Creating our Wedding Cover
Written by JACKIE KENNEDY
On October 28, our creative team met with local wedding vendors in hopes of capturing the perfect cover shot for this issue of Newnan-Coweta Magazine (NCM). The weather was a bit warm for late October, but everything else was as close to perfect as it comes – the goal every bride strives for when planning her own perfect day.
Our cover subjects, engaged couple Mikayla Morelli and Shamon Thomas, had planned their wedding for September 2020, but they opted to postpone it amid COVID-19 concerns and crowd restrictions. They haven’t set a new date, but they expect to exchange vows later this year. In the interim, NCM presented the charming couple with a preview of what their big day might look and feel like.
Taking part in a styled photoshoot to achieve our cover portrait, Thomas was fitted for a tux, and Morelli landed in a stylist’s chair for makeup and hair.
As usual, NCM staffers were on hand, this time acting as bridesmaids to calm and assist the bride while facilitating the photoshoot. Payton Thompson, receptionist at The Newnan Times-Herald and one of Morelli's bridesmaids, got a preview of her wedding
day duties.
When the day was done, we came away with intense respect for wedding vendors who pour their heart and soul into creating memorable ceremonies.
Our deepest gratitude goes to Ashley Keely at Lillian Gardens for the use of the event venue; Allyson Merchant of Fitzography Photo+Video, in Senoia, for the fabulous wedding photos; Amber Bibler of Bedazzled Flower Shop, in Sharpsburg, for arranging the lovely bouquet and boutonniere; Brittany Young of B Young Beauty Studio+Spa, in Newnan, for her expertise in hair and makeup; and Lynda M. Johnson, of Celebrate Tuxedos in Newnan, for handsomely fitting our groom.
And to the future Mr. and Mrs. Shamon Thomas, we thank you for letting us share in your love, and we wish you many years of wedded bliss.
NCM
TOP: Bridesmaid-to-be Payton Thompson shares cellphone snaps with her friend, bride-to-be Mikayla Morelli. Photo by Jackie Kennedy.
MIDDLE: Photographer Allyson Merchant, center, enjoys the styled photoshoot at Lillian Gardens. Photo by Sandy Hiser.
BOTTOM: Payton Thompson, left, and Jill Whitley, right, assist our bride, Mikayla Morelli, with her gown. Photo by Jackie Kennedy.
