spring Park. I asked three strangers to take a photo of us in front of one of the trees, and while they were snapping pictures, Derek got down on one knee.

The Dress: I love florals, so the embroidery really sold me on it. I also love that it’s not true white; it’s more of a mauve-grey color.

Favorite Moment: About 10 days before our wedding, I found several

caterpillars in our backyard. To spite having a million other things to do, I decided to take them in and make sure they got their wings. The day before the wedding, the caterpillars hatched, and just before our rehearsal in the backyard, Derek and I got to release them into the world. It was magical!

Favorite Details: Getting married during a global pandemic was stressful.

We had to decide on what was really important to us. We knew we needed our parents there as well as many people from the wedding party who could safely

WEDDINGS attend. All the other details could be changed. In the end, Derek’s brother Jared performed our ceremony. We named our signature cocktails after our dogs, Greta and Nessie, and an artist we found through Etsy made an illustration for our cocktail menu. Derek’s mom, Sue, also gave me one of his great-grandmother’s handkerchiefs that I wrapped around my bouquet.

What We Are Doing Now: We are loving newlywed life even in quarantine!

Every night is date night, and facing new challenges together is what marriage is all about.

the details Venue: The Couple’s Backyard Florist: Old Frond Caterer: Little Rosie’s Cantina Cake: Edgar’s Bakery Videographer: White Rabbit Invitations: Katelyn Wasser Earrings & Hairpiece: Shop Moss Handmade

Wedding Dress: Ivory & Birch Music: Kenny on the Keys Wedding Coordinator: Katelyn Wasser Engagement Ring: Levy’s Fine Jewelry Personalized Cups: ElevenOhFive Custom Dog Drink Menu: Ivory and Sage Company

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 59

WEDDINGS

ireland riley JULY 11, 2020

PHOTOS BY ROB & WYNTER

60 February/March 2021

How We Met: Thomas and I (Anna Pierce) met at a hunting camp in Weogufka, Alabama. One of my father’s dearest friends happened to have one of his nephews down at the camp when my family was coming to visit. Little to my knowledge, I was dressed in an all grey sweatsuit, due to the weather, when I met my future husband. Surprisingly enough, I was able to miss every clay that was thrown. While making a terrible joke about my unfortunate disgrace to skeet and hunting attire, I heard an unwavering, pure laugh. Thomas was the

only person who assumed that I had a sense of humor. As we were pulling out of the driveway my father stated, “You know he is interested in you.” Shortly after I arrived home, I had a friend request from Thomas waiting on social media, and after several days he asked me to dinner.

Favorite Moment: Our favorite moment was walking down the grand staircase to join all of our family and friends to celebrate at the reception. The ceremony was beautiful, but there was a feeling of ease and excitement to enjoy the

WEDDINGS

evening with loved ones. Our florist created the most magnificent floral arrangement that cascaded down the staircase. As we were walking down the stairs with music playing in the background and flowers surrounding our entrance, Thomas and I knew that we would never forget this perfect moment.

Favorite Details: Anna Wynn Rodgers made the event flawless even though we had to move the date from May to July due to the pandemic. Our favorite aspects were the flower arrangements, Sing a Song Band out of Atlanta and the food.

the details Ceremony Venue: Episcopal Church of the Ascension Reception Venue: Clubhouse on Highland Wedding Planner: Anna Wynn Event Designs Florist: Suzy Reynolds Flowers Caterer: Tre Luna Catering Wedding Cake: Magic Muffins Invitations: Weezie B. & Sally C. Designs Wedding Dress: The White Room

Bridesmaid Dresses: Bella Bridesmaids Hair & Makeup: GLOW Groom/Groomsmen Attire: Mr Burch Formal Wear Music: Sing A Song Band Transportation: Prideline Transportation Programs / Napkins / Koozies: Please Reply Huntsville Groom’s Mini Cheesecake Bites: Tre Luna Catering Get-Away Car: Coats Classic Cars

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 61

WEDDINGS

prewitt white OCTOBER 24, 2020 PHOTOS BY LESLIE HOLLINGSWORTH

62 February/March 2021

How We Met: Although our paths most likely crossed many times at high school football games, Jake and I (Addie) did not meet until we were both students at Auburn University.

The Proposal: After dating for two years, Jake chose to propose at my childhood family lake house on Lake Mitchell, on the exact same spot where my parents got engaged 28 years earlier.

Favorite Details: I always knew that I wanted to have my wedding reception in my parents’ backyard. With

COVID restrictions taking over so many venues, that original plan proved to be a great choice. Although the ceremony was not taking place in my home church (Vestavia Hills United Methodist), we both wanted the ceremony to feel like church. And because as Jesus said, “Where two or more are gathered in my name, there am I,” that is exactly how it felt. I loved getting ready and having our wedding party pictures made at my grandparents’ house at one end of Vestavia and then getting married and having the reception at my own home on

WEDDINGS the other end of the city.

The Dress: I started with a designer dress and then made it unique with antique laces that belonged to my grandmother. The same seamstress who had made my mother’s dress from scratch worked her magic on my dress by dropping the back, adding the lace detail to the bodice and creating a beautiful lace bow feature in the back.

What We Are Doing Now: We are excited to live in our newly renovated home in Cahaba Heights and continue to make Vestavia Hills our home.

the details Venue: Bride’s Family Home Venue Rentals: PRE Event Resources & Prop House Wedding Planner: Julia Donald, Mariee Ami Lighting & Drapery: Mariee Ami Florist: Flowerbuds, Ray Jordan Caterer: Hastings Catering Cake: Magic Muffin

Videographer: Resolute Films Invitations: Mariee Ami Dress: Carriage House Hair & Make-Up: Carrie Bunn & Lynsey Richardson Music: Stratford Quartet & Soloist Clayton Ann Halla Band: Fountain City Players

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 63

WEDDINGS

pounds crutcher AUGUST 7, 2020

PHOTOS BY ELEANOR STENNER PHOTOGRAPHY

64 February/March 2021

How We Met: William and I (Allison) met at Vestavia Hills High School when I was a freshman and he was a junior. We definitely had crushes on each other at one point and went on a few dates when he was a freshman in college. Things fizzled, and we then didn’t see each other for almost seven years! We reconnected when we were back in the same church, and he came to our Sunday school class.

The Proposal: Four months after we started dating, William joined the Army and left for basic training. I wrote

him a letter every day that he was gone, a total of 108 letters, and he wrote to me as much as he could. Afterward, at Birmingham Botanical Gardens he suggested we go over to this gazebo, and I noticed all the pictures of us hung up, the letters we’d written and other mementos from our relationship. He said lots of sweet things and got down on one knee and proposed, and I said yes! Then, the rest of our friends and family came out of hiding, and we celebrated with everyone.

Favorite Moments: After planning

WEDDINGS

a wedding and then having to change and move everything due to COVID-19, it wasn’t even guaranteed that we would get to have this day. For me, getting to the day I’d been dreaming about for so long, seeing everyone there to celebrate our marriage, and finally getting to be husband and wife were my favorite thing.

Favorite Detail: We both sang the song “Goodness of God” by Bethel Music, and we had all of our guests sing with us.

It was a beautiful moment of worship and such a sweet reminder of how good and wonderful our God is.

the details Ceremony Venue: Shades Mountain Baptist Church Reception Venue: Vestavia Country Club Day Of Coordinator: Kristin Maynard Florist: Susan Milner Caterer: Vestavia Country Club Cakes: Telia Johnson Videographer: Down In Front Productions

Invitations: Annabelle’s Wedding Dress: Bridal Bliss Bridesmaid Dresses: Bella Bridesmaids Hair: Kathryn Marcum Makeup: Rachel Griffin, Be-Loved Beauty Groom/Groomsmen Attire: Mr Burch Formal Wear Music: Andrew Clingan, DJ WellDunn Entertainment

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 65

WEDDINGS

wilson dortch SEPTEMBER 5, 2020 PHOTOS BY MADDIE MOORE PHOTOGRAPHY

66 February/March 2021

How We Met: Hampton and I (Erica) met on the first day of college at Samford University. He asked me if he could take me up to Vestavia Drive to see the view as I was brand new to Birmingham. I remember feeling like I had just found my new best friend and praying that night that God would allow him to be my husband.

The Proposal: He proposed on April 24, 2020, during quarantine. He convinced me to go take graduation pictures and make the most of that strange season, and we got dressed up and drove

to Vestavia Drive, where we had first hung out. But when we got there, our friends weren’t there as planned, and he got down on one knee and proposed! We went back to his parents’ house where over 70 of my family and friends from California were waiting on a Zoom call, and our Birmingham people did a drive-by parade for us.

Favorite Moment: My favorite was seeing Hampton for the first time during our first look by the river. I’ll never forget his face when he turned around and being able to hug him made the day

WEDDINGS finally feel real.

Favorite Details: We were blessed to have Walker Burroughs, Hampton’s good friend from high school, sing during our ceremony. We chose “Goodness of God” as the song that our grandmothers, mothers and bridal party walked down the aisle to, and it was so beautiful. It still makes us cry to hear it. I walked down the aisle to the instrumental version of “All Things New,” which is a very special part of mine and Hampton’s relationship. We are also huge Florida Georgia Line fans, and we had our first dance to “Told You.”

the details Venue: Swann Lake Stables Day Of Coordinator: Morgan Nordyke Florist: Melanie Hughes, Pink Pear Florist Caterer: Martin’s Bar-B-Que Cake: Magic Muffins Videographer: Anthony Tacheny Invitations: Fun Stuff Vestavia Wedding Dress: Ivory & White

Bridesmaid Dresses: Birdy Grey Makeup: Emmie Hunt Hair: Merrell Hubbard Groom/Groomsmen Attire: Mr Burch Formal Wear Music: Blue Denim Band Arbor: Prophouse Bar: B&B Bartending

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 67

WEDDINGS

mandabach olivet OCTOBER 23, 2020 PHOTOS BY AL WEDDINGS

68 February/March 2021

How We Met: J.D. and I (Meagan) met through a mutual band friend our freshman year at Vestavia Hills High School and spent every lunch period together that year. The next year, J.D. asked me to homecoming. Shortly after, we started dating, and we’ve been together ever since. After high school, we went to The University of Mississippi together.

The Dress: I ended up shopping at four other shops and trying on dozens of dresses before I made an appointment at Carriage House on a whim. I was so

excited when I finally found my gown!

Favorite Details: After getting married in May, we decided that we wanted to get our rings engraved for our wedding ceremony and reception in October. Because we had already exchanged rings and had been wearing our bands for five months, this was our way of commemorating our wedding with our family and friends. Since our relationship began when we were Latin students, J.D. thought it was only fitting to engrave something in Latin. During our vows, we revealed to each other what

WEDDINGS

we engraved on the other’s ring before we exchanged them for the second time.

Favorite Moment: Taking sunset photos together after the ceremony. We were overjoyed to have finally had our wedding with our loved ones and felt so emotional during our ceremony despite already being married. I felt such a sense of peace and gratitude for our marriage, our family and the beautiful day we were finally able to celebrate. After the last shots were captured, we took a moment to ourselves to take in the beautiful sunset before going to our reception.

the details Venue: Park Crest Event Facility Wedding Planner: Rachael Grammer, Two Hearts Weddings Florist: Carol Harris, Lillie Jane Caterer: Park Crest Event Facility Cake: Edgar’s Bakery Invitations: Minted Wedding Dress: Carriage House Weddings

Bridesmaid Dresses: Bella Bridesmaids Hair: GLOW Makeup: Emmy Hunt Groom/Groomsmen Attire: Mr Burch Formal Wear Music: Emerald Empire Band Lighting & Draping: On-Site Productions

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 69

WEDDINGS

tatum studstill SEPTEMBER 12, 2020 PHOTOS BY PHOTOS BY HEART

70 February/March 2021

How We Met: A modern love story, Ben and I (Brooke) met through Tinder!

Ben had just moved to Birmingham from Auburn for his master’s program at Samford, and I downloaded the app just for fun. We got to chatting, and texted for about a week before meeting at a sushi restaurant for our first date. We spent about four hours together chatting, and then the rest is history. Confession: It was my first time eating sushi ever on our first date. I was mortified trying to eat the big pieces, but Ben didn’t even notice my struggle and still asked for a second date.

The Proposal: Ben’s parents rented out a cabin at Lake Martin for Thanksgiving, so we were planning on going down for the holidays. On Black Friday, I went out for a few hours to visit my side of the family. Ben cancelled coming with me last minute to spend more time with his parents, and I did not think anything of it. While I was away, Ben set up the dock with string lights and champagne. When I came back, he immediately got me from the car and walked me down to the dock where he had prepared a letter, ultimately asking

WEDDINGS me to marry him by “swiping right.” His family was there, and then my family came immediately after and we were able to celebrate!

What We Are Doing Now: Ben and I purchased a condo in the heart of Highland Park that we absolutely adore. We reside there with our two cats, Mick and Phoebe.

Ben is a CPA at an accounting firm, and I work in the operating room at a plastic surgery practice. We love being in the middle of downtown Birmingham, while still having the neighborhood feel that Highlands has.

the details Venue: The Donnelly House Wedding Planner: Engaged Wedding Library Florist: Wild Things Caterer: The Donnelly House Cake: Edgar’s Bakery Donut Wall: Heavenly Donut Co. Invitations: Gracefully Made Art

Wedding Dress: Bella Couture Alterations: Hollow to Hem Bridesmaid Dresses: Bella Bridesmaids Hair & Makeup: Whitney Strickland Groom/Groomsmen Attire: Jos. A. Bank Music: Elevated Entertainment Live Wedding Painter: Melissa Munger

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 71

WEDDINGS

hand deLozier AUGUST 21, 2020

PHOTOS BY ERIC & JAMIE PHOTOGRAPHY

72 February/March 2021

How We Met: Joe and I (Claire) met sophomore year at Vestavia High School when we were class officers together, and we started dating later that year. We dated throughout high school but decided to break up for our freshman year of college because we were attending different schools (I attended Auburn University and Joe attended Birmingham-Southern College). Given the rule followers we both are, we started dating again exactly a year after we broke up. We dated long distance throughout the rest of college and were

so ready to get married and start our lives together.

The Proposal: Joe told me that we had gotten invited to his friend’s wedding at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. I didn’t really recognize the name of his friend, but that was still somewhat believable because we went to different colleges. He made a fake “save the date” and sent it to me among other details to make sure that I fully believed that we were attending the wedding. When we arrived at the Botanical Gardens, we walked to a

WEDDINGS

beautiful gazebo where he got down on one knee and asked me to marry him!

Favorite Moment: Walking into our reception right before our first dance. We had just left the wedding ceremony as husband and wife, so we were already on cloud nine. I cannot describe the joy and excitement we felt as we walked in surrounded by our loved ones.

What We Are Doing Now: Joe and I have spent our first months as newlyweds both working from home! We know we will always look back on this time together as the most fun way to start our marriage.

the details Ceremony Venue: Brookwood Baptist Church Reception Venue: Vestavia Country Club Wedding Planner: Handley Breaux Designs Florist: Kelly Wilkin Floral Creative Caterer: Vestavia Country Club Cake: Pen and Pastry Videographer: Four10 Films Invitations: Annabelle’s & Lera Jean Roddam Calligraphy

Wedding Dress: Bustle Gowns Bridesmaid Dresses: Bella Bridesmaids Hair & Makeup: GLOW Groom/Groomsmen Attire: Mr Burch Formal Wear Music: Ascension Band, East Coast Entertainment Transportation: Rare Transportation Rentals: Prophouse Birmingham & Event Rentals Unlimited Lighting: On-Site Productions

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 73

OUT & ABOUT

2

1

DECK THE HEIGHTS

3

4

5

6

7

8

PHOTOS BY KAITLYN BAKER

The Cahaba Heights Merchants Association kicked off the holiday season on Nov. 21 with their annual holiday open house. Local artists also set up pop-up shops in the Heights Village for early holiday shoppers, and you could find other festivities all around Cahaba Heights.

1. Jean Coker and Amanda Morgan 2. Ella Harper and Mary Nelson Litty 3. Natalie and Siobhan Foley 4. Jordan Traywick 5. Bailey and Lorie Corley 6. Grace and O.Z. Hall 7. Angela Hayes and Mary Ashley Langley 8. Catherine Waters 9. Anne Schilleci and Samantha Moats 10. Bonnie Poticny, and Elizabeth and Lauren Boykin 11. Emma Kervey and Sarah Camille Rutherford 12. Lauren Jackson

74 February/March 2021

OUT & ABOUT

9

10

11

12

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 75

OUT & ABOUT

1

VESTAVIA HILLS CHRISTMAS PARADE

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

PHOTOS BY JAMES CULVER

This annual holiday tradition continued as dance groups, floats and more paraded through Liberty Park on Dec. 13.

1. Callie Culver 2. The Robinsons 3. The Smiths 4. Addy Higgins, Parker Coon and Claire Dykes 5. Linda Allen, and Tait and Worth Stoddard 6. The Manuels 7. The Tates 8. Tessa Richardson, and Caroline and Kate Ferguson 9. Carley Phillips, and Anna and Caroline Causey 10. The Meachams 11. The Baes 12. Logan, Truett and Ryker Evans, and John Daniel Wilbanks 13. The Purohits

76 February/March 2021

OUT & ABOUT

10

12

11

13

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 77

MARKETPLACE

Marketplace Vestavia Hills Magazine • 205.669.3131

Owner Operators Wanting Dedicated Year Round Anniston, AL www.pull4klb.com

McCalla. Walkin applications accepted. Clanton (205)280-0002.

Pelham (205)444-9774.

Now hiring RN’s and LPN’s throughout Alabama! $250 community referral bonus for RN’s and LPN’s.

Sign-on Bonuses available at select locations! For more information please contact: Paige Gandolfi Call/text: 724-691-7474 pgandolfi@ wexfordhealth.com

Mechanic needed. Must have own tools and five years experience.

Apply in person: 1105 7th St N, Clanton. Or call for appointment 205-755-4570

Need appliance or air conditioner parts? How about a water filter for your refrigerator?

We have it all at A-1 Appliance Parts! Call 1-800-841-0312 www.A-Appliance. com

Bama Concrete Now Hiring: Diesel Mechanic 4 Years Minimum Experience.

CDL Preferred.

Competitive Pay. Great Benefits.

Apply in person: 2180 Hwy 87 Alabaster, 35007

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com

on-site services!

2115 Motes Rd, Sylacauga.

256-245-6500 •TDD#s: 800-548-2547(V) •800-548-2546 (T/A). Office Hours: Mon-Fri, 8am-4pm. Equal Opportunity Provider/Employer Nursing assistant to care for high functioning quadriplegic home health patient in Jemison. Must have valid drivers license. Part-time.

Call Mr. Wilbanks 205-908-3333

NEED A JOB???

COME JOIN OUR TEAM OF GREAT PEOPLE!!

Starting Lancaster Place pay:$12hr-$14hr Apartments.

•General Labor Location, •Heavy Equipment community & Operator quality living in •Shipping Calera, AL. 1, •Washer/Greaser 2, & 3 bedroom •Calera •Alabaster Automation apartments Online: www.

Personnel available. Call stellarstaffingllc.

Services Hiring today for specials!! com Call: IMMEDIATELY 205-668-6871.

205-916-2860 For: Automotive Or visit Assembly, General hpilancasterplace. CLOCK REPAIR Labor, Production, com SVS. * Setup Clerical, Machine * Repair * Operator, Quality, Marble Valley Maintenance. I can Carpentry, Manor. Affordable fix your Mother’s Welder, Foundry.

1 and 2 Bedroom clock. Alabaster/ Positions In: Apartments Pelham. Call Calera, Clanton, for Elderly & Stephen Pelham, Bessemer, Disabled. Many (205)663-2822 78 February/March 2021

FT 2nd Shift Security Guard needed for beautiful, gated community in No Shelby Co. Paid health insurance, $12hr, 3-11pm weekdays. Must have previous experience, gun permit & pistol. Qualified candidates should call Kim 991-4654

Must have Class A CDL, good driving record, 1 yr verifiable tractor trailer experience.

Good pay and benefits. Apply in person at 8278 Hwy 25 South, Calera, AL, or call for info 205-668-3316.

Electrician - FT Supreme Electric, local-based HIRING company in EXPERIENCED Pelham. Must be FULL CASE willing to learn & ORDER work hard. Go to: SELECTORS supremeelectric$19.03 per hour al.com Print plus production employment $$$ incentives. application under Grocery order Contact Us. Mail selection using to: Supreme electric pallet jacks Electric 231 & voice activated Commerce Pkwy headsets. Great Pelham, AL 35124 benefits including or call Blue Cross health 205-453-9327. & dental insurance & matching 401k. Become a Dental Pre-employment Assistant in drug test required. ONLY 8 WEEKS! Apply Online: Please visit our WWW.AGSOUTH. website capstone COM dentalassisting. com or call $2000 SIGN ON (205)561-8118 and BONUS NEW get your career PAY SCALE TO started!

QUALIFYING DRIVERS Popeyes EVERGREEN Seeking friendly, TRANSPORT, motivated, is accepting dependable Crew applications for Members. OPEN local drivers in INTERVIEWS the Calera and DAILY 2:00pmLeeds, AL, area.

5:00pm 3300

MARKETPLACE

Pelham Parkway.

Immediate Openings!

Start work this week! Apply online: work4 popeyeskitchen. com

operations Apply at: www.macleanfogg. com/careers

Oxford Healthcare in Montgomery currently hiring SPRAY FINISHER certified CNA’s NEEDED: HVLP, and/or Home Gravity Gun, Health aides Conventional Cup, in the Clanton, Air Assisted Airless Marbury and Commercial Maplesville areas.

Cabinet/ Millwork Must be able to Company looking pass complete for experienced background check, finishers in have reliable this field, or transportation automotive and have a strong finisher willing to work ethic. Serious change to this inquiries only. Call field. We offer very 334-409-0035 competitive pay. or apply onCall 334-264-5032 line at www.

Oxfordhealthcare.

Boise Cascade com Now Hiring for Utility Positions. South Haven Starting pay Health & Rehab $14/hour. Must NOW HIRING!!! be able to pass •LPN’s & RN’s background -$5,000 Signscreen. Please on Bonus for apply at Full-Time shift www.bc.com •CNA’s Apply in person: 3141 Old WELDER Columbiana Rd NEEDED MIG Birmingham,AL & TIG •Light -35266 gauge stainless, aluminized, Servpro of galvanized Birmingham.

Manufacturing and We’re looking for Assembly Helpers quality people Needed •Paid who want to work Holidays •Typical hard and make a Shifts 6:00amdifference. For this 2:30pm Call RICK: excellent career 205-761-3975 opportunity, email now!

MacLean Power bmcrea@servproof Systems NOW birmingham.com HIRING 3098 Pelham Pkwy, Burger King is Pelham, AL now hiring. Please 35124 We are apply online @ actively hiring joinbkalabama.com for production

Acceptance Loan Company, Inc. Personal loans!

Let us pay off your title loans! 224 Cahaba Valley Rd, Pelham 205-663-5821

Home Instead Senior Care • CAREGiver / CNA Weekend Shifts Needed. Have you previously been a family caregiver? Do you want to make a Come out of difference in the your comfort life of a senior? zone. Come Or do you simply join our Crossfit have a special Family. Crossfit way of taking Inferis. Individual care of others?

Unlimited Monthly Expect to make Memeberships a difference!! $125. Couples Requirements: Unlimited Monthly 21 years of age, Membership current drivers $235. Active license, reliable Military, Veteran, transportation, First Responder, lift, push, pull 25 Teacher & Student pounds, clean 15% Discount. criminal history Address: 993 & drug screen.

Yeager Parkway.

Please apply at Pelham, AL 35124. homeinstead.com/ Contact Us. bham Jonathan Luna 205-451-3095.

DONAVAN Instagram: LAKES FISHING crossfit_Inferis.

CLUB & INN Facebook: Marion, Perry CrossFit Inferis Co. AL • 8 Lakes •17 Piers Experienced • Bass, Bream, Termite Crappie, Catfish. • Technician Camping, Nature or someone Trails, Birding. experienced in Membership route-service $1000 for 2021 work and wants Contact Thomas to learn new Wilson profession. Work- 334-247-2101 vehicle/equipment wils5789@ provided. Must bellsouth.net drive straight-shift, www.donavanlakes. have clean driving org record/be 21/ pass background/ Bud’s Best drug test.

Cookies Training provided. Accepting Insurance/401K applications for offered. M-F 7:00- the following 4:30 + 1 Saturday/ positions: month. Pay $13hr. •Packers •Mixers Send resume to •Machine facsmith@charter.

Operators net •Sanitation

Positions •Maintenance Positions Bud’s Best Cookies has been in business since 1991.We are locally owned & operated family business.We offer our employees a great work environment and benefits.Benefits for full-time employment: •5 vacation days after 1yr •10 vacation days after 3yrs •15 vacation days after 10yrs •7 paid holidays •Health & Life Insurance paid by the company for each employee after 90 days of employment •Off every Saturday •$100 Check for your birthday •FMLA after 1yr or 1250/hrs If Interested Call 205-987-4840 or send work history/contact information: generalmail@ budsbestcookies. com fayegoudy@ budsbestcookies. com Eastern Tree Service • 24-Hour Storm Service • www.ETSTree.org • Experienced Professionals • Quick Response • Free Estimates • Call Us Today: 205-856-2078 We Pay Cash For Used RV’s!!!

McCluskey Auto & RV Sales, LLC 205-833-4575

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 79

MY VESTAVIA HILLS KATHERINE MORRISON

Vestavia Hills High School Student Government Association Vice President

Italian Ice Please

Doodle’s Doodle’s in Cahaba Heights is definitely my favorite. In the summer, you can find my friends and me there almost every night on the lawn. It is such a fun atmosphere, and my personal favorite flavor is cookies and cream.

Go Rebels

2017 Final Four One of my favorite Vestavia memories is when the VHHS Boys’ Basketball team went to the Final Four in 2017. It seemed like half of the arena was filled with Vestavia fans in white to support our Rebels! Dr. Burgess leading the student section in the rebel chant was one of the coolest experiences.

For a Good Cause

RISE One of my favorite community events is RISE day in April! It is so awesome to see the whole community come together to support the UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center. The luminary ceremony is such a special way to honor our friends and family who have had cancer.

Vestavia Views

Sibyl Temple Sibyl Temple is a staple of Vestavia. The views overlooking the city of Birmingham are incredible, and it is a beautiful place to take pictures, have a picnic with friends, or watch the sunset. In the photo I was taking pictures at the temple for Miss Vestavia Hills with Abbie Stockard (on the left).

Breakfast Time

Ranch House Ranch House on Columbiana Road is one of my favorite breakfast spots. I go there almost every week to meet for breakfast before school with a couple of my best friends. The Fitness Breakfast and Fruity French toast are my go-tos.

Their freshly squeezed orange juice is hard to beat, and their service is top-notch.

80 February/March 2021

VestaviaHillsMagazine.com 81

82 February/March 2021