ALT Brides Summer 2012

August 2012 www.alt-mag.com 33 Summer 2012

ALT Magazine August 201236

S U M M E R 2 0 1 2 / c o n t e n t s

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

Feature Writers / Jane Bouterse, Anne Fruge

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

©2012 ALT Magazine

For Advertising Information, call Charlie McMurphy, 903-908-5797 or 903-334-9605

k / COVER

The CokersWinners of ALT Magazine’s Wedding Photo Facebook Contest! Congratulations, Cathy and Roger!

F E AT U R E S

6 8 W h e n Yo u K n o w, Yo u K n o w

7 1 L o o k i n g B a c k . . . L o c a l C o u p l e s M a r r i e d 1 0 - 2 0 Ye a r s

E N G A G E M E N T S

5 1 M a r i e A t k i n s o n t o P e t e E l l i s o n

5 5 Ta r a M o n r o e t o L e e B u o n o

W E D D I N G S

3 8 A l i c i a B r o w n t o M i c h a e l H o l d r i d g e

4 3 N a t a l i e H a m p t o n t o M a l a c h i R e e v e s

4 6 R o b e r t a n d A l y s s a H a l e y

4 7 C a t h y A i k i n t o R o g e r C o k e r

5 0 S a r a h B a r l o w t o N a t h a n W h i t e

5 2 R a v e n H u n t t o C a l e b Ta y l o r

5 4 S y d n e y W a r e n t o J u s t i n C r o s s

5 8 A l l i s o n O s w a l d t o J e f f e r y C o p e l i n

6 1 F r e d a n d C r i s s y S e a r c y

6 2 K r i s t a a n d J a s o n H a m l i n

6 3 H e a t h e r A i n s l e y t o S e t h C a r t e r

6 6 C o u r t n e y C r u c e t o B r a d l e y H i c k e y

H E L P F U L I N F O

7 2 R e s o u r c e G u i d e

68A Lasting Love...Wanda and Carl Evans work together to make sure their marriage lasts...and is has.

58


Photography: Image Forward Photography

www.imageforwardweddings.com

Wedding Coordinator: Heather Kiser

Cakes: Silver Spoon

Florist: H & N Flowers

Musicians:Andrea Finley

MariAlison Murry & Weldon Murry

Reception and Catering:Texarkana Country Club

Alicia & MichaelAlicia Marie Brown to Michael Benton Holdridge

June 16, 2012Highland Park Baptist Church

Texarkana, TXHow They Met...

Alicia and Michael met at Baylor during the summer of 2008. Alicia was starting her sophomore year, and Michael was starting his senior year. The two students lived in the same apartment complex, and Michael noticed Alicia drawing on her porch over a few weeks and developed an interest in this cute girl! Alicia, absorbed in her art, had no idea Michael even existed. One day, Michael simply walked up to Alicia, while she was on her front porch reading, and struck up a conversation. Alicia asked him if he was the “bike guy” she had seen around, and told him she was interested in learning to ride a road bike and would love to be on the cycling team. Michael invited her to dinner with his friends the next day, and she accepted. “If you know him or me at all, you would realize how unlike us this was. We are both introverts and never just go up to strangers and start talking,” Alicia explains. The two started dating, and their feelings just took off from there. Alicia says, “People often ask us why bikes are so important to us. It was a common theme throughout our wedding festivities. All I can say is, that this was one of the first things that got me interested in Michael, and four years later, we still enjoy going on rides together.”

The Proposal...

Alicia believes she had the perfect proposal! “Michael and I spent the day doing my favorite activities. We went to Cameron Park and picnicked and hiked for the day. Then, we went swimming. After that, I headed home to get ready for our date to Outback. Little did I know that Michael had different plans. After I got ready, he took me on a mini scavenger hunt that led me to the porch swing at my old apartment where we first met. He joined me up there and he asked me to marry him. My apartment was set up facing the pool. We had an audience watching us as he popped the question. As soon as we were done, they all cheered for us! It was very exciting!”

Wedding Party...Maid of Honor: Emily BrownBridesmaids: Julia BrownMeredith MannKim DuerksenAngela Holdridge

Best Man: Ben BranstetterGroomsmen:Josh KoviakAdam BrownMatthew BrownJamie Duerksen

Flower Girl: Erin Duerksen Greeters:Hannah FriesVirginia Brown

August 2012 www.alt-mag.com 39





Natalie & MalachiNatalie Nicole Hampton to Malachi Andrew Reeves

June 9, 2012First Baptist Church Texarkana- Moores Ln

How They Met...Malachi and Natalie were both students at the University of Arkansas when they literally ran into each other in the stairwell of Razorback Stadium. Natalie and a friend were headed out of the stadium when they ran into Malachi and a mutual friend of the two. Natalie’s first thoughts were, “He is so tall and so handsome.” Within a month of their initial meeting on September 20, 2008, they were inseparable. Their love began to grow as they spent more and more time together. Natalie even took Malachi home to meet her parents in

the month of October. By Christmas of 2008, they knew they had found true love.




Florist: Twisted Vines

Cakes: Reception Arts

Reception & Catering:Texarkana Country Club

DJ: Wes Spicer

Wedding Attire: Bridal Castle

Proposal...

After two years of dating Malachi popped the question on December 21, 2010, although the proposal was planned to happen on New Year’s Eve. The two originally had plans to head to Dallas for New Years Eve, then they decided to go to Memphis. Plans kept changing, and they ultimately ended up going to Little Rock. Since there was not a definite plan by the week before Christmas, Malachi decided to pop the question early. The two had dinner at Timothy’s in Texarkana, which was a very quiet meal and not much to talk about. Malachi asked Natalie to marry him. Before Natalie even had a chance to say “yes,” Malachi had placed the ring on her finger. Of course, she did say “yes!”

Wedding Party...

Maid of Honor: Cameron LivelyBridesmaids:Kathryn BellJana AlstonSarah HicksSamantha ReevesLacey Cobb

Junior Bridesmaids:Audrey MurphyTaylor HamptonBrailey Hampton

Best Man: Jacob ReevesGroomsmen:Bennett PonderNick WilsonKyle RaceYance WarrenTaylor Overturf

Junior Groomsmen:Connor DamronEvan Damron

Flower Girl: Kathryn Murphy

Ushers:Matt BrownJosh Brown

Programs: Jessica Jenkins




Cathy & RogerCathy Calvert Aikin to Roger Coker

May 12, 2012Circle J Cowboy Church, Texarkana, AR

How They Met...

Cathy and Roger, already aware of each other from Genoa High School and a shared love of country dancing, began dating in December of 2009. After failed marriages, they were quite leery of any new relationship, yet, they seemed perfectly compatible.

The Proposal...

One year later, on December 3, 2010, Roger arranged a romantic carriage ride for he and Cathy, including Cathy’s daughters, and during the ride, he asked Cathy to marry him. Cathy’s answer was, “Someday.” Both daughters and best friends of the bride, Christy and Britney welcomed this cowboy, after finally seeing their Mama’s long awaited smile! Chase Coker, son of the groom, gave his approval by saying, “She‘s already family.” Having GOD as the leader in this relationship is why it works. As members of Circle J Cowboy Church, they

know GOD is what brought them together, and GOD holds the reins of their life. So two and a half years later, they made a promise to GOD and each other on May 12, 2012. As a married couple living in Genoa, Arkansas, they thank GOD every day for this blessing!

Wedding Party...Father of the Bride: Joe Hensley

Pastor: Bro. Todd Hervey

Groomsman:Chase CokerMarc HiggsChris Power

Bridesmaid:McKenzie Wooten

Christy HarvinBritney Redfearn

Story Narrator: Suni Hensley

Spokesman:Wesley Harvin, Grandson of the Bride


Photography:Debbie Vanover & Marla Stuehrenberg

Florist:Sylvia Harris

-A Pleasant Grove Florist

Hostesses:Angie Buckley, Sharon Kelly,Shelia Griffith, Kathy Boyd



How They Met...

Sarah and Nathan met in late fall of 2010. However, it turned out that the two had gone to high school together and had grown up within a few miles of each other, never officially meeting. Sarah says, “Nathan did remember me from school and decided to try to get in touch with me through Facebook. I actually knew his sister in school, so I decided to give him a chance. That was the best decision I could have ever made.”

“Our first date was memorable in a way that only first dates can be. We were both extremely nervous and ended up having an overzealous waitress who tried to convince us of everything we were doing wrong. In the end, it was still enjoyable enough to agree to a second date. For me, that second date was the perfect date. I grew up an outdoorsy girl and still prefer being outside to this day. Nathan took me through Sonic for milkshakes and then to see some family land, where I met his donkeys and we walked to a pond, chatting the whole time. The donkeys and pond are still there, along with my horse that we’ve added, and the memories of the times we’ve spent outside are still going strong.”

The Proposal...

Sarah continues, “That December, I flew to spend time with a close friend, who I had grown up with, while she had her first child. When I arrived back in Dallas, Nathan picked me up for a special weekend in Fort Worth. He took me to dinner and then to The Nutcracker, my favorite ballet, with no eye rolling or complaining. We also enjoyed a carriage ride downtown and then strolled along, looking at the lights and enjoying each other’s company. During this time, I did not know that he was keeping a secret. He had spoken with my father and his family and had been carrying a ring around in his pocket the entire night. He had nervously waited for that perfect moment to ask me to marry him, and when he got down on one knee and asked, it was a definite “Yes!” from me.”

“Time flew by quickly to March and the date of our wedding. Our whirlwind romance and wedding was encouraged by our wonderful friends and family. It was a beautiful time, and it continued to be the best year for both of us. We are each other’s best friend and confidant, and we have supported each other through a few stressful times. I look forward to many more years with Nathan. I’ve always heard the first few years are the hardest, but it doesn’t seem like this first one has been so hard with him here beside me,” Sarah reflects.

Wedding Party...

Maid of Honor: Joey Dixon

Bridesmaid: Megan Ross

Bestman: Whit White Groomsman: Caleb Brockman

Parents of the Bride: Bill & Becky Barlow

Parents of the Groom: Jimmy & Kathy White

Sarah & NathanSarah Barlow to Nathan White

March 26th, 2011Ben & Jane Collins’ Home

Photography:Hayley Hall Photography, Tyler, TX

Florist:Sticks & Stones

Wedding Cake:Julie’s Deli

Rings:Zales

Bride’s Dress and Tuxes:Bridal Castle

Bridesmaid Dresses:Dillard’s


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Raven & CalebRaven Hunt to Caleb Taylor

May 26, 2012The Wedding Chapel- Hot Springs, AR

How They Met...

Caleb and Raven met in January of 2009. They were introduced by one of Raven’s former coworkers and Caleb’s best friend, Kenneth Hooten. Raven says, “I will never forget our first date; he surprised me with a dozen red roses. We are both shy so we decided to stay at home and watch movies.”

The Proposal...

Raven tells us, “We were together for three years before we got engaged. He proposed the same week of my birthday; he could not wait because I kept pestering him about my gift. One afternoon I got home from work and he had a candle lit dinner with my gift on the other end of the table. He had a small box inside a larger wrapped box. The smaller box was full of rose pedals that covered the ring box. When I opened the ring box I found it was empty, you can guess the look on my face. I turned around and he was on one knee with the ring. I always said I wanted a year engagement, but three and a half months later, we were married, and we couldn’t be happier with our decision. We are delighted that we started a new chapter in our lives and can not wait for all the new memories and adventures that are in store for us.”

Wedding Party...

Matron of honor:Taylor Jester

Best Man:Kenneth Hooten

Photography:Adore Photography

Hope, AR

Wedding Attire:Rae~TaysHope, AR



Sydney & JustinSydney Carlisle Waren to Justin Wayne Cross

May 12th, 2012Little River Country Club

Winthrop, ArkansasHow They Met...Sydney says, “We have known each other since we were kids and have been friends since we were about 14. We lost touch and hadn’t seen each other in at least 6 years when, one day, I got a text that said, ‘Hey beautiful.’ I asked who had sent it, and when Justin told me it was him, I replied, ‘Ah, dang.’ After a few days of texting, I finally told him, in the nicest way that I could, that he didn’t have a chance. Not that I thought I was any better than Justin, but I really was not looking for anyone. His reply wasn’t rude at all, and that is what caught my interest.” Two days later, on Dec. 31st, 2011, they went on their first date! Justin says, “I almost gave up, but I am so glad I didn’t because I have always wanted you.” “I won’t ever forget getting ready for that date, and when I walked to the truck and saw him, I felt like my chest got really warm. It was a weird feeling, but a great one, and I told myself, ‘I am going to marry that man!”” They sat across the table that night with the biggest grins on their faces. Both of them kept blushing and laughing!

Justin says, “Sydney has always had my heart. I never thought she would ever give me a chance, and I couldn’t believe she let me take her on a date, but I am so thankful! Now I have not one, but two beautiful women! Sydney and Lecsi both have my heart, and I am so blessed.”

Wedding Party...

Maid of honor: Christian Beasley

Bridesmaids:Courtney CarnahanBrandi Vickers

Best Man: Sam Cross, Father of the groom

Groomsmen:Kevin CrossShane Southerland

Preacher: Brother Danny Bell

Photography:Jeannie Stevens

Cakes:Becky Risinger- Reception Arts

DJ:Lynn Roberts



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Allison & JefferyAllison Oswald to Jeffery Copelin

May 19, 2012Garrison Gardens- Texarkana, AR

How They Met...Allison and Jeffery met when they were babies, and they we grew up together until they were about ten. Allison says, “Our mothers say we fell in love when we had our first kiss at age three, but we really fell in love when we actually got to know each other again, years down the road. Due to circumstances, Allison and Jeffery did not see each other for eight years, but they began dating during their senior years of high school. The two got to know each other all over again, and they realized that no one had ever been so good to either of them as they were to each other.

The Proposal...

Allison remembers, “I was shocked by the proposal! We were with Jeffery’s grandparents and sister at his grandmother’s cabin, close to Umpire, AR. The cabin is Jeffery’s favorite place to go. On September 18th, 2011, a Sunday, Jeffery woke me up and told me that he caught a big fish and wanted me to go look at it. I really did not want to go look at a fish right then because it was still early, and it was my last day off from work and school! After he begged me to go look at this “huge fish,” I got up, put on my shoes and Jeffery, his sister, Brittaney and I walked over to the swimming hole to see what Jeffery had caught. When we finally arrived, I saw that the water was reflecting different colors. I looked up to see what the reflection was from, and written on a huge rock, across the water, were the words Will You Marry Me. Jeffery got down on his knee and asked me if I would marry him. I said ‘Yes,’ without hesitation!”

Allison says, “Our wedding would not have been the way we wanted if Tonya, of Unique Beginnings, and her wedding design team had not helped us. She made sure my wedding day was just as I have always dreamed, and I am so thankful for her!”

Wedding Party...

Maid of honor: Meagan Gillette

Bridesmaids:Kim HammettDominique RossBrittaney Copelin

Best Man: Jacob Purifoy

Groomsmen:Jimmie PageCody SmithAnthony Vaughn




Cakes:Bakerman

Texarkana, AR

Wedding Dress:Azarues

Shreveport, LA

Tuxes:Reeds Bridal

Texarkana, TX

Wedding Design/Coordinator:Unique Beginnings

-Tonya Bell





Heather & SethHeather Ainsley to Seth Carter

June 2, 2012Northridge Country Club- Texarkana, TX

How They Met...Seth and Heather met while they were both living in Little Rock, Arkansas; Heather attending pharmacy school and Seth working as a tax

accountant. They were introduced one night while out with friends and realized that they both knew a lot of the same people. They joke that Heather “picked Seth up” and told him to take her on a date. Seth did as Heather asked and called her the day after they met to see if they

could hang out. They ended up meeting each other out the next night and making plans for the night after that. From their first night of hanging out together, Seth and Heather were practically inseparable. They instantly enjoyed each other’s company and spent a lot of time getting to

know one another.

Several months later, Heather’s family spent a week in Mexico on vacation. It was during this time that Seth says he realized how much he actually cared for Heather and missed her during the time she was gone. Heather thought Seth was the most wonderful guy, and she couldn’t

wait to see him when she returned. Heather was graduating from pharmacy school the following May, and they knew that she may have to move if a job opportunity arose. It was at that point that they both knew they would want to get married and be together no matter where a

future job may take them.

The Proposal...

Around Christmas time, Seth and Heather started making plans for their first Christmas together. Heather had a break from school so she headed home to spend time with her family. Unbeknownst to Heather, Seth had a surprise planned and told her that she needed to come

back to Little Rock one evening because he had tickets to a show. The night before Heather came in town, Seth left work early to drive to his hometown to pick up the ring. When Heather arrived at Seth’s house the night of the show, Seth had a Christmas tree put up and decorated

with presents under the tree and a fire going in the fire place. He had known how much Heather wanted a Christmas tree that year and wanted to surprise her. Seth told Heather that they should open their presents before they had to leave to go to dinner then the show. Seth opened his presents from Heather first, then Heather was told to open her’s from Seth. Each of Heather’s presents had a clue attached to it

for Heather to guess what was inside.

The last present was a wrapped box nestled in the tree. As soon a Heather saw it she became very nervous and wondered if it would be a ring. The clue for the last present read, “This present will make your heart sing, nothing says I love you like a little bling.” Heather opened

the box to find a pair of diamond earrings inside! When she looked at Seth, he asked her if she liked them. She of course said yes, and then Seth asked her if she wanted something better. At this point he got done on one knee, got out the ring, and asked Heather to marry him. After Heather said “YES!,” Seth told her it was time to go to dinner so they would make the show. When they arrived at dinner, Heather’s mom, dad

and two younger sisters were waiting to greet the newly engaged couple. They had driven in from Texarkana to celebrate with Heather and Seth. It turns out that there was no show and Seth had just told Heather that there was one to make sure that she came in town. Heather and

Seth, along with their families, were so excited about the new engagement and started wedding planning almost right away!

Wedding Party...

Maids of honor: Kristen Ainsley and Lauren AinsleyBridesmaid: Sarah Liz Carter

House Party: Laurie Anderson, Ashley Barr, Christine Browning, Charity Grisham, Kelsey Hensely, Amanda Starr, Allison Ward-SeidelBest Man: Jake Carter

Groomsmen: Rusty Cranford, Evan Secrest





Reverend: Doctor Danny Wayman


Cake, Groomscake, favors:

Reception Arts by Becky Risanger

Caterer: Northridge Country Club

String Quartet: Tyler Strings

Piano: Russell Bowlin

Invitations: Sincerely Lacey

Programs: Kwik Kopy

Hair: Park Salon

Make up: Bailey Idom

Getaway Car: Coleman Chevrolet


Courtney & BradleyCourtney Cruce to Bradley Hickey

April 28, 2012Home of James & Stephanie Wyly

How They Met...

Courtney and Bradley met during their last semester, the last two weeks to be exact, at the University of Arkansas. They were both on the way to the infamous Dickson Street to celebrate graduation, when Bradley ran right into Courtney’s car. Thankfully, no one got hurt, and it was categorized as a fender bender. The two students exchanged insurance, only to find out that they were both from Texarkana – Bradley from the Arkansas side (Arkansas High) and Courtney from the Texas Side (Texas High). Courtney and Bradley also learned that they had the same major in school and even a class together that very semester, but they had never met one another! Courtney says, “God sure works in mysterious ways and we have been inseparable ever since!”

The Proposal...

On March 10, 2011, two years after the “fateful fender bender,” Bradley got on one knee and proposed to Courtney at the Madison Hotel in Memphis,TN.

Wedding Party...

Officient: Jimmy Hickey - Justice of the Peace

Maids of honor: Rachel VanOrdenMartha Wasp

Bridesmaids:Jenna DresserMolly McBrideSusan MontgomeryCarolyn Peterman

Best Man:Jared Stover

Groomsmen:Tyler ArnoldAustin CrainCole MeadorGraydon RochelleCasey Weir


Photography:The Hudson’s Modern Photography -

Fayetteville, AR


Dessert Table: Cathy Van Herpen

Stationary: Kwik Kopy

Wedding Dress: Azarue’s - Shreveport, LA

Bridesmaids’ Dresses:LuLu’s Bridal – Dallas, TX

Groom’s Attire: Squires - Texarkana, TX

Bride’s Hair and Makeup:Taylor Barr - The Studio in Summerhill Sq.

Bridesmaids’ Hair:Maggie Johnson – The Style Studio

Ceremony Music:Tonk & Barbara Edwards - Texarkana, AR

Reception Music:Earshot Graffiti - Shreveport, LA

Reception Venue & Catering:Texarkana Country Club

Table Linens & Lighting:Jane Agan – Special Events

Photo Booth:Freeze Frame - Texarkana, TX

Guest Accommodations:Holiday Inn & Suites - Texarkana, AR


Carl and Wanda Evans have spent over half a century together and in love, a feat nearly unmatched in today’s society. Even though they only dated one summer before getting married at the small church across from Wanda’s house on Reading Street, when Carl looks at Wanda, you know that his simple claim of “when you know, you know,” is still true today. Their love that began in 1960 has affected the three generations after it, producing a family of four children, seven grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.

“Sometimes you hear people say, ‘marriage is 50%/50%,’ and they’re wrong,” Carl says. “Marriage is 100%/100%. If you don’t put all you have into it, you’re never going to make it.”

Carl first met Wanda in January of 1960 when he was taking industrial supervision at Texarkana College. After growing up in Redwater, Texas, all his life, Carl often told girls that he was married so that they wouldn’t think he was on the market. However, when Wanda Coffman Wallace stood up and introduced herself during class, Carl asked from across the room, “That isn’t ‘Mrs.’ is it?” Wanda, who wasn’t looking for a relationship at the time, pulled the same move Carl had used before and replied, “Well, yes it is.” Upon hearing the answer, Carl “wrote Wanda off his list.”

Months later, a mutual friend, Joe Nunn, reintroduced them at the Student Union. When Carl realized that Wanda wasn’t married, he asked her if she wanted

something to drink. She said yes, and their lifelong story began.

“I just loved being with Carl,” Wanda says. “I still do. You have to love each other, no matter what.”

Carl and Wanda were inseparable after their meeting at the Student Union. They spent the whole summer going on dates. They went dancing, saw movies at the Paramount (now Perot Theatre), drove the drag on Broad Street and went out to Wright Patman Lake.

“We would go pick up steaks and grill them out by the lake and swim,” Carl says.

“It was a marvelous summer,”

Wanda says, “even when Carl and his friend tried to ski off the dock at Daisy! Then, I remember a time at Speros Restaurant on 82 when we were at the drive-in and a certain car rammed us in the back!”

“It was my ex-girlfriend,” Carl explains.

“The ex-girlfriend yelled, ‘Don’t you think you owe me something Carl Evans?’ and Carl says, ‘If I do, put it on my bill!’” Wanda recalls with a laugh.

One of Wanda’s friends asked her if she and Carl were “going steady,” and Wanda replied, “Well I guess so…we are going every night!”

One night at the end of the summer, Carl took Wanda to Ann’s Drive-In on State Line. He looked at her and said, “I know I only make $65 a week working at Dickey Clay Pipe Co., but will you marry me?”

“Do you remember what I said, Carl?” Wanda asks. “I said, ‘Money doesn’t matter. All that matters is that we love each other.’”

The couple picked out simple gold rings at Kay’s Jewelers that they paid off through a lay-away program. “That was the best gift Wanda ever gave me,” Carl says, looking at his ring. “I never take it off.”

The rings were picked up by Wanda’s sister-in-law the Friday afternoon before their church wedding Labor Day weekend of 1960.

“What do I remember about the wedding? Well, they turned the air conditioner off and there was

When you know, you know...

by Anne Fruge


sweat running down my nose,” Carl says. “I’m pretty sure you can see him

sweating in all our wedding pictures,” Wanda says. “People probably thought he was nervous.”

But Carl and Wanda were anything but nervous. Eager to begin their lives together, the couple honeymooned at Anthony Island Hotel in Hot Springs, where they didn’t even have a reservation. This was one of the first trips the couple took together and their love of travel is one of the interests that helped keep their relationship adventurous.

“Every time we traveled because of Carl’s work, it was like a honeymoon,” Wanda says. “We just looked at it like an adventure and a way to see the USA.”

When Carl was promoted from president of the local chapter of the National Management Association to National Director, as a perk, he was sent on two trips a year to places all across the United States. The first trip was to attend a seminar in Los Angeles, CA, and when he ran home to tell Wanda, she looked out the window at their single cow and said, “There’s my ticket!”

“We didn’t have to sell the cow,” Carl says with a laugh, “but I think she might have really done it! We got to stay in some of the best hotels across the country, not places like a boy from Redwater and a girl from Smackover, AR, could afford.”

Carl and Wanda traveled together to destinations like Orlando, Tucson, Dayton, Louisville, San Diego, San Franciso, Disney World and Atlanta. Carl had a brother who lived outside of San Francisco, so they would stay longer with him and his wife and go on side trips to Napa and Sacramento. Their time together helped them create many fond and hilarious memories, like the time Carl insisted that Wanda go to the see the San Diego Zoo.

“He kept saying, ‘It’s the best zoo in the country!’ Wanda says, “But I just didn’t like to see animals caged up like that. So, I

got on the bus with the other ladies from the hotel, rode to the Zoo, walked straight to a payphone and called for a cab to take me back. I didn’t tell him until years later!”

“Or how about that time we almost got left in Tijuana, Mexico?” Carl asks. “We like to never got her out of there she was having so much fun! We nearly missed the last bus back to San Diego!”

“Or how about that horrible time in San Francisco when we were so cold walking down the pier and you didn’t have the correct change for the bus?” Wanda says with a smile. “The wind nearly blew us away and it was about midnight. I just thought you

were the meanest man in the world because you didn’t have that correct change!”

“So what did I do?” Carl says. “I got a taxi!”

All of the stories are said with a smile between two people whose obvious comfort with each other and respect for each other shines through even their funny stories about the trials of dealing with one another for a half a century.

“When I know I’m wrong about something that we are arguing about, I will say, ‘But I forgive you,’” Carl says. “And it always makes her laugh. You’ve got to find

something to help break the ice and get past the small conflicts that you are going to have being married.”

“How did our relationship change as we were married? Well, it just got better,” Wanda says. “We made big changes when we were having the kids, and when we got involved in church, but also we just learned to forgive each other. As strange as this may seem, the forgiver becomes the one most blessed.”

Carl served in the National Guard and the U.S. Army and eventually retired from Day and Zimmerman after working there for 43 years. Wanda worked at Red

River Army Depot and also had a jewelry business. The happy couple is living now on the same land in Redwater where Carl grew up. They are attending Highland Park Baptist Church in Texarkana where Carl is a deacon and where they both taught Sunday School for many years.

“You know, I would tell any young couple to build a relationship with the church,” Carl says. “Make sure you know Jesus and that He is the way to Heaven, and that you are going there together. Pray together. I firmly believe that God knows what it takes to make a marriage work, and He’s going to help you.”

In fact, one day during church, a presentation was being given about a couple’s course called “Love and Respect” and Wanda whispered, ‘Carl, we need that!” So the couple of more than 50 years

decided to go and better their marriage. After the first class, Wanda turned to Carl and said, “Well honey, I’m glad we have a better marriage than I thought we did!”

“But the course was a great one because it really showed how a marriage is built with two different people and they need to be treated as two different people,” Carl says. “There are all avenues of love and respect, and we need to find those ways to communicate with our spouse.”

Carl and Wanda believe that communication is key to a marriage, and yet one of the most difficult aspects of it.


Wanda does not hear as well as she used to and Carl admits, “I should be more patient at times. Marriage is not a perfect thing. You are going to have your knock down, drag outs, but don’t spend a single night away mad. You’ve got to build that love and respect. When I have to travel and Wanda is at home, I always check in, but we never go to bed angry.”

Through all the changes and moves, the life-long partners have created a language of love and communication between them. Wanda used to go with Carl to eat breakfast at CJ’s every morning before work, simply because she “loved to be with him.” They began leaving notes for each other under the coffee pot in the kitchen, and Carl knows that he better find Wanda and kiss her before he leaves to go anywhere!

“We’ve faced hardships together, but that’s the key…we’ve handled them together!” Carl says. “Do your finances together, agree on a budget, never catch your spouse off guard or embarrass them in front of a friend, and remember that those marriage vows

are a serious thing.”Their vows to love each other in

“sickness and health” came to a test when Wanda was diagnosed with cancer.

“I made it through because of my faith in Jesus,” Wanda says, “and Carl was the best caregiver ever.”

Another secret to a happy marriage according to the laughing couple is to schedule time apart. This seems surprising coming from a couple whose best memories

are spent together, but they insist that a good balance is the right thing for any couple to have. Wanda goes to a dinner party every week where they play the card game, “hand and foot.”

“I love the fun and fellowship, but when I pull up to the house, Carl has the garage door open and the light on,” Wanda says.

Then Carl is President of the Maud Gun Club, an avid trap shooter, hunter and

fisher. He loves to go to deer camp and relax and hunt. He also used to love quail hunting in west Texas and tournament fishing. While some wives resent hunters for their frequent times away from home, Wanda simply replies, “I’m thrilled because I know he will come home happy.”

In just a short time from now, Carl will let Wanda pick where she wants to go eat for her 52nd anniversary. She says she will probably pick Texas Roadhouse, a favorite, but until then, Carl and Wanda say that they will pray together, spend time together and most of all, “love each other, no matter what.”

Carl and Wanda say that they will pray together, spend time together and most of all, “love each

other, no matter what.”


Brent & Heidi PhilyawOctober 5, 2002

Jason & Samantha MichelMarch 9, 2002

Doug and Camille WarrenJuly 27, 1999

Shayne & LaFonda CampisiJanuary 13, 2001

Terry & Cathy SmithSeptember 26, 1992

Jimmy and Crystal HewittJanuary 15, 2000

Thank You to Everyone Who Submitted Photos to Our ALT Facebook Wedding Photo Contest!

If You Would Like to Participate in a Future ALT Facebook Contest, Please Find ALT Magazine on Facebook, and “Like” Our Page For Contest Information!

Looking Back...Local Couples Married 10-20 Years...


Air and HeatingCentral Air450 S. Kings HighwayTexarkana, TX 75501903.832.1212

Krause Service Company, Inc.200 Industrial Blvd.Nash, TX 903.831.3912

ApartmentsArista Apartments3515 Arista Blvd.Texarkana, TX903.255.7869

Legacy 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

BanksPeoples State Bank5600 Richmond Rd.Texarkana, TX 903.838.2300

Red River Federal Credit Union2700A University Ave.Texarkana, TX 75503903-735-3000800-822-3317

Texar Federal Credit UnionRichmond Rd.Texarkana, TX 903.223.5626

Texarkana First Bank3601 East 9th St.Texarkana, AR 870.772.0222615 Sam Houston Dr.New Boston, TX 3625 Richmond Rd.Texarkana, TX 903.793.6955

170 N. Constitution Ave.Ashdown, AR870-898-2227

Culinary CreationsPam Elliott903.831.4674

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

Sugar & Spice CateringShari Frachiseur903.276.4389

Twisted Vines Florist and Cafe218 W. Broad St.Texarkana, TX903-792-2700

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, TX903.255.0090

Ark-La-TexResource Guide

Wells Fargo Bank3615 E. 9th St.Texarkana, TX903.838.11871301 Arkansas Blvd.Texarkana, AR903.223.15452900 St. Michael Dr.Texarkana, TX 903.223.3516

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


Reception ArtsBecky RisingerAshdown, AR870.898.5273

Caterers/Private ChefBig Jake’s BBQ2610 New Boston Rd.Texarkana, TX903-793-11691521 Arkansas Blvd.Texarkana, AR 870-774-0099603 W. CommerceHope, AR870-777-1000


4501 N. State Line,No. 106Texarkana, TX903.792.9464

ChurchHighland Park Baptist Church2401 Hazel St.Texarkana, TX903.792.6996

ClothingAbby Gayle’s4012 Summerhill SquareTexarkana, TX903.792.0088

Gayle’s4059 Summerhill SquareTexarkana, TX903.792.0056

OMG Lulu3211 Kennedy LaneTexarkana, TX 903.223.8135116 Polk St.Jefferson, TX903.665.8855

Dental/EndodonticsTexarkana Endodontics, PAJason Michel, DDS1826 Galleria Oaks Dr.Texarkana, TX 903.793.7411

Dry CleaningHoliday CleanersLocations throughout Texarkana Area 870.773.4072

Electrical ServicesMr. Electric903.838.0161

EntertainmentCableOne855-692-4121

Legendary Shooting Sports925 Brower LaneTexarkana, TX903.334.9605

Texarkana Symphony Orchestra903.792-4992 Tickets870.773.3401

TRAHC321 W. 4thTexarkana, Texas903.792.4992

Event LocationsGarrison GardensTexarkana, AR 71854870.773.0275

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

Silvermoon on BroadWest Broad at Texas Blvd.Texarkana, TX

Texarkana Convention CenterCrossroads Busines ParkTexarkana, AR870.216.2000

Estate and Garage SalesSomewhere in Time903.277.3392903.278.2259

Financial PlannerDustin StringerStringer Wealth Management1620 N. Kings HighwayNash, TX903.223.0011

Fitness CentersAnytime Fitness Richmond Road3415 Richmond RoadTexarkana, TX 75503903.794.5348

Lyfe Fitness819 N. Kings HighwayWake Village, TX903.832.0133

Style StudioLisa Harris3201 Kennedy LaneTexarkana, TX 903.223.1719

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

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

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

Twisted Vines Florist and Cafe218 W. Broad St.Texarkana, TX903-792-2700

Unique Flowers4801 Loop 245Texarkana, AR870-774.1300

Funeral HomeTexarkana Funeral Home4801 Loop 245Texarkana, AR870.774.12003515 Texas Blvd.Texarkana, TX903.794.1200 Chapelwood Funeral Home1015 N. Kings HighwayNash, TX903.838.5300

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

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

Hair CareA Total Change930 N. McCoy Blvd., Suite 6New Boston, Texas 75570903-628-6135

Serendipity Salon of Texarkana4308 Texas BoulevardTexarkana, TX 903.255.0554


Wadley Regional Medical Center1000 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

Hilton Garden Inn and Texarkana Convention Center2910 S. Cowhorn Creek LoopTexarkana, Texas903.792.1065

Holiday Inn Express & Suites4545 Cowhorn Creek RoadTexarkana, TX 903.223.0008

TownePlace Suites by Marriott5020 North Cowhorn CreekTexarkana, TX903.334.8800

InsuranceFarm Bureau Insurance4413 Morris LaneTexarkana, TX903.838.8707911 W. US Highway 82New Boston, TX903.628.3451

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

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

InvitationsI Do Wedding FavorsDebra Jones903.826.9879

JewelersAlexander’s Jewelers3701 Mall DriveTexarkana, TX903.832.3557

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

Methadone TreatmentArkansas Treatment Services408 Hazel St.Texarkana, AR870.774.0421

PhotographerImage Forward Photography200 Heather Dr.Texarkana, TX 75501903.334.9605

Sage Duke Photography870.571.0868

Pet GroomingGeorgia’s Pet Salon & Boutique101 Slaton Nash, Texas 903.223.8223

PhysiciansAdvanced Bariatrics1939 Morres LaneTexarkana, TX 75503

Carmony Oral, Facial and Implant Center5305 Cowhorn Creek RoadTexarkana, TX 75503903.791.8405

Express Care5483 Summerhill RoadTexarkana, TX 75503903.223.5931

Northfield Accupunture619 E. 6th St.Texarkana, AR870.772.8622

Vision Source4401 Morris LaneTexarkana, TX 903.838.9063

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

Real EstateCrown Leasing6500 Summerhill RoadTexarkana, TX 903.792.6000

Gerald Haire RealtyKaci Bennett3725 Mall Dr.Texarkana, TX870.903.3049


Gerald Haire RealtyJanet Willis3725 Mall Dr.Texarkana, TX903.748.5385

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

Impact RealtyCody Sandone1200 N. Kings Hwy., Ste 104Nash, TX903.276.7565

Teresa LiepmanRemax5120 Summerhill Rd.Texarkana, TX 75503903.276.9464

RefreshmentsBolls Distributing700 E. Broad St.Texarkana, AR 870.774.9283

Vincent’s Fine Wines6900 N. StatelineTexarkana, AR 870.774.7217

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

RestaurantsBig Jake’s BBQ2610 New Boston Rd.Texarkana, TX903-793-11691521 Arkansas Blvd.Texarkana, AR 870-774-0099603 W. CommerceHope, AR870-777-1000170 N. Constitution Ave.Ashdown, AR870-898-2227

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

Daddy Dougaloo’s905 New Boston RoadTexarkana, TX 75503903.791.0172

Dairy QueenLocations throughout Ark-La-Tex

Fish Creek1514 Arkansas Blvd.Texarkana, AR870.223.0595

Gusano’s Chicago Style Pizzeria 2820 Richmond Road, Texarkana, Texas 903.792.8646

Hopkins IcehouseDowntown Texarkana, ARCorner of 3rd and Wood870.774.3333

Ironwood Grill4312 Morris LaneTexarkana, TX903.223.4644


Shorty’s Donuts2729 New Boston RoadTexarkana, TX 75501903.832.6686

Tasty Donuts1443 N. Kings HighwayNash, TX 903.838.0422

Twisted Vines Cafe218 W. Broad St.Texarkana, TX903.792.2700


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 HomeEdgewood Manor4925 Elizabeth St.Texarkana, TX903.793.4645

Heritage Plaza600 W. 52nd St.Texarkana, TX 75501903.792.6700

The Magnolia4205 Richmond MeadowsTexarkana, TX 75503903.838.7319

RoofingAqua RoofingAnthony Jewell3523 LocustTexarkana, AR903.244.5706

Spas/SalonsAll About You4100 Summerhill RoadTexarkana, TX903.803.2050

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

Ultrasound ServicesPeanut GalleryTexarkana, AR870.779.7688

Wedding AttireBridal Castle3209 Kennedy LaneTexarkana, TX903.838.3886

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

Heather KiserWedding Coordinator903.314.1582


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

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

Wedding Rehearsal Dinner LocationsIronwood Grill4312 Morris LaneTexarkana, TX903.223.4644


Silvermoon on BroadWest Broad at Texas Blvd.Texarkana, TX

Weight LossAll About You4100 Summerhill RoadTexarkana, TX903.803.2050

Jenny CraigTexarkana, TX903.831.5366

Documents

ALT Brides Summer 2012