ABOUT | Bridal 2010

a publication ofSILVER PLATTER PRODUCTIONS, INC. www.aboutrvmag.com $2.50 Value

FEBRUARY 2010

Going To The Chapel • A Legacy of Love

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February 2010 ABOUT..Weddings and Special Occasions | 3

5 Should you Hire a Wedding Consultant?

6 Going to the ChapelJerome and Kelsey Cox married at Saint Catherine’s at Bell Gable in Fayetteville, on Oct. 17, 2009. The chapter of their lives as Mr. and Mrs. Cox began on that day.

9 Obtaining the License

10 Wedding Florals

12 A Legacy of LoveThree bells from the infamous village chapel hidden deep in the valley did not ring for Bonnie and Dr. Gene Ring on their wedding day 50 years ago.

15 Bridal Fair, Fashion Show

18 True Love was Waiting Just Around the Corner

22 Rehearsal Dinner Made Easy

25 Dinnerware ‘Do’ Mix Old and New

26 With This Mama, I Thee WedLocal wedding planner extraordinaire Diane Race has made an interesting side career absorbing the stress of weddings, so brides can breathe a little easier.

28 ABOUT Engagements

31 Resource Directory

Our Associates

SteveNewby

479.880.1006photography

MelanieConley

479.858.2708adver t is ing

VonnaMarpel


CliffThomas

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ABOUTour Cover

6 12 26

JaimeDavis


table ofcontents

Weddings & Special Occasions

ABOUT... Weddings and Special Occasions is pleased to feature a former associate and her new husband on the cover of this special issue. Kelsey Boyd and Jerome Cox were married at Saint Catherine’s at Bell Gable in Fayetteville. Loyal readers will remember Kelsey when she graced our pages as a product model and sales associate before graduating and moving to Fayetteville. She and Jerome, both formerly of Russellville, make their home in Northwest Arkansas. Don’t miss their endearing story beginning on page 6.

4 | ABOUT...Weddings and Special Occasions February 2010

ABOUT… Weddings and Special Occasions 2010 carries the same local theme made popular by ABOUT… the River Valley, our magazine publication which began in June 2006. This third edition special-events issue, published for distribution just prior to Valentine’s Day 2010, is designed to encourage newly-engaged couples, anniversary celebrants and special occasion event-planners to work with local retailers whenever possible. The source of local talent is endless, and the quality, personal service you will receive is unlike that of other “out-of-market” locations. Planning our family’s first wedding a few years ago with River Valley business owners was practically worry-free. And now, as we work with our daughter Laura and her fiancé Daniel to plan their upcoming wedding, I am reminded of the special attention one receives when shopping locally. Not every facet of Laura’s wedding has utilized local businesses -- she and her fiancé are marrying in Cabot – but we began the process by shopping at home where and when we could. Shopping locally is like involving extended family in all the important details – it seemed as though the details of their wedding were as exciting to the merchants as it was to the new couple. This is another reason we strive to shop local, support our community and promote local business whenever possible. Betrothed couples and their families will have a unique opportunity on Sunday, March 7, as members of the Arkansas Tech University event-planning major have organized a special event. The River Valley Bridal Fair and Fashion Show will be held from 1-5 p.m. at the L.V. Williamson Boys and Girls Club, 600 East 16th St, Russellville. Prospective brides and grooms, members of the wedding party, family, friends, wedding enthusiasts and the general public are invited to attend. Tickets to the bridal event will go on sale at the entrance to the Boys and Girls Club at 12:30 p.m. day of the event, one-half hour before the bridal fair begins. Cost is $5 per ticket and also serves as the guest’s entry for a number of fabulous door prizes. (Only cash will be accepted for ticket purchase.) Money generated at the event will be used to create scholarships for Hospitality Administration students at Arkansas Tech. Reserve seats for the fashion show are available until 2 p.m. March 7th by contacting Layla Crouch at (870) 595-4509 or contacting her at [email protected]. Advanced seating is $10 and ensures a reserved seat for the fashion show. Local vendors and retailers have been invited to showcase at the event. It has been a number of years since a student-inspired Bridal Fair has been held locally. ABOUT...the River Valley Magazine is honored and enthused to support the students in their promotional efforts. For up-to-date information about the event, visit their web site at: www.rivervalleybridalfair.webs.com. The content featured in our ABOUT… Weddings and Special Occasions, is strictly local – endearing stories about engagements, weddings and anniversary celebrations. For a complete listing of the stories found in this issue, please refer to our contents page. We hope you’ll enjoy reading the 2010 ABOUT… Weddings and Special Occasions, and please, stop by our booth at the River Valley Bridal Fair and Fashion Show on March 7th.

A PAGE FROM The Editor’s Notebook

ABOUT the River Valley

A Publication of Silver Platter Productions, Inc

Vol. III, Issue 1 – February 2010

OWNERS/EDITOR

Nolan and Dianne Edwards [email protected]

ADvERTISINg SAlES

Melanie Conley [email protected]

Vonna Marpel [email protected]

Jaime Davis [email protected]

gRAphIc DESIgN

Chris Zimmerman [email protected]

WRITERS

Dianna Qualls [email protected]

Jeannie Stone [email protected]

Christina Keaster [email protected]

Kechia Bentley [email protected]

Connie Las [email protected]

Rita Chisum [email protected]

phOTOgRAphY

Kristin Hare [email protected]

Steve Newby [email protected]

ABOUT… the River Valley is locally owned and published for distribution by direct mail

and targeted delivery to those interested in the Arkansas River Valley.

Subscriptions are available by sending $20

for one-year (10 issues) to: SPPI/ABOUT Magazine

P.O. Box 10176 Russellville AR 72812

Material contained in this issue may not be copied or reproduced without

written consent. Inquiries may be made by calling (479) 970-6628.

Office: 417 West Parkway Email: [email protected]

Postmaster: Please send address changes to: SPPI, P.O. Box 10176, Russellville AR 72812.

Dianne Edwards, Editor/Publisher

Have a Healthy, Happy New Year!

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The value of a Professional Wedding Consultant may not be immediately apparent to an engaged couple. But ask any recently-married woman who used a wedding consultant, and she will tell you to ‘definitely hire one!’ Once you have established a budget, you might believe this is an area where you may save some money and forgo hiring a professional. Before making your final decision, consider these benefits of a professional wedding consultant. Perhaps you, too, will realize that a wedding consultant is an invaluable asset to the outcome of your special day. A wedding consultant is someone who: • assists the Bride through the entire planning process. • saves the Bride and her family from unneeded apprehension. • provides clear direction to the entire wedding party and

family members during rehearsal and on the wedding day. • offers suggestions based on past experience with the

couple’s desires in mind. • is an excellent source of information regarding other

wedding professionals.

• provides rules for proper wedding etiquette. • is familiar with facilities and their policies concerning

weddings. • knows the latest trend in wedding fashions and decorations. • allows you and your fiancé to “just be in love.” These are just a few reasons that hiring a professional wedding consultant could benefit the engaged couple. Some people decide to have a friend (or a friend of their mother) try to direct the wedding. While this can be done successfully, many brides later say they wish they had hired a specialist. Sometimes dealing with family or friends during an intense emotional event, such as a wedding, often results in hurt feelings. This, of course, needs to be avoided at all costs. When there is a difference of opinions, make certain the bride makes a decision and see that her choice is honored. A reputable consultant will have a contract or agreement for both parties to sign. There is normally a deposit due at the time the agreement is signed, followed by payments made during the engagement. A first consultation generally is free of charge. The couple will want to make sure there is a good “fit” with the chosen wedding planner, and the planner will want to discover specific ideas the couple has for their wedding. If during the first meeting you are unsure about hiring this consultant, ask for references. Normally most brides make a decision at the initial meeting to hire the consultant. If that is your decision, you should leave the first meeting with a feeling that a large weight has just been lifted off your shoulders. If you hire a consultant, congratulations! Your wedding planning has just been made easier and simpler. n

WeddingConsultant?Should you hire a


ChapelGoing to the

Story by Christina KeasterPhotos by Kristin Hare


Kelsey and Jerome met at Arkansas Tech University. They were both involved at The Wesley Foundation Ministry. He was a senior and she was a freshman. “He was the coolest guy ever. He was a musician, smart, a good Christian; he was so out of my league. I thought I could never obtain this guy,” said Kelsey. They were both active in the Wesley Worship Band. Jerome played bass on the guitar and Kelsey was a backup singer. They talked and hit it off for a bit, but nothing more. “Little did I know, Jerome had me in the back of his mind for years since we met.” Kelsey’s parents, Dennis and Linda Boyd reside in Russellville. Jerome’s parents, Dale and Sheryl Cox, reside in Cave Springs, but formerly lived in Dover. In May 2005, Dennis had a spinal stroke that left him paralyzed from the middle of his chest down through his feet and in his hands. “That has been the most challenging situation our family has faced, but our faith in God continually sees us through the difficult times,” said Kelsey. Although she and Jerome were only acquaintances during that time, every time she spoke with him, he asked about her dad. “He was kind enough to let me know he’d been praying for Dad. Even two and three years later, he kept asking, which certainly made an impression on me,” she added.

Jerome, now a medical physicist at Highlands Oncology Group (HOG) in Fayetteville, graduated from Arkansas Tech University in 2005 with a Bachelor’s degree in physics, and from Duke University in 2007 with a Master’s degree in medical physics. After Jerome’s first year at Duke, he came back for the summer and they dated. “We called it our ‘three weeks of fun,’” said Kelsey laughing, “Then he had to go back to school.” Jerome also interned at HOG during that summer.

“If you ever commit to dating me, I’m going to ask you to marry me,” she remembered him telling her that summer. “I didn’t take him seriously.” Upon graduation at Duke, Jerome began a full-time job at HOG and moved to Fayetteville one year before Kelsey. Kelsey, now an account

assistant at Mitchell Communications Group (public relations agency) in Fayetteville, graduated from Arkansas Tech University in 2008 with a Bachelor’s degree in speech with a public relations emphasis. Kelsey moved to Fayetteville two weeks upon her graduation to start her new job. ”When I moved to Fayetteville, we started hanging out more and more, and well, the rest is history,” said Kelsey. They officially started dating December 17, 2008, and were engaged less than two months later. >>

“Family is very important to both of us. What drew us to each other most was that we both came from good solid Christian families. The timing lined up, everything lined up. We just knew. I can’t explain it.”

Jerome and Kelsey Cox married at Saint Catherine’s at Bell Gable in Fayetteville, on Oct. 17, 2009. The chapter of their lives as Mr. and Mrs. Cox began on that day. Five years earlier, the first page of that chapter had already been written.


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“We went to Al Dente’s for our first date and had a nice Italian dinner. He showed me the receipt last summer, I didn’t know he had kept it.” A few weeks after Christmas, they both knew the other was ‘the One.’ “We had spent a lot of time together and with each other’s family, too. Family is very important to both of us. What drew us to each other most was that we both came from good solid Christian families. The timing lined up, everything lined up. We just knew. I can’t explain it.” Jerome talked to Dennis and Linda about marrying their daughter. “The thing that triggered it for my parents was when Jerome said, ‘she’s the most important thing in the world to me’ and my dad said ‘that’s all we need to hear’.” Kelsey went ring shopping with her best friend from college, Elizabeth Doster. “Elizabeth knew us both because we all went to Wesley together.” Kelsey hinted at the ring she liked, and Elizabeth relayed the details to Jerome. “He made a good, informed decision,” Kelsey said, laughing. On Friday, February 13, 2009, Jerome and Kelsey were tired from a hard week’s work. They decided to go out to eat and de-stress. Forgetting it was the day before Valentine’s Day, all the restaurants were either full or there was a long wait for a table. The two opted to go back to Kelsey’s apartment to hang out and then go eat later when the crowds died down. “We were just hanging out and then all of a sudden he just dropped down to one knee, pulled a ring out of his pocket, and said, ‘Kelsey Boyd, will you marry me?’…and of course I said yes!” The second after all of the excitement, they called their parents to tell them the news. “Everyone was excited for us.”

Kelsey’s advice for future brides: “Enjoy the planning cause it can be so much fun. It’s what you want it to be.” Kelsey hired Kristin Hare to take the engagement and wedding photos. “She knows what she’s doing, she’s done it for a long time, and she’s good at what she does. She fit me creatively, everything I wanted from a photographer.” Kelsey was given wedding showers from friends and church families in Russellville and Fayetteville. “I love earth tones; our colors were brown and green, with orange, too.” Kirsten Boyd, Kelsey’s younger sister was the only bridesmaid in the wedding and Jerome’s older brother, Reuben Cox, was the only groomsman in the wedding. The focus of the wedding was Christ-centered and support-focused, too. They challenged their closest friends and family, who attended the wedding, to pray for them when they thought of them. “We worked with Mark Lykins, pastor of Grace Fellowship Church, on the vows and planning the ceremony. The ceremony was very intimate; we made it from our own hearts unique. We thanked our parents for the great example of marriage they provided for us.” After the ceremony, the couple celebrated with friends and family at The Garden Room on Dickson Street in Fayetteville. “We wanted to take the time to greet all of our guests and talk to every person,” said Kelsey. The newly-married couple walked out to bubbles popping in the air and on to their honeymoon at Pike’s Peak Resort in Colorado Springs, Colo. “Jerome chose Colorado because he knew I loved the mountains.” The couple is learning about one another daily in their new home in Springdale. “I sing and Jerome plays drums at church. It’s like we’re repeating our story but with rings on our fingers.” n


By now you probably are receiving more advice about marriage than you’d like. However, this is one piece of information you’ll definitely appreciate before you and your intended purchase your marriage license – you’ll need cash or a check before you can obtain that important piece of paper! Before you and your bride-or-groom-to-be may marry, you must purchase a marriage license from the County Clerk’s office. In Pope County, that office is located in Suite 6 of the Pope County Courthouse, 102 West Main in Russellville. Office hours are 8-4, Monday through Friday. The cost of a marriage license in Pope County is $58. (Fees may vary slightly per county so it’s best to call for specific information.) And, payment is accepted by cash or check only. Debit or credit cards are not generally accepted. The document (license) you receive allows you to officially become a couple. Rules for obtaining a marriage license will vary from state to state, so be sure to know exactly what laws apply by checking with the clerk of the court’s office. There is no waiting period in Arkansas but both the prospective bride and groom must appear together to purchase the license. You are required to present a government-issued photo id. Social security numbers of both parties are required. There are no tests required to obtain the license but anyone under the age of 18 must have the consent of the custodial parent(s) and documentation is required. If you have been married previously, proof of dissolution of marriage (divorce) also is required. Receiving a marriage license does not mean you are married. The license you are issued is valid only in Arkansas and good for a period of 60 days. You must have a clergyman or justice of the peace sign the license and submit it back to the County Clerk’s office within 10 days of the marriage in order for it to become official. n

Obtaining the License

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORmATION, contact the following offices: Pope County, County Clerk, Russellville, (479) 968-6064; Yell County Clerk, Dardanelle, (479) 229-4404; Johnson County Clerk, Clarksville, (479) 754-3967, and the Conway County Clerk, Morrilton, (501) 354-9621.


A most-popular question asked by brides-to-be and their wedding planners are “which members of the wedding party are given corsages and boutonnieres?” While the answers may vary with the wedding particulars, the following is a good reference when planning for the wedding and reception flowers. The bride’s chosen color theme is the most important factor when selecting flower choices. Are there real or silk flowers available in the bride’s selected color? What is the wedding season? Always check on availability of real flowers for the time frame of your wedding. Some flowers, while available, may be more costly at certain times of the year. A visit to your florist early in the planning process is critical. When selecting silks, your choice is limited only by those flowers stocked at your favorite retailer or crafts store. The sky is virtually the limit here. Just be certain to coordinate silk flower choices with real flower availability when mixing real and silk. Keep in mind that silk flowers are not always less expensive. However, the advantage may be that you can spend the money months before the wedding rather than just prior to the ceremony when expenses seem to appear out of thin air! The advantage of silk flowers is that you or your designer may take your time and do the work in advance of the wedding. Fresh flowers are often selected for centerpieces since they are viewed more closely than silks. However, with today’s improved silks, one would have to scrutinize the flowers closely to determine their origin. Single flowers – whether real or silk – work well as table centerpieces and can keep costs to a minimum.

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Regardless of your choice, do consult your florist early and request a price for both real and silk before you invest. Don’t forget to discuss who will be picking up the florals and set an exact time and date. Confirm this again one week prior to the wedding. The Bride: After she selects her colors and the style for her bouquet, she must next consider her hair. Would floral accents be appropriate with her chosen hairstyle? What type of headpiece has she selected? Does she need small silk florals to affix to her garter? (And does anyone REALLY participate in this ancient ritual anymore?) A ‘throw’ bouquet, separate from her actual wedding bouquet, is a must. Often made of silk and mimicking the wedding bouquet, the ‘throw’ bouquet is often used for the bridal portrait then again at the reception as the bride and groom prepare to leave. The ‘throw’ bouquet can decorate the wedding guest registry until needed for the couple’s departure. The Attendants: What flowers shall the bride select for her maid and/or matron of honor, her bridesmaids and flower girl? Will you need bouquets, single-stem florals or hair accessories? Will the flower girl need a small corsage or wristlet or will she wear flowers in her hair? Don’t forget the rose petals for the flower girl’s basket. Real or silk work equally well here but do be certain to check with the location specifics about which are recommended. (Real petals are perfect for outside weddings while silk may be a better choice for an inside location.) Corsages: This is an often miscalculated choice. First, the mothers and grandmothers of the bride and groom, any step-parents or grand-step-parents; musicians, hostesses, servers, guest book attendant, wedding planner and any other special

guest deemed important to the betrothed couple. Be certain of your count, or if you are unsure, order extra. Hurt feelings are best overcome with advance planning! Boutonnieres: The Groom, of course, and his groomsmen; the minister or officiant, fathers and grandfathers of the bride and groom; step-grandparents, musicians and any other special person deemed important. Ringbearer: A small boutonniere here should be included, but what about florals affixed to the pillow, if any? Pew Bows: In addition to the pew bows, will there be florals added? How many do you need? Pew bows are most often used to indicate the first few rows reserved for family members. Others suggest they are simply decoration and may be used on every pew to decorate the path of the bridal party. Sometimes, to limit expenses, a bride will only use the bows on the first few pews for the family. This is a personal choice and is not improper. Entry Hall/Reception: What florals are needed for the guest book or entry hall? For the reception hall, consider the cake display. Will you need a simple arrangement or a massive piece for the cake table? How many guest tables will require centerpieces? Will they be the same or differ? What about the groom’s table? Often the bridal bouquet or throw bouquet is used to decorate the guest table, which has been moved from the entry point to the reception area. Did your attendants carry single-stems? If so, consider gathering these and placing them in a tall vase in the reception hall. Assign this task to one of your bridesmaids as you will be occupied with the photo session or greeting line. The key to flower choice and preparation is planning. Brides who have several months to prepare are most often the most relaxed when the big day arrives. n


THREE BELLS from the infamous village chapel hidden deep in the valley did not ring for Bonnie and Dr. Gene Ring on their wedding day 50 years ago. The song, made famous by Bonnie and her siblings -- Maxine and Jim Ed of the country singing group The Browns -- was already a number one hit worldwide when the young couple slipped over the state line to wed in secrecy. Bonnie, a native of Sparkman, was a career musician when she met Gene, known to friends and family by the name “Brownie.” They became acquainted through mutual friends when he was a junior in medical school in Little Rock. “I never dated musicians because I was on the road so much, and I knew how they were,” she said, matter-of-factly, so she accepted an invitation to a cookout where she laid eyes on Brownie.

“It was love at first sight,” he said. She agreed. “He just swept me off my feet.” A few months of dating convinced the duo to tighten the knot. “We slipped over to Hernando, Mississippi,” Bonnie said, “He learned of it from his Navy friends when he was in the service. There was no waiting time. In fact, later on my brother and his friend both went over there to get married, too.” The law of the land at the time required the couple to travel to Memphis to submit blood samples. “They kept sticking me with the needle, and I almost changed my mind,” Bonnie said. Humor is one of the mutual attractions. “Oh, he has a great sense of humor,” she said. “He can make me laugh just by wiggling his ears.” The first thing that comes out of Brownie’s mouth when asked what attracted him to his bride-to-be is her beauty. “I had never seen anybody as pretty as she was,” he said. “Being in medical school like I was, I shouldn’t have been drawn to someone in that way, but I was smitten, and I couldn’t help it.” The Rings kept the wedding mum for a few weeks until Bonnie could break it to her manager. All ended well with the tour. “They were touring like crazy,” Brownie said. Brownie didn’t worry about his new wife because she traveled with her family and was busy in the flurry of commitments and concerts. “And I was always her number one, and she was always mine,” he said. The couple settled in Dardanelle and raised a family of two daughters, Kelly Ring, a news anchor in Tampa, Florida, and Robin Shaver, a

mother and wife in Little Rock. Bonnie quit performing except for special occasions to devote her energies to her family. Although she had retained her voting status as a member of the Grand Old Opry, the demands were too great, and she resigned from that as well. “Even with two children, I continued to tour and just keeping up with that and my family was really tough, but the Grand Old Opry required members to make 26 appearances a year on top of doing

our own concerts and making appearances. It was hard to give up, but I was at peace, and I was fine with it,” Bonnie said. The couple’s one-level country home, surrounded by land and horses, is both serene and exciting at the same time. Once the front door opens, the décor reflects Bonnie’s travels. She has a passion for Oriental art and furniture, and pops of red add spice.

Story by Jeannie StonePhotos by Dianne Edwards

A Legacy ofLoveever after


Brownie retired from a career serving the patients in Dardanelle, and they both enjoy traveling with friends and family now. “We didn’t have time when he was in practice,” Bonnie said. Bonnie, who has always enjoyed cooking, loves to try new recipes especially French sauces, but she is a great fan of her cast-iron skillet. “The first thing I do when I visit my daughters is season their skillets for them,” she said. “Everybody needs a cast-iron skillet. After all, I love country music and country food because that’s what I am.” Brownie, dubbed by his father who, upon his birth remarked that he finally had his ‘Brownie’ (referring to the brown eyes he shared with his mother.) The retired physician spends his days pursuing golf and working in the garden.

“He planted 2,000 jonquils last year,” Bonnie said. Though the Rings didn’t begin their marriage with a church service, they have been longtime members of First Presbyterian Church in Dardanelle. Brownie served as an elder for many years, and Bonnie has recently been named an elder as well. “I’d rather be a ‘younger,’ ” she said between laughs, “but they’ve gone and made me an elder.” Daughters Kelly and Robin were in their 30s before they married. “They used to ask me all the time how they would know if a man was the right one for them. I said, ‘Oh, you will know,’ and they both found and married wonderful and sweet husbands, and within a few years we had five grandchildren.” Kelly, a television news anchor for WTVT in Tampa, is married to Ed Bulleit and together they have three children, 13-year old Clark, 11-year old Kendall and 8-year old Raleigh. Daughter Robin, a wife and mother, is married to Dr. Robert Shaver, a pathologist at Arkansas Baptist Hospital. They are parents to 15-year old Skylar and 9-year old Shaver. “Our grandchildren are so precious to us,” Bonnie said. “They call me BonBon, and they call Brownie Pap-aw. My heart melts every time I hear them call our names.” Recently, the daughters and their husbands threw a 50th wedding anniversary party for the Rings at Savanah’s Restaurant in Dardanelle. Printed on the invitation was a request for no gifts:

“...we’ve lasted because each of us gives and shares and HELPS THE OTHER.”


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“Your love is a treasured gift; we request no other.” One of the highlights of the affair was the slide show the children made for their parents. “It was so special because we didn’t have wedding pictures,” Bonnie said. “Instead, we have this wonderful testament of our lives together, and I couldn’t believe the perfect music they selected to accompany the pictures.” “One of those songs was Vince Gil’s ‘Look at Us.’ It’s one of my favorites, and it’s perfect for our marriage. When asked what song would serve as the theme song for their lives, Bonnie hesitates just for a moment. “Oh, my goodness, it would be hard to choose just one. ‘Look at Us’ would certainly be good but ‘Memories’ by Elvis Presley is another good song,” Bonnie said. “I love anything good, especially gospel or country. I really like cotton-patch music.” Brownie admits he never inherited the music gene.

“He’s got no rhythm whatsoever,” Bonnie said, “and he’s not a good dancer. When we’re out on the dance floor, I always ask him to let me lead, and at church I ask him not to sing too loud.” These opposites have stuck together in an agreeable relationship, however. “I think,” Brownie said, “we’ve lasted because each of us gives and shares and helps the other. If she wants to do something, I’m for it, and if I want to do something, she’s for it. We’re kind of easy going with each other, and I love her today more than I did on that first date.” Bonnie smiles. “Being married 50 years is not all a bed of roses, you know, but you constantly work at if you love each other.” “We thought for a while at Christmas time when everyone was coming in that we might want to renew our vows,” Bonnie said. “But we thought about it and decided we didn’t really need that little church wedding after all.” n


bridal

Plans have been underway the past several months for The River Valley Bridal Fair and Fashion Show set for Sunday, March 7. The event will be held from

1 to 5 p.m. at the L.V. Williamson Boys and Girls Club of the River Valley, 600 East 16th St, Russellville. Prospective brides and grooms, members of the wedding party, family, friends, wedding enthusiasts and the general public are invited to attend. The idea for the event originated with several event-planning students earning their Hospitality Administration degree at Arkansas Tech. Having the desire to do something to further their career efforts, they began discussing a bridal fair and quickly realized that the money generated at the event could be used to create scholarships for Hospitality Administration students at ATU. With their background and experience through the study of wedding planning, they created the River Valley Bridal Fair and Fashion Show. “Grow your business and help us raise scholarship money for college students by becoming a vendor and sponsoring the bridal fair,” urges Layla Crouch, one of several students involved in the project. Tickets to the bridal fair will go on sale at the entrance to the Boys and Girls Club at 12:30 p.m. day of the event, one-half hour before the bridal fair begins. Cost is $5 per ticket and also serves as the guest’s entry for a number of fabulous door prizes to be announced soon. (Only cash will be accepted for ticket purchase.) Reserve seats for the fashion show are available until 2 p.m. March 7th by contacting Layla Crouch at (870) 595-4509 or at [email protected]. Advanced seating is $10 and ensures a reserved seat near the front of the fashion show. Organizers offer the following tips to save time at the bridal fair: bring labels with your wedding date, the names of the bride and groom, contact information, wedding and reception location and other pertinent information. This will save the couple from having to write the same information over and over again, leaving more time to enjoy the event and register for available door prizes.

Bridal Fair, Fashion Show March 7th

For booth pricing and additional vendor or event information, visit www.rivervalleybridalfair.webs.com. You may contact Layla by email at [email protected] or by calling (870) 595-4509. n

Tuesday through Friday 10 til 5Monday & Saturday by Appt.

[email protected]

(479) 967-1398

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The Frame Shop &

Gallery311 West C Street

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Huge Selection ofBridal Sets and Bands

Custom Designs Available

Fine JewelryJ shua’s

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Charles Oates and Dale Walker began C&D Drug Store with a very simple motto:

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• Wedding Bands• Diamond Rings• Wedding Accessories• Attendants Gifts

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Catherine ChristopherOwner

Catherine’s Cakes

Wedding and Groom’s Cakes • Petit Fours Cupcakes and More

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Early Orders Appreciated!

The merchants of the “wedding walk” district of Historic Downtown Russellville, come together to offer everything a new couple needs

for the perfect wedding: engagement rings, wedding bands, flowers for the ceremony and reception, attendant gifts, the perfect bridal gown and formal attire for the entire wedding party, engagement and wedding photographs, invitations and framed portraits. One may order the wedding and groom’s cakes, purchase furniture, bedding or appliances for their new home, schedule appointments for the perfect hairstyle and manicure, or reserve the depot for a special event.

The downtown area is located within Main Street Russellville’s designated district. The district is bounded by Parkway Avenue on the north, El Paso Avenue on the west, Boston Avenue on the east and Third Street to the south. An organization of supporting businesses, the Russellville Downtown Association, meets at 8 a.m. on the second Thursday of each month to network with adjacent merchants to plan participation and support for Main Street events, including the Artwalk, Taste of the Valley, Hot Summer Nights, the Downtown Fall Fest and Chili Cookoff, Reunion Around the Rails and Friends of the Depot.

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Story by Christina KeasterPhotos by Jan Townshend and Christina Keaster


belief. He has changed my outlook on life and people. That doesn’t mean I don’t mess up still, but I’m not near who I used to be.” Cheryl mentioned to Stuart one day as he was coming in to pay his rent that he should ask Paula out. “Not gonna happen,” he said, “I don’t want to be in a relationship.” After continually pursuing the topic with Stuart, he finally gave in to Cheryl’s wish and asked her out. “Hey, wanna go for a motorcycle ride?” Paula agreed and they planned to go after they got off work that day. “It was summer time and beautiful, we were having a ball, we didn’t want to come back,” said Paula. They drove to Clinton and ate at a Mexican restaurant. They drove back through bugs hitting Stuart head on. According to Stuart it

felt like “being shot with 22s.” Fortunately, Paula was hiding behind him, free of the bugs. “And it just kind of went from there,” said Paula, “Each day after work we would walk together downtown, just talking and getting to know one another.” “They say there’s no such thing as love at first sight, and I tend to agree with that, but by the end of the first week I knew I didn’t want her walking out of my life,” Stuart recalled. They began dating in May 2009. Stuart asked Paula to marry him a few times. The first time they were washing dishes, and he asked her. “She said no, but with a big smile. I knew then she was going to say yes, it was just a matter of time.” >> The second proposal gave a “maybe” as her answer; Stuart

GOd’S TIMInG IS PeRfecT. Stuart and Paula McGee can attest to that fact. Paula, a seamstress and artist at Sew Sassy worked only a few steps away from the man she would one day marry—Stuart McGee, owner of Stuart’s Barber Shop. The two businesses are located in historic downtown Russellville. Cheryl Brown, owner of Sew Sassy, owns the building that Stuart’s Barber Shop is located. Every month, Stuart would come into Sew Sassy to pay his rent. “I knew there was a connection the first time he saw her,” Cheryl said. Paula moved from Kansas to Russellville and has resided in the city for 17 years since. She has three children: Amanda, Beth and Benjamin. She worked at Calico Ladies Fabric Store before her current job at Sew Sassy. She is also a doll artist, creating one-of-a-kind dolls that are on display at Stuart’s shop and at Sew Sassy. Stuart moved to Russellville to be with his parents, George and Joan Ratzlaff, in March of 2007 after he lost everything valuable to him in Southern California. He and his son, Wayne, rode into town on his motorcycle to start fresh in Russellville. Jan Townshend, owner of Reflections Tea Room and wedding videographer/photographer, knew George and Joan Ratzlaff from church at Fellowship of Christians (FOC.) Jan’s husband, Will, worked with Joan at Century21. “They told me their son Stuart and grandson Wayne had just arrived in town. They asked us if we wanted eat lunch, so we went after church. That’s when I met Stuart,” said Jan. However, Jan knew Paula before she met Stuart. “I went downtown to network with businesses and met Paula at Calico Ladies Fabric Store. We chatted, emailed back and forth, and built a friendship.” Before Stuart was formally introduced to Paula at Sew Sassy, he decided to follow his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. “I walked into FOC realizing I had been running from the Lord for too long. Now He (the Lord) has blessed me beyond

J u s t a r o u n d t h e C o r n e r

True Love was Waiting…

“When she first walked out from

back and I saw her in her dress, she

took my breath away. At that point

I got weak in the knees,”

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .


Danielle’s BridalBridal Attire | TuxedosBridesmaids | F lower Girls

Accessories | RentalsMother of Bride

2382 West Clark RoadClarksville, AR 72830

(479) 754-5885www.daniellesbridalshop.com

Bride Alisha Cooper Huddleston ~ Photo by Tom Bagby

Worry free frombeginning to end.

the only two words you need to remember...we’ll

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knew he would definitely get a “yes” the next (and last) time. After praying a lot about marrying Paula, he proposed to her on July 4, 2009. “We were sitting on the porch swing, and he asked me. I said yes. I thought he was gonna pass out before he asked me.” Stuart called his parents and son, and Paula called her children to tell them the exciting news. “My son never approved of any of the women I dated, until Paula. That was a confirmation in itself that she was the one.” The two families began to merge into one, “They all get along,” Paula said. Unknown to Paula, Jan was creating a Bridal Expo for the community in partnership with a Russellville wedding and special occasion store, Formal Affairs. “The goal of the expo was to have someone from every aspect of the wedding process. We had a real cake, wedding gowns, decorations, and I thought, why not give a wedding away? I talked to all the vendors and they agreed to do it, but left me in charge of finding the couple to marry at the expo.” “At the time, I had no idea who I could find. I wanted to find someone who wouldn’t have a wedding otherwise.” Jan called Stuart one day to talk, and

Wayne, Stuart’s son, answered the phone. They chatted for a little while and then Wayne told Jan that his father was getting married. Within a second, Jan knew exactly who would be getting the free wedding. Jan immediately went to Stuart and Paula to talk the idea over, and after some convincing, they decided to do it.

On that same day, Paula and Jan drove to Formal Affairs to try on dresses, something Paula had never done before. The wedding dress was the perfect size-no alterations needed. The cake had already been made and amazingly, green and white -- Paula’s wedding colors -- were the same colors of the wedding cake. They felt this was just another sign that the marriage was meant to be. As the expo began the morning of August 8, 2009, Paula was getting her hair and makeup done. “I wasn’t nervous, just excited. I felt like a princess,” Paula recalled. Kate Brugh and Wren Whiteseven were the best friends of Paula and Stuart, and likewise, the maid of honor and best man. Scott McGee, Stuart’s older brother, was the pastor at the ceremony. To Stuart, having his brother there was the second most special part of the wedding. The most special part was “when she first walked out from back and I saw her in her dress, she took my breath away. At that point I got weak in the knees,” confessed Stuart. “I liked the whole thing,” said Paula, “I will not forget his eyes, the smile on his face.” After the ceremony, the couple celebrated with family and friends at Reflections Tea Room, and spent three romantic days in Grove, Okla., for their honeymoon. “It was exciting for me to see all of the vendors excited about giving,” recalled Jan. Stuart and Paula agree that their life together has been one joy after another. “Marriage is a work in progress, but it makes my day to see her every day, I can’t imagine my life without her, I really can’t.” n


hand lotion and moisturizer curling iron, hot rollers extra earring backs

tissues or wet wipes hairdryer iron or travel steamer

cotton balls or swabs brush, comb bandages, first aid tape

emory board, clippers, scissors hairspray, hair gel feminine hygiene products

makeup remover bobby pins, hair elastics, barrettes small flashlight

nail polish (in your shade) and remover, clear polish (for runs in hose)

headband or clips for pulling hair back while applying makeup

aspirin, pain relievers, antacids, breath mints

makeup (foundation, powder, applicators)

toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, mouthwash

antihistamine, cold remedy, any prescription medications

tweezers deodorant and baby powder folding utility knife

small hand towel perfume “throwaway” garter

lint brush extra pantyhose duct tape

cooler with juice, sodas, and bottled water (one for both the bride and groom’s wedding parties)

safety pins and a sewing kit w/thread the color of bride’s and attendants’ dresses, extra buttons, scissors

cell phone and home phone numbers of all wedding participants

flat shoes for reception (stash under-neath a table in the reception hall!)

masking tape or sewing tape (for last-minute ripped hems)

extra copies of directions to reception

black socks for the groomsmen champagne, glasses snacks

You’ve planned your special day for months, and everything is perfect… or is it? Every bride should be prepared for those

last minute ‘opps!’ A Wedding Day Emergency Kit is a wonderful idea and will put the bride (and her attendants) at ease. Packing well in advance of the day will help keep your missing items in check. Included in this list are a number of suggestions -- but feel free to add your own!

(479) 967-6773 • Mon. - Sat. 10-5:30 • 130 E. Harrell Drive • Russellville, AR 72802

The Bride & Groom’s Wish Listat Collectors Gallery

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Registry

Wedding DayEmergency Kit


food

The wedding rehearsal dinner does not have to be a formal sit-down dinner. It can be a light, casual event planned around some the bride and groom’s

favorite pastimes and favorite foods. Whether the event is held in a home, a backyard, on the beach, utilizing our state parks or even a bowling alley, the rehearsal dinner should be a place for everyone involved to enjoy each other’s company without worrying about a specific agenda. Use this time to unwind and enjoy friends and family who are joining the happy couple in this joyous occasion. If your budget requires limiting the number of guests for the rehearsal dinner, you might want to consider having your rehearsal dinner two days before your wedding -- usually out-of town guests have not arrived and you won’t feel guilty for not inviting them. You will have a more relaxing wedding eve, you may even get a little more sleep (ha, ha...) and a chance to catch your breath before the big day. Maybe you would like to host the rehearsal dinner in your home but don’t really have the seating space. You might try providing a buffet. Whether the affair is catered or potluck, a buffet enables you to accommodate everyone. Dishes can be placed on a table or counter so your guests can serve themselves and sit wherever they’d like. This is a great way to make guests feel at ease as they can mingle as they eat. So, how about a little spicy buffet to delight your guests?

by Dianna QuallsAbout the River Valley

Food Editor

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Mad

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asy

AvOcADO SAlSA1 pkg. (16 oz.) frozen corn, thawed2 cans (2¼ oz. each) sl. ripe olives, drained1 med. sweet red pepper, chopped1 small onion, chopped5 garlic cloves, minced1/3 c. olive or vegetable oil¼ c. lemon juice3 T. cider or white wine vinegar1 tsp. dried oregano½ tsp. salt½ tsp. pepper4 med. ripe avocadosTortilla chips

In a large bowl, combine corn, olives, red pepper and onion. In a small bowl, combine garlic, oil, lemon juice, vinegar, oregano, salt and pepper; mix well. Pour over corn mixture; toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate overnight. Just before serving, chop avocados and stir into salsa. Serve with tortilla chips. Yield: about 7 cups. Recipe from Taste of Home.


CATERINGCall Janet Ford, Director of Catering O. (479) 968-0279 • C. (479) 280-0059

From the Simplest Wedding to the Most Elegant…..Catering to Meet Your Needs

MEXIcAN BEEF cASSEROlE2 lb. ground meat1 onion, chopped2 T. chili powderDash of cuminDash of garlic powderSalt and pepper to taste6 corn tortillas1 med. can Ranch style beans½ lb. grated Monterey Jack cheese1 can Ro-Tel tomatoes1 can diced green chilies1 c. grated Cheddar cheese1 can cream of chicken or cream of

mushroom soup

Brown meat with onion, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Drain fat. Layer in baking dish as follows: Half of meat mixture, 6 corn tortillas, second half of meat mixture, mixed with the can of beans, grated Monterey Jack cheese, 1 can Ro-Tel tomatoes, 1 cup grated Cheddar cheese, and canned soup. Cover and refrigerate for 24 hours. Uncover and bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour. Serves 6 to 8. Can be frozen, thawed and then cooked. Recipe from cooks.com.

Sometimes even the simplest ideas are the best. This is true in almost everything we do in life. Possibly one the following simple ideas will help make for a wonderful rehearsal dinner. A POTLUCk: Each person invited would be asked to bring a dish, casserole, dessert, etc. and the recipe for that dish on a 3x5 card including their name, address and wedding wishes for the couple. The 3x5 cards could be placed in an album for the happy couples first cook book. Are there children in the wedding party? Fill a sand bucket with coloring books, candy, crayons and small games. Put their names on the sand buckets with a metallic paint pen. Set up a table especially for the kids. Make it kid-friendly, paper placemats with a bride and groom to be colored and given to the bride and groom as keepsakes from the kids. A SANDwICH STATION: Set up trays of deli sliced meats, chicken salad, tuna salad, crab salad, sliced cheeses, a variety of breads, sliced, rolls, hoagie buns, pita bread, lettuce, romaine, fresh spinach, tomatoes, pickles, a variety of mayonnaises, salad dressings, mustards, even oil and balsamic vinegar, etc. Everything could be prepared the day before or earlier the day of. Wrapped and refrigerated until ready to serve. Make family favorite desserts. DESSERT BUFFETS: These are an easy and delightful way to entertain a crowd. Use a heart-shaped candy box or dish and create a checkerboard of truffles and silk flowers to fill it. For the kids or the kids at heart -- chocolate covered cherries, bubble gum balls, peppermint sticks, gummy whatevers. Create a strawberry tree by spearing whole fruits with toothpicks driven into a Styrofoam topiary base. Fill pretty baskets with muffins, and pastries. Stack cake stands to showcase petit fours, cookies, and cookie bars on. Offer a selection of wonderful coffees and flavored creamers, flavored teas, a light punch, or a refreshing lemonade. And now, I raise my glass to toast the bride and groom as you begin your new life together. “Live passionately, Laugh often, and Love madly.” As my hubby, Lloyd has always said, “always give more to the relationship than you ever expect to get out of it” and always say “yes dear “ to whatever she says. Isn’t he just the “cat’s meow” I think I will keep him FOREVER.


MEXIcAN FRIJOlES SAlAD2 T. salad oil2 T. vinegar1 garlic clove, minced½ tsp. chili powderDash of Pepper1 (16 oz.) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed1 (16 oz.) can red kidney beans, drained

and rinsed¾ c. celery, diced¼ c. small white onion rings2 T. sweet pickle relishLettuce leavesOnion rings (optional)

In mixing bowl combine oil, vinegar, garlic, chili powder, and pepper. Using a wire whisk, thoroughly combine. Set aside. In a second bowl, combine pinto beans, kidney beans, celery, ¼ cup onion rings, and pickle relish. Pour marinade over bean mixture; toss lightly. Cover and chill several hours or overnight, stirring occasionally. To serve, spoon bean mixture into large lettuce-lined bowl or individual salad bowls. Garnish with additional onion rings, if desired. Serves 6 to 8. Recipe from Better Homes and Gardens.

MEXIcAN chIcKEN SpAghETTI2 fryers, boiled and boned (I use 6 or 7 chicken breasts)1 onion, chopped1 bell pepper, chopped1 can sliced mushrooms, drained1 can sliced black olives, drained1 can chopped pimentos, drained1/2 lb. Velveeta cheese, cubed1 lg. pkg. spaghetti3 chicken bouillon cubes1 can cream of mushroom soup1 can cream of chicken soup1 can Ro-Tel tomatoes

Cut chicken in bite size pieces or shred and place in large bowl. Cook spaghetti according to package directions with

bouillon cubes added to the water. Place onion, bell pepper, mushrooms, olives, and pimentos in the bowl with chicken. Add soups and tomatoes; mix. Add drained spaghetti and cubed cheese; mix well. Pour into casserole dishes and bake at 400 degrees until hot and bubbly. This freezes well.

STRAWBERRY FRIllS16-18 large strawberries1/3 c. mascarpone cheese1/3 c. heavy whipping cream2-3 T. Splenda or white sugar½ tsp. pure vanilla extract

You want the berries to sit flat. So if they are a little wobbly with the stems left on, cut the green stems off the berries so they will stand upright when placed on your serving tray. With a small sharp knife, cut an “X” in each strawberry, cutting almost to the bottom of each strawberry. (The cut should be such that the strawberry will open up but not fall apart.) Gently, with your fingertips, spread each strawberry apart to make “petals”. Set aside while you make the cream filling. In a medium sized bowl, whip the mascarpone cheese and whipping cream until soft peaks form. Add the sugar and vanilla and continue to whip until stiff peaks form. Spoon the cream mixture into a pastry bag fitted with a large open star tip. Pipe the cream into the strawberries. If not serving immediately,

cover, and place in the refrigerator until serving time. Recipe from Joyofbaking.com. Modified by Dianna Qualls.

cINNAMON chOcOlATE cAKE2 c. all-purpose flour2 c. sugar1½ tsp. ground cinnamon¼ tsp. salt1 c. water½ c. vegetable oil½ c. butter or margarine¼ c. cocoa2 eggs½ c. buttermilk1 tsp. vanilla extract1 tsp. baking soda

FROSTING:½ c. butter or margarine1/3 c. whipping cream¼ c. baking cocoa1½ tsp ground cinnamon3 c. confectioners’ sugar1 tsp. vanilla extract1 c. walnuts, finely chopped

In a mixing bowl, combine the first four ingredients. In a saucepan, combine the water, oil, butter and cocoa. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Pour over dry ingredients; mix well. Add eggs, buttermilk, vanilla and baking soda; mix well. Pour into a greased and floured 15x10x1-inch baking pan. Bake at 375 degrees for 15 to 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Meanwhile, for frosting, combine butter, cream, cocoa and cinnamon in a saucepan. Cook and stir over medium heat until butter is melted and mixture is heated through. Remove from the heat; beat in sugar and vanilla until smooth. Stir in walnuts. Carefully spread over hot cake. Cook completely. Yield: 24 to 30 servings. Recipe from Taste of Home. n

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Name Brand Colognes and AftershavesFree Wrapping and Delivery

Dinnerware ‘Do’Mix Old and New

A number of modern couples, having lived on their own for several years before their marriage, are opting not to register for traditional china and crystal stemware. Family

members everywhere are gasping sighs of disapproval at this statement. However, consideration of future family expansion and life changes need to be considered before making this decision. Translated: ‘Engaged couples, listen to sage advice.’ Understand this: There is no right or wrong way to register for wedding gifts – be it china, silver or a crock pot! What is important is to consider your current needs and plan for the future -- hence the encouragement to listen to the suggestions of family and friends. Go ahead and make your own choices but do think about the days to come. One day you will perhaps have the dining room of your dreams surrounded by your own growing circle of family and friends. Instead of registering for a complete set of china that might stay boxed away for a number of years, opt for high quality dishes, flatware, stemware and ‘everyday’ casual tableware that can be used and enjoyed. Local merchants offer a wide variety in styles, colors and prices to suit every need. One might even consider registering for a combination of casual and fine dinnerware, mixing a full set of everyday dishes with selected pieces of fine china. This is especially fun when mixing Christmas dishes with coordinating stoneware, or when your desired guest list outgrows your number of set pieces. Consider assembling collectible sets online or from other resale sources. However, it is truly ‘buyer beware’ in some cases so be prepared. Keep it in the family. Is there a collection of inherited china or stemware that has or could be passed down? Visit an experienced retailer with a piece of Grandma’s china in hand. They will advise you on modern day selections that will coordinate with these pieces. And, when comparing vintage pieces to new, you’ll notice

the varying colors of white – they often contain blue or yellow hues while still being classified as ‘white!’ New flatware capturing vintage styles can dress the same table as beloved heirloom silver serving flatware pieces, while guests remain unaware. Whether fun or functional, the choice is yours. Regardless of what advice the new couple is given, they must ultimately choose to register for dinnerware that meets their needs while satisfying their desires. Take the wedding registry as an opportunity to look into the future and anticipate your dining and entertaining needs. Have fun, be creative and dream! Isn’t that what your future is all about? n


Reflections ofTrue Elegance

Lingerie • Gifts • Tanning12046 SR 105 North

Russellville, Ar. 72802Phone# 479-284-4055

OPENING IN FEBRUARYFacebook: Reflections Of True EleganceE-Mail: [email protected]

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With more than a dozen years of experience fulfilling the wishes of

brides in the River Valley, Race counts the relationships she’s forged as high points in her career especially when it came time to plan the wedding of her son and daughter-in-law, Seth Race and Lee Anne Rodgers. Seth, a Tech graduate with a degree in Emergency Management, and Lee Anne, a UACCM licensed practical nursing graduate working towards her bachelor’s degree in the Registered Nursing program, married on August 8, 2009, along the tranquil waters of a summer sunset at Lake Dardanelle. Reflecting their love of outdoors, the boutonnieres were

embellished with fishing flies; the groom’s cake resembled a tree trunk. Race’s attempt to fulfill her daughter-in-law’s wishes was successful. “It just meant so much to me when Lee Anne told me, afterward, the wedding was perfect and there wasn’t a thing she would have changed,” Race said. “It was hard to get out of the wedding planner mode and be a part of the wedding party,” Race said, of the day. “Thirty minutes before the wedding started I was spreading rose petals, rearranging ferns, and making sure the punch was okay. They kept trying to direct me to the photographer, so I’d be included in the pictures.”

Race, so comfortable with seeing to minute details, wasn’t going to allow anything to spoil the special day, but then, she is equally watchful over each and every wedding she plans. Engrossed in the business of creating weddings since her niece requested assistance 15 years ago, Race, employed as the Financial Administrator at First Assembly of God during the week, thrives on the stress. “People can’t believe I can work around all that stress,” she said, “but I’m so driven to making the day perfect for the bride that I often stay up till 2:00 and 3:00 in the morning working on flowers for a couple on a tight budget.” She laughs. “I’m certainly not in this for the money.” Race’s own wedding years ago, to Jackie Race, retired from the Russellville Police Department, was a disaster. “I knew nothing about weddings,” she said.

Story by Jeannie StonePhotos courtesy of the Rodgers

With This Mama, I Thee Wed

Local wedding planner extraordinaire Diane Race has made an interesting side career absorbing the stress of weddings, so brides can breathe a little easier.

Rockin Robbin, DJ Service479-754-3468 | [email protected]


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“I was flying by the seat of my pants, and it was very stressful. I was angry on my wedding day. Everything went wrong. Nothing went as planned. Nobody escorted my parents in. I didn’t know anything about wedding etiquette.” One of the glaring omissions was that Race didn’t have a consultant. “We did everything ourselves to save money, but I didn’t know how to put the candelabras together that we rented.” Her husband’s memory of the day wasn’t much better. “He said when I got into the car I couldn’t stop ranting and raving.” Along the way, Race learned that the wedding is what the bride dreams for all her life. “I can’t impose my tastes and preferences, and I’m not going to interfere between the bride and mother or the bride and groom. The most successful weddings are those that reflect the couple, whether it is casual or formal.” The attention to detail really made the difference in Seth and Lee Anne’s wedding, Race said. “Lee Anne saw an arch in a wedding magazine and fell in love with it. She shared it with her father, who works with wood, and he recreated it from bamboo. He

went out and cut it, sanded it and varnished it five times. It looked exactly like the picture, and it meant the world to his daughter.” As personalized as Seth and Lee Anne’s wedding was it didn’t cost a fortune. “The whole thing cost about $3,000,” Race said. “Of course, I’ve learned how to save money. We shopped at Sam’s for the reception food, decorated for the rehearsal dinner, created the floral arrangements, made the hors d’oeuvres, set up the tables and chairs and generally oversaw the flow.” She has acquired so many tips, contacts and ideas that she began teaching classes through Tech’s continuing education program. The six-week class begins the first Thursday in March. Brides, mothers and maids of honor often attend the classes together. Topics include selecting colors, creating flower arrangements, budgeting and preparing a wedding day emergency kit. Every participant also receives a wedding planner that acts as a Bible covering each step of planning the event. Guest speakers include cake decorators, photographers and videographers. Race counts the friendships as the top benefit of her job. “I’ve had the privilege of

developing phenomenal friendships with brides and mothers, and that has meant so much to me personally as I have a husband and two adult sons, but before Lee Anne, I had no daughters to share this with. “I keep up with all my brides through FaceBook.” “Although they dated for six years, Lee Anne and I really hadn’t had the opportunity to spend time alone,” Race said. “Our time together planning her wedding was truly awesome for both of us. Really listening to her wishes allowed me to get to know her on a whole different level.” Lee Anne was very sentimental about the importance of being outdoors, Race said. “Seth proposed to her at their favorite swimming hole north of Hector just as the sun was setting. It meant a lot to her that their wedding day fell on the same exact day two years later overlooking the lake at sunset. “And, we all know the wedding day is all about the bride.” For more information on the Spring classes offered through the continuing education department at Arkansas Tech University log onto http://lakepoint.atu.edu or call (479) 498-6035. n

Suggestions for a Smooth Wedding day:1. Don’t let the candle lighters use all the lighting wick before the

wedding begins.2. Place lit votives on each side of the Unity candle for the mothers

to light the tapers in unison before lighting the Unity candle.3. Very important – do a test run. That includes going to the

beautician beforehand and deciding on a style and practicing makeup application.

4. Do not tan 2-3 days before wedding. If you must tan, start tanning 2-3 months beforehand.

5. Choose a dress style you won’t regret in years to come.

6. Always incorporate something personal in the ceremony.7. If you want the effect of a lavish cake but lack the

budget, ask bakery for a Styrofoam base and layer with real cakes. The entire cake can also be created from Styrofoam with a sheet cake for serving. You wouldn’t believe how much that saves.

8. Stage the couple leaving the reception while everyone is still there. It’s sad when there is nobody in the photos because guests have already started leaving, and it’s more festive with all your guests present.

9. Use your friends!


–February 20–Nikki Dilday and Justin Rickman

–March 6–Anna Turpin and Clay Henderson

–March 20–Sarah Milam and

Ryan Davis

–April 24–Meghan Clement and

Josh Follis

Lindsay Langdon and Blaine Sims

–May 1–Leigh Peebles and

Tyler Morgenthaler

–May 22–Emily Barron and

Glen Niehaus

Lauren Jones and Nick Stinson

–May 28–Giselle Torgerson and

Kevin Flint

Stacy Cochran and Josh Kanady

–May 29–Laura Hamby and

Daniel Brinker

–May (TBA)–Tera White and

Jesse Davis

–June 5–Amanda Bell and Kevin Korrigan

–June 12–Morgan Childress and

Austin McKnight

Andrea Williams and Josh Pitts

Lindsey Hybner and Cody Chronister

–June 19–Katie Miller and

Matt Fink

Kristen Lee and Hank Huggins

–June 26–Laura Edwards and

Daniel Melton

Kelsey Standridge and Justin Bennett

Giselle and Kevin Flint (Reception)

–July 3–Lori Bradley and

Chip Stokes

–October 2–Kayla Avery andZachary Lynch

Calendar listings of engagement, wedding and anniversary announcements on the pages of each issue of ABOUT … the River Valley are available at no charge. They may be mailed to: ABOUT Magazine, P.O. Box 10176,

Russellville AR 72812 or sent via email to: [email protected]. (A phone number must be included for verification.)

engagements

Registry listings courtesy of Gifts on Parkway/Gifts on Rogers and Millyn’s of Dardanelle.

The wedding of Emily Ellenburg and Seth Alexander took place at Hedgeway Church in Lamar, Ark., on Nov. 7, 2009. Emily is the daughter of Mitch and Freda Ellenburg. Seth is the son of Don and Kay Alexander. When Seth was invited to a youth service by a friend, he had no idea what was in his future. He saw Emily -- a girl he wanted to meet – across the room. The couple became friends, began dating and soon realized that they were meant to be together. After three months, Seth asked Emily to be his wife. The wedding ceremony was performed by Seth’s father, Rev. Don Alexander and Emily’s brother-in-law, Charlie McAlister. The classic church wedding featured a vintage-style, city-park setting. A beautiful reception was held in the church fellowship hall with 200-plus guests congratulating the new couple. The wedding party consisted of Chuck McCoy, best man, and groomsmen Matt Duvall, Dillon Hickman, Austin Ford, Justin Avery and Andrew White. Junior Groomsman was Cade McGee, cousin of the Bride. Alex Stanley, nephew of Groom, was ring bearer. Kayte McAlister, sister of the Bride, was matron of honor. Maid of Honor, Megan Ellenburg, sister of the Bride, was maid of honor. Bridesmaids were Leah Stanley, sister of the Groom; Megan Trusty, Layne James and Katie Jo Caldwell. Junior Bridesmaid was Shayla Gillen, cousin of the Bride. Flower girls were Nicole and Julia Gillen, cousins of the Bride. Ushers included Brent Stanley, brother-in-law of the Groom, Spencer Price and Logan Duvall. Music was provided by William Smith. Photographer was Chris Kennedy. The couple enjoyed a honeymoon in a cabin near Ponca overlooking the Buffalo River. The newlyweds make their home in Atkins.

Ellenburg , Alexander Wed


To have your engagement, wedding or anniversary published in a monthly issue of ABOUT the River Valley Magazine, send

your information, photo and a check for $57.50 to: ABOUT Magazine, PO Box 10176, Russellville AR 72812. Word count

is limited to 225 words and includes one full-color photo. Deadline is the 15th of the month preceding publication.

For additional information, call (479) 970-6628.

Laura Elizabeth Edwards and John Daniel Melton, both of Cabot, announce their engagement and forthcoming marriage. Laura is the daughter of Nolan and Dianne Edwards of Russellville. She is the granddaughter of Sue Siler of Russellville, the late Harold Richard Siler, and Robert and Virginia Edwards of Dardanelle. The bride-elect is a graduate of Russellville High School, Ouachita Baptist University and the University of Central Arkansas. She is employed by Lonoke Public Schools and teaches secondary level Spanish at Lonoke High School. Daniel is the son of Don and Marla Melton of Cabot. He is the grandson of Betty Acree Johnson of Cabot, the late Ralph Acree, and James and Sue Melton of North Little Rock. Daniel is a graduate of North Pulaski High School. He has been employed by The Kroger Company for the past 12 years and currently serves as a department assistant manager in Cabot. The wedding will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 26, at First Baptist Church in Cabot. A reception will follow in the fellowship hall of First Baptist. Friends and family are invited to attend. Following their marriage, the couple will make their home in Cabot.

Edwards, Melton Engaged

Plans for a June wedding have been announced for Katelyn (Katie) Cecile Miller of Russellville and James Matthew (Matt) Fink of North Little Rock. Katie is the daughter of Cristy L. Miller of Russellville and the late John N. (Jay) Miller. She is the granddaughter of Donald and Claudette Owens of Russellville, formerly of Fayetteville, and Jack and Jo Anne Miller of Fayetteville. Matt is the son of Jim and Lisa Fink of North Little Rock. He is the grandson of Audrey White of North Little Rock, and Jimmy and Dixie Fink of Scott. Katie is a 2006 graduate of Russellville High School. She is a candidate for May graduation from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville. Upon completion, she will earn a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology with special emphasis on Bio-mechanics and Exercise Science. Matt is a 2005 graduate of Abundant Life School. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from the University of Central Arkansas in 2009, and is pursuing a Master’s degree. Upon completion, he will graduate in May with his Master’s degree in Accounting. Matt is presently employed with Rasmussen Tax Group. The wedding is planned for 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 19, at First Baptist Church in Russellville. Friends and family are invited to attend. Following their marriage, the couple will make their home in Conway.

Miller, Fink will Marry

Allan Needham of Greenwood and Missy Needham of Booneville announce the engagement of their daughter, Brooke Ashley Needham of Little Rock to Patrick James Smith of Little Rock. The bride-to-be is the granddaughter of Madeline Needham of Booneville, the late Charles “Chuck” Needham, Phyllis Brewer of Tulsa, Okla., and the late Kenneth Jester. Brooke is a 2003 graduate of Booneville High School and earned bachelor’s degree in Business Leadership and Organization in 2009 from the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith. The groom-to-be is the son of Dan and Eileen Smith of Russellville. He is the grandson of the late Helen Kirts, the late Donald Smith, and the late James and Lillian Fitzmorris. Patrick graduated from Russellville High School in 1999 and earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Economics and Finance in 2003. He is employed as the national sales manager of Splash Super Pools, LLC of Little Rock. The couple will be united in marriage in a 6 p.m. ceremony on Saturday, May 1, 2010 at Pulaski Heights Methodist church in Little Rock.

Needham, Smith Plans Set


destinations

Imagine the romance of an outdoor wedding in “The Natural State.” Fabulous sunsets, secluded settings and the ever-changing

scenery make the choice an excellent one for many engaged couples. Situated in one of the area’s most beautiful parts of the state, the Arkansas River Valley lies adjacent to four state parks -- Lake Dardanelle, Petit Jean, Mount Nebo and Mount Magazine.

lAKE DARDANEllE STATE pARK Located at 100 State Park Drive (off Hwy. 326) in Russellville, Lake Dardanelle State Park has a beautiful reason to celebrate. The 10,527-square-foot visitor center offers a wonderful place to host a variety of special events. The center’s conference room is the perfect place to host a wedding, reception, anniversary or special event. Spectacular sunsets viewed through the room’s huge glass window or from the stone terrace lakeside offers a view like none other. The center features a 39’ x 32’ classroom (accommodating up to 70 guests) with an audio visual system, is $125 for a half day and $200 for full day projection screen, catering kitchen, and access to the back patio with fireplace. A total of 75 chairs and 25 tables are available. Half-day use is available for $175 and Full day (8 a.m. to 10 p.m.) runs $350. A $100 refundable security deposit is required. For information about Lake Dardanelle State Park, call (479) 967-5516 or visit arkansasstateparks.com/lakedardanelle.

pETIT JEAN STATE pARK Petit Jean State Park is located south-east of Dardanelle, approximately 28 miles from Russellville. The quickest way to get to the park from Russellville is south on Highway 7 from Dardanelle, across the Carden Bottoms and east on Highway 154. The ride is curvy but you can arrive at Petit Jean in about 35 minutes. Arkansas’s first State Park specializes in groups of 20 to 40 guests. More than 100 weddings per year are hosted at Petit Jean State Park. The most popular time for weddings is during the normal April through November park season. Petit Jean offers five rentable venues for outdoor wedding locations. Fully-equipped rustic housekeeping cabins and duplex units with fireplaces

plus one honeymoon cabin with hot tub are available. Meeting rooms suitable for indoor events include the Arkansas Room and the CCC Dining Room. The Restaurant Conference Room provides a breathtaking view of Cedar Falls Canyon. Elegant meals for receptions, formal and casual settings, plate-served or buffet meals are available. The lodge is happy to accommodate groups and those working with limited budgets. For information or reservations, contact Mather Lodge at (800) 264-2462 and the Lodge restaurant at (501) 727-5431.

MOuNT NEBO STATE pARK Seldom does a weekend pass when visitors to Mount Nebo fail to encounter a wedding party gathered at Sunset Point. The park, created with land designated in 1933, is located seven miles west of Dardanelle on Ark. 155. The highway’s zigzag turns and hairpin curves are not for the faint of heart. Rising 1,350 feet above the River Valley, Mount Nebo offers sweeping views of land below. Travel trailers over 24 ft. in length should not attempt the climb. Another popular site for the exchange of vows is the overlook near the extra large pavilion in the center of the park. Native rock encircles the walkway leading both to and behind the pavilion and offers temporary seating for those taking in the amazing view below. The pavilion is a massive native log and rock rustic-style structure also built by the CCC. The extra large pavilion is available for rental from 8 a.m. until 10 p.m. for $275 and is ADA accessible. A nearby covered pavilion rents for $50 per day. The park features 14 cabins with fully-equipped kitchens and fireplaces. The cabins are fully furnished and range in price from $98 to $209 per night depending on size and season. For information on services available at Mount Nebo call (479) 229-3655 or via email at [email protected].

MOuNT MAgAzINE STATE pARK Mount Magazine State Park, the Magazine Visitor’s Center and The Lodge at Mount Magazine, located 17 miles south of Paris, could be considered one of Arkansas’s newest wedding destination locations. Mount

Magazine’s popularity was first recorded when settlers came to farm the mountaintop in the 1800s. They built cabins and lodges to attract and accommodate travelers who came to the summit in search of cooler temperatures during summer’s heat. The temperature rarely rises above 90 degrees on the mountaintop, and has not reached 100 degrees since data has been collected. The breathtaking view atop the 2,753-foot mountain was founded on a tradition of recreational legacy. The U.S. Forest Service operated the original lodge, built in the 1940s, until it was devastated by fire in 1971. The first-class lodge facilities opened in May 2006 with a magnificent 60-room Lodge and 13 park cabins. Located on the mountain’s south bluff, the resort lodge affords a spectacular view of the Petit Jean River Valley and Blue Mountain Lake below. The modern yet rustic-style lodge features a grand lobby to welcome guests, fine cuisine in the Skyline Restaurant, and conference and business centers with meeting rooms to accommodate 112 seated guests. A large stone terrace offers gorgeous views with seating for 200. The lodge’s indoor swimming pool includes an area for children, a lap lane and hot tub. With an on-site fitness center and gift shop, the lodge offers the perfect location to host the entire wedding party prior to and following the special event. The Lodge has a number of options for weddings and receptions with areas that can be rented individually or as a whole. A total of 3,840 square feet of meeting space is available. Cabin and room rental affords the host with a discount for facility use. Full-service catering is available. The Lodge holds a private club license which allows Arkansas Wines and domestic beer to be purchased and consumed in the conference center and restaurant. Bartenders are required at any function where alcohol is served with applicable fees. For information and registration, call (877) 665-6343 or visit: mountmagazinestatepark.com. Rates and reservation fees vary depending on the location. Reservations are generally accepted one year in advance. Since parks are state-owned and open to the public, individuals other than invited guests cannot be kept from the wedding site. According to the staff, most park visitors respect their privacy and maintain distance during a ceremony. For general information on these and other Arkansas State Parks, visit their website at www.arkansasstateparks.com. n

Story by Dianne EdwardsABOUT Magazine Editor

Arkansas ParksA Wedding ‘Natural’


resource directoryTHE BEACH SHACk 2Valley Park Shopping CenterRussellville, AR(479) 967-3TAN

CATHERINE’S CAkES 16311 West B Street Downtown Russellville, AR(479) 967-4202

C & D DRUG STORE 16121 North CommerceDowntown Russellville, AR(479) 968-2456

CHAmBERLYNE COUNTRY CLUB 1010614 Country Club DriveDanville, AR(479) 495-4110

CHARTwELLS 23Campus of Arkansas Tech UniversityRussellville, AR(479) 968-0279

COLLECTORS GALLERY 21130 East Harrell DriveRussellville, AR(479) 967-6773

THE CORNER STONE 16302 West MainDowntown Russellville, AR(479) 968-3660

DANIELLE’S BRIDAL 202382 West Clark RoadClarksville, AR (479) 754-5885

DOT & CROSS [email protected](479) 280-9421

EwING TROPICAL TANNING 251610 S. ArkansasRussellville, AR(479) 968-2728

THE FRAmE SHOP 16311 West C StreetDowntown Russellville, AR(479) 967-1398

DIANE RACE wEDDING COORDINATOR 26(479) 264-4182

GIFTS ON PARkwAY 82149 East ParkwayRussellville, AR(479) 890-6932

HOLLINGSwORTH 243521 West Main StreetRussellville, AR(479) 967-4107

III’S COmPANY 17203 N. CommerceDowntown Russellville, AR(479) 880-0224

J.A.m. PHOTOGRAPHY 14www.j-a-m-photography.comJoshua Mashon(501) 250-7867

JOSHUA’S FINE JEwELRY 16310 West MainDowntown Russellville, AR(479) 968-3117

DR. CARmELLA m. kNOERNSCHILDORTHODONTIST 112015 West Parkway DriveRussellville, AR (479) 968-2138

LA QUINTA INN 24111 East Harrell DriveRussellville, AR(479) 967-2299

LET’S CELEBRATE 14916 South ArkansasRussellville, AR(479) 967-0541

LIBERTY BANk 32www.mylibertybank.com(479) 967-2151

LOVE’S FLOwER SHOP 15, 27205 QuayDardanelle, AR(800) 229-3290

mILLYN’S 5124 South Front Street Dardanelle, AR (479) 229-4144

mORGAN’S FASHION 27116 E. Main StreetClarksville, AR(479) 754-8130

THE OTHER FOOT & mORE 22143 East ParkwayRussellville, AR(479) 968-4900

PATTICAkES 17411 West ParkwayRussellville, AR(479) 968-8945

PETERS FAmILY LIVING 17201 North Arkansas AvenueDowntown Russellville, AR(479) 968-2929

POINT REmOVE CABIN 2Just 7 miles north of MorriltonHattieville, AR(479) 747-2130

POTTERY wORX 17320 West “B” StreetDowntown Russellville, AR(479) 967-0882

REFLECTION OF TRUE ELEGANCE 2612046 SR 105 NorthRussellville, AR(479) 264-4055

ROCkIN’ ROBBIN [email protected](479) 754-3468

ROSE DRUG 253103 West Main PlaceRussellville, AR(479) 968-1323

RUSSELLVILLE’S HISTORIC mISSOURI-PACIFIC DEPOT 17320 West C StreetDowntown Russellville, AR(479) 967-1437

STUDIOYOUNIQUE PHOTOGRAPHYAND GRAPHIC DESIGN 9www.studioyounique.com(479) 890-9135

YORk FAmILY CATERING 16109 S. Boulder Ave.Downtown Russellville, AR(479) 968-5258

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ABOUT | Bridal 2010

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