Janet Butler 
A wedding steeped in family and history: that’s what this couple in Fairhope, Alabama carried off, as shown in these images from Steven DeVries. This November celebration, against the elegant backdrop of Mobile Bay, is pure traditional: note the lace bridal gown, sophisticated shoes with demure bow, and a bouquet that’s all white roses and ribbons. Wreathed in small roses, the bride’s hair is caught up in a lavish bun; a light lace cap anchors the gossamer veil. And can there be anything prettier than maids all in sea-blue satin? The bride’s mother, in silvery ruffles, beams with pride; the groom’s mother, in powder blue, pins a boutonniere on her son, then sends him off with his men, all in simple gray with blue-and-white striped ties.
As the ladies ride the trolley to church, the bride and her father have quiet moments alone in her “magic coach” of a convertible. A few prayers, a few hugs, and the bride and groom are soon husband and wife; they pose for a couple of fun photos at the beach. Meanwhile, back on the trolley, the party proceeds to her father’s historic home, where the reception is set up in splendor of flowers and candles. A five-tier wedding cake, flanked by tall silver candelabra, is only the beginning of the fun. Then it’s time for toasts, tunes, and lots of dancing under the stars…until the moment the newlyweds bid their guests goodnight, departing through sparklers to a sparkling new life together.
