Shelby Living January 2013

SHELBY Living A carving

artist

Amazing weight loss A Chelsea woman loses half her body weight

Eclipse January 2013 • $4.95

Montevallo hotspot offers food, drinks and books

At home in

Greystone

Bride Guide

Our annual wedding section featuring local couples January 2013 | 1

2 | ShelbyLiving.com

January 2013 | 3

FROM THE EDITOR

H

appy New Year!

It’s hard to believe 2013 is here already, but I’m looking forward to the clean slate that January brings. It’s a time to reflect on the past and make plans for the future.

We’re celebrating another type of new beginning at Shelby Living this month. Our third annual Shelby Living Bridal Show will be held Sunday, Jan. 6 at the Cahaba Grand Conference Center in Birmingham.

Without getting too sappy, let me say how much I love weddings and all they represent.

Our bridal show is a chance for local brides to connect with vendors from across the Southeast, although most are from the Birmingham area.

Whether you’re in need of a florist, caterer, reception venue or dress, this is your chance to meet the people who can help you.

We’ll also be showcasing the latest

bridal trends with our fashion show, including gowns by Bella Couture and hair by Morgan Ashley Studio.

For a sneak peek at some of the gowns, check out our gown trends article on page 34.

In this issue, you’ll find other entertaining and useful information for wedding planning.

Curious about pre-marital counseling? Check out our story on page 46. Can’t decide what kind of flowers to feature? We review the most popular flowers on page 42. We can even help you figure out how to change your name in Shelby County on page 45.

Of course, my favorite part of this issue is the wedding announcements. This issue features the weddings of so many lovely local brides, and I had the best time reading about their weddings.

I can happily report that for the brides featured in this issue, the wedding was a wonderful start of a happy new life together. l

SHELBY Living ediTorial Katie McDowell Amy Jones Neal Wagner Christine Boatwright Mickel Ponthieux ConTribuTors Lisa Phillips Laura Brookhart Chianti C. Cleggett produCTion Daniel Holmes Jamie Sparacino Amy Baldis Jon Goering marKeTing Alan Brown Thomas LaBoone Nicole Loggins Rhett McCreight Meagan Mims Diane Fant LaShan Johnson Tracy Jones adminisTraTion Tim Prince Jan Griffey Mary Jo Eskridge Annie McGilvray Hailey Dolbare Christine Roberts

Katie McDowell, Editor

Katie.McDowell@ShelbyLiving.com ON THE COVER

Janessa Mobley of Alabaster and Jordan Barrios of Orlando, Fla., were married Sept. 1, 2012 in Helena.

Cover design: Jamie Sparacino Photography: Juan Rodriguez Photography

Shelby Living is published monthly by Shelby County Newspapers Inc., P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051. Shelby Living 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, Shelby Living, P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051.

Shelby Living is mailed to select households throughout Shelby County, and a limited number of free copies are available at local businesses. Please visit Shelbyliving.com for a list of those locations.

Subscriptions are available at a rate of $12 for one year by emailing subscribe@shelbyliving.com, or calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 21.

Advertising inquiries may be made by emailing advertise@shelbyliving.com, or by calling (205) 6693131, ext. 11.

4 | ShelbyLiving.com

MERRI GWIN

DEE BUGG

WHAT’S INSIDE

weddings 50 shaW and luTes 52 sanderson and franKlin 54 veTrano and hulsey 56 WalKer and spain 58 mobley and barrios 60 gray and remKus 62 moser and berler 64 loWman and reynolds 66 Walding and during 68 renfroe and CrumpTon 70 hall and Cole

70

72 fuller and guy 73 smiTh and Cherry January 2013 | 7

WHAT’S INSIDE

12 in every issue 9

The simple life

10

SHORT STORIES

74

Shelby spotted

92

out & About

94

WHY I LOVE SHELBY COUNTY

features 12

14

The Carving Artist Andy Cummings uses a chainsaw to create works of art Overweight no more Chelsea resident loses half of her body weight

46 8 | ShelbyLiving.com

16

24

home & food bride guide 16

Charming Comfort Alicia and Kirk Cuevas find bliss away from the big city

24

ECLIPSE COFFEE & BOOKS Montevallo makes local restaurant its own

30

The perfect recipe A local baker shares a family treasure

34

The bride wore black Gowns in a range of colors and cuts

36

Two brides, one dress Local wears mom’s wedding gown

38

Destination weddings Fantasy locations in Shelby County

42

The wow factor Flowers offer a colorful way to customize your wedding

44

Ring fads and fashions Tracking diamond trends

45

A new identity How to change your name

46

Wedding party gifts Don’t forget your bridesmaids and groomsmen on your wedding day

47

Before you say ‘I do” Marriage counseling is a must

48

Love blooms School friends marry after 52 years

THE SIMPLE LIFE

What will you decide?

“P

eople become successful the minute they decide to be!”

Think about that for a minute — are you deciding that you are going to reach your New Year’s resolutions and goals, or have you given up before you even begin?

Lisa Phillips, owner of SimpleWorks, Success in any area of your life Simpleworksmtsp.com has to be a decision, it rarely “just lisa@simpleworksmtsp.com happens.” But what happens when 205.981.7733 you aren’t moving in the direction you thought? According to the Washington Post, the struggle between work-life balance takes the No. 1 spot on the list of self-improvement. Here are five common areas between success and second place.

Confusion. Let’s look at finding more family time in your daily life. When you feel confused on what direction you need to take to reach a goal, then your focus needs to be on vision.

Find ways to be more streamlined and productive at work.

Clearly visualize how you want your day to go ... down to when you will eat, finish a project, and when you close the office door. fear/anxiety. “How am I going to do it all?” “Why won’t anyone help me?” Focus on building your skill level on how you will handle these situations when they appear. Learn how to delegate and ask for help.

Discover technology that can help makes things simpler. ambivalence. When you find yourself drifting into old habits, you will want to increase your motivation for your “why!” Only you can motivate you! frustration. If you are feeling frustrated and you have checked the things above, then you will want to go back and build deeper people skills. Understanding those you work with, as well as family and friends, will increase your patience and understanding of expectations from those around you. false starts. If you find some weeks are out of control versus other weeks, then the focus needs to be on a consistency. Work with a schedule and a to-do list. Get up at the same time every day. Set boundaries. Limit after-hours communication. When you are home, be home.

“Head gives vision; heart gives passion.” Work-life balance is achievable, yet it takes focus every day on why that is important to you. Be passionate about your day. It’s that simple. l

Success in any area of your life has to be a decision, it rarely “just happens.”

January 2013 | 9

SHORT STORIES

Dinan named Eagle Scout Inverness resident Steven Dinan recently achieved Eagle Scout, the highest rank attainable in the Boy Scouts of America program.

Dinan, 17, is a senior at John Carroll Catholic High School, and a member of Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church Troop 71 under the leadership of Scoutmaster Don Peterson.

Dinan started in the scouting program as a Tiger Cub in 2000. As a member of Troop 71, Dinan held a variety of troop leadership positions including webmaster, historian and patrol leader and received national awards and honors. Dinan completed more than 150 service hours and earned 35 merit badges on his journey to Eagle.

For his Eagle Scout Project, Dinan

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led a group of scouts and adult leaders to create the Bump Stop Rest Area at Oak Mountain State Park.

His project included design, fundraising and leadership of scouts and leaders to complete the project, which was done in coordination with BUMP and Oak Mountain State Park.

Dinan is a four-year letterman on the John Carroll cross country team and has performed in school plays, is a student ambassador, peer minister and member of Carroll Students Modeling Christ, Latin Club, Frassati Club and Art Club.

He is the son of Mark and Martha Dinan of Inverness and grandson of Jim and Carol Newton of Chelsea and Bill and Marian Dinan of Indian Springs.

— staff reports

UM opera heads to nationals The University of Montevallo’s opera program recently was named a finalist in the National Opera Association’s Collegiate Opera Scenes Competition.

Dr. Charles Wood, an associate professor of music and opera, said the program submitted a taped scene from composer Ambroise Thomas’ “Hamlet.”

The scene featured UM students Nidia Riley, Devin Burton and Marie Brewer in the acting roles, while UM professor Dr. Laurie Middaugh was the pianist.

Wood, Middaugh and the students will travel to Portland, Ore., in January to perform the scene live at the finals.

This is UM’s second consecutive submission and invitation to the competition’s finals.

— Katie mcdowell

Bagwell to compete in state’s DYW program Shelby County’s Distinguished Young Woman 2013 Susanna Bagwell will head to Montgomery in January to compete in the state program.

Bagwell, a 17-year-old Spain Park High School senior, said she is excited and nervous about the competition.

“Shelby County girls have won the state program for the last two years. I definitely have large shoes to fill,” she said.

Distinguished Young Women of Alabama, formerly known as Junior Miss, is an official state preliminary of Distinguished Young Women, a national scholarship program that promotes and rewards scholarship, leadership and talent in young women, according to its website.

Participants are judged on scholastics, interviews, talent, physical fitness and self-expression.

Bagwell beat out 20 participants to

snag the 2013 title in July 2012.

She also won more than $6,000 in scholarships.

In addition to being named the overall winner, Bagwell, who is a dancer, also won the interview, talent and fitness categories.

Bagwell will perform a dance to “Raymonda” by Alexander Glasunov at the state competition. She is an avid volunteer and serves as a Hoover Belle and an American Heart Association Sweetheart. She has a 3.9 GPA. Bagwell plans to attend Auburn University following graduation and plans to study math education.

“I just want to reach out to students and help them develop not only a love for math, like I did, but a love for learning,” she said.

Bagwell is the daughter of Terry and Donna Bagwell and has two sisters.

— Katie mcdowell

January 2013 | 11

ARTS & CULTURE

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE LEFT: The Soldier’s Cross, located in Orr Park, is dedicated to fallen soldiers. Cummings created the trophies for the Tri-County Wild Game Cooking Championship held last September in Montevallo. Cummings created this sign outside of Eclipse Coffee and Books in Montevallo.

The carving artist Andy Cummings uses a chainsaw to create works of art

A

ndy Cummings grew up a military brat living all over the world. After landing in Shelby County, he worked in corporate construction then turned to refinishing furniture and opening his own cabinet shop.

“In 2004, I stopped all that and decided to become an artist,” he said, acknowledging his belief that learning is a 12 | ShelbyLiving.com

Story and photographs by Laura Brookhart lifelong process. “I saw chainsaw carving done at a fair exhibition in Tennessee and I knew I wanted to do it. I kept working on getting better.”

After Hurricane Ivan that year, Cummings volunteered with the American Red Cross and cleared driveways and roads. While volunteering, he met a woman who had a tree snapped off in her yard. She had planted the tree

when her daughter, who was dying of cancer at the time, was born more than 50 years before.

“All day, I thought about that tree, and I realized I bet I can take a chainsaw and carve something out of that tree,” Cummings said.

At dark, he was still working while friends held flashlights. The end product was a slender angel with the wings

tucked in.

“It took a while — what little I knew at the time — but the next day, that mother was so touched and everyone who saw it was so emotional, I knew I was supposed to do that,” he said.

Eight years later, Cummings’ work can be seen across Montevallo. His sculptures are carved from red cedar or reclaimed juniper, then sanded and oiled. He uses chainsaws of different sizes — no lathe work — and occasionally works in black walnut, dogwood or pecan for bowls.

If the city of Montevallo loses a tree, he volunteers to carve it, if it is worthy. This helps preserve a part of the older trees.

In Orr Park, well known for its carved trees, he was commissioned by the Rotary Club in 2012 to carve a Soldier’s Cross.

Dedicated to fallen soldiers, it shows boots, helmet and weapon stuck in the ground, draped with the individual’s dog tags.

Another sculpture, an angel holding a book and a quill sits in the Alabama Writers’ Room of the Montevallo Library.

Made of juniper, also known as white cedar, it scents the room like a cedar

Cummings does most of his work in his backyard.

forest.

In downtown Montevallo, Cummings carved the Falcon Art Supply sign and the door surround at Agave Restaurant. At Eclipse coffee shop, his creation, a large eyeball, invites drivers passing the store to “Look.”

On reclaimed land near the James

Wylie Shepherd Observatory, Cummings is working on a gazebo project built from reclaimed cedar logs and glass bottles. The bottles will nest together to form dark walls and illustrate the constellations.

The gazebo, begun in May 2012 as a rainwater collection facility, uses all salvaged materials and has cost only $200 so far. Donated brick will become the fireplace. University of Montevallo students have supplied the labor along with Outward Bound participants.

“This roof will collect rainwater; it will be the cleanest drinking water in Shelby County with charcoal filtering before and after it comes and goes from the cistern,” Cummings said.

Cummings applauds recent developments bringing city residents and the college population together and envisions that continuing to grow.

“Students add to the drive and the younger people see the need for change. They see we can’t depend on the government, and coming together as a community is a way to do that,” he said. l

January 2013 | 13

no more Overweight

Local loses half her body weight

A

Story by KaTie mCdoWell Photograph ConTribuTed

lmost two years ago, Lindsey Miller decided to change her life.

Miller, a 36-year-old Chelsea resident who is married with two sons, had been overweight her entire life. At 289 pounds, she felt ashamed of herself. She hated being social and avoided errands or any other activity that would put her alone in public.

“The only way to explain it is that there was never a second of a minute of an hour of a day that my mind wasn’t completely consumed with my weight,” she said. “Every thought, every thing I did, was completely consumed with that.”

While driving in the car in May 2011, Miller heard a radio advertisement for Medifast, a weight loss program. The ad triggered her resolve and she called that day to join the program.

Since that day, she has shed almost half of her body weight.

More importantly, Miller said she has developed confidence that has been missing her entire life. She runs regularly and is training for a half-marathon. She started a blog about running and weight loss. She’s even spoken on TV and to groups about the importance of taking control of your health.

“It’s not just about losing the weight. It’s about changing your lifestyle,” she said.

Miller said she’s tried diets over the years, but had trouble sticking to them.

Medifast plans vary depending on a person’s health needs, but it follows the same basic premise. A client swaps several meals for Medifast meals or snacks, while participating in educational and counseling programs.

Miller generally eats small meals or snacks every twothree hours. She continued to eat regular food even at the beginning of the program, which helped her learn — Lindsey Miller

“It’s not just about losing the weight.

It’s about changing your lifestyle.”

14 | ShelbyLiving.com

how to cook and eat in moderation.

Medifast also offers weekly oneon-one counseling, which Miller said was key to her weight loss success and allowed her to “peel back the layers of scars that I’ve had over the years from my weight problem.”

Miller, who calls herself a food addict, said she’s always struggled with her weight.

She was teased as a child and withdrew to deal with the shame she felt.

When she felt bullied or upset, she turned to food for comfort. Miller said just acknowledging those feelings in counseling helped her gain self-confidence. Over time, she learned how to handle her emotions without using food.

Exercise has been one of her coping mechanisms. While Medifast doesn’t require participants to exercise, the program does encourage it.

After overcoming an initial aversion to exercise, Miller decided to begin running and started the Couch-to-5k program in September 2011.

“When I started I could run 60 seconds and I thought I was going to die,” she said. “I can now run five miles without stopping.”

As she built her stamina, Miller found she enjoyed running.

She entered her first 5k in December 2011, only three months after she began running.

During that time, her weight also dropped steadily. During her first week on the Medifast program, she said she lost about 10 pounds.

She reached her original goal weight of 170 pounds after about a year on the program. However, she decided to see if she could lose more weight. She set a new goal — 140 pounds, which she hopes to reach in January. As of September 2012, she was at 152 pounds.

Miller also plans to run her first half-marathon in January, and she’ll transition to Medifast’s maintenance program.

“They will be there for a year to help you stay on track and keep it off,” she said.

With her weight loss journey coming to an end, Miller is excited about the next phase in her life. She’s also learned the truth of the time-worn weight loss axioms. To truly keep weight off, you have to change your entire lifestyle.

“It’s transforming from the inside out,” she said. l January 2013 | 15

Charming comfort Story by KATIE MCDOWELL Photographs by jon goering

16 | ShelbyLiving.com

LEFT: Alicia and Kirk Cuevas moved from the Washington, D.C. area to a two-story home in the Greystone NorthLake neighborhood. ABOVE: The Cuevases’ kitchen features natural elements, including granite counters and stone backsplash.

Alicia and Kirk Cuevas find bliss away from the big city

A

licia Cuevas knew she was home when she stepped into her two-story North Lake house for the first time.

Her husband, Kirk, however, wasn’t as easily sold.

The year was 2003 and the Cuevases

were looking to settle in Birmingham after spending several years in the Washington, D.C. area, where Kirk served as chief of staff and counsel for the National Credit Union.

He had visited Birmingham before for work and thought it would be a good

place to raise their daughter, Sarah, who is now 15.

“I always found Birmingham to be a really nice town, one of the best-kept secrets in the South,” he said.

With the location set, he and Alicia headed to Birmingham for an intense weekend of house hunting. Their North Lake home was the second of 23 homes they visited. While Kirk liked it as much as Alicia, he wanted to be thorough about the process.

January 2013 | 17

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: With its stacked stone fireplace, the keeping room is a cozy gathering place for family and friends. A sitting area is tucked underneath a staircase. Kirk and Alicia Cuevas moved to Birmingham in 2004. “The cabin room� features rustic furniture and decor the Cuevases collected over the years.

18 | ShelbyLiving.com

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January 2013 | 19

LEFT: Scout, the family’s dog, relaxes in Alicica’s study.

RIGHT: Gold decor pops against the red walls in the dining room.

At the end of the weekend, however, they both agreed that the two-story, brick house was the perfect fit.

“We wanted a house that was easy to entertain but that was livable,” Alicia said.

They wanted a home was grand enough for parties, but something that still felt warm and inviting. Since the Cuevases made the move official in December 2004, their home has offered all of those things and more.

The 5,400-square-foot house was built in 2000 by Birmingham home builder Ken Underwood.

“It was Ken’s personal home. It has a lot of his personal touches,” said Kirk, pointing out the crown molding throughout the house.

The house opens into a foyer, which is flanked by a study and the dining room. Alicia, a realtor with ReMax Southern Homes, works out of the study, which has dark stained wood-paneled walls. The study is anchored by a wood desk, one of several pieces of furniture built by Kirk’s father.

“My dad is a phenomenal craftsman,” he said.

The dining room is painted a vibrant red and accented by with gold decorations and the Cuevases’ crystal and silver collection.

The red and gold color palette continues in the great room.

A G. Harvey painting of the nation’s capital hangs over the fireplace.

20 | ShelbyLiving.com

“This reminds of us our time in D.C. and the presidential balls we went to,” Alicia said.

Adjacent to the great room is the kitchen, which is open to the keeping room and another small dining area. The kitchen features a walk-in pantry, granite counters and a large island for preparing meals or additional seating.

With its stacked stone fireplace and leather furniture, the keeping room is a cozy and charming place for relaxing.

“This is the room that really sold us on the whole house,” Kirk said.

The master bedroom and bathroom are also located on the ground floor, while several guest bedrooms are located on the second floor. The guest bedrooms are decorated by themes, including the golf room, which showcases the golf memorabilia Kirk has collected over the years.

A small library is home to bookshelves made by Kirk’s father, as well as souvenirs from the Cuevases’ time in the capital. Favorite souvenirs include a photo of Alicia, a Texas native, with actress Bo Derek at the state’s Black Tie and Boots inaugural ball.

The library is also home to souvenirs from the University of Alabama, which the Cuevases adopted as their football team after moving to the state. The decision was a tough one, but they were instructed by a neighbor they had to make a choice.

January 2013 | 21

We are providers for Cigna, BC/BS of Ala and Southland.

Kirk Cuevas, a golfing enthusiast, had a putting green put in their backyard, which overlooks a lake.

“I said, ‘Well, we’re Republicans and they have an elephant mascot, so I guess we pull for Alabama,’” Alicia recalled.

Also located on the second floor is “The Cabin.” The Cuevases planned to buy a cabin on a lake at some point, but never found the right option. They had accumulated a lot of furnishings and decorations for the cabin over the years, so they decided to put them to good use in their new home.

The cabin room serves as an entertaining room with a bar, TV and sitting area. It’s decorated in a relaxed style with animal hide bar stools, rough-hewn wood furniture and canoe bookshelves.

For the Cuevases, their North Lake home isn’t too far removed from their cabin dream.

Their home is nestled on a wooded lot on a lake, and they’ve made the most of the space. Kirk added a putting green to the backyard, but it is mostly a place to relax or entertain.

After years of big-city living, they welcomed the solitude and beauty offered by Greystone and the surrounding area.

“It’s very relaxing,” Alicia said. It feels almost resort-like to me. When you drive up Hugh Daniel (Drive), you feel like you’re on a mountain retreat." l 22 | ShelbyLiving.com

January 2013 | 23

HOME & FOOD

24 | ShelbyLiving.com

Montevallo makes

Eclipse

Coffee & Books

its own

E

Story by ChrisTine boaTWrighT Photographs by jon goering

clipse Coffee and Books has been a Montevallo staple for the past decade. The name has become somewhat of a misnomer, as Eclipse sells more lunch and dinner fare, as well as alcoholic beverages, than books.

Over the years, however, as Montevallo restaurants and bars came and went, Eclipse “stepped up to fill the gap” to meet residents’ needs for a local watering hole, said owner Cheryl Patton.

Cheryl was working in Birmingham when she first spotted the little concrete building for sale on an open lot on Montevallo’s Main Street. A putt-putt course, as well as a hair salon previously set up shop on the lot, but Cheryl and her husband, Michael, a philosophy professor at the University of Montevallo, were toying with a new idea.

“When you commute to Birmingham, you’re really not living (in Montevallo,) and it’s too good of a town not to be a part of it,” Cheryl said.

After hiring an architect, the Pattons noticed a partially completed house on Salem Road. The builder died before completing more than the first four rooms of the home, so the building had no floor or porch. The Pattons purchased the house for its beautiful woodwork and windows and had it moved to their newly purchased lot in the heart of Montevallo.

“We wanted to live in Montevallo, and it seemed natural the town needed a coffee shop at that point,” Cheryl said. “We were thinking a coffee shop and books, not a restaurant.”

Eclipse began to serve more food options, LEFT: Both new and used books fill the shelves of Eclipse’s rooms. The restaurant was original designed to sell coffee and books, but with the advent of the e-reader, Eclipse migrated to serving more food and selling less books throughout the years.

January 2013 | 25

26 | ShelbyLiving.com

as well as alcohol the year after it opened.

“We’ve stolen and adopted a lot (of recipes) from ‘Southern Living,’” Cheryl said with a grin. “We thought that was a good starting point for the area.”

Eclipse is the only restaurant in town serving vegan offerings. Specialty salads include a quinoa, feta, cashews, celery, grapes and fresh basil and cilantro. The quinoa salad is drizzled with orange vinaigrette. Cheryl said the salad trio, which includes the quinoa salad, is very popular.

The restaurant’s seasonal salad changes throughout the year, but during the fall, a the salad is topped with apples, walnuts and blue cheese.

Breakfast remains on the menu throughout the day. Breakfast includes everything from a pimiento cheese grit cake to a sunrise sandwich, which was created by a customer and includes egg, grilled

tomato, provolone and sprouts on a bagel.

Cheryl said many of the restaurant’s dishes were created by either staff or customers.

“I’ve learned to say yes a lot because people bring really good ideas,” she said.

The word around town speaks to the appeal of Eclipse’s variety of milkshakes.

The pecan pie milkshake contains an entire slice of pecan pie, while the strawberry or chocolate cheesecake shake has a slice of cheesecake blended with the ice cream.

The cappuccino milkshake has a shot of espresso and fresh espresso grounds, while the truly brave — or those in need of an allnighter to hit the books — can try the AllNighter, which has twice the espresso.

“When people come in here, they think we just get university people, but without the town support, we won’t survive,” Cheryl said. “It would have been a mistake to focus on one group or the other.”

CLOCKWISE FROM FAR LEFT: A constant rotation of books appear throughout Eclipse. Eclipse’s menu features at least eight paninis. Eclipse’s broad front yard features the works of local artists. Eclipse’s trio salad features, from left, a seasonal salad made of apples, walnuts and blue cheese, a couscous salad with limecumin vinaigrette and quinoa salad with cashews, feta, grapes and fresh herbs. University of Montevallo philosophy professor Michael Patton and his wife, Cheryl, opened Eclipse Coffee and Books 11 years ago.

January 2013 | 27

To cater to both groups, Eclipse offers both lunch fare, such as Saturday brunch, paninis, soups-of-the-day and sandwiches, and adult-friendly beverages, with everything from vodka-Kahlua coffee drinks to domestic beers. The espresso martini, which was one of the first drinks invented at Eclipse, is a “dangerous drink,” Michael said.

“There are many stories that begin with ‘We were on the porch of Eclipse drinking espresso martinis when …’” Michael said with a laugh.

Also, at least 11 types of specialty coffee drinks are available for purchase, as well as flavor shots that can be added to any coffee drink or iced tea. For the younger generation, Italian cream sodas, which come in a variety of flavors, smoothies and root beer or coke floats satisfy both kids’ sweet tooth and thirst.

Eclipse offers trivia nights, poetry slams and a myriad of live bands. While the restaurant is closed on Sundays, entertainment is scheduled for many nights of the week, as well as Saturdays. The restaurant sells T-shirts to raise money to

The Pattons built Eclipse on the site of an old putt-putt course.

pay for new bands, as Eclipse doesn’t charge a cover for events.

“I would hate to turn someone down at night who just wanted a cup of coffee,” Cheryl said.

During nice weather, local musicians gather on the wide front porch to play

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instruments during “picking on the porch,” Michael said.

“What makes it neat is that people make (Eclipse) their own in ways like that,” Michael said.

Visit Eclipsecoffee.com for a full menu and schedule of up-coming events. l

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January 2013 | 29

HOME & FOOD

The

‘perfect’ recipe

A local baker shares a family treasure Story by CHRISTINE BOATWRIGHT Photographs by JON GOERING

L

eslie Arnold loves to tweak recipes for her own creations.

When she opened Wooden Spoon Bakery in Columbiana in October, she specialized in uniquely flavored scones, such as dark chocolate and orange, as well as caramel apple.

However, the baker has one recipe in her repertoire that she refuses to change — a red velvet cake.

Sarah Weldon, the grandmother of Arnold’s husband, passed along the recipe to her “adopted” granddaughter. Weldon, a Chelsea resident, always makes the cake around the holidays, and some relatives request the family recipe for birthdays, Arnold said.

“I’m proud to say it’s the only recipe I have not tinkered with because it’s perfect the way it is,” Arnold said.

Weldon’s baking influenced Arnold’s own style, she said.

“Basically, she made really good stuff, and I wanted to learn it and get the recipes,” Arnold said with a laugh.

“She has magazine after magazine of cooking stuff. There’s no telling how many years and years of recipes she has stacked where she can look through them.”

According to Arnold, red velvet cake is simply a very light chocolate cake.

“They used to use beet juice to make it red,” Arnold said. “I haven’t tried that yet.”

Due to the vibrant red color, it’s difficult to tell when the cake is completely baked.

“You know it’s done when it cracks on top,” Arnold said.

Arnold sprinkled the top of her cake with walnuts, but said any type of nuts will work. The nuts can also be mixed 30 | ShelbyLiving.com

“Food is meaningful. It gives comfort and makes you happy.”

— Leslie Arnold into the icing for a different look and texture.

The cake can be made into a threelayer cake or spread into a 9-inch-by-13-

inch pan with the icing spread on top.

Arnold, a self-taught baker who watches a lot of food TV, said she enjoys the creativity of the kitchen.

“Food is meaningful,” she said. “It gives comfort and makes you happy.

“When I make something and people enjoy it, I get a sense of accomplishment. It’s more than putting together ingredients,” she added.

Wooden Spoon Bakery is located at 21078 Alabama 25 in Columbiana, across from McDonald’s. For more information, visit Facebook.com/woodenspoonbakery or contact Arnold at 746-0067 or Woodenspoon.leslie@gmail.com. l

Red Velvet Cake Cake:

Frosting:

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 1/2 cups sugar 1 tsp. baking soda 1 Tbsp. cocoa 1 cup buttermilk 1 1/2 cup vegetable oil 1 tsp. vinegar 1oz. red food coloring 1 tsp. vanilla extract

1 stick butter 1 8-oz. pkg. cream cheese 1 lb. box confectioners sugar 1 cup chopped nuts 1 tsp. vanilla extract

Directions: 1. Sift together dry ingredients; add the other ingredients in order and mix thoroughly.

2. Bake in two 9-inch or three 8-inch pans, which have been greased and floured.

Bake at 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes.

3. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, remove to wire racks and cool completely.

Win a pair of wedding bands.

Directions: 1. Let butter and cream cheese soften to room temperature; cream well.

2. Add confectioners sugar gradually until creamy. Add vanilla and nuts.

3. Spread on cakes.

4. Keep refrigerated because of the cream cheese icing. This cake can also be made in a 9-inch-by-13-inch pan.

MOUNTAIN BROOK • B I R M I N G H A M

The

SHELBY Living

Bridal Show Sunday, January 6, 2013 1 p.m.-4 p.m.

Cahaba Grand Conference Center 3660 Grandview Parkway, Birmingham, AL For more information, visit Facebook.com/shelbylivingbridalshow.

No purchase neccesary, enter to win the grand prize drawing of $1,000 gift certificate toward your purchase of wedding bands at Diamonds Direct.

January 2013 | 31

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A helpful section for your special day.

Photograph by alisha Crossley phoTography January 2013 | 33

The bride wore white ...or black

Today’s wedding gowns come in a variety of colors and cuts Story by KaTie mCdoWell Photographs ConTribuTed

34 | ShelbyLiving.com

B

ella Couture owner Colleen Hopwood is accustomed to helping brides find their perfect wedding gown.

Typically, the gown involves some combination of lace, beading, organza or silk. As for the color, the dresses are almost always white.

Recently, however, a bride’s options have changed. Bella Couture’s 2013 dresses come in shades of blue, blush and even black, not to mention varying lengths and fabrics.

Today’s bride wants to personalize her wedding, even the gown, according to Hopwood.

“Girls are wanting to be more unique and express their personality in their gown,” she said.

For some brides that means white lace, but for others, it’s a Lazaro gown with a beaded top and an asymmetrical tulle skirt.

The newest trends offer brides more options than ever for the dress of their dreams.

COLOR Hopwood said color is the biggest trend of 2013, although it’s been on the runways for several years now. While white is typically associated with weddings, most brides don’t wear true white, which looks best on dark-skinned women. Instead, they wear offwhite, which flatters more skin tones. Gold and blush are popular colors for brides looking to step outside the box.

“It’s a very vintage look,” Hopwood said.

However, bridal designers are stepping up the drama this year with dresses in bold hues, such as Modeca’s Olivia gown, which is available in black.

Another new trend is using color in the skirt. Several of the dresses in Lazaro’s 2013 line feature skirts with tulle in different hues, which lends a dress color without being over-the-top.

located in greystone

SKIRTS AND EMBELLISHMENTS Lace remains a popular option in 2013, but beading and other embellishments are also trendy.

“Beading is definitely back in,” Hopwood said. “The designers are showing it more, even beaded lace.”

Beaded tops and simple bottoms, such as organza, also appeared on many of the runways for 2013.

Hopwood said today’s beading is usually monochromatic, rather than the shiny, silver beading that was popular a few years ago.

Beaded belts or accessories are also popular options in 2013.

Statement necklaces can make a simple gown pop. Beaded belts are a fun way to add some sparkle to a gown.

As for brides who are concerned about all the fuss for a gown that’s worn once, Hopwood said some of her brides have gotten creative with recycling their wedding accessories by wearing their beaded belts with a short white dress for their anniversary dinners.

“It’s like you’re getting to wear a piece of your wedding gown on your anniversary,” she said. l CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Designers featured color in their 2013 gowns, even black. This Lazaro gown features a skirt of differenet color tulle. The Modeca Olivia is beige with a pink lace overlay. Over-the-top skirts, such as this Lazaro gown, are also in style.

January 2013 | 35

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Caitlin Phillips Bowen updated her mother’s wedding gown for her own wedding in 2012. Caitlin and her mother, Lisa Phillips, share a laugh on Caitlin’s wedding day. Lisa Phillips wore a gown with a high neck, long sleeves and layers of lace for her December 1981 wedding in Michigan. Caitlin’s shoes featured lace from her mother’s wedding dress.

Two brides, Story by lisa phillips Photographs by liTTle yelloW house phoTography

Y

one dress, 30 years apart

ou have to love the style of the ’80s … big hair, defined eye colors and yes, a wedding dress that allowed not an inch of skin to be revealed. For years, my daughter, Caitlin, has laughed, mocked and joked about my wedding dress.

I remember the day I went wedding dress shopping with my mom. It was right at the time of Prince Charles and Princess Diana’s wedding so the whole world was in a romantic state of mind.

The long sleeves with ruffles, the high collar — or “turtleneck” as Caitlin called it for years — the layers and layers of satin and lace — perfect for a December wedding in Michigan. I felt gorgeous, special and the most beautiful bride ever!

Soon after Caitlin got engaged in February 2011 and we started planning 36 | ShelbyLiving.com

her wedding, she asked if she could try on my dress. (Ironically, fairy tale weddings were alive again with the royal wedding of William and Kate.)

We pulled out the preserved dress and I was ready to hear the laughter and jokes all over again, but to my surprise she gave me tears instead. She stood there for more than an hour, looking in the mirror, and we both began to envision what the dress might look like if we took the sleeves off and cut away the organza “turtleneck” and defined her waist and added additional pearls.

Exactly one year prior to Caitlin’s wedding day, we walked into Alterations 2 Suit U in Birmingham. Owner Yelena Balit had a vision that was unveiled with each fitting. Caitlin mentioned we were having trouble finding just the right shoes. She found a pair she loved, yet they were not available in the United States. So Yelena took the lace from the original sleeves and hand-sewed it to

Caitlin’s shoes, giving her exactly what she had dreamed of. The satin bow with a cluster of pearls along with the hand sewn embroidery on the bodice of my original dress were surprises Yelena added that complemented Caitlin’s personality and love of pearls. Caitlin wore my veil along with my garter with two dimes dated 1981 and 2012. It’s hard to believe it is the same dress, and we are breathless with how it turned out.

Thirty years after my wedding, Caitlin married her fiancé, Daniel Bowen at the 4-H Center in Columbiana on May 5, 2012.

Styles may change over the years, but one thing hasn’t changed — every bride should feel like the most beautiful woman in the world on her wedding day.

In her dad’s and my eyes, Caitlin was. l Lisa Phillips is the mother of Caitlin Phillips Bowen and a columnist for Shelby Living.

Destination

Weddings

in Shelby County Story by CHRISTINE BOATWRIGHT

D

estination wedding locations offer everything from stunning antebellum mansions to historical venues wrought with symbolism and heritage. A bride looking for beautiful settings in a convenient location needn’t look farther than Shelby County’s finest wedding locales.

MAGNOLIA SPRINGS MANOR Poised on a hill overlooking Old Town Helena, Magnolia Springs Manor takes a bride back in time. The 1875 house, replete with white columns and a second-story balcony, was restored in 2000 for hosting events. Owner Kathy Hamilton purchased the home in 2007 and continues to upgrade for future weddings year round.

Fabric tents located behind the house offer an out-of-doors atmosphere without the worry of inclimate weather. The location can accommodate as many as 300 38 | ShelbyLiving.com

guests, and offers catering, as well.

Contact Kathy Hamilton, 664-8052 or contact@magnoliaspringsmanor.com 129 First Avenue West Helena, Ala. 35080 Magnoliaspringsmanor.com ANTEBELLUM WEDDINGS AT OAK ISLAND Oak Island offers three unique locations in one, with a gorgeous, columned mansion with wrap-around porch, a cozy, pristine barn and a lakeside location overlooking Lay Lake’s waters.

The 11,000-squre-foot mansion sits on a six-acre island, while the venue encompasses 17 acres of rolling pastures and lake views. Antebellum Weddings at Oak Island offers rental prices, as well as packages that include catering, flowers and other items for the ideal lakeside wedding.

Contact Yolanda Tolbert, 669-4696 810 Paradise Cove Lane Wilsonville, Ala. 35186 Antebellumweddings.net SOUTHERN MAGNOLIA Following in the tradition of beautiful Southern weddings, Southern Magnolia’s statuesque columned house offers a garden setting for outdoor weddings with an antebellum backdrop. In addition to the large brick house with white columns, Southern Magnolia offers a carriage house as a second wedding or reception option. In addition to a bride’s dressing room, the bridesmaids have their own dressing location. A separate “guys’ dressing area” is complete with a billiards table for the groom and groomsmen to enjoy while the festivities begin.

Contact Cathy Bearden, 665-2902, askquestions@southernmagnolia.info

CLOCKWISE FROM FAR LEFT: Southern Magnolia

by Mandii Erwin. Magnolia Springs by contributed.

Sterling Castle by Fotowerks Custom Photography.

Anderson Gail Farms by Blue Moon Studios.

Autumn Ridge by Brendon Pinola Photography.

Oak Island by Rebecca Long Photography.

1699 Spring Creek Road Montevallo, Ala. 35115 Southernmagnolia.info THE STERLING CASTLE For the bride looking for a fairytale wedding, The Sterling Castle offers a venue fit for any couple’s happily ever after. The 14th century-themed castle features a moat, drawbridge and secret passageways, as well as a dungeon, allowing any bride the fantasy of being rescued by her handsome prince. In addition to medieval-themed weddings, The Sterling Castle can offer custom weddings to fit any specifications. While the castle holds more than 60 guests, the outside venue can accommodate 300 guests. The venue’s wedding options include everything from fireworks to a vintage “getaway car” and chauffeur, as well as a horse-drawn buggy.

Contact Misty Binkerd, 669-9486, info@ thesterlingcastle.com 389 Deseret Drive Shelby, Ala. 35143 Thesterlingcastle.com ANDERSON GAIL FARMS Anderson Gail Farms was built in the early 1990s, but with old-world charm.

Anderson Gail Farms, which is located amidst Shelby’s rolling pastures, offers weddings, receptions, parties and even reunions. The family owned business offers several different accommodations.

The venue recently added a pavilion, which will open up many more opportunities for usage. Anderson Gail Farms offers full service, meaning the owners can plan the entire event, or allow hosts to choose their vendors for the facility.

Contact Melanie Smith, 994-4973,

custperf@birch.net 7535 Shelby County 47 Shelby, Ala. 35143 Andersongailfarms.com AUTUMN RIDGE Seven years ago, the Downard family built Autumn Ridge as a personal residence. Last year, however, a family friend asked if she could hold her wedding at the home, and now Autumn Ridge has become a family run wedding venue.

Brides and their wedding parties are able to access the main floor and lower level of the Chelsea mansion. With two ceremony spaces to choose from, brides can opt for a vineyard overlook or the luscious green lawn in front of the home. The venue also offers a spectacular view of Signal Mountain.

Contact Tammy Downard, 369-9764 274 Autumn Ridge January 2013 | 39

40 | ShelbyLiving.com

Columbiana, Ala. 35147 Autumnridgeweddings.com ameriCan village The American Village was inspired by some of America’s most historic places, and therefore offers a remarkable setting for weddings and other special events. The Lucille Ryals Thompson Colonial Chapel is reminiscent of the lovely chapels of early America. It offers arched and round windows and an antique wooden pulpitare to add beautiful touches to any wedding. The American Village has two reception options, with an old-fashioned, restored barn with exposed beams and pinehewn walls, and Liberty Hall, an elegant location with cut-glass chandeliers. The venue also offers beautiful landscaping, as well as an arched wooden bridge spanning a lake for photographs.

Contact Lori Hopson, 665-3535, ext.

1045, lhopson@americanvillage.org

3727 Alabama 119 Montevallo, Ala. 35115 Americanvillage.org douglas manor Douglas Manor is a family owned and operated venue sitting on 32 wooded acres. The site rests on a beautiful lake and pond, and brides can use the 9,000-square-foot indoor facility to complement the outdoor views. The indoor facility offers a built-in bar, stage, dressing room and full kitchen.

Douglas Manor is located between Chelsea and Columbiana, which is an ideal location for any bride looking for a venue away from the hustle and bustle of the city, but close enough for convenience.

Contact Tracie Howard, 369-8714, info@douglasmanorevents.com 545 Chelsea Springs Drive Columbiana, Ala. 35051 Douglasmanorevents.com l

FAR LEFT: Douglas Manor by Arden Photography. LEFT: The chapel at the American Village by Amari Photography LLC .

January 2013 | 41

The

Wow factor

Flowers offer a colorful way to customize your wedding Story by ChianTi C. CleggeTT Photographs ConTribuTed

T

here are some things that a wedding would just seem incomplete without. Flowers are one of them. Whether the idea is bright and bountiful or simple and elegant, incorporating flowers into a wedding theme can add a wow factor like nothing else.

“Trends are going toward greener, as in earth-friendly, more contemporary styles,” said Desiree Shrestha, owner of Pelham Flowers by Desiree. “People are thinking more outside of the box when it comes to their wedding flowers. It’s less about the traditional look.”

42 | ShelbyLiving.com

To add an element of surprise, Shrestha said brides are choosing lighter tones for bridesmaids’ bouquets and an arrangement with a pop of color for their own bouquet. The touch of color can range anywhere from bright orange or hot pink to brown or chartreuse.

Terrariums and succulents are two of the most popular selections, partially because they have become great for postwedding favors to family and friends.

Flowers are also now being incorporated throughout bridal showers and parties leading up to the wedding date as a hint of the theme.

“You can use centerpieces at the bridal shower, for instance, to reflect what’s to come,” Shrestha said.

Before any colors or bouquets are selected, however, Shrestha suggests that every bride begin her discussion with her projected budget in mind.

“I always begin with the bride’s budget,” she said. “Then we discuss her color scheme. It’s also very important for me to grasp what the bride wants her guests to feel and see during the event.”

The reception is where the creativity of using flowers can really light up an affair.

The party is where the most action takes

place and the right flowers can complete a theme and create an unforgettable ambiance.

“This is where you get your wow factor,” Shrestha said.

Even if the budget is small, or flowers are not a high priority, Shrestha suggests that the wedding party should never be without even the smallest floral accent.

“Every bride should have a bouquet and every groom a boutonniere, no matter what,” said Shrestha, a 16-year industry veteran.

There are two other simple rules Shrestha’s brides use for choosing the right flowers. They never choose a flower according to season. She says out-ofseason flowers are readily available from all over. Also, they order at least six to seven months prior to the wedding date to make sure they can get exactly what they want. So whether the plan is for limitless arrangements or for minimum décor, flowers are a simple way that every bride can add a unique flair to her special day. l

January 2013 | 43

Ring fads and fashions

W

Story by ChrisTine boaTWrighT

edding rings are the traditional sign of lifelong commitment. Ring trends and styles, however, change so quickly that they offer anything but a commitment to a single fashion or tradition.

meTals When jeweler Paul Petro of Paul’s Diamond Center joined the business 30 years ago, “everything was white gold,” he said. “It started changing in the late ‘70s to early ‘80s.

“In early 2000, we saw young people go to silver and white gold,” he added. “Every generation is a little different.”

Today’s generation is leaning toward yellow gold, and even pink gold, Petro said.

“Most people don’t understand that white gold is yellow gold.

The properties you put into it make it white,” Petro said.

Mike Steed, a third generation jeweler with Southeastern Jewelers, which was founded by his father, said yellow gold is making a comeback in big-city markets, such as New York City and Miami.

“It takes a while to get here,” said Steed’s daughter, Jessica Steed Landmon, who has 11 years in the jewelry business. sTones In the 1970-80s, “marquise stones was all anyone wanted,” Steed said of the “football-shaped” stone.

“There was a shortage, and people had to pay a premium for them. They (cost) 50 percent more than round or oval,” Steed said.

This year, however, Steed said he has only sold two marquise diamonds, as the trend leans more toward princess-, radiant- and cushion-cut stones.

The cushion-style diamond, also known as antique or pillow cut, was popular in the ‘30s and ‘40s. Today, vintage styles are popular, Steed said. priCe The economic downturn has affected ring trends in recent years.

A halo engagement ring has a main stone surrounded by smaller stones. Landmon said some couples are opting for a halo engagement ring since the ring “looks bigger for not as much money.”

Prior to the downturn, “everyone wanted a designer piece,” Steed said. “They’re 30 to 50 percent higher price for the same quality of gold and diamond.

Now, people aren’t as concerned about designers.” l 44 | ShelbyLiving.com

Assuming a new identity

A

Story by neal Wagner

Jennifer oetting photography

side from the diamond rings, engagement parties and furious wedding planning, brides-to-be and newlywed women should also plan some trips to government offices both before and after the big

day.

Brides who want to change their last name have additional trips to make after the wedding day.

Before a couple’s big day, the bride and groom should take a trip to the Shelby County Courthouse in Columbiana to apply for a marriage license with the Shelby County Probate Court. The probate court is open from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday, but court officials request applicants arrive no later than 4 p.m. to allow enough time to complete the process.

Marriage license applicants must present a valid governmentissued photo identification, and must pay a $43 fee. The Probate Court accepts cash and checks only.

The bride and groom must then give the a copy of the marriage license to the ordained or licensed minister or judge who performs the marriage ceremony within 30 days from the date the couple applied for the license.

The judge or minister will then complete the license and return it to the marriage license clerk, who will mail copies of the official license to the bride and groom.

After receiving a copy of the marriage license, the bride can then use the document to make the other changes necessary after the big day is over.

Shelby County Marriage License Clerk Melody Winslett said new wives should first take their marriage license to the nearest Social Security office, which can be found by visiting Socialsecurity.gov.

After the bride officially changes her name with the Social Security office, she can then change her name on documents such as driver’s licenses and vehicle titles at one of Shelby County’s three driver’s license offices.

For a woman to change her name on home- and automobilerelated documents, she must bring her updated Social Security card, along with her marriage license and any other required documentation, to the license office in Columbiana, Inverness or Pelham.

Shelby County Finance Manager Butch Burbage said the license office website at Shelbyal.com outlines the requirements for updating a wide range of documents.

If the couple owns a house or property together, they can also update deeds to reflect both parties’ names at the Shelby County Property Tax Commission office at 102 Depot St. in Columbiana. l

Jenniferoetting.com 205.492.1913 4097-A Helena Rd. Helena, AL 35080

Brides who want to change their last name have additional trips to make after the wedding day.

January 2013 | 45

Buy the groomsmen a tie that coordinates with the wedding colors.

Geoffrey Beene silk ties, $45 each, Belk.

These glass containers are a great gift for your bridesmaids.

They can be used for storage or entertaining. Causal entertaining glasses, $15, Serendipity, Brook Highland Plaza, 4287 Highway 280, Suite 229, Birmingham.

Wedding party gifts

Don’t forget your bridesmaids and groomsmen on your wedding day

Card cases and money clips are useful gifts for groomsmen. Ralph Lauren card cases with magnetic money clip, $40, and Fossil money clip, $20, Belk, 300 Colonial Promenade Parkway, Suite 2100, Alabaster.

Give your maids a pair of earrings to wear during your wedding — and a beaded stand to store them for later use. Beaded earring stand, $17.99, Serendipity.

46 | ShelbyLiving.com

Give your bridesmaid a picture frame to showcase an image from your big day. 5x5 picture frame, $9, and 8x8 picture frame, $13, both from Serendipity.

These cosmetic bags are a trendy and practical way to store your makeup.

Chevron cosmetic bags, $9.50 each, Serendipity.

Before you say ‘I do’ Story by ChianTi C. CleggeTT

A

s any wedded couple knows, successful marriages take work. The work, however, begins before the walk down the aisle. As senior pastor of Riverchase United Methodist Church, Jim Savage has the responsibility of advising couples in his congregation. In the ministry since 1976, Savage has been counseling couples for more than three decades.

Savage suggests couples participate in pre-counseling and make a list of items to discuss together and with their counselor. Of course, that list should include the traditional items like money, sex and in-laws.

“It should also include issues the couple has encountered during their relationship, which could be anything — religious and political conflicts, where to spend the holidays, anger or violence issues and general areas of great disagreement. There will be compromises on both sides,” said Savage, who married his wife Sherri in 1979.

Savage says two topics should be at the very top of the discussion: finances and the dangers of having an affair. Both are leading causes of divorce. Savage said it’s important for each person to be honest about their definition of cheating and where they stand before anything happens.

Like infidelity, he said, financial issues — overspending, gambling, secret accounts — can also put a relationship in jeopardy, and Savage suggests using a financial counselor.

Don’t assume that a beautiful wedding and a wonderful honeymoon will lead to a picture perfect life-after. The real work will begin once everything settles, said Savage, who recommends couples plan for post-marital counseling six months to one year into the marriage when they have had time to really confront the issues.

“It would benefit every couple in America to have marriage counseling,” said Savage, who stresses the importance of seeking guidance from an advisor who is certified in couples counseling.

“Our society is so complicated, and living is so stressful, that from time to time couples — Jim Savage need marriage counseling.”

Finally, Savage advises couples to re-adjust their expectations of marriage to fit reality.

“Be able to accept that you may not ever have a perfect marriage or a perfect mate because no one is perfect, and most marriages are not perfect,” he said. “Have reasonable expectations. A marriage is always a work in progress. You’re never finished working on it.” l

“A marriage is always a work in progress.”

January 2013 | 47

blooms

Love after 52 years

W

Story by annie mCgilvray Photograph ConTribuTed

edding bells decorate the sign at Ebenezer United Methodist Church in Montevallo on Friday, Aug. 3, 2012. Billy Joe Savage and Elizabeth (Betty) Lee Haynie anxiously wait the moment when they are to be joined together in holy matrimony.

The clock finally reads 11 a.m., and the music begins. The groom, wearing a blue shirt and tan suit, walks to the front of the church, and the bride walks up the aisle in a blue dress. The song, “You Light up my Life” plays and the groom looks at the bride and whispers, “You look beautiful.”

Fifty-two years ago, this couple would never have imagined they would be ending up together, standing at the front of this church ready to say their vows.

The couple’s history stretches back almost half a century to the late 1950s, when they were both students at Montevallo High School. Billy and Betty shared classes and were part of the same crowd, although they never dated each other. In fact, Billy dated Betty’s best friend and Betty dated Billy’s best friend. The couples attended junior prom as a group and also double-dated on a regular basis. Billy graduated high school in 1958 and Betty graduated in 1960, and the friends lost touch over the years..

Their four decades apart were happy ones. Betty married Joe Haynie and they had two children. Billy also married, and became stepfather to his wife Jean’s three children.

In March 2011, Joe Haynie died after 34 years of marriage to Betty. Billy’s wife was diagnosed with stomach cancer in December of the same year and died in March 2012. After her diagnosis, she told Billy he was too young to live by himself and encouraged him to move on with his life after she died.

Betty and Billy didn’t reconnect until late May 2012, when Betty was visiting friends in Brewton. While having dinner at — Betty Haynie David’s Catfish House, her friends called Billy and asked him to meet them at the restaurant. They sat next to each other at dinner and both felt their friends were setting them up. Dinner went well, so Billy asked Betty if he could visit her. She agreed, but Billy put the

“It just came natural. It was so easy to be with him.”

48 | ShelbyLiving.com

invitation off for a while.

“I felt a connection there. If I go up there, I’ll be hooked,” Billy said he thought at the time.

A few weeks later, he made good on his promise and visited Betty in Montevallo. He said he had butterflies as they went on their first, real date together. They wanted to see the lilies on the Cahaba River but got lost so they ended up at Boothton Ford. While there, Billy asked Betty to marry him, but she turned him down.

Betty said she was not ready and did not know how things were going to work out since they both lived in different cities and had different lives.

Her refusal did not put an end to their relationship, however.

They met up with old, mutual friends from high school and had breakfast dates at the Huddle House in Montevallo. The transition from being married to dating was not an issue for either of them.

“It just came natural,” Betty said. “It was so easy to be with him. We are so much alike, wanted the same things and had the same goals.”

“We both are Christians and realize that the Lord is number one in our lives,” Billy added.

On May 28, 2012, Billy asked Betty for a second time to marry him. This time Betty said yes and they bought their wedding rings that day. Billy wanted to take Betty somewhere special to ask her again. They pulled up to Montevallo High School, where the couple’s friendship started, and he took her to the front steps.

He got down on one knee and asked for her hand in marriage.

Billy and Betty said their families have been supportive of their wishes to marry and are glad they have moved forward with their lives.

So what advice do Billy and Betty have for other couples getting married in similar situations?

“If a person has been married a long time, they get used to having a partner and when you don’t have a partner anymore, your life changes drastically,” Billy said, adding that marriage depends on the situation.

Betty, agreed and added that if it’s meant to be, couples should “Go for it!”

For this couple, the road to the altar was a long one. But, on their wedding day, surrounded by friends and family sharing their congratulations, it was well worth the wait. l January 2013 | 49

50 | ShelbyLiving.com

&

SHAW

LUTES

M

Photographs by alisha Crossley phoTography

iriam Arnett Shaw and Wesley James Lutes were married on Aug. 18, 2012 in the open-air chapel at the 4-H Center in Columbiana. The Rev. Brad Moffett, whom the couple knew from Lee University in Cleveland, Tenn., officiated the 6 p.m. ceremony.

The bride is the daughter of Cindy and Bob Shaw of Birmingham. She is the granddaughter of Miriam and Bob Lewis of Camden and of Margaret Shaw and the late Bob Shaw of Mountain Brook and the late Charlotte Shaw of Columbiana.

The groom is the son of Nancy and Jason Lutes of Atlanta, Ga. He is the grandson of Betty Harris of Augusta, Ga. and of Sue Lutes and the late Jim Lutes of Daytona, Fla. Given in marriage by her father, the bride wore an ivory gown overlaid with lace and with a row of covered buttons down the back of the dress to the bottom of the train. She also wore a cathedral-length veil that was originally worn by her aunt Kelley Gage, cousins Charlotte Walton and Jenny Burton and the bride’s mother in her 1976 wedding. The bride carried a handkerchief in memory of her grandmother, Charlotte Shaw. The bride carried a bouquet of white hydrangea, versilia roses, succulents and variegated pittosporum.

A reception with a live band followed the ceremony at the 4-H Center. Guests were served teriyaki chicken strips, roast beef sandwiches, marinated shrimp, colorful grilled vegetables, sweet potato bar, spinach and artichoke dip and assorted cheeses and fruit. The tables covered with ivory tablecloths topped with burlap runners. Colorful garden flowers in various sizes of glass jars, which were all collected by the bride, were placed on the runners.

The bride’s cake was a four-tier, stucco-design vanilla cake topped with fresh porcelana roses. The bride had painted a groom bird and a bride bird, which were put in the midst of the roses. The couple made their wedding toast using the crystal flutes that the parents of the groom used at their wedding.

Chocolate chip cookies, M&M’s, peanut butter and molasses cookies, made by the bride and her mother, filled the groom’s table.

At the end of the reception, the couple left through a pathway lined with sparklers that the guests were holding. Following the honeymoon to Jackson Hole, Wyo., the couple resides in Atlanta, Ga., where they are employed by Mt. Paran Church.

Nancy Norris of Rosegate Design in Birmingham provided the flowers, and Diane Olexa of Olexa’s Catering in Mountain Brook provided the catering. l

Elle

events

design. planning. detail

focusing on the creative details of your signature event

Lauren Mandle, owner www.elleeventsbylauren.com 205.915.2179 January 2013 | 51

&

SANDERSON

FRANKLIN Photographs by eTernal refleCTions phoTography

52 | ShelbyLiving.com

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ara Christine Sanderson and Andrew David Franklin were married on Feb. 25, 2012 at Double Oak Community Church in Mt Laurel with the Rev. Steve Killough and the Rev. Robert Mullins officiating. The bride is the daughter of Dr. and Mrs. James Lester Sanderson Jr. of Hoover. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. David Kirk Franklin of Trussville.

The bride was given in marriage by her father and wore a Justin Alexander gown purchased from The Something Blue Shoppe in Hartselle. Maids of honor were Emily Sanderson and Jill Sanderson, sisters of the bride. The bride’s attendants were Melissa Franklin, Erin Sims, Morgan Oliver, Katy Lincoln, Kayla Bates, Rachel Pegues, Haviland Milling, Rene Whatley, Megan Reese and Nicole Spruiell.

Avery Franklin and Charlotte Dickson were the flower girls.

Caroline Peterson, Kate Peterson and Avery Robbins were the heralds.

The best man was David Franklin, father of the groom.

The groom’s attendants were Stephen Mitchell, Trey Tatum, Clay Tatum, Ryan Richardson, Taylor Spruell, Jase Walls, Joey Bailey, Jared Mills, Chad Bates, Spencer Feltman and Grant Gulledge. Jamison Barnes and Samuel Robbins were the ring bearers.

Musicians included guitarist and soloist Alan Henderson, as well as pianist Frank Jones. The scripture readers were McKenna Hicks and Amanda Bailey.

The couple decided to include many personal elements in the wedding from their families. They used many items from their parents’ weddings, including broaches, a flower girl basket, a ring bearer pillow and cake topper.

A reception followed overlooking Birmingham at The Club, where the bride decided to wear her mother’s altered wedding gown. The groom also changed into a white dinner jacket for the reception.

Alyson Clemons with Eternal Reflections Photography served as the photographer and John and Angela Deaver with Main Street Productions served as the videographers.

JAMM Entertainment provided the DJ service, lighting and photobooth at the reception. Beverly Andrews served as the wedding coordinator. Bridesmaids’ dresses were from Bridesmaid’s Inc., and groomsmen’s tuxes were from Mr. Burch Formal Wear. Donna Pow with Brides and Bowties made both the bride’s and groom’s cakes.

The bride is a graduate of Spain Park High School, and the groom is a graduate of Hewitt-Trussville High School. They both attended The University of Alabama and graduated in May 2010.

After the wedding, the couple took a honeymoon trip to St. Lucia. They now live in Inverness. l

January 2013 | 53

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VETRANO

HULSEY

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Photographs by david boyd phoTography

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girl from Birmingham with music dreams and a baseball boy from Enterprise met one night in Nashville while they were both students at Middle Tennessee State University.

Will Hulsey said it was love at first sight, but Sarah Vetrano needed a little more convincing. Will was persistent in chasing Sarah, and she finally agreed to go on a date.

After helping Will recover from an appendectomy, Sarah knew it was meant to be. Will played baseball and Sarah aspired to sing. Years later, singing has turned into teaching and playing baseball has turned into coaching.

After five years of dating, Will put Sarah’s name in lights to propose at her family beach house in Gulf Shores.

Deciding on a ceremony location was easy — Sarah’s childhood church, Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church.

The reception was a homerun baseball theme at Regions Park.

The love of baseball was shown through the details of boutonnieres, the groom’s cake and wedding favors. Sarah surprised her groom at the reception with a serenade to Etta James’ “At Last.” The evening ended with a walk through sparklers and cheers and a limo ride to Ross Bridge. The Hulseys left for their Puerto Rican honeymoon the next day.

Sarah Katherine Vetrano is the daughter of Leon Gerard Vetrano of Birmingham. The bride is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Webb Mays of Shelby County and the late Mr. and Mrs. Leon Joseph Vetrano of Birmingham.

William Timothy Hulsey Jr. is the son of Mr. and Mrs. William Timothy Hulsey of Enterprise. The groom is the grandson of Mrs. Ann W. Cheeseman and the late Mr. Lawrence Asa Cheeseman of Mobile and the late Mr. and Mrs. Ray Hulsey of Birmingham.

Magnificent Cakes created the bride and groom’s cakes, and Grand Slam provided the catering. Dorothy McDaniel was the florist, and Feel the Beat Entertainment provided the entertainment. l January 2013 | 55

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Photographs by morgan joy phoTography

olly Elizabeth Walker and James Keith Spain, M.D. were married Saturday, March 3, 2012 at Mobile Botanical Gardens in Mobile.

The bride is the daughter of Mike and Jan Walker of Montevallo. After graduating from Montevallo High School in 2002, Molly attended the University of Mobile where she played softball and was a member of the 2006 NAIA National Championship Team. She received a degree in public relations and advertising and took a job in Mobile working in the non-profit sector after graduating.

James Keith Spain, M.D. is the son of Jim and Cece Spain of Mobile. Keith graduated from Mobile’s Murphy High School in 1999. He received a bachelor’s degree in social science from Tulane University in 2003 and a medical degree from the University of South Alabama School of Medicine in 2010.

Keith met Molly in his final year of medical school while Molly was working for a local non-profit organization. With an interest in running and cycling, Molly decided to try out a local cycling group.

Molly was just starting to ride, and when she dropped behind the group, Keith went back to ride with her. The rest is history!

After completing medical school, Keith moved to Port Orange, Fla. to complete his residencey in family medicine. They continued their relationship long distance for two years, when Molly decided to move to Florida to be closer to Keith. He proposed on June 2, 2011 after a trip around the Southeast to visit family.

Molly did a lot of the wedding planning long distance with the help of Keith’s mom in Mobile. They chose to hold the ceremony outside to reflect their laid-back personalities and love for the outdoors. Molly chose navy and pink as her colors and wore a dress

by Watters. The maid of honor was Sarah McMinn of Montevallo, and the bridesmaids were Ann Marie Powell, Linden Jones, Carrie Spain Waldrop and Cheryl Spain Stoudenmiere.

Keith chose his father to be his best man. The groomsmen were Cullan Duke, Marric Johnson and Thad Walker. The flower girls were Keith’s nieces, Aneliese Waldrop and Adelyn Stoudenmire, and the ring bearer was Keith’s nephew, Conner Waldrop.

Molly and Keith’s favorite part about their wedding was being surrounded by all their family and friends and dancing to the dueling pianos at the reception. They honeymooned in Asheville, N. C. After marrying, they moved to the Tampa Bay, Fla. area for Keith to complete a sports medicine fellowship and Molly to continue her work with the American Heart Association. Keith will complete his fellowship in May 2013 and pursue a sports medicine position. l January 2013 | 57

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MOBLEY

BARRIOS

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Photographs by juan rodrigueZ phoTography

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alya and John Mobley of Alabaster are proud to announce the marriage of their daughter, Janessa Mobley, to Jordan Barrios, son of Terah and Miguel Barrios of Orlando, Fla. The wedding was held Sept. 1, 2012, at 4:15 p.m. in Helena.

The bride is the granddaughter of Doris and the late Guy Puffer and of Miriam and the late Grover Smith. The groom is the grandson of Helen and Leonard Hall and of Lidia and the late Rene Barrios.

Janessa has a bachelor’s of fine arts in graphic design from the University of Montevallo. Jordan has a bachelor’s of business administration in accounting from the University of Montevallo and is working toward his master’s in business administration at Columbia College.

The bride was attended by maid of honor Jessica Guindon and bridesmaids Lauren Simon, Rebekah Street and Rachel Street. The groom was attended by best man Matthew Roth and groomsmen Adam Barrios, Chris Davidson and Ben Guzman.

The wedding flowers were blue orchids, purple and teal hydrangeas, plum calla lilies and chrysanthemums and button mums, all accented with peacock feathers.

The bridesmaids wore various Alfred Angelo cocktaillength chiffon dresses in teal with brown satin sashes. The men’s tuxes were from Jos. A. Bank. l January 2013 | 59

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GRAY

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Photographs by lovely union fine phoTography

riana Brooke Gray and Thomas Wesley Remkus were married February 18, 2011 at Green Valley Baptist Church. The 2 p.m. ceremony was officiated by Rev. Billy John Crosby, grandfather of the bride.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Austin Gray of Hoover. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. James Ortho Bishop of Tupelo, Miss., and Mr. Thomas George Remkus, of Fayetteville, Ark. Given in marriage by her father, the bride wore an ivory Enzoani strapless gown of lace and silk organza. It featured a lace bodice, hand-beaded Swarovski crystals, an empire waist and semi-cathedral train. She carried a bouquet of white peonies and cream roses wrapped in satin ribbon with pearl trim. The bouquet was accented with the bride’s grandmother’s pearl and crystal beaded brooch.

The attendants included matron of honor Brittany Gray Burkhead of Hoover and maid of honor Bailey Annette Gray of Hoover, sisters of the bride. Bridesmaids were Allyson Jan Basden of Hoover, Katy Nicole Fisher of Jackson, Tenn., Hannah Brooke Joiner of Lexington, Ky., Mary Laura Rogan of Vestavia Hills and Anne Meredith Shaw of Lexington, Ky. The bridesmaids wore strapless floor length Victorian lilac chiffon gown.

The best man was Adam Evan Potter of Huntsville.

Groomsmen were William Austin Gray Jr., and Stephen Payton Gray of Hoover, brothers of the bride. Michael Kevin Mangum of Demorest, Ga., Jonathan David Pierce of Memphis, Tenn., Richard Allen Taylor, brother of the groom, and Andrew Thomas White of Tupelo, Ms. The groomsmen wore black classic tuxedos with white rose boutonnieres.

The ceremony began with the song of dedication, “Surely the Presence,” sung by the bride’s aunt. The bride was announced and processed in by “Trumpet Voluntary”. After exchanging vows, the bride and groom took communion while “Before the Throne of God Above” was sung and accompanied by violin.

A reception followed in the Founders Clubhouse at Greystone Golf and Country Club. The bride’s cake was a four-tiered round cake with stucco buttercream frosting and almond flavoring.

The groom’s cake was a three-tiered chocolate cake drizzled with peanut butter.

The newlyweds made their way through well wishers with sparklers and cheers! The couple honeymooned in Cancun, Mexico, and now resides in Demorest, Ga. The bride works for Lifeline Children’s Services, and the groom is on staff at River Point Community Church. l January 2013 | 61

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BERLER

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Photographs by angela marino phoTography

helsea Moser and Mark Berler met unexpectedly three years prior to their wedding day. Chelsea just moved to Florida from North Dakota, and Mark was visiting the Florida beaches from Alabama. They were both eating at Bud and Alley’s Restaurant and quickly realized they were the only two eating lunch alone. So they introduced themselves and spent the next few hours talking about life. They never imaged that they’d marry in the exact location they met — on 30A in Seaside, Fla. Adventure and travel describes this couple. They love traveling to other countries and really love the adventure and good food it brings. Even their engagement was a nice romantic sushi dinner at Pacific Rim Sushi in Birmingham. It’s their favorite sushi restaurant, and the whole staff knows them by name.

The food was also fun to plan for this beach wedding getaway. They went with the traditional seafood deliciousness that 30A is known for. And dessert was an impeccable vanilla génoise cake filled with a middle layer of chocolate ganache and two layers of French vanilla butter cream icing to top it off.

Beach colors were used throughout the wedding day. Aqua along with soft white and khaki colors were the base of the color scheme. Giant white roses were used throughout — with a touch of white orchids and hot pink rose petals scattered everywhere. They also had handmade orchid leis made for their immediate family for the ceremony.

Chelsea and Mark wanted to incorporate something that reminded them of when they first met on the beach. So they chose to personalize everything so the guests could experience a relaxed beach getaway filled with much joy and love.

Mark and Chelsea work in Shelby County, where he works for Sapient, an international professional services company, and she owns Solamar Agency, a marketing company. l

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LOWMAN

REYNOLDS

64 | ShelbyLiving.com

Photographs by Karla pound phoTography

Celebrate your special event with a line-up that’s fresh, healthy, and deliciously different.

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arah Sansom Lowman of Pelham and Charles Asa Reynolds of Memphis, Tenn. were united in marriage Sept. 15, 2012 at Redeemer Presbyterian Church in Jackson, Miss. The ceremony was officiated by the bride’s father, Dr. Jeff Lowman and the Rev. David Maginnis of Helena.

The bride is the daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Jeff E. Lowman of Pelham. She is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. L. Graham Hughes of Jackson, Miss. and the late Sturgis Lee Lowman and Jean Sansom Lowman of Montgomery.

The groom is the son of Charles Edward Reynolds and Martha Smith Reynolds of Olive Branch. He is the grandson of Mr. Gerald Smith and the late Mary Smith of Evergreen, and Mrs. Jeanette Reynolds of Memphis, Tenn.

Escorted by her brother, the bride wore her mother’s Priscilla of Boston gown altered by Sandra Ashford of The Ashford Collection in Ridgeland, Miss. The V neckline of the bodice was adorned with antique Chantilly Alençon lace. From the deep V of the back fell a full train edged in a wide border of Alençon.

The A-line skirt was accented with a pleated satin cummerbund.

Her cathedral veil was also edged with antique Alençon lace and scattered with large Alençon medallions. Complementing the bride’s ensemble was a hand-tied bouquet of pink garden roses, cream hydrangeas and lavender.

Mary Lavens Maginnis, Miles Maginnis and Ann Coulter Maginnis, daughters of the Rev. and Mrs. David Maginnis of Helena, welcomed guests with wedding programs embellished with an original pen and ink sketch of the bridal bouquet. A watercolor of the bouquet, a gift from artist Eleanor Hughes, the bride’s maternal grandmother, was displayed in the church foyer.

On the eve of the wedding, the wedding party, who were composed of friends from multiple states, celebrated with the groom’s parents at a rehearsal dinner at Table 100. The wedding day opened with a bridesmaids’ brunch given by family friends.

Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed dessert and dancing at historic Duling Hall in the Fondren district of Jackson.

Following a wedding trip to Hawaii, the couple is at home in Memphis, Tenn., where the groom is a general surgery resident with University of Tennessee, Memphis, and the bride is a college guidance counselor at Southern Baptist Educational Center. l

Signature Friday Pasta

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WALDING

DURING

Photographs by haiden Woodall phoTography

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arion Renee Walding and Austin Dean During were married Saturday, Oct. 13, 2012, at The Potting Shed in Ozark. The afternoon ceremony took place outside on the nursery’s charming white pergola. The reception immediately followed at the same venue with dinner and dancing into the night.

The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James R. Walding of Ozark. She is a 2012 graduate of the University of Alabama, where she received a master’s degree in American studies. She is currently a graphic designer at Diversified Label Images, Inc., in Birmingham and a freelance photographer with The Tuscaloosa News in Tuscaloosa.

The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Rodney During of Chelsea. He is a 2009 graduate of the University of Alabama, where he received bachelor’s degrees in marketing and advertising. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree in marketing at UA and is a graduate research assistant at the university’s Student Health Center.

The matron of honor was Christine Walding, the bride’s sister-in-law, of Niceville, Fla., and the maid of honor was April Williams, a childhood friend of the bride, of Orlando, Fla. Bridesmaids were Valerie Jones of Atlanta, Ga., and Erin Murray of New Orleans, La. The best man was Forrest During, the groom’s brother, of Fairhope. Groomsmen were Jason Brandt of Dallas, Texas; David Calhoun of Nashville, Tenn.; and Kyle Gunnels of Denver, Colo.

The ceremony was officiated by Minister Ben Talmadge of Tuscaloosa, a close friend of the bride and groom.

The couple currently resides in Northport with their French bulldog, Amos. l

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RENFROE

CRUMPTON

68 | ShelbyLiving.com

Photographs by Charles smiTh phoTographers

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llison Jeannine Renfroe and Brian Wade Crumpton were united in marriage on the evening of Oct. 13, 2012, at the Chapel Hill Meeting House in Pike Road. The ceremony was officiated by Bob Sharpe.

Escorted by her father, the bride wore an ivory strapless gown with a sweetheart neckline. Off-white lace continued down the full length of the train. The bride’s ivory veil featured lace around the entire edge of the veil.

Complementing the bride’s ensemble was a hand-tied bouquet of mixed roses, rananculus and white hydrangeas.

Wrapped around bride’s bouquet was an ivory and white handkerchief sewn by one of her bridesmaids.

Attending the bride as the matron of honor was the bride’s sister, Bonnie Renfroe Folmar. Bridesmaids were Haley Deal, Inge Kay Gilchrist, Heather Irvin Kent and Kelli Fondren Strowd. The attendants wore strapless satin gowns in sapphire blue that featured white sashes. They carried hand-tied bouquets of mixed flowers. The flower girl was Taylor Grace Kent.

Serving as best man was Elliott Roberts, childhood friend of the groom. Groomsmen were Chris Leon, Wes Gilchrist, Wayne Hilley and Shane Naish. The ring bearers were Jack Gilchrist and Bowen Gilchrist.

Julie Bunkley served as the wedding director. Floral arrangements were created by Dana’s Floral. The reception dinner was served by It’s Your Day Catering. Joshua Pittman of The Bearded Man Film Company filmed the ceremony and reception. Charles Smith photographed the wedding day.

Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed a reception at The Waters Marina while dancing to the music of Albert Simpson.

On the eve of the wedding, the groom’s aunt hosted a rehearsal dinner at La Jolla Restaurant in Montgomery.

Following a trip to St. Lucia, the couple is at home in Helena. l

A perfect wedding.

A perfect day.

I’m truly a lucky man.

I wonder if she feels as I do?

TAKE THE PICTURE, ALREADY! There’s a rib over there with my name on it.

RECEPTIONS • PRIVATE DINING REHEARSAL DINNERS Alabaster 205.605.0170 • Greystone 205.991.1306 jimnnicks.com January 2013 | 69

70 | ShelbyLiving.com

THE AMERICAN VILLAGE

A VENUE SO UNIQUE IT’S A NATIONAL TREASURE.

COLE

J

INSPIRED BY SOME OF AMERICA’S MOST HISTORIC PLACES, THE AMERICAN VILLAGE OFFERS A REMARKABLE SETTING FOR WEDDINGS AND OTHER SPECIAL EVENTS.

Photographs by jessiCa WrighT phoTography

ahnna Rae Hall and Gregory Brooks Cole were united in Christian marriage on July 21, 2012, at the Lucille Ryals Thompson Colonial Chapel at The American Village in Montevallo.

The 6 p.m. ceremony was officiated by the Rev. Robbins Sims of First United Methodist Church of Eufaula. The bride is the daughter of Dr. Jeffrey Austin Hall and Mrs. Jill Puncochar Hall of Hoover. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Scott Edward Cole of Eufaula.

Given in marriage by her father, the bride wore an ivory lace gown. She carried a bouquet of white peonies and cream roses wrapped in linen and lace. The bouquet was accented with the bride’s grandmother’s pearl beaded cameo brooch.

Miss Jaclyn Olivia Hall, sister of the bride, served as maid of honor, and the bridesmaids were Brooke Jones Baker, Shelby Elizabeth Cole, Allison O’Brien Granger, Clair Weaver Hanson, Kathryn Cole McDowell, Sarah Lewis Molony, Rachel Sims Pegues and Chloe Woolsey Wood. The nine bridesmaids wore assorted styles of navy gowns of silk chiffon fabric.

The best man was Scott Edward Cole, father of the groom. Groomsmen were John Stanton Burns, Rohan Harish Kambeyanda, Marshall Alexander McDowell, Scott Gregory Peters, Ryan Joseph Puhr, Clayton Barrett Slade.

Christopher Carl Smola and Robert Lee Smola Jr. The nine groomsmen wore three piece gray suits.

A reception followed in the barn at the American Village.

Guests enjoyed a Southern style buffet of heavy hors d’oeovres including gourmet barbecue pork sandwiches.

Sunflowers and burlap dressed the barn for the occasion.

The bride’s cake was a four-tiered round cake with stucco butter cream frosting and almond flavoring. The groom’s cake was a three-tiered chocolate cake surrounded by chocolate and peanut butter cupcakes.

The newlyweds made their way through well-wishers with bubbles and exited in a vintage teal Mercedes.

After a honeymoon in Playa Mujeres, Mexico, the couple will reside in Macon, Ga. The bride will continue working for the American Cancer Society and the groom is employed at Geico Insurance Company. l

VISIT US AT THE SHELBY LIV ING BRIDAL SHO W JANUARY 6

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FULLER

GUY

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Photograph by franK Carnaggio phoTography

ee Anne Fuller and P. J. Guy were married Saturday, December 29, 2012, at Southside Baptist Church in Birmingham.

The bride is the daughter of Randy and Tammy Fuller of Indian Springs. She is the granddaughter of Dean Doss of Birmingham, and of the late Eleanor and Cecil Fuller of Selma, Alabama.

Lee Anne graduated from Oak Mountain High School in 2005 and is a graduate of the University of Alabama. She is employed by the Hoover City School System.

The groom is the son of Kim and Phillip Guy of Tuscaloosa. He is the grandson of Mollie and Dural Guy of Tuscaloosa, and of the late Agnes and Alvin Hallman.

P. J. is a 2000 graduate of Holt High School and Auburn University of Montgomery. He is employed by the Tuscaloosa County School System.

The matron of honor was Grace Fuller Perry, sister of the bride. Bridesmaids were Janna Tinker, Janna Simpson, Janie Boswell, Kristy Hunter, Rachel Lewis, Jessica Beattie and Bethe Dodds. Shannon Downing and Brittany Harper served as junior bridesmaids. The flower girl was Katie Guy, and the bride’s nephew, Brooks Perry, served as her ring bearer.

Phillip Guy served as his son’s best man. Groomsmen were Hunter Richardson, Nick Richardson, Ricky Matthews, Clay Booth, Kody Selman, Jody Colvin, Brandon Hoffman and Matt Fuller. The groom’s nephew, Kaleb Hunter, served as his ring bearer.

The reception was held at Ted’s Garage. After a honeymoon in St. Lucia, the couple will make their home in Tuscaloosa. l

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SMITH

THE LINGERIE SHOPPE 2403 MONTEVALLO ROAD MOUNTAIN BROOK VILLAGE

(205)871.8994

CHERRY

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Photograph by jessiCa simmons phoTography

utch Grady and Teresa Gulledge of Sterrett are happy to announce the engagement of their daughter, Amanda LeShae Smith, to Jeremy Thomas Cherry.

Jeremy is the son of Ronnie and Brenda Cherry of Springville and grandson of Mary Craft of Trussville.

The bride-to-be graduated from Chelsea High School and received her degree from the University of South Alabama.

Amanda resides in the North Shelby County area with her daughter, Annabelle.

She is the director of marketing and public relations for Cahaba Valley Computer Services and serves as a volunteer ambassador for many of the area chambers of commerce.

Jeremy graduated from Parkway Christian Academy and attended Lee University in Cleveland, Tenn.

Jeremy went on to serve in the U.S. Army and is now employed by American Airlines at the Birmingham International Airport.

The couple attends Inverness Vineyard Church and are planning a late September 2013 wedding at Rosewood in Pinson. l January 2013 | 73

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The University of Montevallo celebrated Founders’ Day on Oct. 11.

1. Maeghen Pickett, Ray Ozley and Erik Cederholm 2. Julia Maloney and Brittany Chauarria 3. Solomon Vann and Katie Searcy 4. Devin Collar and Abbey Estes 5. Ross, Magan and Ruth Carver 6. Rebecca Stoltz and Jayne Stoltz Miller 7. Kirsten Parker and Courtney Meadows 8. Alyssa Maxwell, Danielle Gissendanner and Kaylee Hale 9. Kim Hagood and Laura Batt 10. Camille Watkins and Daniel Gardner 11. Brian “Paddy” McLendon and Marion Brown

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12. Sarah-Jean Ingram and Jeannie Ingram 13. Hannah Ronan-Daniell and Corey Duke 14. Brad Teague, Samantha Williamson and Sam Clark 15. Shadia Shunnara and Costa Tsutsitos 16. Christopher Hightower, Breona Jackson and Amos Hollinhead

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January 2013 | 75

SHELBY SPOTTED

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Zombie Chase

Chelsea Kiwanis hosted the Zombie Chase at Chelsea’s Hargis Retreat Oct. 27.

1. Steve Wakefiled, Jason Janoulis, Kristi Janoulis and Jeff Whipple 2. Taylor Mott, Julie Mott and Meg Moser 3. Niki, Alex and Jason Guin with Brooke Anderson 4. Michelle Fogle and Ashley Howard

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5. Tiffany Parker, Clint Mountain, Daniel Courington, Maureen Courington, Meghan Suda, Zack Garmon and Lindsey Harris 6. Lauren Klumpp, Aye Vunoppet, Jonathan Luther and Drake Roberts 7. Steve English, Timothy Hardwick, Kelly McNair, Tim McNair, Maureen Duke, Ryan Duke, Meredith Holzer and Patrick Holzer

UR ROOFING NEED FOR ALL YO S

RECISION ROOF CONTRACTOR S CALL P

January 2013 | 77

SHELBY SPOTTED

Run Away from Domestic Violence

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The Run Away From Domestic Violence, which benefited Hannah Home Shelby, was held at St. Vincent’s One Nineteen Oct. 27.

1. Kim Burroughs, Angela Laughlin and Alan Abrams 2. Stephanie Mahan, Jeremy Mahan, Alek Letchman and Heather Gottlieb 3. Kristin Handley and Matt Nichols 4. Samantha Clayton and Cory Grabany 5. Anita Lewis and Laura Averette

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6. Mary Byrd and Renata Vitalina 7. Mandy Cox and Angela Dunn 8. Keesha Hendricks, Leslie Cook and Brandon Owens 9. Diane Hughes and Donna Sibley 10. Jana Sykes and Marie Martin

January 2013 | 79

SHELBY SPOTTED

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Hundreds attended the second annual Shelby Blues and BBQ in Old Town Helena on Oct. 20.

1. Houston, Houston and Jill Byrd 2. Wanda and Jessica Wideman 3. Heather Boyle and Tricia Bianco 4. Jeanie Dennis and Bryan McElroy 5. Bill and Linda Bangham 6. Cris Nelson and Brian Peters 7. Matthias Richter and Miriam Richter 8. Scott and Dedra Smitherman 9. Jessi Posey, Brian Molina and Drew Dixon 10. Bob and Juana Hiros

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11. Diane Bell and Heather Bell Lawing 12. Kevin and Kaylee Johnson 13. Rusty and Tina Shackleford 14. Melinda and Leslie King 15. Anna Catherine Wilson, Gracie George and Carly Atkisson

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January 2013 | 81

SHELBY SPOTTED

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Harvest Festival

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The Town of Mt Laurel welcomed fall with its annual Harvest Festival on Oct. 13.

1. Inez Armstrong and Carol Long 2. Emma and Jennifer Smith 3. Dionne Edwards, Felicia Sanders and Shannon Williams 4. John, Tripp and Jennifer McInnish 5. Abby Craddock and Delaney, Brad and Jennifer Castleman 6. Jobie Brasher and Jeanette Weaver 7. Ryan and Gage Jennings 8. Kenzie Scott, Cindy Scott and Sawyer, Lindsey and Savannah Scott 9. Joseph and Lindsey Buff 10. Elaine Upton and Kim Campbell

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11. Brandi and Jasi Reedy 12. Laura and Liam Partain 13. Claire and Neil McCoy 14. Shondra, Morgan and Lucy Whitt 15. Betty and Roy Williams 16. Lee Wright, Kyle Stevens, Bo Bearden and David Johnson

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January 2013 | 83

SHELBY SPOTTED

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Tales for Tots

The Arc of Shelby County held Tales for Tots Great Pumpkin Party on Oct. 25.

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1. Stephanie Driver and Ava Brown 2. Bethany and Hannah Perry 3. Jenny Epperson and Julissa Fernandez 4. Arricka Gilliard and Julie Slanovits 5. Anna Kate and Tracy Waldrip 6. Amy and Shiloh Pierce

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Fall Festival

Riverchase Baptist Church held a fall festival Oct. 28.

1. Kimberly Daley and Amy Ward 2. Kelly Reaves and Shannon Burns 3. Ray Estep, Sam Knight, Mindy Estep, Hutson Harper, Hallie Harper, Asher Edmonds and Stacy Knight 4. Max Perez and Jean Roberson 5. Jake Fuqua and Avery Greer

January 2013 | 85

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WOOFStock was held at Veterans Park in Hoover Oct. 13.

1. Doris Tucker with Princess 2. Patty, Howard and Daniel Funkhauser with Domino 3. Garrett Gamble and Staci Ocain with Turbo and Bo 4. Will Hannum with Maggie 5. Beth Uhlman with Bailey and Tiffany Dunlap with Mister 6. Ashli Broadnax with Reese 7. Frank Shell with Isabella 8. Adriana and Paulette DiBenedetto with Trent 9. Steve Long with Kolby 10. Kathryn Dix with Lavice

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Whigmaleerie Day

The town of Wilsonville celebrated Whigmaleerie Day Oct. 27.

1. Robin and Mike Griffin 2. Billy Baker, Bree Tinch and Ryan Tinch 3. Erin, Anzlie and Daniel Gillham 4. Jack and Carolyn Mundy 5. Stephanie Woods and Linda Obering

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Oak Mountain State Park Fall Festival

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Oak Mountain State Park held its annual Fall Festival Oct. 13.

1. Jane Smith, Adilynn Bulger, Devin Bulger, Addie Smith and Jonathan Bulger 2. Audrey, Alicia and Carissa Mooney 3. Fatima Lopez, Nancy Guijosa and Maira Martinez 4. Candi, Aaliyah and Adrian Looney 5. Gina Deavers with Addison and Avery Allen 6. Carrie and Anna Tucker

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Love the Pearls Luncheon

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Inverness Country Club hosted the “Love The Pearls Luncheon” Oct.16.

1. Taylor Gell and Madelin Miles 2. Peggy Blake and Lyndy Rogers 3. Wanda Ehl, Doris Sims, Barbara McDaniel, Marge Johnson-Jefferies and Ann Nail.

4. Megan Wise and Katy Wise 5. Michelle Johnson and Kristin McLaughlin

Services

Plumbing • Heating • Cooling

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Hoover Hayride

The city of Hoover held the Hoover Hayride and Family Night Oct. 27 at Veterans Park.

1. Jessica Martin, Cheyenne Martin, Debbie Lowrey and Phillip Gunter 2. Samanhe Elias-Saldierna and Ada Saldierna 3. Teri, Kayla and Lilli Wolff 4. Amahri, Chris, Hailey, Alijah and Tamika Smith 5. Karen Larios, Dennis Zavala, Miriam Aldana and Sofia Hernandez 6. Danielle and Luke Wilson 7. John and Melody Greene 8. Matt McCullough, Molly McCullough, Caroline Beck and Tara Beaird 9. Ayana and Michelle Lomax 10. Caroline Welcher, Elizabeth Welcher, Madeline Jane Welcher, Marion Petty, Jack Petty, Kirk Petty and Mary Carlyle Petty

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11. Cadence and Brayden Garner 12. Victoria and Dallen Vest 13. Brennan Stroup, Amy Privette, Maggie Stroup, Paige Walls and Kyra Walls 14. Madison Rocher and Ben McAdams 15. Caeleb Austin, Jordan Austin and Jacob Walker

At Children’s, we want to see every child grow up to enjoy their teenage years, even if their parents may enjoy it less.

Our nationally ranked healthcare team treated children from 43 states and 5 foreign countries just last year. Children’s of Alabama is recognized locally and around the world as providing a level of care that presents children with a much brighter future.

1600 7t h Av e N U e S O U t h B i r m i N g h A m , A L 35233 (205) 638-9100 ChildrensAL.org

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OUT & ABOUT Cahaba Cycles Beginner Ride

Shelby Living Bridal Show

Ongoing

Frozen Tide: The Frozen Tide, the University of Alabama’s club hockey team, plays at the ice arena at the Pelham Civic Complex every Friday and Saturday in January. Visit Bamahockey.net for more information.

Cahaba Cycles Beginner Ride: Are you a new to mountain biking? This group meets in the south trailhead parking lot (last lot on Terrace Drive before going up Pea Vine Road) at 9 a.m. every Saturday and rides parts of Oak Mountain’s epic trail system. This is a true beginner ride so come out and give mountain biking a shot in a non-competitive, expectationfree environment. If you don’t yet have a mountain bike, contact ride leader Stacey Davis at staceyd65@msn.com or 205515-4054, and we’ll try to find you one.

Jan. 6

Shelby Living Bridal Show: View the newest bridal trends and connect with the best vendors in the Southeast at the third annual Shelby Living Bridal Show. Dozens of vendors will attend, including photographers, caterers, florists, bridal consultants and wedding venues. Make sure 92 | ShelbyLiving.com

to stay for the fashion show to see the newest wedding gowns from Lazaro, Tara Keely, Justin Alexander, Modeca, Allure and more. Numerous door prizes will be given away following the fashion show, including a $1,000 gift certificate for wedding bands from Diamonds Direct. The show will be held, Sunday, Jan. 6 from 1-4 p.m. at the Cahaba Grand Conference Center, 3660 Grandview Parkway, Birmingham. For more information, call Katie McDowell or Alan Brown at 205-669-3131.

Jan. 19

Justin Gaffrey Exhibit: Need a getaway to the beach without leaving town? Join the Shelby County Arts Council on Saturday, Jan. 19 at the opening reception for Justin Gaffrey. Justin’s work is well known in the 30A area of the Florida’s Gulf Coast. The opening reception is Jan 19 from 2-4 p.m. at the SCAC, 104 Mildred Avenue, Columbiana.

For more information, contact Susan Gordon at 205-6690044 or by email at Info@ shelbycountyartscouncil.com.

The exhibit will run through Jan. 30.

Evangel Snowball Run: Classical Christian School, 423

Thompson Road, Alabaster, will hold its Snowball Run on Jan. 19 at 8 a.m. The run includes a 5k, 10k and onemile Fun Run. Proceeds benefit ECCS. Registration begins at 7 a.m., and awards and door prizes will be given away at 9:30 a.m. Early registration ends Jan. 17 and costs $25 for the 5k and 10 and $15 for the fun run.

Addition $5 registration after Jan. 17. For more information, visit Evangelclassical.org/ snowball.

Jan 25-27

WCC Winter New Play Festival: Check out this exciting showcase of new plays written by the University of Montevallo’s talented student playwrights.

Performances will be held at the Chichester Black Box Theatre Jan. 25-27 at 7:30 p.m. Free admission.

Jan. 28

Voice Recital: The UM Vocal/ Choral Area presents a guest artist recital featuring Terrance Brown, baritone, and Tiffany Bostic-Brown, soprano, both from the University of North Alabama voice faculty, with Laurie Middaugh, piano. This recital will be held Monday, Jan. 28 from 7:30-8:30 p.m. at LeBaron Recital Hall at the University of Montevallo. It is

free, and the public is invited to attend. For more information, call 205-665-6670.

Jan. 30

GSCC Annual Meeting: The Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce will install new officers at its annual meeting on Wednesday, Jan. 30. Bill Canary, president and CEO of the Business Council of Alabama, will be the speaker.

The event will take place from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Pelham Civic Complex, 500 Amphitheater Road, Pelham.

For more information, visit Shelbychamber.org or call 6634542.

Jan. 31

Joint Recital: Allison Evans, oboe, is from the studio of Machiko Schlaffer, and Kayle Mitchell, clarinet, is from the studio of Dr. Lori Ardovino. The recital will be held Thursday, Jan. 31 from 7:30-8:30 p.m. at LeBaron Recital Hall at the University of Montevallo. It is free and the public is invited.

Do you have an event you would like to feature in the Shelby Living calendar? If so, email Editor Katie McDowell at Katie.mcdowell@ shelbyliving.com. Entries are free and must be submitted at least six weeks in advance. l

WHY I LOVE SHELBY COUNTY

Mary Lou Williams

‘I’ll never have to live anywhere else’

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Story by KATIE MCDOWELL Photograph CONTRIBUTED

ew people are as closely associated with Montevallo as Mary Lou Williams. The director of the Montevallo Chamber of Commerce attended the University of Montevallo, where she received a bachelor’s degree in English and a master’s in teaching. She returned to her alma mater in 1985 and spent more than 20 years there as the director of development and alumni relations.

Williams was born in Fort Scott, Kan., and raised in Boaz, Ala. She and her husband, Joe, have been married 44 years and have two daughters and one granddaughter.

Mary Lou attends University Baptist Church and is a member of the Montevallo Boys and Girls Club advisory council, AAUW and Montevallo Study Club. She enjoys playing tennis and is a UM Falcons basketball fan.

Why do you love Shelby County and Montevallo?

I love living where I went to college.

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NCAA Division II athletics are on the calendar. The tennis facilities in Pelham are among the best in the Southeast. There are great golf courses in Shelby County.

Montevallo Main Street Players, music and theatre at the University of Montevallo and visual arts events on Main Street in town offer a diverse cultural life for Montevallo citizens.

UM’s teams compete for championships and high school sports always draw a crowd. We have fine doctors and an excellent hospital in Shelby Baptist Medical Center. Our churches offer denominational choice and the opportunity to make life meaningful. The American Village, the Alabama National Cemetery, museums, wineries and excellent restaurants continue to put us on the map! I love living in Shelby County because I’ll never have to live anywhere else. I’m already where most people would want to be, if they just knew about it.

What’s your most embarrassing childhood memory?

I did a lot of public speaking in middle and high school by entering oratorical contests in my school and then representing the school in other competitions. As a 10th grader, I had made it to the district contest for Civitan. The event was at Snead Junior College in the auditorium. The street side of the hall featured big windows that gave all of us on the stage a view of students and cars passing on College Avenue. Contestants were seated on the stage, and we took our turn at delivering our memorized speeches.

Mine began with a dramatic paraphrase of the Civitan Creed, and I was off to a good start until I was distracted by something out the window that caught my eye. My mind went blank. I don’t remember how long I struggled to find a spot in the text

where I could get back on track. I do remember the horror of not having the words in my head, and it was awful!

What do you love about grandparenting?

My grandmothers were important to me when I was a child. Both of my parents’ mothers lived to be great grandmothers, and my own great grandmother lived to attend my wedding.

Today, I am grateful for the model of grandmothering that I have from Grandmother McElroy, Gramma Elder and my great-grandmother, “Toddie.” All three were brave, articulate, fun and hard working.

My mother is the best sport ever and has been there for me and my girls over and over again. She is their friend on Facebook, a babysitter for her own greatgranddaughter and the one who loves being called “Pat-a-roo!”

Because I have such strong memories of the precious time I spent with my grandparents and have seen the extravagant affection that my own mother has given her grandchildren, I am challenged to live up to their legacy. Being a grandmother is a gift from God. I love it.

My granddaughter is so much fun. I love spending time with her and am grateful that her parents are willing to share their daughter with us.

What advice would you give your 18-year-old self: I would tell her to hush. She talked too much.

I would tell her not to be so selfinvolved. She needed to be more concerned about others.

I would tell her to keep a journal.

I would tell her to check the oil in the car. Drive around with no oil in the car, and the outcome will not be good. l

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