no’ala huntsville, january/february 2016

PUPPY LOVE | GOOD GROOMING | THE ETIQUETTE EVANGELIST | DETAILS WE LOVE

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14Engagementsproduced by roy hall

6 January/February

36

features

Photo by Crimson Blu Photography

Featured WeddingsA wedding in a treehouse, oceanside proposals, and a bride with not one, but seven glorious wedding dresses these are just a few of the details of the unique love stories NoAla Huntsville is proud to highlight in our wedding album this year. Whether the day was fun with food trucks and games for the guests, or a day of marriage milestones brand new to our city as of 2015, these weddings tell North Alabamas most beautiful stories of love and the celebration of marriage. by sara wright covington

82WeddingAlbumproduced by roy hall

116Th e Etiquette EvangelistFaith Landers Woods is bringing manners back, one child at a timeby sarah gaedephotos by patrick hood

132Puppy LoveTh ree gorgeous weddings gone to the dogsintro by allen tomlinson

122DetailsWe LoveSumptuous treats, eye-catching vignettes, perfectly dressed ladies and gentsby david sims

130Th e Well-Groomed GroomIts the rst day of the rest of your life. Dress like you mean it!by david simsillustration by chelsea holeman

Here come the brides

and the grooms. And the mothers and fathers, friends and relatives, and every-one who celebrates love, commitment, and happily-ever-afters. Welcome to our annual celebration of celebrations, our most popular magazine of the year. For those of you planning weddings of your own, take a look here and see if you nd ideas; for those of you have have been married for awhile, relive your memories

as you join us in wishing the couples their own happily-ever-after life together. Th is issue is about love, and we hope you love it.

Th roughout the year, many people contact us to ask how their stories can be featured in this annual issue. Th at depends entirely upon your photographer! We dont take submissions from the wedding party, but we do take submissions from photographers who have docu-mented these events. Th e reason is that a professional photographer knows how to give us the images we need, to adequately tell your love stories. Each year, our list of photographers grows, but we know that we dont know

everyone. If you have a wedding planned in the coming year, please let your pho-tographer know to contact us. We are looking for the unique, the unusual, and the beautiful; we want beautiful photos that tell beautiful stories.

In addition to the weddings themselves, weve given you some details we love, some tips on how to make sure the bride and groom look like they dressed for the same event, and some engagement photos, taken as the couples begin the plan-ning process for one of the most important and memorable days of their lives. Th eres a lot to see here, so make time to take it all in!

During the holidayswhich seem like a distant memory, but have just nished!we started a Buy Local campaign called Shop Til Yule Drop. You might have seen the bright red stickers in shop windows, and you might see them still. Its just another reminder that just about anything and everything you might need for your perfect wedding can be found right here at home. If youre good to your lo-cal retailers and commit to shopping at home, they will reinvest your dollars into our economy and bring you even more wonderful things. Everyone wins when we shop the Valley!

As you read this issue, were preparing for the March/April magazine, which we are calling Heart and Soul. Weve done a similar issue before, and were going to showcase some of the remarkable people in this part of the world who help make this a great place. Enjoy this issue, in the meantimeduring the cold months of January and February, this is specially designed to warm your heart.

7 editors letter Allen Tomlinson

noala huntsvilleadvisory board

Osie AdelfangARC Design-Build, Inc.

Lynne BerryHudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology

Sarah BrewerClick Photo Designs by Sarah Brewer

Kimberly CaseyLowe Mill Arts & Entertainment

Donna CastellanoHistoric Huntsville Foundation

Aissa Castilloaislerchic.com

Dan HalcombHuntsville Symphony Orchestra

Lauren McCauldeptofagraculture.com

Guy McClure, Jr.Athens State University

Tom Pattersonknowhuntsville.com

Dr. Holly PoweCalhoun Community College

Olivia ReedOlivia Reed Photography

Patrick RobbinsHuntsville Hospital

Lauren Tomasella Carney Lauren Tomasella Photography

Ashley VaughnWhite Rabbit Studios/Vertical House Records

Charles Vaughn Vaughn Lumber Company

Andrew WilmonBroadway Theatre League

eat p ace. joy t s ssand February, this is spe

8 contents

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016Volume 5: Issue 1

Editor-in-Chief C. Allen Tomlinson

Chief Operating O cer Matthew LilesCreative Director David Sims

Advertising Directors Heidi King, Jamie NolesAdvertising Sales/Distribution Johnson Trent

Features Manager Roy HallGraphic Designer Rowan Finnegan

Web Designer Justin HallShopgirls Aissa Castillo, Lauren McCaul

Proofreader Carole Maynard

Contributing WritersSara Wright Covington, Sarah Gaede,

David Sims, Allen Tomlinson

Contributing PhotographersLauren Tomasella Carney, Patrick Hood,

Danny Mitchell

Contributing IllustratorsChelsea Holeman

NoAla Huntsville is published six times annuallyby NoAla Studios

PO Box 2530, Florence, AL 35630 Phone: (800) 779-4222 | Fax: (256) 766-4106

Web: noalastudios.com

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

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

Advertisers are solely responsible forthe content of their advertisements.

2008-2016 NoAla Studios, All rights reserved.

Send all correspondence toAllen Tomlinson, Editor, at the postal address above,

or by e-mail to [email protected] may be edited for space and style.

To advertise, contact us at(256) 766-4222, or [email protected].

The editor will provide writers guidelines upon request.Prospective authors should not submit unsolicited

manuscripts; please query the editor rst.

NoAla Huntsville is printed with vegetable-based inks.Please recycle.

Connect with us on Facebook: NoAla MagInstagram: noalastudios, Pinterest: NoAlaStudios,

and Twitter: @NoAla_Magazine

everything else116

10 Calendar Selected Events for January/February 2016

106 ShopGirls by aissa castillo, lauren mccaul photos by lauren tomasella carney

138 Parting Shot by crimson blu photography

Patrick Hood

Please, and thank you.

PhotographersAbraham Rowe Photography

Alabella StudiosAllison Jansen Photography

Armosa StudiosBrooks Photography

Caught You On Camera Photography Create Portraitature

Crimson Blu PhotographyDavid Brooks Photography

David Higginbotham Photography David Phillips PhotographyErin Lindsey Photography Green Tree Photography

His and Hers Photography Jessica McCravy Studios

Joel and Amber PhotographyJulie Terry Photography

Kerns PhotographyKerry Brooks Photography

Lauren Tomasella PhotographyMandy Owens Photography

McBride PhotographyRae Marshall PhotographySarah Swain Photography Saving Grace Photography Serendipity PhotographySleepy Fox Photography

Southern Cotton Photography Stephanie Rhea PhotographyTaylor Campbell Photography

White Rabbit Studio

Friday, January 8 Sunday, January 10Th e Producers (A Mel Brooks Musical)

A scheming producer and his mousy accountant aim to produce the biggest op on Broadway in Mel Brooks laugh-out-loud spectacle. 2 hours and 45 Minutes; Von Braun Center Mark C. Smith Concert Hall; Admission Charged; (256) 518-6155; broadwaytheatreleague.org

Friday, January 15Huntsville Chamber Music Guild presents Polish Baltic Philharmonic

Founded in 1945 on the heels of postwar Polish independence, Th e Polish Baltic Philharmonic is the largest music institution in northern Poland. Ernst Van Tiel, artistic director; Boguslaw Dawidow, principal guest conductor; Admission $15-$37; Trin-ity Untied Methodist Church; 7:30pm- 10pm; www.hcmg.us

Saturday, January 16 Monday, February 29Beaks and Barks in the Garden

Spend some quality time with your four-legged friends! Cool days in January and February are perfect for enjoying the fresh air and sunshine in the Garden. Walk the trails or play fetch in the no leash zone at the back of the Garden. Botanical Gar-dens; Admission Charged, Plus $1 per dog.

Monday, January 18 Saturday, January 23Winter Warmer Week

As the Craft Beer Capital of the South, Huntsville is the ideal location for celebrating the Winter Warmer tradition. Come down-town as eight local breweries and over 10 establishments o er unique craft beer events every night during Winter Warmer Week!

Th ursday, January 21Leigh Gallagher, Assistant Managing Editor, Fortune Magazine

Th e celebrated journalist and business news correspondent expertly discusses the future of the way we live, the revitalization of our cities and the changing American Dream at economic conferences, real estate summits, and corporate events. 7-9pm; Huntsville Museum of Art; hsvmuseum.org

Saturday, January 23Voices of Our Times: David Sanger

National Security Correspondent for Th e New York Times and bestselling author of Confront and Conceal: Obamas Secret Wars and Surprising Use of American Power, David E. Sanger will be speaking at the Huntsville Museum of Art. 7:00pm; hsv-museum.org

Saturday, February 6Mardi Gras Huntsville 5K at Constitution Village

Racing by the light of the moon with masks, beads, and hats...this colorful run is sure to be one of your favorites! Come dressed in your Mardi Gras garb. Check the website to con rm times and locations. Will you be the King & Queen of this race? 9:30pm; Constitution Village; $20 Entry Fee

Saturday, February 13Th e Huntsville Symphony Orchestra presents: Eastern Europe: Enescu, Vajda, and Dvok

Conductor Gregory Vajda and special guest artists Gerg Borlai, Robert Hudson, and Sean Ritenauer will join the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra to lead you on a musical journey around the world. (256) 539-4818; Von Braun Center Mark C. Smith Concert Hall; Admission Charged; hso.org.

10 calendar

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

12 scene

2015 Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Guild 52nd Symphony Balloctober , von braun center, north hall, huntsville

(Right) Front row, left to right: Andrew Je rey Albert, Ed Rush, Nancy Colin, Richard Van Valkenburgh, Randy Roper, Patrick Robbins; Back row, left to right: Steve Thornton, George Smith, John Johnson, Skipper Colin

(Left) Front row, left to right: Betsy Lowe, Ivy Albert, Amelia Summerville, Pam Gann, Nancy Colin, Debbie Washburn, Suzanne OConnor, Donna Shergy; Second row, left to right: Sharon Gartrell, Donna Rush, Linda Akenhead, Debbie Overcash, Karen Kiss, Daphne Reed, Josie Craig, Anne Compton Burke, Patti Thornton, Lee Anne Smith, Janet Skidmore; Third row, left to right: Kim Johnson, Beth Wise, Brenda Milberger, Lee Anne Bostick; Fourth row, left to right: Theresa Taylor, Pennie Keene, Paige Prozan, Susan Todd, Lori Gregory

(Left) Front row, left to right: Lauren Elizabeth Lowe, Sarah Reagan Tepool, Callie Christina Bragg, Abbie Porter Rodgers, Mary Margaret Ragland, Jordan Akin Lee; Second row, left to right: Marian Witty Crump, AnnaMarie Marona, Leah Jeane Honkanen, Madeline Jewel Rushing, Lauren Alis Layton, Keeley Malone McMurray, Anna Catherine Brooks; Back row, left to right: Mary Gray Lindstrom, Catherine Joseph Rasco, Emily Ann Clemons

(Right) Front row, left to right: Anna Grace South, Camille Nicole Shockley, Emily Rachel Lapidus, Josephine Ann Tucker, Susan Will Purvis, Mary Scott Pearson; Second row, left to right: Lily Margaret Brooks, Lauren Grace Stevens, Mary Morgan Plott, Allyson Elizabeth Nuwayhid, Mallory Frances Castellow, Stephanie Nicole Gilbert, Cameron Ann Seeley; Back row left to right: Sarah Gwin Moore, Katherine Hill Vest, Hughston Elizabeth May, Mary Katherine Russell

Amber Patterson & Jordan Lamont LandersOctober 24, 2015by White Rabbit Studios


produced by roy hall



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YeVonne Patterson & Alex BrownMay 30, 2015by White Rabbit Studios

Kristina Litchford & Nick OldOctober 3, 2015by Mandy Owens Photography

Kristine Disbrow & Nathan SmithSeptember 12, 2015by Alabella Studios


Heather Willingham & Steven NickellSeptember 24, 2016by Allison Jansen Photography

Elizabeth Kent & Brent PainterJune 20, 2015by Sarah Swain Photography

Laura Lee Aune & Matt HomanNovember 21, 2015by David Brooks Photography


Christal Anna Dekich & Hayes EllettJuly 11, 2015by Julie Terry Photography

Michelle Mullen & Eric Anzalone July 30, 2016by Caught You On Camera Photography

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Tamara Bailey & Jason BaileyApril 19, 2015by Saving Grace Photography

Sarah Beckert & Seth Maddox June 18, 2016by Lauren Tomasella Photography


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Megan Scott & Colby OwensFebruary 14, 2015by Sarah Swain Photography

Cierra Doughty & David SteeleJune 20, 2015 by Joel and Amber Photography

Ashley Ralston & Mitch EubankApril 11, 2015by Lauren Tomasella Photography


Margaret Wood n & Wesley BaileyJune 18, 2016by Allison Jansen Photography

Hannah Lee McBride & Bradley Ross MillerSeptember 18, 2015by Southern Cotton Photography

Leslie Ann Dean & Eric Maurice GarnerNovember 14, 2015by David Brooks Photography


Bayleigh Smith & Cody HastyMay 16, 2015by Allison Jansen Photography

Payton Danielle Boyd & Nickolas Ray HayesOctober 10, 2015by Southern Cotton Photography

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Cassidy Machnica & Christopher DicksonAugust 13, 2016by Erin Lindsey Photography

Rachel Teague & Caleb Fluker May 14, 2016by Caught You On Camera Photography


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Angie Walker & Michael BurnsAugust 14, 2015by Allison Jansen Photography

Kathryn D. Fowler & Andrew D. DevineOctober 3, 2015by Southern Cotton Photography

Jessie Gable & Ryan HarbinOctober 3, 2015by Caught You On Camera Photography


Elizabeth Potts & James DanielAugust 1, 2015by Joel and Amber Photography

Georgia Street & Dakota StarkJune 12, 2016by Southern Cotton Photography

Haley Grant & Kevin KaneMay 14, 2016by Erin Lindsey Photography


Neena Singhal & Dalton James May 28, 2016 by Erin Lindsey Photography

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Hannah Hogan & Lauren BlevinsOctober 15, 2016by Armosa Studios

january/february | noalastudios.com | january/february | noalastudios.com |

Stephanie Holmes & Michael LawsonOctober 17, 2015by Lauren Tomasella Photography

Kelsey Fortner & Andrew FortnerMay 16, 2015by Green Tree Photography


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Corey Faulkner & Chad CaldwellAugust 15, 2015by Create Portraiture

Lauren Ketron & Will MostellerAugust 15, 2015by Lauren Tomasella Photography

Lauren Ashley Jones & Andrew Wesley Kellum May 23, 2015by Caught You On Camera Photography


Ashley Brooke Knight & Colyn Wayne SelfMay 29, 2015by Julie Terry Photography

Lauren Payne Rowe & Shelby RoweOctober 3, 2015by Joel and Amber Photography

Caroline Armbrester & Matthew BellJune 27, 2015by Allison Jansen Photography


Krystin Mason & Evan Pezent July 9, 2016 by Lauren Tomasella Photography

Jamie Key Chambers & Chris Chambers July 11, 2015by Allison Jansen Photography

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Aubrie Mason & Matthew MasonSeptember 27, 2015by Lauren Tomasella Photography

Haley Anne Lightfoot & Philip JohnsonJuly 25, 2015by Joel and Amber Photography


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Ti any Sobul & Owen FranklinNovember 14, 2015by Erin Lindsey Photography

Amanda Parkinson & Nathaniel FortonJune 13, 2015by Allison Jansen Photography

Lindsey Roeske & Chris AllenMarch 21, 2015by Caught You On Camera Photography


Angela Goodnight & Dean Hu manOctober 10, 2015by Alabella Studios

Faron Payne & Winston PayneJune 13, 2015by Create Portraiture

Kristin Johnson & Anthony RombackAugust 22, 2015by Allison Jansen Photography


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Alexandra Gradkowski & Luke Johnson November 7, 2015by Jessica McCravy Studios

Lauren Zuck & Sean McBaneMay 21, 2016by Joel and Amber Photography


Th e Couple: Lauren Ketron and Will Mosteller Th e Date: August 15, 2015 Th e Place: Creekside Plantation, Moores-ville, Alabama Th e Meeting: Lauren and Will were both teaching in China and met in Th ailand when the organiza-tion they were a part of had a conference. Laura learned that Will was from Georgia, and after a few more meetings, they decided to keep in touch. Because we lived in two di erent cities in China, we began our long-distance relationship by exchanging emails and talking on the phone, says Lauren. I knew pretty quickly that there was something special about this guy, and when I came to visit him in his city after a few months, he let me know that he wanted to pursue me with marriage as the end goal. Th e Proposal: Will and Lauren came home to see their families in January of 2015. After having lunch with Laurens family in Huntsville one after-noon, Will surprised Lauren with a proposal at Burritt on the Mountain. Laurens family and friends were standing by for a surprise celebration afterwards. Number of Guests: 250 Th e Dress: Since I only had about a month to plan the main aspects of the wedding before heading back to China, we hit the ground running on nding a dress, says Lauren. Th e night of our engagement, my mom told me that she had already made a few appointments for me for the very next day! As it turns out, Lauren would only need one dress appointment to nd her gown. My mom knew that I would love White Dresses, so she set that up for our rst appoint-ment, she says. Lauren chose an illusion neckline, keyhole back dress, that happened to be the second gown she tried. I knew right away that it was the one. Th e treatment we got at White Dresses and the wonderful owners were cherries on top of a perfect experience of nding THE dress! Mar-ried in Mooresville: Lauren wanted their wedding to have

classic, natural elegance. Th ey married on the front lawn of Mooresvilles Creekside Plantation, right after all-day rain showers that created the perfect, unusually mild, mid-August day. We really didnt have to do much to add to the already beautiful venue at Creekside, says Lauren. Lush vineyards surrounded the covered pavilion, and white, billowy fabric and strings of lights hung from the rafters. We had small vas-es of owers that mimicked my bouquet colors on the tables, along with several mercury glass votives. Th e crisp, white tablecloths were nished o with a subtle lavender napkin. Simpsons Florist of Decatur used Juliet garden roses, suc-culents, pierres japonica, California jasmine, blackberries, peach peonies, blue vibernum berries, fern curls, and peach spray roses to make Laurens bouquet. Some of my favorite colors are greens and berry hues, so I tried to weave those throughout the wedding, from the bridesmaids dresses be-ing a beautiful purple-red to having organic, full bouquets with real berries in them, says Lauren. Wedding Fare: Th e Chef Next Door provided summer-inspired fare such as Ranch Grilled Chicken and a Summer Succotash. We also wanted to include some Asian dishes since Will and I met in Asia, says Lauren. Margaret, our caterer, took that idea and ran with itour guests were raving about the banh mi sandwiches, spring rolls, and lettuce wraps! Wedding Day Takeaway: One really special thing for both Will and me was having so many of our former China teammates present at the wedding, says Lauren. We had guests from Alabama, Mississippi, Georgia, the Carolinas, Kentucky, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Maryland, Colorado, California, Arkansas, Min-nesota, and even two of our students from China! At one point we all took a sel e together and our group took up the entire stage.

Lauren Ketron and Will Mostellerdate august , place creekside plantation, mooresville, alabama

text by sara wright covington photos by lauren tomasella photography

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Th e Couple: Ti any Davis and Andrew Biddle Th e Date: May 30, 2015 Th e Place: Th e Ledges Country Club, Hunts-ville, Alabama Th e Meeting: Ti any and Andrew knew each other in high school, but didnt connect until Ti any was at Tuskegee University getting her masters degree. Andrew had also attended Tuskegee, and was working as a recruiter for Proctor & Gamble when he connected with Ti any and they began dating. Th e Proposal: Andrew invited close friends and family to Cincinnati, Ohio, where he was living at the time so they could all spend some time together and see the city. Andrew suggested that he and Ti any take a helicopter tour of the city. We took o and started ying over di erent parts of Cincinnati, remembers Ti any. We got to downtown by the river and bridge and the helicopter pilot told me to look to my left and when I did, Andrew had his friends standing by the river on a concrete area holding a sign that said Ti , will you marry me? I looked back over at him and he had the ring and I began to cry. I said yes and gave him a hug and we kept ying. We headed back to the helicopter facility and when we got out of the helicopter, his family was standing there and his dad had a blow horn, a gift, and some balloons. A few minutes later my family came. Both families and friends met up at a restaurant called Season 52 where we all had dinner. Th e Dress: Tif-fany booked appointments to view dresses at White Dresses Boutique in Providence and Finery in downtown Huntsville.

I didnt go dress shopping with any particular style dress in mind, says Ti any. I wanted whatever dress would look best on me. Ti any had narrowed her choices down to two dresses at White Dresses Boutique, but wanted to see what Finery had to o er before making her nal selection. Finery was having a Berta trunk show that day and I tried on a few dresses but didnt really feel that I found the one. Th en my friend Erica spotted this gorgeous gown and we all loved it just from the look. Like most dress shops, they only had runway model sizes so I could not try it on. So, we had one of the sales associates try it on for me, and we all fell in love. I stepped out on faith and had my measurements taken and ordered the dress with-out trying it on. Eight months later the dress came in and I went to try it on. It t like a glove. Th e seamstress didnt have to do too many alterations except trim some material o of the bottom. It was a perfect t! Number of Guests: 250 Simple Style: Using shades of sage and apricot, Andrew and Ti any married at Th e Ledges in what Ti any describes as modern, yet rustic style. I wore my grandmothers blue diamond ring for something blue and borrowed, she says, and I also wore a sixpence in my wedding shoe. Wedding Day Takeaway: My favorite memory would be the actual moment I said I do and I became my best friends wife, says Ti any. I also re-ally enjoyed all of our friends and family being together at one time to just have fun and celebrate. It was an awesome day!

Tiffany Davis and Andrew Biddledate may , place the ledges country club, huntsville, alabama

text by sara wright covington photos by kerry brooks photography


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When it comes to investment advice, you need more than pie charts. You need a Financial Advisor who understands your specic life situation, and who can give you the sound guidance you need in an uncertain world.

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Th e Couple: Joshua Clayton Criscoe and Gaines Glenn Hal-comb Th e Date: October 17, 2015 Th e Place: Home of fam-ily friend Frank J. Nola Th e Proposal: Josh and Glenn met on an online dating site. We never expected that to be our story, says Glenn. But it could not have worked out more perfectly. Th e Proposal: While on a Caribbean cruise dur-ing Valentines Day, Josh proposed to Glenn while they were laying on the beach at a private home in Cozumel. Number of Guests: 100 Simple Style: Our friend Franks home is absolutely gorgeous, says Glenn. It was built in 1835 and has been beautifully restored. We wanted to highlight the beautiful home and the South, so we went with an elegant Southern theme. Both grooms wore classic, Italian tailored suitsGlenn in navy with a gray dotted tie, and Josh in a charcoal gray suit with a navy dotted bowtie. Both gentle-men wore British tan oxfords. Gatehouse Flowers of Hunts-ville provided simple white owers for inside the home, which included draping the mantles with Jackson vine, clus-ters of white tulips, roses, and hydrangeas accented by vo-tive candles. Th e tables were adorned with bud vases of the same ivory-hued owers. Outside, there were two large urns for the ceremony. Prior to the ceremony in the garden, we had a champagne reception to welcome the guests to a truly

unique wedding, says Glenn. We had a cellist play classi-cal music during the welcome champagne reception and the ceremony. During the reception, Felicity String Quartet played a mix of standards, pop covers, Broadway, and classic love songs. Southern Fare: While planning the wedding, we knew food was something we wanted to be a highlight of the weekend, says Glenn. Th e menu was a mix of classic Southern staples with an elegant are, combining cuisines of our home states, North Carolina and Alabama. We also made sure our home states were represented in our beer selection for the guests. Th e food was remarkable and gave our out-of-town guests a true taste of the South. Choosing the cake was also an important decision for the couple, who wanted their guests to enjoy the absolute best. A Slice at a Time created a chocolate turtle cake covered with a painted ganache nish, accented with white owers. Wedding Day Takeaways: We took the opportunity to write our own traditions, says Glenn. We wrote our wedding ceremony together and asked our guests to sign a foundation cov-enant a rming their support of our marriage. Our favorite memory of the day was hearing by the power vested in me by Th e Constitution of the United States of America, I now pronounce you husbands.

Joshua Clayton Criscoe and Gaines Glenn Halcombdate october , place home of frank j. nola, huntsville, alabama

text by sara wright covington photos by rae marshall photography

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2016 7:30 P.M.

Mark C. Smith Concert Hall, VBC

Tickets and information:256-539-4818 or www.hso.org

DIAMONDS ARE FOREVERHILARY KOLE sings the Music of James Bond


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Th e Couple: Geneva Wagner and Brandon Woodmansee Th e Date: May 24, 2015 Th e Place: Annabella at Cedar Glen, Huntsville, Alabama Th e Meeting: Brandon and I met brie y, for all of about ve minutes, at church in Sep-tember of 2010 in Cincinnati, Ohio, says Geneva. As chance would have it, when we re-met a year later after wed been living on separate sides of the country, we remembered each other and immediately hit it o . After dating long distance for over a year between Alabama and Ohio, Brandon moved back to his home state of Utah after nishing law school. Ge-neva joined him just a few months later. Th e Ring: As Bran-don knew that I would likely prefer an unusual engagement/wedding ring with no diamonds, wed been working on hav-ing a ring made for about two months with London Blue Topaz instead, says Geneva. So while we werent formally engaged, wed talked about it and knew that was de nitively where we were headed. And although Geneva was expect-ing a proposal, Brandon still wanted to surprise her when the time was right. After an ordinary evening of dinner at their favorite Th ai restaurant, Brandon led Geneva on a surprise Salt Lake City scavenger hunt, using his own clues to lead her to some of their favorite spots, reminiscing about their favorite memories as a couple, and nally proposing (with a blue-ring-pop!) before presenting Geneva with the actu-al ring. Th e Dress: To match her non-traditional wedding ring, Geneva also sought out a truly unique dress. From the start, I knew I didnt want a white dress, she says. Id done a great deal of research and a little shop hunting in Utah and simply didnt nd anything interesting. So, I met up with my mom and sisters in Huntsville and we drove to Atlanta to hunt for a dress. Geneva found exactly what she was look-

ing for at an Atlanta shop called Th e Sentimentalist, select-ing a pink/peach skirt, champagne under bust piece, and an ivory lace overlay. A gold belt purchased on Etsy was the nishing touch. Number of Guests: 70 Breaking Tradi-tion: Geneva and Brandon chose not to have a typical wed-ding party and instead opted to invite their guests to wear shades of gold and teal to match their wedding colors. Th e outdoor ceremony and reception took place in a garden and required little decoration, but tables were decorated with simple greenery and an eclectic array of statues, gurines, and vases, all painted gold and white. Many of the items were from Genevas parents and grandparents homes. Huntsville wedding coordinator Kathleen Bernal helped create unex-pected fun at the reception, as to just the usual dinner and dancing. We had games! says Geneva. I wanted everyone to be comfortable, and I wanted everyone to have something to do and not be bored. So we had a number of yard games, as well as some wedding themed mad-libs and puzzles for guests. And instead of the usual wedding cake, the couple opted to bring in Bigfoots Little Donuts truck to do dessert. Wedding Day Takeaways: Genevas advice to any future bride is to stick with what you want to do, not what tradition dictates. We really tried to drop any and all traditions that werent important to us and focus on the things that were, she says. Th us, no white dress, no bouquet, no cake, seeing each other before the ceremony, no bridal party, no bouquet/garter tossreally every time someone said, You should do this because its tradition, we thought, Do we really want to do that? Do the things you want to do. No one will miss the things you choose not to!

Geneva Wagner and Brandon Woodmanseedate may , place annabella at cedar glen, huntsville, alabamatext by sara wright covington photos by abraham rowe photography


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Th e Couple: Noopur Vakharia and Neerav Shah Th e Date: August 8, 2015 Th e Place: Von Braun Center Th e Proposal: Noopur had traveled to Texas with her family to visit Neer-av and his family. Neerav told Noopur to dress nicely one evening as she would be attending a ceremony for his work where he was being honored with an award. We arrived at the so-called event, which was held at one of Houstons n-est hotels, says Noopur. I quickly realized that I was being tricked as we took an elevator to the fth oor of the hotel. I walked into a beautiful hotel room that was covered in roses and candles with pictures of the both of us spread throughout the room. After sharing the sweet moment with my soon-to-be husband, Neerav played a song on his guitar and asked me to spend the rest of our lives together. We celebrated over a delicious ve-course meal with our families. We went back to the hotel after dinner and Neerav had also planned a sur-prise engagement party with his friends. With the help of my parents, Neeravs parents, our sisters, and Neeravs friendsthe proposal was perfect! Th e Dresses: To celebrate their Indian heritage, Noopur and Neerav wanted to incorporate as much of their culture as possible into the ceremony, which meant that Noopur would need not one, but SIX dresses. Noopur traveled to India on an eight-day triptwo of those days were spent travelingto nd all six dresses. All my dresses were custom made from designers in India and were going to have to be shipped from India once they were completed, she says. I didnt receive my wedding dress or reception dress until one week prior to the wedding! Talk

about stressful! I trusted the designers whole heartedly and we communicated by phone and email throughout the pro-cess. Luckily, the dresses t perfectly. And Neerav told me I took his breath away at every event. Number of Guests: 500 A Grand Celebration: Noopur and Neerav celebrated in traditional Indian style, beginning with a series of parties leading up to the main event. Neeravs family hosted two wonderful events in Houston, Texas, says Noopur. Th e rst event was an engagement party with roughly 300 guests. It was a great way to meet a lot of Houstonians that have been a part of my husbands life since he was young. Th e second event was a traditional party called Garba, which was also held in Houston. With successful parents that are socialites in Houston, this party was more of a kick-o to the wedding that was going to be held in Huntsville, Alabama. In addi-tion to these two events, my husband and I also had separate traditional ceremonies the week prior to the wedding as a customary tradition in our culture that brings prosperity to the bride and groom as they embark on their new roles of being a husband and wife. Th e ceremony in Huntsville was held at the Von Braun Civic Center, and guests enjoyed a glo-rious celebration of food, dancing, and merriment, all cen-tered around family, friends, and their Indian heritage. We didnt have any one particular theme, says Noopur. I mainly centered the wedding on traditional Indian colorspurple, red, and gold. Even though Neerav and I were brought up in America, I wanted to incorporate as much of my culture as possible.

Noopur Vakharia and Neerav Shahdate august , (garba) august , (ceremony and reception)

place the von braun center, huntsville, alabamatext by sara wright covington photos by crimson blu photography

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66 scene

Above: 2015 Symphony Balloctober , von braun center north hall

Below: 13th Annual Supper with Santa november -december , earlyworks society

childrens museum, huntsville

Photos by Susi Stroud

Peggy Gattis EWS President and Members

Nancy Kate Henrich, May Watsdon, Ellie DeFiore, Claudia Bloom, Max Morrow, and Addy McArthur

Back row: Madison, Julie and Bob Broadway, and Elizabeth; Front row: Reese and Summer Broadway

Sophie Haymond and Santa

Bailey Andrew

Santa and Camden Moultrie

Ella Johnson, Ella Kate Hogan, and Raley Brown

Peggy Gattis, Santa, Sharon Souvenir, and Lois Logan

Elizabeth and Allyson Nuwayhid

Dale and Sarah Gwin Moore, Paul and Cameron Seeley, Phillip and Katie Vest

Bryant and Mary Witty Crump

Jody Bridges and Hall BryantVann and Callie Bragg

Frank and Leah Honkanen

Ben and Lauren Stevens

Mallory Castellow and David Kenneth Johnson

Photos by Mark Jaeger


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Th e Couple: Melody and Zach Hoernschemeyer Th e Date: June 19, 2015 Th e Place: Th e Westin, Huntsville, AL Th e Meeting: Zach and Melody met while serving at Manna House, a place that provides food and care for those in need. Th ey were friends for years before they began dating. Th e Proposal: Zach proposed after weeks of secret visits to Mel-odys room to leave her roses, gifts, and love letters while she slept. Her parents were in on Zacks plans for proposal, and when Melodys father woke her one early morning just days before Christmas and asked her to come with him to do some last minute shopping, Melody knew something was up. We started driving and pretty soon I realized we were going up to Monte Sano Mountain, says Melody. Just before we arrived, my dad handed me the nal letter from Zach. Th e mountain was a place where my dad and I had gone on runs together and had many talks about life. We pulled up to an overlook where Zach had brought me once before to watch the sunrise together. As I walked up with my dad, I saw Zach standing there with my mom. My dad walked me over to Zach, and then took my moms hand as they walked away. After saying a few words, Zach knelt down and gave me the nal Christmas present: an engagement ring. He wanted to propose at sunrise, when the day was beginning, as a representation of our new beginning together. Num-

ber of Guests: 300 Th e Dress: I went with my mom and sister to the Something Blue Shoppe in Hartselle and found my dress on the first try, which I was not expecting, says Melody. I dislike shopping and was thrilled to only have to go once. Courtyard Wedding: Th e couple married in the courtyard at the Westin with a reception following in an in-side ballroom. Using owers, lanterns, candles, and the ball-room lighting, Melody describes their ceremony and recep-tion as classically elegant. Old, New, Borrowed, and Blue: Th e diamond in Melodys ring belonged to her great grand-mother, and she counted this as her something old for the day. Her new dress, her borrowed veilfrom her sisters wedding three weeks priorand her blue garter provided the rest of the wedding luck charms for the day. Wedding Day Takeaway: My favorite memory was walking down the aisle and seeing each other for the rst time as bride and groom, says Melody. Before the wedding, we held hands around a corner and prayed together over the day. I sent my junior bridesmaid down with a gift to Zach a couple of hours before the wedding. It was very special to me because it was a covenant ring I had worn since age 12 reminding me that I was saving myself for my husband. He wore one also, since age 17, that he presented to me after the wedding. Th is was something we had done independently long before we met.

Melody and Zach Hoernschemeyerdate june , place the westin hotel, huntsville, alabama

text by sara wright covington photos by kerry brooks photography


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Th e Couple: Alexandra Parker and Paul Hunter Th e Date: October 29, 2015 Th e Place: A Treehouse in Atlanta, Georgia Th e Meeting: Alexandra and Paul met while both working at Sam & Gregs in Huntsville. Th e Proposal: Paul proposed during a beach trip for Alexandras birthday, but after birth-day burgers in Rosemary Beach, Alexandra was hardly in the mood for a party. I had a headache and a whiny toddler who was crying about the out t I made her wear, says Alexandra. Paul kept talking about walking further away from people to get pictures of us. I wasnt interested because of my headache. It was getting dark and I was ready to go back and go to sleep. But Paul kept acting really anxious. Indigo, our daughter, was running around the grassy middle of the town by a fountain. Paul had run over to the fountain to pick her up and bring her back to the car. Th ey were taking too long, so I walked over there to help get her. As he picks her up, she leans over to me and gives me a beautiful ring and says, Mommy, can we marry Paul? Th e Dress: Alexandra wanted something soft and vintage, and found exactly what she was looking for on Etsy. When I came across this 1940s dress with my measure-ments, I knew it was meant to be, she says. A Treehouse Wedding: Alexandra and Paul located an amazing treehouse for rent through a website called airbnb.com. Together with only their daughter and their parents, they married amidst

the trees in an intimate, natural scene worthy to be set in Sherwood Forest. Our wedding decor was really minimal, says Alexandra. Th e treehouse was already decorated beauti-fully. Th ere were candles, interesting trinkets, airy windows, rain-soaked wood, and many, many trees. It was simple and we didnt feel the need to overdo it. Old, New, Borrowed, and Blue: My dress was old and my shoes were new, says Alexandra. I borrowed my mothers small diamond neck-lace, and my something blue was on my great grandmothers handkerchief that was wrapped around the bouquet. Wed-ding Day Takeaways: With only their daughter and parents there to share their treehouse nuptials, Alexandra says it was the perfect, laidback, intimate day they wanted. We slept there that night and it was a great experience, although we heard animals running around all night long! During the cer-emony, our four-year-old kept asking if we were married yet and when she was going to eat cake. For Paul, the very best memory of the day was seeing his bride and daughter-to-be coming toward him by the way of the whimsical rope bridge leading to the treehouse. I became a husband and a father in a day, he says. It was raining lightly all day, and it eased up just in time for my bride to walk across the rope bridge with our little girl. It is a sight I will never forget.

Alexandra Parker and Paul Hunterdate october , place a treehouse in atlanta, georgia

text by sara wright covington photos by white rabbit studios


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Sarah Derrick & Trent Derrickin Cullman, AlabamaStone Bridge FarmsAugust 1, 2015by David Higginbotham Photography


produced by roy hall


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Megan Scott & Colby Owensin Huntsville, AlabamaTh e RoundhouseFebruary 14, 2015by Sarah Swain Photography

Jamie Key Chambers & Chris Chambers in Guntersville, AlabamaLake Guntersville LodgeJuly 11, 2015by Allison Jansen Photography

Kristine Disbrow & Nathan Smithin Toney, AlabamaMeadow Creek FarmSeptember 12, 2015by Alabella Studios


Angela Goodnight & Dean Hu man in Huntsville, AlabamaTh e Ledges Country ClubOctober 10, 2015 by Alabella Studios

Katie Kilcoyne & Michael Boltonin Gadsden, AlabamaFirst Baptist ChurchOctober 17, 2015by Sara Swain Photography

Bailey Wix & Wil Ricein Huntsville, AlabamaTh e RoundhouseTh e Chapel on OakwoodMay 30, 2015by Alabella Studios


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Chelsea Camille & Mathew Adam Hagenin Huntsville, AlabamaTh e Weeden House Museum and GardenJune 6, 2015by Sleepy Fox Photography

Amber Coburn & Jeremy Coburn in Scottsboro, AlabamaDouble J FarmsMay 22, 2015 by Southern Cotton Photography

Navid Azizkhani & Sheyda Atashiin Huntsville, AlabamaTh e RoundhouseJanuary 31, 2015by David Brooks Photography


Suzanne Dorsett & Sean Curriein Madison, AlabamaMay 30, 2015by Abraham Rowe Photography

Emily Clare Collette & Bartlee Columbus Lintonin Huntsville, AlabamaChurch of the NativityMay 2, 2015by David Brooks Photography

Meaghan Finnerty & Sloan Finnertyin Mooresville, AlabamaCreekside PlantationJune 6, 2015by Caught You On Camera Photography


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Caitlin Cunningham & Carter Weiland in Madison, AlabamaFirst Baptist ChurchIngalls Harbor PavilionSeptember 5, 2015by Jessica McCravy Studios

Natasha Moultry & Elliott Randolphin Grand Bahama Island, BahamasAugust 22, 2015by David Brooks Photography

Ashley Nemec & Paul Lamontin Huntsville, AlabamaBurritt on the MountainJune 5, 2015by Allison Jansen Photography

Ashley Roeske & Tim Andersonin Huntsville, AlabamaJune 20, 2015by Caught You On Camera Photography


Emily Stinson & Corey Medlenin Muscle Shoals, AlabamaPrivate ResidenceOctober 17, 2015by Jessica McCravy Photography

Faron Payne & Winston Paynein Huntsville, AlabamaFirst United Methodist ChurchTh e RoundhouseJune 13, 2015by Create Portraiture

Chelsea Tubbs & Ainsworth Jacksonin Pulaski, TennesseeHardy Chambers FarmhouseSeptember 26, 2015by Sleepy Fox Photography


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Corey Faulkner & Chad Caldwellin Huntsville, AlabamaChrist Presbyterian Church and Th e RoundhouseAugust 15, 2015by Create Portraiture

Amanda Parkinson & Nathaniel Fortonin Huntsville, AlabamaSt. Josephs Catholic ChurchTh e Westin at Bridge Street Town CenterJune 13, 2015by Allison Jansen Photography

Mckenna Underwood & Austin Underwoodin Fayetteville, TNSacred Stone EventsJune 26, 2015by Erin Lindsey Photography


Kristina Litchford & Nick Oldin Huntsville, AlabamaAnnabella at Cedar GlenOctober 3, 2015by Mandy Owens Photography

Courtney Replogle & AJ Fennellin Huntsville, AlabamaBurritt on the Mountain May 23, 2015by David Brooks Photography

Elizabeth Potts & James Danielin Huntsville, AlabamaTwickenham Church of Christ August 1, 2015by Joel and Amber Photography

Bayleigh Smith & Cody Hastyin Cullman, AlabamaStone Bridge FarmsMay 16, 2015by Allison Jansen Photography


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Jessie Gable & Ryan Harbinin Scottsboro, ALBroken Arrow VineyardOctober 3, 2015by Caught You On Camera Photography

Lindsay Paige Prozan & John Robin Murphy, Jrin Huntsville, AlabamaFirst United Methodist ChurchMay 16, 2015by David Phillips Photography

Jessica Raulerson & CPT Aaron Amackerin Castaway Cay, BahamasMay 24, 2015by Erin Lindsey Photography


Jeri Smith & Dave Smithin Huntsville, AlabamaDecember 4, 2014by Sarah Swain Photography

Christina South & Scott Seeleyin Mooresville, AlabamaLylas Pecan GroveLylas Dance HallJune 7, 2014by White Rabbit Studios

Angie Walker & Michael Burnsin Mooresville, AlabamaCreekside PlantationAugust 14, 2015by Allison Jansen Photography


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Ali Barnette & Ben Hawkinsin Mooresville, AlabamaCreekside PlantationNovember 1, 2015by Green Tree Photography

Sarah Twigg & Michael Paynein Pisgah, AlabamaGorhams Blu October 18, 2014by White Rabbit Studios

Kathryn D. Fowler & Andrew D. Devinein Huntsville, AlabamaTh e Overlook at Redstone ArsenalOctober 3, 2015by Southern Cotton Photography


Payton Danielle Boyd & Nickolas Ray Hayesin Decatur, AlabamaMallard StablesOctober 10, 2015by Southern Cotton Photography

Lauren Ashley Jones & Andrew Wesley Kellum in Fayetteville, TennesseeSacred Stone EventsMay 23, 2015by Caught You On Camera Photography

Candice Tittle Cameron & Zachary Lee Cameronin Huntsville, AlabamaBurritt on the MountainOctober 4, 2014by White Rabbit Studios


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Kate Evelyn Gore & Kyle Mason Rodgersin Huntsville, AlabamaDavidson Center for Space ExplorationFebruary 21, 2015by Green Tree Photography

Elizabeth Kent & Brent Painterin Huntsville, AlabamaAnnabella at Cedar GlenJune 20, 2015by Sarah Swain Photography

Cierra Steele & David Steelein Decatur, AlabamaFirst Bible ChurchJune 20, 2015by Joel and Amber Photography


Casey Marriott & Brandon Jones in Huntsville, AlabamaBurritt on the Mountain March 14, 2015by Erin Lindsey Photography

Ashley Brooke Knight & Colyn Wayne Selfin Murfreesboro, TennesseeCheval Manor RanchMay 29, 2015by Julie Terry Photography

Tamara Bailey & Jason Baileyin Hayden, AlabamaTh e Cabin At Th e LodgeApril 19, 2015by Saving Grace Photography


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YeVonne Patterson & Alex Brownin Huntsville, AlabamaMay 30, 2015by White Rabbit Studios

Missy Backus Jones & Alex Jonesin Gurley, AlabamaHampton Cove Wedding PlantationApril 25, 2015by Lauren Tomasella Photography

Sarah Laster & Brock Lasterin Mooresville, AlabamaCreekside PlantationMarch 14, 2015by Caught You On Camera Photography


Whitney Shepard & Josh Briscoein Fayetteville, TennesseeSacred Stone EventsMarch 28, 2015by White Rabbit Studios

Kristiana Herrera & Th omas Joseph LeVasseurin Shelby, AlabamaAnderson Gail FarmsMay 22, 2015by Green Tree Photography

Allison Gant & Todd Ellis Hosein Mooresville, AlabamaCreekside PlantationSeptember 26, 2015by Lauren Tomasella Photography


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Ashley Ralston & Mitch Eubankin Mooresville, AlabamaCreekside PlantationApril 11, 2015by Lauren Tomasella Photography

Hannah Lee McBride & Bradley Ross Millerin Gurley, AlabamaHampton Cove Wedding Plantation September 18, 2015by Southern Cotton Photography


Anne Rush & Jacob Ndjaliin Huntsville, AlabamaMonte Sano State Park LodgeAugust 8, 2015by Joel and Amber Photography

Jessica Pannell & Richard Pannellin Gurley, AlabamaHampton Cove Wedding PlantationMay 9, 2015by Caught You On Camera Photography

Jordyn Knox & Tyler Loveladyin Huntsville, AlabamaTh e RoundhouseNovember 22, 2014by Lauren Tomasella Photography


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Lauren Payne Rowe & Shelby Rowein Huntsville, AlabamaA.M. Booths LumberyardOctober 3, 2015by Joel and Amber Photography

Meredith Margaret Burton & William Andrew Broadfootin Cherokee, AlabamaHigh Cotton FarmMay 2, 2015by His and Hers Photography

Allie Lenox & Taylor Dyleskiin Huntsville, AlabamaFirst United Methodist ChurchTh e RoundhouseAugust 29, 2015by Allison Jansen Photography


Amanda Elliott & Phillip Caglein Huntsville, AlabamaHolmes Street United Methodist ChurchWeeden House May 9, 2015by White Rabbit Studios

Lindsey Roeske & Chris AllenPrivate ResidenceMarch 21, 2015by Caught You On Camera Photography

Morgan Seeley & Robert Cooperin Huntsville, AlabamaBaron Blu at Burritt on the MountainMay 9, 2015by Lauren Tomasella Photography


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Courtney Campbell & Mathew Tittlein Mooresville, AlabamaCreekside PlantationMay 31, 2015by Lauren Tomasella Photography

Rebecca Fil & Alex McQueenin Huntsville, AlabamaTh e LedgesJuly 11, 2015by David Brooks Photography

Christal Anna Dekich & Hayes Ellettin Fayetteville, TennesseeFirst United Methodist ChurchFayetteville Lincoln County MuseumJuly 11, 2015by Julie Terry Photography

Jessica Lee Bolling & John Andrew Bollingin Huntsville, AlabamaPrivate ResidenceA.M. Booths LumberyardApril 25, 2015by Allison Jansen Photography

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114 scene

Above: 50th Anniversary Symphony Guild Silver Teadecember , the home of christina wicks

Below: Historic Mooresville Holiday Home Tour and Progressive Dinner

december , mooresville

Xx

Back row, L-R: Avon Hagood, Wanda Pennington, Gail Neely, Marie Embry, Margaret-Anne Crumlish, Karen Higgins, and Marty Garrett; Front row: Katie Anne Mitchell

Mike Sprader, Lyla Peebles, Jerri McLain, Susan Goldby, Shirley McCrary, and Woody Peebles

Sue Hair, Laurence McCrary, and Elizabeth Rogers

Front row, L-R: Lisa Rogan, Brenda Hardin, Gina Bender, Kim Sauvadon, and Cheri McKechnie;Back row, L-R: Trey Rogan, Ben Bender, Gary Sauvadon, and Tim McKechnie

Cate DeFiore, Susie Fortner, Lori Walters, and Ginger Bryant

Eliza McCrary, Cortner Crumlish, and Gamble McCrary

Josephine Redd, Jo Beth Hurt, Taska Haraway, Prudy Thomas, and Irene Potts

Natasha McCrary, Janice Cunningham, Jean Tipton, Brent Tipton, and George McCrary

Debbie Washburnand Karen Morris

Sybil Wilkenson, Mary Adams, Isabelle Blue, Blanton Calvert, and Virginia Wahlheim

Ellen Durgin

Marianna McCoyC. Chase, Linda Thomas, Pat Cross, and Linda Akenhead

Sheila Irby and Marie Newberry

Silver Tea Committee

Helen McBride and Audrey Morris


text by sarah gaede photos by patrick hood


Protocol School of Washington, where she received training to become a Certi ed Etiquette and Protocol Instructor. She owns her own consulting business, and enjoys teaching classes in table manners, dressing for interviews, and public speaking. She has worked with UNA students, Miss Alabama contestants, and employees of the Marriott hotels. And she has a passion for teaching etiquette to kids.

As with most life skills, etiquette training starts at an early age. In the South, which seems to be the last bastion of good manners in this country, it begins with learning at an early age to respond to adult queries and requests with Yes, maam or No, sir; to say please and thank you instead of grunting and grabbing; and generally to gain at least a veneer of civilization so you will be welcomed at birthday parties and playdates.

Faith raises this basic training to a whole new level in her weeklong summer etiquette camps for both elementary and middle/high school ages, which are sponsored by UNAs Summer Youth Camp program. In one week, she covers Social and Communication Skills, Parts 1 and 2; Making a Good Impression; and Dining Skills, Part 1 and 2. Parents

Most people give you seven seconds to decide whether or not you are credible when they rst meet you. Begin with a solid handshake and good eye contact. Th is is how Faith Landers Woods started her interview with meafter shaking hands and looking me in the eye. One key to success is to understand, as my seventh-grade teacher used to say (in an annoying sing-song), that rst impressions are often lasting ones. For a more extended relationship, a more thorough knowledge of etiquette is key. Although many people think of etiquette as an outdated, rigid code of behavior, Faith Woods, a local etiquette and image expert, is of a di erent opinion. She views the knowledge of proper etiquette as the ticket to a successful life and career. For Faith, etiquette is an empowering framework that, once internalized, allows people to be con dent and exible in all situations, while at the same time assuring the comfort of those around them.

Faith grew up in Leighton, Alabama. Her mother, whom Faith describes as classy and sophisticatedOld South in a good wayinstilled in Faith a passion for cooking and entertaining. After graduating summa cum laude from Th e University of Alabama with a specialized Southern American history degree, Faith attended a two-week course at Th e


Facing page, front row, left to right: Ashton Willis, Faith Landers Woods, Colbey Fritts; Back row, left to right: Ashiana Sapkota, Sumyak Raj, Mallory Glover, Carley Fritts

This page, clockwise, from top left: Mallory Glover, Sumyak Raj, Ashlana Sapkota, Colbey Fritts


of participants think this class is the best thing that ever happened to their children, and their children share their enthusiasm.

In Dining Skills Part 1 with ve girls and one boy, ages eight to 11, the girls wore dresses and the lone boy, who did not look at all uncomfortable with his singular status, had on a dress shirt and khakis. Th e kids were totally engaged with Faith, hanging on her every word with rapt attention. Faith has high expectations of her students; she doesnt talk down to them, and speaks as one with authority. She does a masterful job of reinforcing, reminding, encouraging, and praising. Her students respond as if they are learning the secrets of the universe. In a way they arethey are learning a code of behavior that will stand them in good stead all their lives.

Among many other etiquette skills, Faith taught this particular class:

How to enter and exit a chair at the table How to seat grandma Proper placement of utensils, plates, and glasses How to arrange the silverware on your plate during the meal and after you are nished eating How to pass food and serve yourself How to unfold a napkin to place it in the lap, and how to make a little pocket to hold something inedible (not that just-one-taste bite of Brussels sprout, which should be chewed up and swallowed. As Faith put it, Take it like a girl!) How to eat french frieswith your ngers! What to do if a server at a restaurant brings you the wrong order. You are entitled to get what you asked for. As a guest at someones house, on the other hand, you should eat what is put before you, unless you have a food allergy, in which case you should have let your host know in advance. What to do if you are dining at Ricatonis, and your entre arrives before you are done with your salad. (Finish your salad rst.) Why cell phones and other electronics have no place at the dinner table.

To enroll your child in a Summer Youth Camp etiquette class, go to www.una.edu/continuing-studies.

Contact Faith for further information on her classes at fj [email protected].

Most people giveyou seven seconds to decide whether

or not you are credible when they

first meet you. Begin with a solid

handshake and good eye contact.

FAITHS WEDDINGDOS AND DONTS

FOR BRIDES AND GROOMSIf at all possible, thank-you notes for shower gifts should be mailed before the wedding. Its a good idea to write thank-you notes immediately after a shower. The guests and gifts are fresh on your mind and its one more thing to check o the list. Handwritten thank-you notes (not emails) for wedding gifts should be mailed no later than six months after the wedding. It is a special touch to have the groom sign the notes, especially for guests on his side (or even to write his share of the notes).

When addressing invitations, remember that we are in the 21st century, and couples come in many combinations. The majority of couples no longer fall in the Mr. and Mrs. John Doe category. Emilypost.com is a good resource for the minutia of addressing invitations.

Do you want your wedding to be remembered as a happy occasion for all? Then put your guests comfort rst. Do everything you can to ensure that every guest at the wedding feels totally at ease.

If you are set on a destination wedding, dont be upset if people decline to attend because of the expense.

It is in the worst possible taste to charge guests for food and/or drink. If you cant a ord an open bar, either limit beverages to beer and wine, or trim the guest list. The same goes for a seated dinner vs. simple hors doeuvres. Be creative within the limits of your budget.

Accept help if you want it. Many people will come out of the woodwork to assist with wedding details. Embrace this; it is a wonderful thing. Most want a job to do because they like to be a part of the celebration. If they dont o er something speci c, ask them if they would help with a particular task. In return, a thank-you note, a small gift, and a special mention in the program or wedding announcement are welcome.

Focus more on your new husband/wife, family, and guests than tiny little details that will only drive you insane. If you dont love it, dont spend precious time on it.

Anyone who has a big role in the wedding, such as caterers, photog-raphers, etc., should be tipped 15 percent for good service, 18-20 percent for exceptional service. Dont forget to factor this into your budget. Food for sta photographer, musicians, etc.also needs to be included in the food budget. Make sure you pay your balance promptly, preferably after the reception. Dont forget the honorarium for the wedding o ciant or minister!

FOR GUESTSWhen you are invited to a wedding, mail the RSVP card back immediately. If you do not mail the card by the deadline, do not attend. If you RSVP yes, and are later unable to attend, let the couple know as soon as possible.

Be respectful of the couples wishes. If your children are not listed on the invitation, do not bring them. The same goes for bringing an uninvited date.

It is customary to send a gift to all weddings and showers you are invited to, or to chip in for a large group gift. Do not bring gifts to the reception.

It is better to be overdressed than underdressed. Begin with business casual for an informal wedding and work your way up. Save the cocktail dresses for after six p.m. If the wedding is in a church, dress more modestly than you might for a hotel, barn, or beach locale.

Arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the start of a wedding. If you arrive late, tiptoe to the back row and seat yourself as quietly and unobtrusively as possible.

Turn o your cell phone and leave it in your purse or pocket. Do not take photos during the ceremony. There are no exceptions to this rule.


DETAILSWELOVE

Abraham Rowe Photography

text by david sims



Alabella Studios



Sleepy Fox Photography


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| noalastudios.com | january/february Abraham Rowe Photography

McBride Photography

White Rabbit Studios


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Lauren Tomasella Photography

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Stephanie Rhea Photography


Crimson Blu Photography

BRINGING BACK BLINGWere happy to see Mason jars and barns

replaced with a little sparkle and sass. Here, bridesmaids dresses that can actually be worn

again, and shoesthat make quite a statement.

january/february | noalastudios.com | Rae Marshall Photography january/february | noalastudios.com |

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David Phillips Photography

Taylor Campbell Photography

Armosa Studios

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Brooks Photography


Armosa Studios

Armosa Studios

Kerns Photography

ELUSIVE MOMENTSAllow us to remind you again how important a

goog d, professional photographer is to your big daayy. Sure, your brother may own an expensive cameraa, but he may miss great shots like the ones you seee

here e. And, after all the cake is gone and the dress iss packed away, your memories (and your photos)

will be the only thing that remain.


Memorable Weddings Deserve Memorable Locations

Its not too early to begin planning for yourwedding at Baron Bluff at Burritt on theMountain. Come look us over and let usshow you how we can help you have an

event of a lifetime with a fabulous viewat Burritt.

Now booking for weddings and special

events!www.burrittonthemountain.com

256-536-2882


The Well-Groomed Groom text by david sims illustration by chelsea holeman

Dont wear a boutonniere pinned to either a pair of suspenders or worse, your shirt.

Dont wear tennis shoes or ip- ops to your wedding. And only real cowboys should be allowed to wear boots with their suits or tuxedos

Avoid pants that are so long they puddle in multiple folds over your shoes.

If you must wear suspenders, do not wear a belt. They serve the same purpose.

Unless you have a full beard, you should shave on your wedding day.

If you're wearing a tie clip, do not wear it with a vest. They serve the same purpose. Also, the tie clip should never be wider than the width of your tie.

The perfect length trouser has just the right amount of break.

Your wedding is the perfect opportunity to purchase a well-tailored suit or tuxedo that you can continue to wear for many years to come.

You should see at least a half-inch of your shirt sleeve when your arms are at your side.


Our overall advice to the groom on wedding attire is to be the perfect sartorial match to his bride. If your bride is dressed in a beautiful, oor-length, formal wedding gown, you should at the very least look like you belong next to her. Weve seen far too many weddings where the groom looks more like the guy whos there to deliver the owers rather than the man whos there to deliver the wedding band.

The Right

Weve said it before, and we will continue to say it until were gray or navy blue in the face. Your wedding is the perfect op-portunity to purchase a well-tailored suit or tuxedo that you can continue to wear for many years to come. For a suit, a two-button navy blue, or light or charcoal gray suit would be very appropriate for most daytime weddings. Personalize it with your shirt, tie, pocket square, or sock choices.

If you choose to purchase a tuxedo, go with a classic black one- or two-button style.

If you must rent your wedding wear, make your tting ap-pointment well-ahead of the big day to allow plenty of time for the formal wear store to make any alterations. Th en try it on a second time. Avoid pants that are so long they puddle in multiple folds over your shoes, and sleeves so long they cover half of your palm. You should see at least a half-inch of your shirt sleeve when your arms are at your side.

By the way, this is your wedding too. Although the bride will obviously be the centerpiece of any wedding party, you have the right to look amazing. Dont be talked into wearing an out t that must match the owers, ribbons, napkins, or any other such nonsense. Th ere will be plenty of other appro-priate places to incorporate the weddings color scheme that dont involve the man of honor.

The Not-So-Right

Dont wear a boutonniere pinned to either a pair of suspend-ers or worse, your shirt. Th is is your wedding. You should be the best-dressed man in attendance. Besides, boutonniere is the French word for buttonhole. It is traditionally pushed through the lapel buttonhole on the left side of your suit. If you must wed without a jacket, then go without a bouton-niere as well.

Dont wear tennis shoes or ip- ops to your wedding. And only real cowboys should be allowed to wear boots with their suits or tuxedos. By the way, this would also be the perfect time to purchase a beautiful new pair of shoes to compliment your new suit or tuxedo. Dressy brown or black cap-toe or wingtip oxfords (with leather soles) would pair perfectly with either a navy blue or charcoal gray suit, and a classic lace-up black patent leather shoe would complete your tuxedo.

Unless you have a full beard, you should shave on your wed-ding day. Stubble, especially in photos, looks rough and dirty.


Saving Grace Photography


SOME CALL THIS PUPPY LOVE. Dogs are so much a part of our

families, it makes sense to include them in the wedding, if possible.

There were some unusual and beautiful family pets who performed

speci c roles in weddings this past year, so many that we wanted

to share them with you. We dont think any of these pets were the

best man in these weddingsjust mans best friend.

Armosa Studios


Serendipity Photography


Allison Jansen Photography


Serendipity Photography

138 parting shot Crimson Blu Photography

BLESSINGS

no’ala huntsville, january/february 2016

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