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MAGAZINE

L I N D S A Y O T T
P U R P O S E F U L L Y G I V E N
R Y L E E H I T C H N E R
C A T E R I N G , B A R T E N D I N G , &
P R I V A T E D I N I N G F R O M Y O U R
F A V O R I T E J A C K S O N R E S T A U R A N T S
4 T O P C A T E R I N G . C O M
– 2 –

PUBLISHER • Tahya A. Dobbs
CFO • Kevin W. Dobbs
CONSULTING EDITOR • Mary Ann Kirby
SPECIAL PROJECT MANAGER • Brenda McCall
PROJECT ASSISTANT • Caroline Hodges
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT • Alisha Floyd
THE VAULT VENUE EVENT COORDINATOR • Meagan Pitts
CONTRIBUTING WRITER • Susan Marquez
LAYOUT DESIGN • Daniel Thomas / 3dt
Copyright HTMags.com / 601.706.4059 / info@htmags.com
26 Eastgate Drive, Suite F / Brandon, MS 39042
All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced
without written permission from the publisher. The management of
Hometown Publications is not responsible for opinions expressed
by its writers or editors.
Bride
Ultimate Wedding To-Do List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
The Wedding Coordinator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
The Photographer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
The Travel Agent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Proposals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
The Beauty Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Wedding Etiquette. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Go Ahead, Use the Good China . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Love through the Decades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
The Look . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
– 3 –

HELPING NEWLYWEDS
PURCHASE THEIR
DREAM HOME
MELISSA USRY | Mortgage Loan Originator
601-203-2222 (O) | 601-906-1921 (C)
Melissa.usry@communitybank.net
NMLS# 730127
– 4 –

FOREVER LOOKS FLAWLESS ON YOU.
Highland Village | 4500 Interstate 55 North | Jackson, Ms 39211

– 6 –

– 7 –

HAPPILY EVER AFTER
BEGINS HERE
Captivating turquoise seas. Luxury
suites crafted in the Caribbean’s color
palette. 5-Star Global Gourmet dining
at up to 16 luxury restaurants per resort.
Sandals ® is where lovers imagine
themselves starting forever.
BOOK NOW WITH
MINDI@BELOVEDGETAWAYS.COM
601-914-9213 | 609-206-2168
WWW.BELOVEDGETAWAYS.COM
Sandals ® is a registered trademark. Unique Vacations, Inc. is an affiliate
of Unique Travel Corp., the worldwide representative of Sandals Resorts.
6099 Sales Ad- Beloved Getaways Sandals Honeymoon V2.indd 1 11/7/19 9:22 AM
– 8 –

Ultimate
Wedding
To-Do
List
– 10–

12+ Months Out
Hire a planner or director
With your budget in mind, decide what you
will do yourself and what you’ll need professional
(or familial) help with, including who
will help things run smoothly the day of the
wedding.
Pick a date and time
Sit down with your fiancé and discuss your
wedding date, taking into account the
length of your engagement, ideal time of
year, time off from work, etc.
Plan your budget
Map out a detailed budget with large items
like venues, catering, gown cost, and
entertainment. Decide who will cover
certain costs (bride or groom’s family).
Start planning the guest list
Draft a guest list with the family members
and friends you will be inviting to the
wedding. Ask your family members to
help with this!
Choose your wedding party
Decide who will be at your side on your big
day, and make them feel special when you
ask them by presenting a heartfelt gift.
Reserve venues
Schedule tours with your top picks for
ceremony and reception venues, keeping
your estimated guest count and budget
in mind.
Insure your engagement ring
Research insurance options and choose one
that gives you peace of mind.
Decide on a wedding style
and color scheme
Browse online for inspiration and choose
a style and color palette that best fits your
day, keeping the venue and time of year
in mind.
Begin looking for a dress
Search for a dress that makes you feel
comfortable and beautiful.
8 Months Out
Order dress and accessories
This will allow time for alterations, as well
as time for any accessories (veil, shoes, etc.)
to be shipped, if necessary.
Book caterer, photographer,
videographer, florist and
entertainment
Research reviews and websites and ask
for referrals to find vendors that best fit
your style and budget.
Take engagement photos
Keep in mind that many photographers
offer engagement/wedding packages, and
may offer discounts if you book them ahead
of time for your wedding. These photos can
be used for save the dates and for your
wedding website, if you choose that route!
Reserve additional rentals
Ensure your wedding has the necessities
such as tents, tables, chairs, outdoor
bathrooms, lighting, and linens.
Register for wedding gifts
Select gifts you and your fiancé want and
need to begin your life together!
Send save the date cards
Allow your guests time to make
arrangements to attend your big day with
a save the date card.
Launch a wedding website
Design a wedding website and include
ceremony/reception addresses, registry info,
lodging, engagement photos, etc.
6 Months Out
Finalize your food and
bar menu
Taste the top choices from your caterer and
pick options that will satisfy your guests and
stay within your budget.
Decide on ceremony details
Discuss important ceremony details with
your fiancé, such as traditions and vows.
Select and order attire
for wedding attendants
Pulling from your wedding color palette and
style, decide on bridesmaids and flower girl
dresses that everyone feels comfortable in,
and clearly communicate ordering details.
Reserve hotel rooms for
out of town family/attendants
Reserve a block of rooms in a hotel of
your choice, and share this option with
traveling guests.
Discuss honeymoon plans
Research ideas and options for your
romantic getaway, and don’t forget to
update your passport, if necessary!
– 11–

Finalize décor & centerpieces
Work with your florist and wedding planner
to finalize decorations details that fit in with
your envisioned wedding style.
Create a wedding day timeline
Write down the ideal flow of events for your
wedding ceremony and reception to share
with your coordinator and vendors.
Order invitations and rings
Express your creativity with invitations that
match your theme and rings that you and
your fiancé are both happy with.
4 Months Out
Reserve rehearsal dinner venue
Secure a dinner spot for your family and
attendants for after your wedding rehearsal.
Order wedding desserts
Research a baker and order wedding cakes,
or desserts of your choice!
Select and purchase favors
Choose unique wedding favors to
acknowledge your guests and help them
remember your special day.
Seek premarital counseling
with your officiant
This would also be a great time to share
your ceremony expectations/details with
them, and decide on any religious elements.
Book your wedding night
accommodations
Reserve your first night as a wedding couple
in a hotel, cabin, or home.
Choose ceremony music
and hire musicians
Design a fun reception playlist and select
songs for your processional, recessional,
and first dances. Send this list to any and
all musicians you hired for your ceremony
and reception.
Hire a calligrapher
for invitations
If your budget has room, hire a
calligrapher to personalize your invitation
envelopes, menus, or place cards.
2 Months Out
Mail invitations
Be sure to mail your wedding invitations
6-8 weeks prior to your big day.
Plan your exit
Decide how you will exit both the ceremony
and reception (i.e. with bubbles, sparklers,
flower petals, etc.)
Choose your guest book
Find and purchase a guest book for your
reception.
Confirm ceremony details
Meet with your wedding director/venue
coordinator and finalize the details for
the ceremony.
Book a hair stylist
and makeup artist
Review salon and stylist options, ask
for referrals, and plan a practice session
with both.
– 12–
Complete fittings
Schedule final fittings for your gown and
suit/tux, and be sure they’re tailored with
your shoes on.
Discuss with your fiancé
if you would like to exchange
wedding day gifts
Consider presenting your fiancé with a gift
on your wedding day to express your love
for them.
1 Month Out
Create a wedding program
for the ceremony
Pull your wedding day together by creating/
ordering ceremony programs that include
details like songs and readings, bridal party
members, family names, and a thank you
message.
Send rehearsal dinner
invitations
Mail or email rehearsal dinner invitations at
least one month prior to the wedding.
Apply for a marriage license
Make a trip to the local county clerk’s office
with your ID, paperwork, and payment to
obtain a marriage license.
Check on wedding attendants
Ensure your bridesmaids and groomsmen
are ready with accessories, dresses, and suits
for the big weekend.
Purchase thank you gifts
for the wedding party
Say thanks to those who helped with
your big day by giving personalized
wedding gifts.

2 Weeks Out
Send final guest numbers
to caterer and reception venue
Check your RSVP list for the final time and
send the number of guests to all those
involved with the reception.
Schedule a meeting with
photographer and videographer
Meet to communicate expectations,
must-have portraits, and to share your
wedding day timeline one last time.
Determine wedding party
positions
Choose how your wedding party will
line up during the ceremony.
Confirm details and
timetables with all vendors
Verify details and times with your vendors
and with your honeymoon plans!
Write vows
Draft and prepare notecards for your
wedding vows (if necessary).
Send the final timeline
to your wedding party
Plan for a smooth weekend by giving all
those involved a detailed timeline.
Plan snacks & drinks
for your wedding party
Be sure all are well-fed while getting ready
on the big day!
1 Week Out
Confirm all transportation
Confirm pick up times/locations with your
exit vehicle driver, from both ceremony and
reception.
Pack for honeymoon
Pack your bags now, so it will be off your
mental to-do list!
Arrange final payments
Make final payments to your vendors,
officiant, and musicians.
Prepare a wedding day
emergency kit
Pack a small bag with items like band-aids,
a stain-remover pen, clothespins, tissue,
aspirin, and breath mints.
Delegate tasks
Clear your mind by assigning last minute
tasks to your wedding party or family
members.
2-3 Days Out
Check in with groomsmen
Be certain all groomsmen have picked up
their outfits.
Schedule a manicure/pedicure
Sit back and enjoy some pampering!
Deliver special items
If your venue allows, have someone deliver
all place cards, favors, programs, and
decorations to ceremony and reception
venues.
The Day Before
Rehearse ceremony
Stay relaxed as you iron out the details of
your day.
Write final checks
Write and hand off your final checks for
someone to deliver the day of the wedding.
Give marriage license
to officiant
Hand off your marriage license to your
officiant.
Present your thank you gifts
Show your appreciation by giving your
attendants and anyone who helped with
the wedding a heartfelt gift at the rehearsal
dinner.
Arrange for luggage to be
placed in getaway car
Hand your overnight bag off to someone
who can bring it to the getaway car the day
of the wedding.
Wedding Day
Present your (almost!)
spouse with a gift
Take a special moment to share love and
appreciation for your spouse-to-be before
the day gets going.
Give wedding bands to best
man/maid of honor
Ensure your rings arrive safely at the
ceremony. Relax and enjoy yourself,
your family, and your new spouse!
– 13–

– 14–

The Wedding Coordinator
Preparing for your wedding is a huge time commitment. Between booking vendors and choosing
every element of the décor, couples typically spend hours working out the details of their ceremony
and reception. Luckily, the bride and groom don’t have to take on all of that responsibility alone.
Whether you’re both swamped at work, overwhelmed by the sheer number of decisions you
need to make, or simply think a professional can weed through the options better than you can,
hiring a wedding coordinator can help make the process much easier and more enjoyable.
– 16–

Andrea Hopkins
PERFECTION! WEDDING COORDINATING
Congrats on your engagement! The planning
process can be very stressful but these three tips
can help with minimizing the stress:
Before you even pick up a pen to write a plan,
a note, or create a budget, research and hire a
wedding planner. Wedding planners are trained
to turn your dreams into reality.
Hire all professional vendors. The saying,
“you get what you pay for” is the truth.
Non-professional vendors are more likely to
provide an unsatisfactory product.
Don’t sweat the small stuff! This is a great
day–but it’s one day. If it’s cold, grab a coat.
If a bridal party member drops out, it’s just
more space on the dance floor! Give all your
heart’s desires to your wedding planner and
enjoy your day as a bride.
Andrea Hopkins
Professional Wedding Coordinator & Owner
Perfection! Wedding Coordinating
601-499-5040
ahperfectionwed@yahoo.com
perfectionwed.com
Rachel Curtis
POSH DESIGN
I always want the bride and groom (and their
families) to remember that weddings should be
fun, not stressful. Weddings are a celebration!
Yes, they have a lot of moving parts and this
can cause worry that all may not go as planned.
But if you keep things in perspective, and focus
on what a wedding is truly about, (your love for
one another, and having your loved ones at your
side as you make your commitment to God and
each other), then your day will be perfect. That
candle may not stay lit, but at the end of the day,
you will be married! Breathe, relax, and enjoy.
Leave the details to me and the other wedding
professionals who have your best interest at heart.
Rachel Curtis
Professional Wedding Coordinator & Owner
Posh Design Shoppe
601-798-4815
rachel@msposhms.com
poshms.com
Taylor Henderson
WEDDING COORDINATOR
Stay true to your style and what you have
envisioned for your big day. Building a realistic
budget is a key factor in making your dream
wedding possible. Every couple tying the knot
deserves to have a stress-free wedding day.
Your focus should be on each other. It’s your
day to not sweat the small stuff. Let someone
else handle the little details so you can
concentrate on the big moments. Hiring a
wedding planner will make your wedding
dreams a reality. I would love to help make
your wedding day a lasting memory.
Taylor Henderson
Professional Wedding Coordinator
601-506-2508
TaylorHenderson4718@gmail.com
– 17–

The Photographer
Professionals photograph weddings for a living, so you can be assured that they’ll give you
the best results. And while you may need to trim a budget here or there, don’t sacrifice your
wedding photographs. At the end of your wedding day, the food and flowers will all be gone,
but your wedding photographs will remain. They’ll be your enduring proof of one of the most
important events that took place in your life so you want to get them right the first time.
– 18–

Kylie Wooten PHOTOGRAPHY
He asked, and you said yes! Now, you are
beginning to plan your big day. While choosing
the dress is usually every bride’s dream, choosing
a photographer is just as important. When you
are narrowing down your options, request a
consultation to ensure that you “click” and
understand each other. You and your family
will be spending 8-12 hours of your wedding day
with this person. You’ll want to be sure it is someone
you are comfortable with. Next, make sure the
photographer has the style you are searching for.
I truly believe there is a photographer out there
for every couple. Keep in mind, while filtered and
retouched photos are trendy today, timeless, clear
photos will still be beautiful 30 years from now.
Ensure you and your prospective photographer
share the same expectations as far as picture
amount, prints, and hours spent at the wedding.
Wedding photographs are such an important part
of your wedding; after all, they will be considered
a family heirloom for years to come.
Kylie Wooten
Kylie Wooten Photography
601-715-2263
kyliewootenphotography.com
FireLenz PHOTOGRAPHY
Planning your wedding day comes with
excitement and anticipation as the day draws
near. There are a lot of details to think about and
as a future bride, you and your fiancé should
consider a few options when choosing a wedding
photographer. First, make sure you like the
photographer’s photo style. Know what style of
photos you like. Ask to see a wedding album.
Make sure to find a photographer that you feel
comfortable with by speaking over the phone or
meeting before the “big day” and getting to know
them. It’s important to do this–that way you can
learn each other’s personalities and know that the
photographer has the right temperment or style
for your day. It all come comes down to picking
the right photographer to capture your emotions
of love and joy! To do this, make sure your visual
style of photos coincides with the photographer’s
visual style of photos. Make sure your styles
mesh. As the years go by you can reflect back on
your photos and be glad you chose the right
photographer for your wedding day!
Andrew Johnson
FireLenz Photography
601-415-5641
firelenz.com
Lindsey Epperson PHOTOGRAPHY
I remember my own wedding going by so fast.
It was hard to take it all in and remember
everything that happened. That being said,
it’s important to find a photographer who can
capture those special moments for you to look back
on. It’s also important that you feel comfortable
with them, because they are with you for your
entire wedding day. All photographers have a
different way of doing things and different
personalities. Do your research and find someone
you feel like you can click with, and that has a
style and work that excites you!
Lindsey Epperson
Lindsey Epperson Photography
601-624-9394
lindseyepperson.com
– 19–

The Travel Agent
Planning a wedding is a full-time job. And chances are, you already have one of those.
So when it comes to booking your honeymoon, there’s a solid argument for letting a pro
take the reins. You many think you can handle planning your own honeymoon—
but sometimes it’s simply best to call in the help of an expert.
– 20–

Mindi Phillips
BELOVED
GETAWAYS
When you’re planning your honeymoon–
or if you’re throwing a destination wedding in a
remote locale–you’ll quickly learn that coordinated
travel arrangements are incredibly complicated.
The honeymoon is the grand finale of your
wedding. Hiring a travel agent isn’t going to bust
your budget. Typically, travel agents receive most
of their income through commission from hotels,
resorts, airlines, and cruise lines–so working with
an experienced agent can even be free, in some
cases.
We use an interactive destination matching
tool for honeymoons, romantic getaways and
all types of travel. It helps couples find their top
two destination matches and virtually experience
it before booking. My clients get to use a VR
reality headset and experience and learn about
destinations.
I help tailor your honeymoon/ destination
wedding experience. Maybe you love scubadiving,
want to stay at a private resort, and are
total foodies. Perhaps you’re interested in a cruise
honeymoon–or you want to plan a totally luxe
European destination wedding with ten of your
closest family members and friends. I can
customize an experience that’s perfect for
you–all within your price range.
I help you save money. I have the ability to
create packages, bundling together flights,
accommodations, excursions, and more–which
will help you save money. I also have access to
discounts because of my relationships with
certain hotel companies or airlines.
I work closely with the wedding departments
at resorts and hotels and make sure that
everything is perfect for your destination wedding,
creating a stress free environment for you. My
background is wedding event planning–so all the
little details are touched upon. Things you might
not have even thought of. I will even travel with
you for the day of coordination if you want!
Beloved Getaways is your point of contact in
case of emergency. My clients have access to me
24/7. If your flight is canceled, if you’re worried
you’re going to miss your connection, or if some
other mishap occurs, we’ve got your back. I will
make sure you get to where you need to be–
which is absolutely crucial, whether it’s your
wedding day or your honeymoon.
Mindi Phillips
Romance Travel Specialist
601-914-9213 office
601-206-2168 cell
mindi@belovedgetaways.com
belovedgetaways.com
– 21–

– 22–
Yazoo city | Flora | Pearl | Flowood
bankofyazoo.com

–– FEATURE PROPOSAL ––
Brittany
BUIE
&
Jordan
MITCHELL
When natural light photographer Lindsey
Epperson was planning a detailed photo
shoot for GlitteryBride.com, she didn’t
include a marriage proposal in the day’s
activities. But when Jordan Mitchell called
her about proposing to his girlfriend after
the shoot, she was all in.
Mitchell had dated Brittany Buie for nine
years. “Getting married was inevitable,”
says Mitchell. “I was trying to think of a
creative place to propose and this kind of
fell in my lap.”
Epperson had another couple lined up for
the elaborate photo shoot which took place
at Bridlewood, a popular wedding venue
in Madison. “Not long before the shoot, the
couple had to back out, so I had to scramble
to find someone. Brittany and I used to be
co-workers and we became good friends.
I had shot photos of her before, so I knew
how photogenic she was. I called, and she
and Jordan agreed to do it.”
The couple was fitted in wedding attire,
including a beautiful long wedding gown
and a tuxedo. “I realized that with this
photo shoot, the stars had lined up perfectly
for me to propose,” says Mitchell. “The
setting was gorgeous, we would be dressed
up and looking our best, and really, it was
like all the work was being done for me!”
He called Epperson to see what she thought.
“I didn’t want to take away from her big
shoot,” says Mitchell. “Luckily, she said she
would help, and Lindsey came up with all
kinds of ideas that I never would have
thought of.”
The only snafu was that Buie wore the ring
to work so she’d have it with her for the
shoot. “The ring is a family heirloom that
her grandmother wore,” explains Mitchell.
“I had to figure out a way to get the ring
from her so I could propose with it!”
Epperson figured out a way to have Buie
give Mitchell the ring.
The day before the photo shoot, Mitchell
says he was a nervous wreck. But on the
day of the actual shoot, he had a very busy
day at work. “I had two meetings and some
traveling, which was good, because it kept
my mind occupied.” Once they got to the
venue, it was all about hair and makeup
and making sure the clothes were perfect.
“I know that Brittany had hoped the
proposal would happen soon,” says
Epperson, “but she was so caught off
guard!”
Making sure Epperson had gotten all the
shots she needed, Mitchell finally got down
on one knee and proposed. “I was shocked,”
say Buie. “Jordan is such a reserved person
and he’s not real big on romance. I had
always kind of thought he’d propose
privately, not in front of a crowd of people
like he did! But I was thrilled, I had been
hoping for a proposal for a long time!”
Mitchell and Buie were introduced by
mutual friends when she was a junior in
high school, and he was a freshman in
college. “I was only 17 and he was 19.
We just hit it off and we’ve been together
ever since!” Mitchell says he is glad he
took advantage of the setting to propose
to Buie, although he didn’t think one thing
through. “I guess it’s kind of odd to propose
to someone who is already wearing a
wedding dress!”
– 24–

– 25–

FLOWERS BY WREN & ROSE
COORDINATOR/STATIONARY BY POSH DESIGN SHOPPE
DRESS BY ELLE JAMES BRIDAL / TUX BY TUXEDO JUNCTION
– 26–

LIMO BY WAY BACK IN TIME
TABLEWARE BY LEAKE STREEET COLLECTIONS
VENUE: BRIDLEWOOD OF MADISON
HAIR & MAKE-UP BY SHELBY GREER
CAKE BY CHARMED CAKES
LINDSEY EPPERSON PHOTOGRAPHY
– 27–

–– PROPOSAL––
Brittany&Andrew
COMANS
Andrew has always been full of fun ideas,
so it’s not unusual for him to have a random idea for us to do.
I had planned for our families to meet one Saturday night
and he came up with one of his sweet, but random, ideas.
He told me we should bury a time capsule–
full of reasons why we love each other.
We each had a mason jar that we filled up with our notes,
then we’d read them, combine them into another jar,
and bury them to read years from now.
I read mine first, then it was his turn to read.
After he read his, he pulled the ring out from the bottom
of the jar and asked me to marry him.
I don’t remember exactly what he said, but I did
manage to get out a ‘Yes’ after the initial shock wore off!
He had also planned for his brother, Ryan, to come
and capture the special moment and I’m so thankful for that.
It was a perfect moment that we’ll never forget!
What’s neat, is that now, we are building our forever home on the
same spot where he proposed and we buried our time capsule!
– 28–

– 29–

–– PROPOSAL––
Haleigh& Saleem
EUBANKS BAIRD
When Haleigh Eubanks walked into Saleem Baird’s restaurant
and bar with a group of friends late one evening, she caught
his eye. “I noticed her because she looked like she didn’t belong.
She had on glasses and looked very studious.” Saleem had seen
Haleigh at a few functions he had put together around town,
but they had never met. “We talked that night and then stayed
in touch. I was working for Roger Wicker in Washington, D.C.,
and I came home on the weekends to take care of my business.
Haleigh was in Little Rock working on her PhD, so we started off
doing long distance dating.”
A graduate of Eastside High School in Cleveland, Haleigh
attended Mississippi Valley State University. She graduated in
2010 with a degree in biology before pursuing her master’s at
Jackson State. She then earned her PhD in biomedical sciences
at the University of Arkansas in Little Rock. “While I was working
on my PhD, I got the courage to study for the MCAT. I passed it
and was accepted into medical school at Edward Via College of
Osteopathic Medicine at Auburn University. My goal would be to
join a team in an academic setting where I could see patients,
part time, and do research. That would allow me to have
a family, which I would like.”
Saleem is a family-oriented person, which is what attracted
Haleigh to him. “Well, he is very good looking,” says Haleigh,
“so I was attracted to him physically. But as I got to know him,
I learned he’s the go-to guy in his family. I watched how he was
with others and realized he’d be a great father figure one day.
He takes care of his family and others, and I’m big on kindness.”
Saleem says Haleigh has been a “breath of fresh air” for him.
“We hit it off right away. I was impressed by her and liked that
she had a game plan. She wasn’t just another pretty face. I guess
I knew right off that she was possibly ‘the one.’ We’ve had our
ups and downs, but in the end, we learned how to compromise,
and we learned which buttons not to push.” A New Orleans
native, Saleem graduated from law school in May and is now
studying to take the Mississippi Bar exam.
Early last year Saleem had an engagement ring made for
Haleigh. “I had it for a few months, waiting for the perfect time
to propose.” After asking her parents’ permission, he decided to
go for it during Christmas holidays last year. “We’d had a
disagreement earlier that day, but we talked about it. Finally,
I just got down on my knee and asked her to marry me in front
of her family.”
Haleigh said yes, and the couple will marry December 27 at the
Vault in Brandon. “We’ll try to merge some New Orleans flavor
with her Mississippi Delta sensibility,” says Saleem. “We know a
lot of people,” says Haleigh, “so I think it’s going to be a bigger
wedding than we anticipated.”
– 30–

– 31–

–– PROPOSAL––
CHANNELL
Riley
&
Chase
BEEMON
I met Riley around five years ago
at a wedding and knew from the
first moment I saw her, there was
something so different about her
that it scared me. As time went on,
I experienced some pretty hard times
but God had put Riley back in my
life. I still remember the exact location
and date she told me she loved me.
And that’s the first time those words
have ever started a chain reaction of
emotions and feeling in my entire
body. I mean, my teeth went numb.
I not only fell in love with her but her
daughter, too, and I fell in love with
how she was to my son. I knew that
this was something very very rare–
a love worth writing a book about.
I knew I had to marry her, and I knew
I couldn’t see another day past this
day without her in my life.
Well, she decided to join the Air Force
and pursue her dreams of being a
flight medic. We went three months
with nothing but two phone calls and
letters–oh the letters! Seven days a
week I sat down every night and
wrote two pages or more about how
much I missed her. I knew that when
she got home, I wasn’t going to waste
another minute without asking her to
be my forever.
So her first weekend home, I, along
with her mother, was able to achieve
this proposal. I knew that if she
arrived to a house full of cars she
would know what was going on,
so we hung a huge banner that we
used at her Air Force graduation.
This would, hopefully, throw her off
of all the cars and make her think it
was a welcome home party and not
a proposal.
Once she entered the door, the lights
were down with a highlight reel
running of our lives together and
every moment she took my breath
away. A rose petal path lead to a
letter, a glass of champagne, and
a movie with more video clips and
pictures trying to explain how much
she meant to me. Once the video was
over, I sent sweet Ainsley in with a
rose to bring her mama outside.
Once she was outside, I let everyone
hear my promise to love her with all
that I am and that I’ll stand beside
her, step by step, for the rest of my
life. I asked if she would do me the
honor of being my forever, being
everything to me... being my wife!
I thank God daily for blessing me
with someone as perfect as her.
– 32–

– 33–

–– PROPOSAL––
Audrey& Gage
JARVIS Mc CARTY
Gage and I have known each other since kindergarten, but I so wish I had paid attention
to him sooner. He is truly the most incredible person I know. We finally started dating
our senior year of high school, and we have done so much life together since then.
Our favorite place in the world is Telluride, Colorado.
We have so many special family memories there, but this one tops them all.
I thought we were taking family Christmas card pictures, but Gage had other plans.
The photographer wanted to take some extra pictures of each couple on the trip.
When it was our turn, I turned around and Gage was down on one knee! I don’t think
he even got words out before I said yes! It was the most special moment in the
most special place. I was completely overwhelmed with excitement.
When we came inside, Gage got his own surprise–his entire family had flown
out to Telluride to surprise us! We spent the rest of the week skiing with
our families and talking about how perfect God’s plans are.
– 34–

– 35–

–– PROPOSAL––
Loren& Tristan
POWELL THOMAS
I never caught a bouquet at a
wedding. I actually never went on
an official date until I was in my
late twenties. I was always the girl
that guys said “you’re too good
for me.” I never understood that
statement until I got older. Our
purposes didn’t align and God’s
grace covered me and didn’t allow
me to enter into many relationships.
I was single for six years before
meeting my fiancé, Tristan. In
those six years, I became the woman
that I couldn’t have had I entered
into a relationship other than the
one I am in. Timing is everything–
but more importantly, God’s
timing. I waited.
I met my now-fiancé and knew
immediately, within a month of
dating, that I would one day share
his last name. Not only his last
name–but every struggle and every
victory. Tristan is the epitome of
God’s craftsmanship. His attention
to detail and attentiveness to my
every need, down to him randomly
sliding me KitKats (my favorite),
is only something God knew. God
knew every desire of my heart and
granted it and more.
My engagement is a day that will
forever be etched in my heart.
I cried and I cried a whole lot!
He was intentional. Tristan was
part of a 5K that morning so I
never expected him to propose,
let alone in the same day!
Surrounded by my close family
and his, on September 7, 2019,
Tristan Thomas asked me to be his
forever bride. I didn’t even let him
finish before I said yes. And from
here on out it will be yes. Yes, to
every stage our lives take us as long
as we can take it together. I’m truly
thankful that during my single
season I remained focused and
waited. I waited to experience my
own version of a fairytale love...
but my prince is actually the King.
– 36–

– 37–

– 38–

– 39–

The
Beauty
Plan
– 40–

The stressors associated with planning your big day can affect your skin.
Following a wedding beauty timeline and a healthy skincare routine is so important
for a flawless face on your wedding day.
As soon as you get engaged
Start making healthier food choices. Diet is everything and is the
first step to perfect skin. Water should be your new best friend...
and it helps the waistline, too.
If you have never had a medical facial by an aesthetician, now would
be the perfect time for one. Skincare regimens should be initiated.
At Lotus Med Spa, we perform complimentary consultations
suggesting pharmaceutical grade products to start addressing your
skincare concerns.
Six months before the wedding
By this time, you should have found an amazing moisturizer.
Skincare products with hyaluronic acid work the best. Hyaluronic
acid is a naturally produced chemical within our body that helps
keep skin plump and hydrated. Over time, our body creates less
and less hyaluronic acid, causing the appearance of fine lines
and wrinkles.
Grow out those lashes! Whether you choose to wear false eyelashes
on your big day or not, it’s so fun to have long lashes for every day
of your life! We carry Latisse, an FDA-approved treatment to grow
lashes for those with inadequate or sparse lashes. For your wedding
day, we can apply Extreme eyelashes. This false eyelash application
can mimic natural lashes or go for a more dramatic look.
Three months before the wedding
If you are thinking of getting a spray tan, book one early on for
a test run rather than waiting just days before your wedding.
If you plan to self-tan, start testing various products to ensure
you find one with the best color and longevity.
Start working on your sleep schedule. A good night’s sleep is
crucial to having good skin. This will also improve energy levels,
dark under eye circles, and give you the appearance of refreshed,
more vibrant skin!
One month before the wedding
If you have not incorporated this into your weekly routine, now
is the time to start. Exfoliation, also known as dermaplaning is
the process of removing dead skin cells and revealing fresh, revived
skin. You should be exfoliating your face and body twice a week.
Skinmedica AHA/BHA cleanser is the perfect combination of
alpha-hydroxy and beta-hydroxy acids that cleanse and gently
exfoliate the skin improving the texture, tone, and smoothness.
Start using a vitamin-rich serum. Skinceuticals CE Ferulic is
a patented daytime vitamin C serum that delivers advanced
environmental protection and improves the appearance of fine lines
and wrinkles, loss of firmness, and brightens skin’s complexion.
Botox and injectables–a safe and non-surgical way to restore volume
and fullness to the face to correct moderate to severe wrinkles and
folds. We offer: Botox, Dysport, Sculptra, Restylane Lyft, Restylane,
Restylane Silk, Restylane Refyne and Defyne, Voluma, Juvederm
Ultra, Juvederm Ultra Plus, Volbella, and Vollure.
Two weeks before the wedding
Cut the dairy and sugars out of your diet. You will notice significant
changes in your skin.
Treat yourself to a HydraFacial. This procedure is the perfect
combination of exfoliating dry, dull skin and infusing hydration
into the skin.
One week before the wedding
Drink more water than you are comfortable with.
Hydrated skin is GLOWING skin!
Lotus Med Spa is part of the Mississippi Premier Plastic Surgery Group.
Call for more information at 601-981-2525 or to schedule your visit.
– 41–

WEDDING
ETIQUETTE
I Do’s
& Just
Don’ts
– 42–

For the Couple
Do
• Greet and thank your guests at the reception
– they came to see you!
• Check the laws of your state and plan to get your
marriage license well before your actual wedding day.
• Supply food for your wedding vendors
(wedding director, florist, band, etc.).
• Say goodbye/thank you to both sets of parents at the
end of the evening.
• Send invitations to close friends and family, even if
you know they can’t come – this will make them feel
included and appreciated.
Don’t
• Post to social media to announce your engagement
before calling family and close friends.
• Invite someone to your bridal shower, but not the wedding.
• Wait 8-12 months before sending thank you notes.
• Include your registry information on your wedding invitation.
For the Guests
Do
• Return your RSVP as soon as possible! The couple has already
spent a long time preparing for their big day, and is counting on
your response for catering and space purposes.
• Turn your phone off/on silent during wedding ceremony.
• Read your invitation carefully before assuming your children
are invited.
• Let the couple eat at the reception – it may be the first meal
they’ve had all day!
Don’t
• Wear white to the wedding.
• Arrive more than 30 minutes early.
• Bring a guest or two if your invitation doesn’t specifically
indicate such.
• Take photos during the ceremony – you’re likely blocking the
view of those around you, including the photographer the couple
paid to document their day.
• Post photos to social media before the couple has had a chance
to do so (unless otherwise encouraged).
– 43–

– 44–

Go Ahead,
Use the Good China
Mary Ann Kirby
– 46–

Why do we insist on saving things for special occasions?
Let me re-phrase that.
Why do “I” insist on doing it?
Twenty years ago, when my husband and I were
in the process of getting married, the expectation of
newly engaged couples was to register for fine
china and fancy crystal in order to receive them as
wedding gifts. In hindsight, there were certainly
more practical gifts for which we could have
registered. We barely had enough cabinet space to
accommodate our mismatched combined everyday
dishes and assorted plastic “to-go” cups.
Friends and family were generous in celebrating
our union with dinner plates and salad plates and
bowls and cups and saucers–all gilded and gold
rimmed–and none, dishwasher safe.
When we built a home a decade later, we
boxed up all our gifted tableware–some still yet
to be unwrapped from its original gift packaging–
and we moved it to its new address. To this day,
while yet another ten years has passed, they
remain mere articles of decoration–or hidden,
entirely, in a seldom-used china cabinet.
My china has become a metaphor for my life.
What am I saving it for?
It has always been my experience that the
purpose of fancy dinnerware is to mark “special”
occasions. I’ve realized, though, as I’ve gotten
older, that my definition of “special” has changed.
My son is getting older. My husband travels
constantly for work. Special occasions in our
household have become the everyday ones. The
days when my husband and son and I can sit down
together at the same table and eat and laugh and
talk, are special. The days when we celebrate simple
things like getting our driver’s license, a win on the
baseball field, or an award at school–are all special.
And our clock is ticking . . .
Oftentimes, our neighborhood friends will
come to our house and gather around the kitchen
island and eat and drink and howl laughing while
sharing stories of their jobs and their children and
their lives–and those times are special. And the
fact that they want to be there is special.
So when I consider that our special occasions
are the ones that involve the people I love the
most engaging in the things that make me the
most happy–it makes me wish I had used that
china more often.
If you’re still reading this, stay with me...
What if we actually started to “use the good
china” every day? What if we used it until every
gilded edge on every piece had been worn down
to just a faint brassy haze? If we are saving our very
best, for the very best, when will that be if not now?
At nearly 53-years old, I find myself in a
transition–a bit of a “new season.” And I’m not
even sure what triggered it. Maybe preparing to
write this story prompted it as I’ve been thinking
about it for quite some time. But the truth is, I’d
gotten lazy. And because my family is moving at
warp speed, most often in completely opposite
directions, I found myself being alone more often
than not.
My day-to-day routine hadn’t required much
effort beyond getting up, brushing my teeth, piling
my hair on top of my head, and taking my son to
school–most often in my pajamas. And because
I work from home, I can stay in my pajamas for
a good part of the day, and usually do.
But a year or two ago, I started noticing that
I was having a hard time remembering things–
simple things like being able to recall someone’s
name or a word that should have, otherwise,
come easily. I would go to the grocery store and
it would occur to me, somewhere around the
cereal aisle, that I had absolutely no idea where
I’d parked my car.
So there I’d be, in a baggy sweatshirt that
covers my back-side, wearing yoga pants as pants,
without a stitch of make-up on my face, hair piled
high up on my head, standing on aisle eleven and
wondering not only where I had parked my car–
but what had become of me? When did I lose, me?
It was a defining moment.
I had quit trying. And as a result, it seemed my
brain had quit trying, too.
I wasn’t “using the good china.”
Saving things and reserving the effort for that
“special something” or that “perfect moment” is
crazy. None of us know what’s going to happen
tomorrow. And we certainly shouldn’t take our
moments for granted–because we never know
when we’ll be out of them.
So this new “season” I’ve entered is actually
a season of re-awakening. Today is my special
occasion.
What if we showed up for ourselves every day?
What if we showed up for the people we care
about most and made the most of every single
opportunity? What if we pulled out the “good
china,” showed it off, and felt good doing it?
Literally and metaphorically.
When it comes to thankfulness, I can think of
no greater way of expressing it than by using the
good stuff. As they say, wake up, dress up, and
show up, right? I’m still working on it. But now,
while I may still wear my yoga pants as pants,
don’t be surprised if you see me doing my
grocery shopping wearing bright red lipstick, too.
After all, I’m being intentional about celebrating
today.
As hard as it is for me to admit, and in the
grand scheme of things, today may actually be one
of the relatively few, if not only one, I have left.
Therefore, it’s imperative that I give it all I’ve got.
So go ahead. Use the good china. Life’s too
short not to. Turn the ordinary into something
extraordinary, today. l
– 47–

– 48–

For Him:
IMMACULATE STYLE.
PERFECT FIT.
Flowood 601.992.4955 | Ridgeland 601.957.1233
TUXEDOJUNCTION.COM

LOVE
through the
DECADES
Whether you’ve been married for one year or fifty,
relationships built on love and commitment will remain enriching
throughout the decades. It takes a great deal of passion and determination—
but when done right, you, too, will one day have
a lifetime of advice to share with others.
– 50–

10 YEARS
Meredith & Chad Johnson
20 YEARS
Ginny & Matt Futvoye
Establish yourselves – your principles
and preferences – before you have
children. Everything will just fall into
place when you do.
Put God first and each other second.
That may sound cliché, but it is so very
true. When you have children, they will
naturally come third! This one piece of
advice sets the tone for the household.
Don’t look to your spouse
to satisfy all your needs.
Only the Lord can do that.
Approach one another with
humility – when life is going great
and when you are struggling.
Matt is a physician with Capital Ortho
and Ginny is a mom and artist.
Plan for holidays. It’s important to
see everyone, but it doesn’t have to
be in the same day. Then, stick to it.
And embrace your in-laws.
Do something different every once
in a while. It doesn’t have to be extraordinary – just out of the ordinary.
Chad is a pharmacist at The Transplant Pharmacy in Flowood. Meredith is
marketing and communications director for First Presbyterian Day School.
– 51–

30 YEARS
Laura & Paul Chinchen
40 YEARS
Ginger & Mike Tramel
Two important things: First, have
more kids. There is nothing that will
bring you more joy and fulfillment
than your children. Children are the
light of your life, they are God’s
blessing to you.
Second, don’t do everything for
your kids. Your kids will never be
able to take initiative and be
self-starters if you’re out front
mowing down every obstacle.
You are not doing them any
favors. If you love your children
and want them to succeed, let
them solve their own problems,
communicate with their teachers, make their own plans and
carry them out without you doing it for them.
The advice we would give to a
newly married couple is to make
Jesus Christ the center of your
relationship. From that, the Holy
Spirit will give you the grace to
love well and forgive often.
As a couple, find ways to serve
and minster to others. Never stop
holding hands and keep lots of
laughter in your relationship.
Mike is a dentist in Jackson
and Ginger is a housewife.
The Chinchens are African missionaries and founders of the
African Bible Colleges in Malawi, Liberia, and Uganda.
– 52–

50 YEARS
Ann & Jim Woodson
60 YEARS
Sister & Heber Simmons Jr.
Talk, talk, talk! Communication is
such an important part of a marriage.
Never assume that your spouse knows
what you are thinking. That can cause
problems. Set aside time, with the TV
and cell phones off, to tell each other
how your day went, discuss children,
plans, finances, the weather – whatever!
Jim is recently retired as owner of an
executive search consultant business.
Always let your spouse be
themselves and allow your
individual talents to flourish.
A marriage will be more
fulfilling when you commit
to one another, “I support you,
and I want you to support me.”
Dr. Heber Simmons Jr. is a retired
pediatric dentist in Jackson. Dr. Sister
Simmons is the retired coordinator
of the Jackson Public Schools’
Academic and Performing Arts
Complex/Performing Arts Division.
– 53–

– 54–

– 56–

– 57–

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The Look
All eyes will be on you–not to mention the cherished photos you’ll keep forever. Of course you want
to look perfect on your big day, but what does perfect mean to you? For some brides, a dream dress
is a regal ball gown fit for a princess. For others, it’s a fantasy mermaid gown, or a fitted silhouette
that makes everyone appreciate her curves. For grooms it may be a suit or a tuxedo in a color or
traditional black. The choices are limitless and no matter your budget, personal style, or timeline,
our hope is that you find the look of your dreams–the one you’ll love today, on your big day,
and throughout the decades as you reflect back on your extraordinary wedding.
– 60–

– 61–

– 62–