alt brides spring/summer 2011

ResourceGuide

Find the vendors you need to make your

wedding dreams come true!

Spring/Summer 2011

It’s Your Day!Personalize your wedding

with these great ideas!

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S P R I N G 2 0 11 / c o n t e n t s

R E A L W E D D I N G S

3 5 E m i l y F r u g e t o N o r m a n C o o k

4 0 K a i t l i n F r e e m a n t o B r a n d o n M c D o w e l l

5 1 C h r i s t i n a a n d A a r o n B e e b e

5 6 B r o c k a n d K i m b e r l y M c C o r k l e

5 7 D o n n i e a n d S h e l l y M o r t o n

Publisher and Editor / Debbie Brower

Associate Editors / Jaclyn Gooding, Miranda Johnson

Photography / Image Forward Photography, Debbie Brower, Jaclyn Gooding, Miranda Johnson, Rozana Page

Sales & Marketing Manager / Charlie McMurphy

Contributing Writers / Arwen McDaniel

www.alt [email protected] Heather Dr., Texarkana, TX 75501(903) 334-9605

©2011 ALT Magazine

E N G A G E M E N T S

5 0 A b b y L o n g t o D a n n y L o w s

H E L P F U L I N F O

4 6 I t ’ s Yo u r D a y. M a k e I t P e r s o n a l .

5 4 C h e e r s . P r e p a r i n g f o r t h e W e d d i n g To a s t

5 9 S h a r e t h e J o y o f Yo u r W e d d i n g W i t h C h a r i t y

6 1 S o u t h e r n C h a r m

6 2 W e d d i n g P l a n n e r

6 6 R e s o u r c e G u i d e

k / COVER

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Emily and Norm Cook celebrated their wedding in Playa Del Carmen with family and friends.

Right: Kaitlin and Brandon McDowell chose their hometown to seal their vows.

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Emily & NormanEmily Fruge to Norman Cook Jr.

March 12, 2011 Royal Resort

Playa Del Carmen, Mexico

How They Met...

Emily and Norm met through mutual friends when they were out one night in Texarkana. Emily was in town for the Christmas break of her senior year at the University of Arkansas. Emily and Norm talked for a few hours and realized they both loved the Arkansas Razorbacks, football, dancing, and even though they had never met, up until Emily left for college, she and Norm had lived only 15 miles from each other their whole lives!

Norman asked Emily to two-step and after a while she finally agreed. The two danced all night, and the very next day they went on their first date. The couple has been together ever since!

The Proposal...

Emily and Norm went to Emily’s sister’s house in Texarkana on the 4th of July to grill out with friends and pop fireworks. They

spent the whole night with their friends and family and all of their dogs. At the end of the night Norm and Emily were driving home with their two dogs, Izzy and Hercules, in the backseat. Norm began talking about how much he loved their “little family.” He continued to talk to Emily while they were sitting in the driveway of their new house. Then, when Emily started to get out of the truck, Norm asked her if she knew where the receipt to something was. It was really off subject Emily thought, and it caught her off guard. Norm asked Emily to look for the receipt in the truck console. When she opened it, Emily discovered the ring box! Norm took the ring out and asked Emily to marry him so their “little family” would be complete. Emily happily said yes!

The Wedding...

When the couple started talking about the wedding, they knew two things that they HAD to have: photography by Image Forward and

a laid back wedding with as little stress as possible! Norm and Emily finally decided on a destination wedding. The Royal Resort in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico was the best fit for them! Looking back, Emily says, “Not only was it a fun way to go on a vacation and have the wedding and honeymoon together, but it made our wedding unique and stress-free. Plus, we got the photos we wanted because Image Forward came with us!”

Wedding Party...

Parents of the Bride:Dr Max & Teresa Fruge

Parents of the Groom:Jimmeye & James Moore,and Norman Cook Sr.

Maid of Honor: Anne Fruge

Best Man: Pete Ellison

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Photography: Image Forward Photography

www.imageforwardweddings.com

Bridal Portrait Bouquet Florist: Jennifer Crawford -Twisted Vines

Wedding Dress:Reed’s Bridal

Bridal Portrait Hair Stylist:Regan Dunlap, The Cutting Company

*Food & Wedding day flowers provided by the Royal.

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The door chimes a happy greeting as you enter Reed’s Bridal and your eyes are delighted by the rainbow of colors announcing prom season. The lace and mermaid cut wedding dresses glisten pure white. Excited women twirl in the mirror as they prepare for one of the happiest days of their lives.

In 1995, when Blanche Reed’s son was getting married she struck up a friendship with the lady, Sandy Reed (no relation) who altered her dress. This was the “beginning of a beautiful friendship,” to quote Humphrey Bogart. The two combined 15 years after Blanche opened her store.

Sandy, to this day, still performs alterations for Reed’s Bridal. The circumstances have changed, however, as Sandy is business partners with her daughter Kelly Hoffman, as Blanche retired. The new Reed’s have been owners since 2005 when Kelly quit her registered nurse job in Plano and moved home to go into this business venture with her mother.

Kelly has thrown herself into her new position as owner and knows all the trends of this season for prom and wedding. For prom the brand that is most popular among the young ladies of Texarkana is Karishma Creations. Kelly stated that she has sold over 100 prom dresses of this brand alone! The styles that are most popular include

mermaid, ruffled, Grecian and hi-lows. The bridal and pageant line of this brand will be arriving in the early fall of this year and Kelly expects it to be as popular as the prom line. Though Reed’s has not seen a dominate color for prom, she says that psychedelic colors and wild animal prints are in.

Wedding colors for the bride are traditional and of Reed’s dresses for the bride come in white, ivory and a champagne tone. Da Vinci and Forever Yours are the top two selling bridal brands. Reed’s has seen the “sexy styles” of bridal gowns make a comeback. They have many brides this season wearing mermaid style gowns. The most popular color of her 70 color choices for bridesmaid dresses has been black. Reed’s carries a line exclusive to their store that is for the voluptuous bride and bridesmaids as well.

A feature unique to Reed’s is that 90% of the veils are hand made by Reed’s. Veils this season are sheer but only 50 percent of brides are wearing them. The other 50% wear a feather or flower in their hair “on the side with their hair in a bun.” Kelly stated she is also selling “birdcage” veils and pillbox styles.

The full line of Aurora prom and bridal will arrive in June and has “a quality dedication” to detail that is slim to none according to Kelly.

Kelly carries and styles of pageant dresses for the age of six months to adults. She has lines that are suited to the glitz pageants to “natural” pageants.

Reed’s carries a full tuxedo department for the prom date, groom, and groomsmen. From Perry Ellis to Ralph Lauren, you can get it at Reed’s.

Kelly contributes the success of Reed’s to the power of prayer. Her family is her biggest supporter as well. She is married to Bryan and has one son. She has a deep relationship with her minister, Father Malachi, and a great working relationship with her mother. The philosophy at Reed’s is to guide the young lady to the best look for her by being as “honest as a sister” while being “kind” and also “having a blast”.

Kelly states that every girl has the right to “play dress up.” Enjoy a visit to Reed’s Monday through Friday, 10 am to 5:30 pm, and Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm. You can visit their website www.reedsbridal.com to see their full line of dresses.

Blanche Reed opened her dream bridal store thirty years ago and styles have changed but the joy of going to prom, winning a pageant crown, and being a bride is a tradition that Reed’s understands and celebrates.

by Arwen McDaniel

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The Beginning...

Kaitlin and Brandon have known each other, through mutual friends, since high school, but a connection was never made between them because they were always dating other people. After Kaitlin came back from college at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, she ran into Brandon and a friend at a store. Brandon and the friend invited Kaitlin over for a cookout, but she never made it. Kaitlin really regretted not going because she thought Brandon was really cute! A few days later, Kaitlin contacted the mutual friend and asked him arrange a double date with him and his girlfriend and she and Brandon.

Kaitlin & BrandonKaitlin Freeman to Brandon McDowell

October 16, 2010 Ramage Farms

After this first date, Brandon and Kaitlin were hooked! After dating for over a year, the couple had talked about getting engaged several times, but Kaitlin had no idea that Brandon actually had a ring! Katlin always teased him saying “There is no way you have a ring because you wouldn’t be able to keep it and not give it to me.” But much to her surprise, Brandon had the ring for about 6 months before he ever proposed.

The Proposal...

Brandon proposed at a friend’s house in front of lots of his and Kaitlin’s close friends. “He popped the question at the end of the night out of no where,” Kaitlin remembers. No one at the get together knew he was going to do it; they were as surprised as she was!

Brandon had asked for Kaitlin’s father’s permission a week before and intended to ask propose on Valentine’s Day, but he never could find the perfect time, and he figured Kaitlin would be expecting it, “Which I was!” Kaitlin admits. After Brandon proposed to Kaitlin, he gave her a Bible that had what would be her new name printed on the cover.

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Photography: Image Forward Photography

www.imageforwardweddings.com

Bride’s Cake and Dessert:Silver Spoon

Catering: Silver Spoon

Florist: Ruth’s Flowers

&Twisted Vines

Party Rentals:The Big Event

Band:Richard Stuart

and the One Night Stand Band

Bride’s and Bridesmaids’ Gowns:Low’s Bridal in Brinkley, Arkansas

Tuxes: Squires

Bride’s Hair:Millie O’Corr

Wedding Party...

Maid of Honor: Erin Easley

Matron of Honor: Holly Hickerson

Bridesmaids: Anna MooreLaura BinneJulianna Register Best Man: Cole Simpson

Groomsmen:Aaron PopeJay FreemanDaniel PerryBrandon Kennedy Ushers: Dusty HickersonRickey GatesAdam GatesBrandon Gates Ring Bearers:John David CassTye Mooneyhan

Flower Girl: Hadley Hickerson Pastor: Dianne Brown Parents of the Bride:Butch & Barbara Kidd and Mike Freeman

Parents of Groom:Bob & Kim Gates and Bobby McDowell

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This year Bridal Castle and Tuxedo Place had a very special sale--their first “third generation” bridal family. A current bride, her mother, and her grandmother all bought their dresses from Bridal Castle.

Bridal Castle has been in business for 40 years this year. They have sold thousands of prom, pageant, bridesmaid, wedding dresses, tuxedos, shoes and veils over the years.

In 1971 Dorothy Schelkopf opened Bridal Castle on New Boston Road. She enjoyed the brides she worked with at the family business of Gaunt’s flowers and decided that helping young ladies find the perfect dress is what she wanted to do, and she did.

Vickie Landreth, daughter of Dorothy, has been the proprietress of Bridal Castle since 1983. Landreth stated that her current best-selling bridesmaid dress brand is Alfred Angelo, and that they have sold it since the opening day of business.

Bridal Castle prom dresses are selling fast now in every color. She also stated that she is selling many hi-low dresses but that “anything” goes. Hi-low dresses are short in the front, but long in the back. She says, “It is very exciting,” that the girls can be their “unique, individual self” this year. Brands that are popular are Sherri Hill, Jovani, and Tony Bowls.

The brides of Bridal Castle get to enjoy the exclusivity of the brand Maggie Sottero. Brides can also choose from many other brands including Alfred Angelo. The crystals on the bridal gowns are sparkly and clear, casting rainbows in a subtle way around the

room. A trend that she is sees for brides this spring and summer is the mermaid shape; not large skirts. For veils, the trend is to one layer veils that are sheer with no blushers; Flowers, feathers and small head pieces are being worn a lot.

Bridesmaid’s also have a large selection at Bridal Castle. With over 55 colors and an wide amount of styles, “bright colors” are in, as well as “short dresses”. Lime and fuchsia are being seen as well as combination-color dresses. One combination that stood out in Landreth’s mind was “pistachio and persimmon.”

Accessory wise, what is in now? “Pave!” Landeth stated, without hesitating for a moment. She stated every jewelry piece is a pave cut crystal.

Bridal Castle also sells to pageant contestants. Landreth’s experience having been involved since 1983 as a board member and former executive director for Miss Texarkana is invaluable. She stated that she truly believes in the Miss America system as it is the number one scholarship system for women in the United States and that pageants are “very strong here.” Landreth believes that being “on stage helps [the contestants] later in life, helps them to spontaneously speak in public.”

Bridal Castle carries dresses for pageant costumes for contestants from as young as 3 months. She has worked with Sunni Cranfill, Stacy James, and Hadley Smith in their winning pageant careers. Landreth also stated that white tends to be the winning color because stages are now lit with halogen lights which makes the skin glow. The judges, “don’t want to see the dress first [they] want to see the total picture.”

Tuxedo Palace carries tuxedos and vests in an array of colors for men. Traditional tuxedos are popular, but chocolate brown tuxedo styles and light brown suit coat styles are “very strong.” Bridal Castle does carry camo pattern vests and ties for you hunters and soon to be wives of hunters.

In addition to her work at their Texarkana location, Landreth has helped design gowns in the past for Sweetheart Gowns in New York. Dorothy flew to Boca Raton to work with Alfred Angelo. Brides’ Magazine and Modern Bride have come to Texarkana to meet with Landreth and see the four states area.

When Landreth is not at Bridal Castle she is with her family. She has been married to her husband Al for 35 years. They have two adult children and two grandchildren. The family enjoys their cabin in Hot Springs and the horse races.

Landreth believes that Bridal Castle has been a success for forty years because of the “involvement of each staff member with planning the special day.” For a high school student “prom is the most important day in her life” and we are a part of that. When they pick up their senior prom dress she stated that she has been known to say, “We’ll see you in a few years for your wedding dress!”

The ladies of Bridal Castle help women fulfill their dreams by helping women select the gowns that define the moments of their life.

To see Bridal Castle’s selection you can visit them Monday through Friday from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm and Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm at 3209 Kennedy Lane.

by Arwen McDaniel

Found at:www.etsy.com/shop/MyPrimitiveBoutique

Personalized, hand-painted signs are a fun way to make your wedding day a little more unique. Direct your wedding guests to the ceremony, reception, photo booth, bar or even the candy bar! These great vintage, cottage-style signs can be customized and hung or propped in a place where all your guests will be sure to take notice!

This custom round memory vase could be the perfect touch to any table arrangement! Simply submit up to 24 photos of you and your soon-to-be spouse and let the magic begin! A personal note and date can also be inscribed on the bottom of the vase!

Found at:www.uncommongoods.com

These chalkboard jars are available in a gallon or a half gallon size. Use them for your dessert station or even as a way to display your wedding favors! Use colored chalk to write the lables and carry on your wedding color scheme!

Found at:www.pier1.com

Your favorite of the many unusual Jones Soda flavors + an adorable photo of you and your sweetheart printed on every label = a perfect touch of personalization for your big day! Custom Jones Sodas will bring an element of fun to your menu, no doubt!

Found at:www.jonessoda.com

Custom Initial Monogram Stickers make the perfect embellishment for your wedding favor boxes and bags! Choose from many different designs and styles and find a look that really carries out the look and feel of your wedding! Guests will take note of the little things!

Found at:www.blissweddingsmarket.com

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and the blood-stained cross of Christ proves it beyond any shadow of a doubt. 2. You trust that He has a plan. Jesus purposely waited until Lazarus was dead four days before coming to Bethany. Why in the world would He do that? He did it because He was going to perform His greatest miracle of all, the raising of Lazarus from the grave. Jesus had raised two other people from the dead (Jairus’ daughter, freshly dead in her bed and the guy from Nain, hours dead and in a casket on the way to the cemetery), but He never called a four-day-old dead man back to life from the tomb. That miracle proved He was indeed “the resurrection and the life.” It was irrefutable evidence that Jesus was and is God in the flesh. Jesus knew exactly what He was doing when He delayed His coming. While it would have been a great blessing to have him heal Lazarus from his sick bed, it was a miracle of the highest order to have Him raise decaying Lazarus from the grave. WHAT ARE YOU FACING TODAY? Perhaps you are facing great problems today. Although you have been praying, God does not seem to be answering. Your tears are flowing, your faith is fleeing, and you are sitting bewildered at the Lord’s absence. What gives? Listen, it may be day three for you and your situation. But I have good news: The Lord is on His way with jaw-dropping, miraculous victory in tow. Day four is coming! You see, the greater the problem, the greater the miracle God is getting ready to perform. Of course He doesn’t make sense to you and me. He is the infinite God who sees all and knows all, from beginning to end. Whatever the trouble, remember His love and keep trusting Him, regardless of the current circumstances. He knows exactly what He is doing, and He really will work all things together for your good and His glory!

Jeff Schreve Pastor

www.fromhisheart.org [email protected]

The urgent message came to Jesus. His good friend Lazarus was very sick and needed Him

ASAP. Surely Jesus, the One who would drop everything to go heal complete strangers, would come running to Lazarus’ town of Bethany to save the day, right? Wrong! When Jesus heard Lazarus was deathly ill, He purposely waited two more days before making the twenty mile journey to Bethany. By the time He finally arrived, Lazarus was stinking dead and in the tomb four days. Mary and Martha, the sisters of Lazarus, both said the same thing when Jesus showed up, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died” (John 11:21, 32). Undoubtedly, they were wondering WHY He didn’t come in time. Undoubtedly, they were shell-shocked at the message He sent, “This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God may be glorified by it” (John 11:4). What in the world could that possibly mean given the fact that Lazarus died the very day Jesus uttered those words? Is this some cruel joke? To be sure, the Lord wasn’t making much sense to Mary and Martha. Have you ever been there? Have you ever prayed about a problem and believed God for deliverance only to have the problem worsen … even to the point of death, or divorce, or bankruptcy? Have you ever cried out to God in faith and seemingly received nothing from Him to meet your pressing need? I think we can all relate. Hey, what do you do when God doesn’t make sense? 1. You remember that He loves you. Before the Bible tells us that Jesus purposely waited two more days before coming to Bethany, it emphatically states, “Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus” (John 11:4). Just because the Lord does not do things the way you and I think He should, that does not mean the Lord has stopped loving us. God is love and everything He does flows from His great heart of love. When God’s actions and delays don’t make sense to us, we must cling to the fact that He loves us. The Bible declares it again and again,

Jeff Schreve is Senior Pastor of FBC Texarkana (www.fbctexarkana.org) and Founder of From His Heart Ministries (www.fromhisheart.org).

Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus. When therefore He heard that he was sick, He stayed then two days longer in the place where He was. John 11:5-6

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Centerfold for BancorpSouthThen a Regional Arts Center ad

May 21st celebration ad1-3pm Ice Cream Social/half summer classes ad for Arts on Main

available for RENT!Regional Arts Center

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Why is Oak Creek Furniture Different? We have chosen Amish furniture craftsmen who are recognized leaders in the solid wood furniture industry. Amish furniture is made by hand in small Amish wood shops so every piece of furniture receives the same attention to detail. Our Amish handcrafted furniture is built to last.

Why all the fuss about details? Because the Amish craftsmen build furniture that your children and grandchildren will be proud to inherit. Come see our Amish-built bedroom furniture and oak dining room furniture. The selection of the boards and the grade of the hard wood, along with dovetailed drawers, mortise-and-tenon construction and the multi-step finish are all just small parts of the build process that add up to an heirloom quality piece of oak or cherry furniture.

Great gifts for Mother’s Day!

Come see our new

EXPANDED

SHOWROOM!

Did you know...That most of the furniture made today uses substitute materials such as particleboard. Because particleboard is made from wood fragments bonded with resin, it is considered an all wood product BUT IT IS NOT solid wood.

Our Amish furniture is made of SOLID Oak, Cherry, Maple, Hickory or Quartersawn Oak.

Lasting elegance...There is no better place to sit for a meal than around Amish dining room furniture. Amish dining room furniture is made for a family to sit around and enjoy not just the meal, but each other’s company, as well. All of our dining room furniture is sturdy and durable - your family and future generations of your family will be able to sit at and around our dining room furniture for years to come.

Polywood Outdoor Furniture...At Oak Creek Furniture, you will find many different styles of polywood furniture. The material used is water and weather resistant, and most importantly, created from recycled polyethylene. For this reason, our polywood lawn furniture is

Friday, May 13th and Saturday, May 14, 2011

Thanks to all our wonderful customers, it has been another great year! We have appreciated providing wonderful people with quality heirlooms!

FREEHomemade Ice Cream!

• Amish Builders will be here on Friday and Saturday, May 13th and 14th! Let them show you the great features and take advantage of their discounts on new orders placed during our anniversary sale! Special financing available!! Hurry in for the best deals!

• Come see our new showroom space, featuring furniture for every room of your home!

• A variety of new food items for sampling, as well as fresh ground almond and peanut butter made in our own mill! All fresh, wholesome and healthy!

• Following our attendance at the annual Amish furniture show in Indiana, we have many new displays, including Bedroom Suits, Living Room Furniture, and an Executive Office Collection.

• Several of last year’s displays will be discounted 20% - 40% off!!

• Our special sale runs May 7th through 14th, 2011!

• Free Homemade Ice Cream will be served on Saturday, May 14th! All you can eat!!

considered a green product.

There is no maintenance required, no cracking or splinting, and the polywood material does not promote bacterial growth or mildew. Choose from seven different colors and products such as swings, gliders, benches, deck chairs, table & chair sets, bridges and footrests.

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1. DO plan ahead. A lot of people make the mistake of assuming they will be able to successfully “wing it” when the big moment comes for them to stand and make a toast. The truth is, most people will choke when they realize everyone’s eyes are on them, and what should have been a special and meaningful speech becomes a rambling mess! Brain storm in advance. Write out a few key phrases you want to say a week or so ahead of time. If you plan to use a note card for your toast, clearly write out or type up some short bullet point reminders to keep you on track!

2. DO practice. Practicing out loud will assist you in memorizing the things you want to say. This will be helpful when nerves kick in later! You might also consider having a test run with someone else who is close to the couple you will be toasting. This way you can work together to weed out anything that might not go over well with the couple or the other guests!

3. DO identify yourself. Remember that there will be people there who don’t know who you are or your relationship to the couple. Keep your introduction brief! Remember this is your opportunity to toast the bride and groom- not to hog the spotlight with your life story!

4. DO toast from the heart. Use a personal story or memory to break the ice. Tell the bride and/or groom how they have impacted your life. This is your chance to make everyone laugh… and cry! You may not know one member of the couple very well, but make sure you say something genuine about the bride and the groom. The weddingis about the couple and both parties should be recognized in your toast, even if all youcan say is how stunning they look!

5. DO NOT embarrass the couple. A lot of people cross the linewhen trying to get a laugh from the crowd. There is a difference in funny and embarrassing! Also, don’t be crude or off-color. Remember there will be people ofall ages and backgrounds in the audience so keep your speech clean and polite!

6. DO NOT ramble. Keep your toast between 2-4 minutes. Nine times out of ten, even if you are a good speaker, after about 5 minutes you will begin to lose the attention of the audience. Short and sweet is the way to go!

7. DO NOT get drunk before the toast. You should limit yourselfto one drink before you give your speech. While you may be less nervous after a few drinks, you are more likely to be embarrassingly emotional. You are also more likely to ramble. When you agree to give a toast, it becomes your duty to lay-off cocktail hour!

8. DO NOT refuse to participate. If you have extreme fright when it comes to public speaking, look for a compromise with the couple. Ask ifyou can give your toast at the rehearsal dinner instead of in front of the largerwedding reception crowd. If you are a non-drinker, have your champagne flute filledwith water or something with no alcohol. It is good manners to take a sip after the toastis given so make sure you are prepared with a beverage you can be comfortable drinking!

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Selecting items for a wedding registry is one of the most exciting things about being a bride.

There is something really fun about knowing that you are going to LOVE your wedding gifts... because YOU chose them!

But what if you and your soon-to-be spouse already have many of the typical items that are asked for on a registry? Have you ever wondered if there might be something you could ask for from your guests rather than dishes, towels and bed sheets?

Modern brides and grooms are branching out from the traditional registry and using their time in the spotlight to make a big difference!

The awesome concept of a Charity Registryhas been made available online at:

www.weddingchannel.com

How does a Charity Registry Work?A Charity Registry allows your weddingguests to donate to the organization of yourchoice as their wedding gift to you! You caneasily create a registry like this online at:www.weddingchannel.com

What Charities are Available?American Cancer Society

American Heart Association

American Red Cross

Big Brothers/Big Sisters of America

Boys and Girls Club of America

Habitat For Humanity International

Humane Society of the United States

Leukemia and Lymphoma Society

National Center for Victims of Crime

National Wildlife Federation

The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer FoundationAnd Many More....

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Add Character and Charm to your Southern Wedding with these initial engraved Wedding Pin Boutonnieres!

Where we found them: www.etsy.com/shop/braggingbags

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WEDDING PLANNER

Nine to Twelve Months Before • Announce your engagement.• Set an initial budget. • Select a wedding date and time. • Select and book your ceremony and reception locations. • Book photographer and videographer. • Book caterer.• Book florist.• Determine who will officiate at the ceremony. • Set aside blocks of hotel/motel rooms for out-of-town guests. • Book band or DJ. • Sign up for your church’s premarriage counseling, if required.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Six to Nine Months Before • Start compiling the guest list.• Select the attendants for your wedding party. • Purchase the bride’s gown. • Purchase the groom’s tuxedo. • Purchase bridesmaids’ dresses. • Arrange for transportation for the wedding. Limousines, Horse & Carriage, vans, etc.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Four to Six Months Before • Check requirements for blood test and marriage license in your state. • Select and order the invitations and stationery. • Make sure all the men’s attire has been ordered. • Complete the guest lists. • Send your engagement announcement to the newspaper. • Finalize honeymoon details.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Two to Four Months Before • Confirm the menu and catering details with the caterer. • Prepare all maps and directions for the ceremony and reception. • Select your wedding rings. • Buy a wedding guest book. • Set the dates and times with the officiant for the rehearsal. • Plan the bridesmaids’ luncheon and any other parties. • Determine your resources for designing and printing the program for the ceremony. • Arrange the necessary accommodations for out-of-town guests. • Plan a rehearsal dinner, time and place. • Confirm the wedding cake details with the baker.

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Use this checklist to help you keep everything organized and ready for your big day! All the details make the difference!

Six to Eight Weeks Before • Mail invitations and announcements. • Set appointment with photographer for your formal bridal portrait. • Select gifts for all your attendants. • Set appointments with any hairdressers and/or makeup artists. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Four to Six Weeks Before • Decide what your menu is going to be for the reception. • Buy a gift for the groom. • Purchase (borrow) all wedding accessories such as the ring pillow, goblets, garter belt, candles, etc. • Choose the music for your ceremony, first dance, parent dances, and party and give information to band, dj, or other musicians.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Two Weeks Before • Make arrangements to have your wedding gifts moved to your new home. • Handle business and legal details such as name changes, address changes, etc. • Get your marriage license and any blood tests which are needed.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- One Week Before • Start packing for your honeymoon. • Give a final head count to the caterer. • Delegate responsibilities to reliable individuals on your wedding day.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- One Day Before • Get a manicure or massage to relax yourself. • Review and rehearse all the details of your participants.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Big Day • Allow yourself plenty of time to get dressed. • Be sure to eat properly. • Rest and relax with a good bath. • Prepare for your hairdresser and makeup appointments. • Enjoy your wonderful wedding and cherish each and every moment!

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Making life better... from the ground up.

Wondering if there is anything you can do with that worn and unattractive concrete patio or

driveway? Building an outdoor kitchen and interested in having concrete countertops, cabinet cases and flooring? Remodeling your home and looking for a rich, beautiful and unique floor covering? Want to put your logo in concrete at the entry to your business? Consider decorative concrete!

Decorative concrete overlays and staining by Gooding Decorative Concrete can transform your existing concrete into beautiful, one-of-a-kind surfaces. Using overlays and stamps, stains and dyes, pigmented concrete sealers and epoxies, templates and engraving … and your imagination … you no longer need to tear out, hide or cover your worn and unattractive concrete. We can transform it into a beautiful and durable surface.

The overlay systems combine the

strength of cement with the durability and bonding power of polymers and acrylics. Colors are added to enhance the beauty of these durable products. Stains and dyes, along with engraving equipment are used to score decorative patterns into your existing concrete surfaces. A penetrating cure and seal is

applied to provide superb durability, weather and UV resistance and ensure a long product life.

Gooding Decorative Concrete’s mission is to transform your existing concrete by providing outstanding customer service, delivering excellent results and employing talented and dedicated men

and women. Marshall Gooding, owner,

has extensive experience in the construction industry. His interest in the industry began with the influence of his mother, Ann Gooding, an

interior designer. He has built homes, cabinets, furniture, arbors, and water features. Our staff, including Debbie Brower, Jaclyn Gooding, and Miranda Williams, all graphic designers, have a combined total of more than 30 years of experience. Christian Cisneros and Peter Johnson complete the staff.

Gooding Decorative Concrete is a small family owned and operated contractor business specializing in staining, engraving, overlaying and stamping established concrete. The business center is located in Texarkana, Texas, with easy access to all residential and commercial sites in the Ark-La-Tex and surrounding area.

Gooding Decorative Concrete makes it possible for customers to convert their dreams and ideas into plans. We take those plans and convert our customer’s dreams into reality.

For a free estimate, give us a call. We’d love to talk with you!

Other companies may talk about experience -- our quality shows in our work!

Marshall Gooding, Owner

Ask us about our water features for your home or office!

66 ALT Magazine

Air and HeatingCentral Air450 S. Kings HighwayTexarkana, TX 75501903.832.1212

AlterationsBea’s Alterations2917 N. Stateline Ave.Texarkana, TX903-792-2955

ApartmentsLegacy at Pleasant Grove5911 Richmond Rd.Texarkana, TX888.763.2676

Richmond Oaks Apartments2815 Richmond Rd. Texarkana, TX 903.832.6150

Summerhill Woods Apartments4501 Summerhill Rd.Texarkana, TX 903.793.7888

Westwood Apartments101 Redwater Rd.Wake Village, TX 903.832.8446

AttireAbby Gayle’s4012 Summerhill SquareTexarkana, TX 903.792.0088

Gayle’s4059 Summerhill SquareTexarkana, TX903.792.0056

BanksGuaranty Bond Bank2202 St. Michael Dr.Texarkana, TX 903.792.8600

Texar Federal Credit UnionRichmond Rd.Texarkana, TX 903.223.5626

CakesColdstone Creamery4228 St. Michael Dr.Texarkana, TX903.838.2653

Julie’s Deli4055 Summerhill Sq.Texarkana, TX903.792.3354

Reception ArtsBecky RisingerAshdown, AR870.898.5273

Silver Spoon5530 Scottsdale DriveTexarkana, TX 75503903.838.4648www.silverspooninc.com

Ark-La-TexResourceGuide

CaterersChappo’s Italian Restaurant1617 New Boston RoadTexarkana, TX 75501903.791.1726

Culinary CreationsPam Elliott903.831.4674

Fuzzy’s Tacos4809 Texas Blvd.Texarkana, TX903.791.8226


La Fogata3401 Genoa RoadTexarkana, Ar870.773.1879

Silver Spoon5530 Scottsdale DriveTexarkana, TX 75503903.838.4648www.silverspooninc.com

Smokey Joe’s BBQ300 W. New Boston RoadNash, TX903.223.8227

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Timothy’s4115 N. Kings HighwayTexarkana, TX903.831.5999

Wendy’s4201 Stateline AvenueTexarkana, TX2902 Richmond RoadTexarkana, TX3737 New Boston RoadTexarkana, TX1615 N. HerveyHope, AR124 N. Loop Highway 59Atlanta, TX

Wingstop2700 Richmond Road, Suite 14A1Texarkana, TX903.255.00904501 N. State Line,No. 106Texarkana, TX903.792.9464www.wingstop.com

ClothingAbby Gayle’s4012 Summerhill SquareTexarkana, TX903.792.0088

Gayle’s4059 Summerhill SquareTexarkana, TX903.792.0056

Cosmetic SurgeryCarmony Oral, Facial and Dental Center5305 Cowhorn CreekTexarkana, TX 903.791.8405

Dry CleaningHoliday CleanersLocations throughout Texarkana Area 870.773.4072

Event LocationsGarrison GardensTexarkana, AR 71854870.773.0275www.garrisongardens.net

The Pavillion at Elk Meadow8 Miles West of New Boston on I-30382 PR 42042DeKalb, TX 75559903.319.5130

Prissy Chrissy Ranch915 FM 2148 SouthTexarkana, TX 75501903.838.6121www.prissychrissy.com

Regional Arts CenterCabe Hall321 W. 4th StreetTexarkana, TX 75501903.792.8681www.trahc.org

Fitness CentersAnytime Fitness Richmond Road3415 Richmond Road.Texarkana, TX 75503903.794.5348

Minton’s Sportsplex5610 Richmond RoadTexarkana, TX 903.838.4697

FlooringG&A Carpet1019 N. Kings HighwayNash, TX 903.832.0553

Lighthouse Flooring6223 Mall Dr.Nash, TX 903.793.2047

FloristsH&N Floral7801 N. State Line5708 Richmond Rd.Texarkana, TX 903.794.1417903.832.2000

Queen City FloralHighway 59 NorthQueen City, TX 903.796.2891

Ruth’s Flowers3501 Texas Bllvd.Texarkana, TX 903.793.6711www.ruthsflowers.net

Scooter Raney, J. Brown for the Home121 College DriveTexarkana, TX903.793.4114

Twisted Vines406 N. Stateline AvenueTexarkana, AR870-772-2700

Furniture

Oak Creek Furniture8024 West 7th St.Texarkana, TX 903.832.0793

GiftsDot’s Ace Hardware3411 Richmond Rd.Texarkana, TX 903.838.0059

H&N Floral7801 N. State Line5708 Richmond Rd.Texarkana, TX 903.794.1417903.832.2000

Lane’s Gifts & Collectibles720 Realtor Ave.Texarkana, AR870.773.2123

Mixing Bowl4014 Summerhill SquareTexarkana, TX903.794.4014

Queen City FloralHighway 59 NorthQueen City, TX 903.796.2891

Scooter Raney at J. Brown for the Home121 College DriveTexarkana, TX903.793.4114

Table Manners3205 Kennedy LaneTexarkana, TX 903.838.3538

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Hair CareHeadmasters Hair Salon3703 Mall DriveTexarkana, TX903.832.6261

Style StudioLisa Harris3201 Kennedy LaneTexarkana, TX 903.223.1719

HospiceDierksen Hospice6500 N. Summerhill Road, Suite 2BTexarkana, TX903.793.6350

HospitalsChristus St. Michael Health System2600 St. Michael Dr.Texarkana, TX903.614.1000

Health South Rehabilitation515 West 12th St.Texarkana, TX903.793.0088

Wadley Hospital1000 Pine St.Texarkana, TX903.798.8000

HotelsBest Western Texarkana Inn & Suites5219 Crossroads ParkwayTexarkana, AR870.774.1534

Clarion Lacross Hotel5100 N. Stateline Ave.Texarkana, AR870.774.3521www.lacrosse-hotel.com

Courtyard by Marriott5001 North Cowhorn CreekTexarkana, TX903.334.7400

Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott4209 Mall Dr.Texarkana, TX 903.838.1000

Holiday Inn Express & Suites4545 Cowhorn Creek RoadTexarkana, TX 903.223.0008

TownePlace Suites by Marriott5020 North Cowhorn CreekTexarkana, TX903.334.8800

InsuranceBrian PurtleAllstate Insurance3301 Richmond Rd.Texarkana, TX 903.832.5881

Elite InsuranceTammy McDowell1705 N. Kings HighwayNash, TX 903.794.0000

Farm Bureau Insurance4140 McKnight Rd.Texarkana, TX903.838.8707

Greg Cockerell State Farm Insurance4807 Texas Blvd.Texarkana, TX 75503903.793.7502

Kelli Ashbrook State Farm Insurance3410 Moores LaneTexarkana, TX 75503903.223.8100www.kelliashbrook.com

Ron Morrow State Farm Insurance3306 Richmond Rd.Texarkana, TX 75503903.832.5505www.ronmorrowagency.com

JewelersAlexander’s Jewelers3701 Mall DriveTexarkana, TX903.832.3557

Blue Isle Expressions3402 Richmond RoadTexarkana, TX903.791.9992

Micah’s Jewelers2812 Richmond RoadTexarkana, TX903.735.2336

Make-upGayle’s4059 Summerhill SquareTexarkana, TX903.792.0056

Salon Visage EsthetiqueMary Ann Robbins4506 Summerhill Rd.Texarkana, TX903.794.4007

SanctuaryKimberly Parham, M.D.3502 Richmond RoadTexarkana, TX 75503903.334.8661

Medical EquipmentRespiratory Solutions3101 Kennedy Lane, Suite 1000Texarkana, TX 75503903.793.2110

Pet GroomerBows & Tows254 E. New Boston Rd.Nash, TX 75570903.223.3647

PhotographerImage Forward Photography200 Heather Dr.Texarkana, TX 75501903.334.9605www.imageforwardtxk.com

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PhysiciansExpress Care5483 Summerhill RoadTexarkana, TX 75503903.223.5931

Ly Gaylor, M.D.DermatologistCollom & Carney Clinic5002 Cowhorn Creek RoadTexarkana, TX 75503903.614.3006

Jon Northam, M.D.6 Woodmont CrossingTexarkana, TX903.791.1044

Trevor Swanson, D.C.Advanced Spine, Sports & Rehab4206 Richmond PlaceTexarkana, TX 903.792.2060806 West Main St.Atlanta, TX903.796.2060

Mark Wren, M.D.Physiatrist3510 Richmond Road, Suite 400Texarkana, TX 75503903.831.6275

Vision Source4401 Morris LaneTexarkana, TX 903.838.9063

PlumbingCentral Air/Roto Rooter450 S. Kings HighwayTexarkana, TX 75501903.832.1212

Real EstateConnie WalkerColdwell Banker United3001 Richmond RoadTexarkana, TX903.277.0100903.832.2486

Impact RealtyBill and Tracy Spradlin1200 N. Kings Hwy., Suite 104Nash, TX903.748.3186903.748.2477

Teresa LiepmanRemax5120 Summerhill Rd.Texarkana, TX 75503903.276.9464

RefreshmentsBolls Distributing700 E. Broad St.Texarkana, AR 870.774.9283

The Villa Liquor Store5108 N. StatelineTexarkana, AR [email protected]

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RentalsBig Event / Atlas Game Room2837 New Boston Rd.Texarkana, TX903.334.7444

Bounce-A-Lot903.276.2961www.bounce-a-lot.org

Dot’s Rentals814 N. Robison RoadTexarkana, TX 75501903.792.70113413 Richmond Rd.Texarkana, TX903.838.0551


RestaurantsChappo’s Italian Restaurant5602 Richmond Rd., Suite 101Texarkana, TX 75501903.791.1726

Daddy Dougaloo’s905 New Boston RoadTexarkana, TX 75503903.791.0172

Dairy QueenLocations throughout Ark-La-Tex

Fuzzy’s Tacos4809 Texas Blvd.Texarkana, TX903.791.8226


Shorty’s Donuts2729 New Boston RoadTexarkana, TX 75501903.832.6686

Silver Spoon5530 Scottsdale DriveTexarkana, TX 75503903.838.4648


SonicLocations throughout Ark-La-Tex

Tasty Donuts1443 N. Kings HighwayNash, TX 903.838.0422


Wendy’s4201 Stateline AvenueTexarkana, TX2902 Richmond RoadTexarkana, TX3737 New Boston RoadTexarkana, TX1615 N. HerveyHope, AR124 N. Loop Highway 59Atlanta, TX

Wingstop2700 Richmond Road, Suite 14A1Texarkana, TX903.255.00904501 N. State Line,No. 106Texarkana, TX903.792.9464

Retirement/Assisted Living HomeCornerstone Retirement Community4100 Moores LaneTexarkana, TX903.832.5515

SittersSittersKathryn Norwood/Karen SchmidtTexarkana, TX903.277.2191

Spas/SalonsAll About YouDiana Gregory/Lori Campbell4100 Summerhill Sq.Texarkana, TX903.792.7775

Salon Visage EsthetiqueMary Ann Robbins4506 Summerhill Rd.Texarkana, TX903.794.4007

SanctuaryKimberly Parham, M.D.3502 Richmond RoadTexarkana, TX 75503903.334.8661

TravelVickie’s ToursPO Box 682Hooks, TX903.547.3030

Wedding AttireBridal Castle3209 Kennedy LaneTexarkana, TX903.838.3886

Reed’s Bridal and Formal2501 N. StatelineTexarkana, TX903.793.7333

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Wedding CoordinatorsAbracadabra Wedding and Event PlanningDebra Mason, Event [email protected]

Wedding FavorsPop Pop Shoppe2011 Mall Drive, Suite BTexarkana, TX903.793.0209

Wedding OfficiantJeff [email protected]

Wedding PlannersAbracadabra Wedding and Event PlanningDebra Mason, Event [email protected]

Wedding Rehearsal Dinner LocationsJulie’s Deli4055 Summerhill Sq.Texarkana, TX903.792.3354

Silver Spoon5530 Scottsdale Drive

Texarkana, TX 75503903.838.4648www.silverspooninc.com



Weight LossAll About YouDiana Gregory/Lori Campbell4100 Summerhill Sq.Texarkana, TX903.792.7775

Richmond Nutrition3316 Richmond RoadTexarkana, TX903.832.0437

alt brides spring/summer 2011

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