A historic building in downtown Vicksburg has transformed into one of the coolest venues in Mississippi.  Charmingly nestled on Washington Street, The Bluff of Vicksburg is the perfect location to create the wedding or event of your dreams.

The incredible Art Deco building was built in 1930 as the Sears and Roebuck mail order facility, and served the community until the early 1970’s.  Years later, the stately structure sat empty and neglected.  It was begging for a transformation. 

Mark Shapley and his partner, Hal Parker, purchased the impressive building in 2008. They completely renovated the top two floors, creating handsome condos and apartments called The Sears Quarters.  After a tenant vacated the first floor, Mark was ready to create something completely different.

He says, “I spoke with so many people in Vicksburg who said we needed a reception hall.   People needed an option where they could hold an event and bring in their own caterer, florist, and other vendors.”  They took the idea and ran with it.

Mark and Hal renovated the first floor, carefully restoring it to its original splendor.  They incorporated many of the old materials from the original Sears and Roebuck mail center, including flooring and tiles.  The original grand staircase, which earned the building a spot on the National Register of Historic Places, still stands as a gorgeous focal point. Mark says with awe, “It is really cool how it all turned out.  It has been a great thing and we are excited, because downtown Vicksburg is truly coming to life.”

Mark and Hal also relied on the expertise of Wendy Putt, owner of Fresh Cut Catering and Floral, to ensure their reception hall would become a dream venue.  Mark says, “Wendy has an unbridled enthusiasm for everything!  She was extremely helpful on what we needed to do.  Why argue with someone who has been extremely successful?”  They equipped the building with everything Wendy recommended, including a prep kitchen with cabinets, dishwashers and shelving, and tables and chairs for seating up to 200 guests.  Mark adds, “We also have a courtyard space outside for frying and grilling.” 

As renovations came to a close, Wendy asked Mark, “What are you going to call your venue?  I think it should be named ‘The Bluff.’”  Mark laughs, “We loved it and said, ‘The Bluff it is!’  Everything fell into place after that.  The name perfectly fits the building and the Art Deco look.” 

If you are looking for a special venue to hold the event of a lifetime, we highly recommend The Bluff of Vicksburg.  Mark says, “We offer flexibility.  You have the opportunity to create the wedding or event you have always wanted!  We welcome all caterers.  We just want people to come in, have a wonderful time, and enjoy their event with the people they love.” 

You can learn more about The Bluff of Vicksburg on their website here! 

A special thank you to Chao Photography for capturing the lovely photos of Mark and his wife, Mary, at The Bluff. 

Also, thank you to Fresh Cut Catering & Floral, as well as Friends Stationary of Vicksburg, for providing the beautiful pieces for our photo shoot. 

A chance meeting over sushi sparked the beginning of a beautiful shoe and handbag line.  One evening on Sunset Boulevard in Los Angeles, a gentleman asked Lauren Lorraine Jones for a sushi recommendation.  His name was Av Goodman, the President of Martinez Valero, a very successful shoe line; he had years of experience in the footwear industry.  Lauren was intrigued.  After all, the wildly talented beauty was already a successful model and actress, garnering a lot of attention in LA. 

Lauren Lorraine Jones, born and raised in Jackson, Mississippi, is breathtakingly beautiful, genuinely kind and incredibly business savvy.  As a timid teen in High School, she and her mom left the comfort of Jackson and moved to New York.  Hoping to work on Lauren’s confidence, Lauren’s mother took her to a Seventeen Magazine modeling contest in New York City.  Lauren laughs, “I was so shy.  I could not believe she brought me there. I truly thought I had no chance of winning.” 

A few weeks later, Lauren received the call, and she landed the coveted cover of Seventeen Magazine!  Lauren fulfilled a whirlwind of obligations, including modeling on the Regis & Kathy Lee Show.  Lauren quickly developed a passion for modeling. “I truly loved the art of it, and I focused my career on modeling and acting.”  Lauren moved to LA, where her career continued to expand.  She became a Barker’s Beauty on the hit show, The Price is Right, and filmed a scripted reality show for FOX called Anchorwoman.  She covered romance novels and billboards, and set her sights on movies. 

Lauren landed a role in the hit movie The Expendables, working alongside major Hollywood actors.  She was beyond thrilled.  Lauren says, “And as time went on, the acting and modeling turned into a shoe business.”

During their conversation over sushi, Av and Lauren hit it off, and she was eager to help design shoes.  Lauren returned to Jackson during a writer’s strike in LA, and Av flew to Mississippi to visit with Lauren and meet her family.  Lauren persuaded Av to let her start her own shoe line.   “I had just filmed The Expendables and had a lot of momentum in my career.  And I was so passionate about this.  Av and I put together four designs, and Av went to China and had samples made.  We showed the samples to Nordstrom and they bought my first line, Lauren Jones Shoes!”  

Lauren Jones Shoes was extremely successful, but after five years, Lauren and Av decided to start over for a variety of reasons.  “I had matured, and I had new visions for my line.  We named the line Lauren Lorraine, after my middle name and also my wonderful grandmother's name.  We wanted a fresh start with a new name, something totally different.”

Lauren Lorraine offers an exquisite line of shoes, embellished with jewels and perfect for special occasions.  Lauren says, “Our customers understand fashion, and also love a little glitz and glamour.  Our shoes are made for the woman who loves Christian Louboutin and Jimmy Choo; but we are providing a beautiful shoe at an affordable price, and truly filling a void in the market.” 

Models, magazine editors and fashion bloggers are enamored with Lauren Lorraine.  This summer’s Ibiza sandal has been one of their best-selling shoes to date.  Lauren says, “I had the idea for the Ibiza when I was vacationing in Rosemary Beach, Florida.  I saw some expensive sandals from Italy with embellishments on the upper part of the shoe, and knew we could make our own creation at a much better price point.”  The Ibiza was born, and the hand-sewn sandals are beautifully encrusted with jewels.  They are perfect for a beach getaway, honeymoon, or even peeking out beneath a wedding dress. 

Lauren Lorraine also offers an extraordinary collection of handbags.  “The handbags were a natural evolution,” says Lauren.  “If you are going somewhere special, you want a handbag to match your shoes!  Ours are very high-end and a few are hand-beaded in India.  You can throw your essentials in and they pair perfectly with a formal dress or even a pair of jeans!” 

Lauren Lorraine shoes retail from $59 to $149.  Lauren says, “On average, we really to try keep our shoes under $100.”  What an unbelievable price for a gorgeous pair of shoes.  Lauren Lorraine is carried at all Nordstrom stores nation-wide, Nordstrom.com, Belk.com, LordandTaylor.com, Kleinfeld in Manhattan, and many more locations.  Her shoes will also be carried in the lovely new Arabella store, opening soon in Jackson! 

Lauren says, “I really hope to keep expanding the brand.  I would love to be in more stores, and one day design clothing.  But I have learned that to be focused is to be more successful.  Right now, Av and I are focused on our special occasion shoes and handbags.” 

We cannot wait to see where Lauren’s talents will lead her.  Until then, we will happily wear her stunning shoes and sparkling handbags.  For more information on Lauren Lorraine, please visit her website here! 

{Bride} Chelsey Jordan Williamson, Brandon, MS
{Groom} David Lee Williamson, Jr., Pearl, MS
{Wedding Site} First Baptist Church of Brandon
{Reception Site} The Jackson Yacht Club
{Bride’s Bouquet} Fresh Cut Catering and Floral
{Bridesmaid Bouquets} Fresh Cut Catering and Floral

{How did the two of you meet?} We met in college at Mississippi State University. We were both in relationships, but became extremely close friends. Eventually our friendship grew into something greater and the rest is history! 

{What is your proposal story?} Our proposal was perfect for us. It was at my parents' house, outside, and near the water. We were surrounded by the most important people in our lives and it couldn't have been more perfect! 

{What inspired your wedding and reception locations?} First Baptist is where I grew up going to church. When planning my wedding, I wanted to incorporate that specific church because it's where I first accepted Jesus, was baptized, and always dreamed of getting married. It's such an important place to me because it was, after all, where I made my commitment to God and I couldn't have imagined making a life-long commitment to my husband in any other church! 

I chose to have our reception at The Yacht Club because it's near the water; a place I have always loved to be. Growing up, my Grandma instilled her love for the water in me and having it there made it seem like she was a part of it. A reception near the water was definitely my second biggest wedding request aside from being married at First Baptist. 

{What inspired your color scheme/colors/flowers?} I wanted something different. I love darker colors, neutrals, and gold, of course, but I can honestly say that everything to do with my wedding was really just a reflection of my taste and things that I love! 

{How did you pick “the dress?”} My family and I went to Low's Bridal in Arkansas to look for a dress. It's actually kind of funny because going in to find "the dress," I knew exactly what I wanted and ended up leaving with something completely different. I was down to two dresses and I contemplated back and forth. Finally when I was in MY dress, looking at myself in the mirror, so unsure of which one to get, a woman walked up behind me and said, "that dress has been patiently waiting for you to be the one to wear it." I knew then it was "the one" and I'm so glad I chose it because it was perfect! 

{What’s your favorite unique accessory? Is there a story behind it?} Definitely my grandma Jordan's pen that I wore. It was my "something old" and not having her there made wearing that pen so special. It was definitely my favorite accessory 

{What was your favorite part of the wedding planning process?} Meeting with Wendy Putt at Fresh Cut Catering and Floral, and just letting all of her ideas fill my head. I always looked forward to meetings with her because she literally drew things out, threw tons of awesome ideas at me and that's the kind of stuff I like! 

{Besides the actual wedding, what was your favorite moment of the wedding day?} Watching our son walk down the aisle, hands down. He was absolutely the most excited 16-month-old little boy running down the aisle with his football. Definitely a memory I'll forever cherish. 

{What was your favorite surprise detail/moment about your wedding day?} My note from Lee. It was just a really personal and vulnerable moment for me. On your wedding day everything is so crazy and busy and to have that moment to stop and blush was really special. I loved reading his words and being reassured how much he loves me and couldn't wait to be my hubby :) 

{Your favorite picture from the big day?} When Lee and I kissed for the first time as husband and wife. The picture totally captures our personalities! I love it because it's not traditional. He is dipping me and you can see Paul, the man who married us, behind us smiling.

{The picture that represents the two of you best?} The picture of us leaving our devotion with sparklers. My foot is kicked up and we are having our "farewell kiss."  It's fun, beautiful, in the moment, and raw. I absolutely love it! 

Photographer: Barrett Photography
Event Planner: Meredith Akers and Wendy Putt of Fresh Cut Catering & Floral
Dress: Low's Bridal
Bride’s Jewelry: Family rings came from Jackson Jewelers
Hair: Debbie Fullen
Make-up: MAC
Bridesmaid Dresses: Low's Bridal
Tuxes: Tuxedo Junction
Venue: First Baptist Church of Brandon
Reception-The Jackson Yacht Club. Rehearsal dinner was at the Mississippi Museum of Art
Florist: Fresh Cut Catering & Floral 
Catering: The Jackson Yacht Club
Bar: The Jackson Yacht Club
Band: Ben Johnson
Bride’s Cake:  Cakes by Iris
Groom’s Cake: Cakes by Iris

“Metropolitan Bank started in 2008 with one primary vision - to bring back the importance of personal relationships between clients and their bank.  Prior to 2008, banks had become more about the bank and less about the client, and we wanted to change that.  It was really a return to what banking used to be with one big caveat – technology,” says Bill Barron, Mississippi Market CEO with Metropolitan Bank.

With just one glance at Metropolitan Bank, you know you are getting something exciting and unique.  The bank beautifully stands on Highland Colony Parkway in Ridgeland, and the impressive architecture beckons you to take a second look.  Metropolitan Bank is modern and inviting, and as soon as you step inside, you are truly greeted like an old friend.  Bill adds, “We wanted our offices to be cool and different, but we also wanted clients to be able to do all of their banking without stepping into our office if that was what they wanted.  It's all about allowing clients to choose how they wish to bank.  We have clients who love our offices and want to come in to handle the day transactions and have a cup of coffee.  Other clients want to be able to do everything mobile.”

Every employee at Metropolitan Bank is friendly, assertive and knowledgeable.  We interviewed Adam Black and Matt Wilson, Mortgage Specialists, to learn more about their Mortgage team and why banking with Metropolitan Bank is incredibly special and beneficial. 

Mortgage Team, Ridgeland office - Shannon Zenor, Jenny Breaux, Adam Black, Matt Wilson

What makes Metropolitan Bank so different?  Why should customers bank with Metropolitan instead of your competitors?
“Our unique approach to simplifying the banking process resonates with our clients. Our ability to think outside the box and offer solutions that add value further solidify us as the bank of choice.” Adam

“When Metropolitan was started in 2008, Curt’s vision was simple – a return to basic banking where relationships matter, and where credit decisions were made locally.  The vision was centered on people: the Metropolitan associates and their clients.  One of our beliefs states that our clients should always know how much we care.  When you keep things simple, with a focus on the client and understanding their needs, clients feel that and it really makes a difference.  Specifically to my area of the bank with mortgage lending, we work hard to make sure we keep things simple for our mortgage clients.  Buying a home can be stressful, so it’s our goal to keep them informed and make the process as seamless as it can be for them.” Matt

Even the outside of Metropolitan is special.  The architecture is spectacular and truly stands out.  Does the architecture mimic the way the bank operates?
“We like to think so. In the same way the architecture is forward thinking and progressive, we tend to implement that same thinking into our daily processes.” Adam

“The building architecture at Metropolitan is unmistakable and very intentional.  We are not a brick and mortar bank that is built on a big branch network, but more on technology and accessibility through multiple access channels.  We truly believe we are a different kind of bank, and we want our buildings to reflect that.  We have some clients who rarely come to the bank, but we have others who love to come by and visit, even though the technology is available such that they really don’t have to.  I think that has something to do with our building, but more to do with the experience once they come inside.  All you have to do is step inside to know that it is not the same experience you would have at another bank.  The bottom line is we want people to have an exceptional client experience every time they interact with Metropolitan, whether that is inside our bank or not.” Matt

How does Metropolitan make banking easier for your customers?
“Overall client service coupled with outstanding technology makes the client experience smooth and stress free.” Adam

“Metropolitan operates on an Omni-Channel strategy – by that I mean we offer multiple channels to our clients from which they can choose how they want to customize their banking experience.  Some use multiple channels while others focus on one specific option.  We just want to be sure it is simple and seamless regardless of how they want to interact with us.  Outside of the technology like our mobile app with mobile deposit, we also have a Metropolitan car that will come to any client to pick up checks, deposits or paperwork.  It’s just another way we can make our client’s banking easier and hopefully make their busy life simpler.” Matt

How did you get into mortgage lending?
“I was moving quickly through the management side of automobile manufacturing and became very aware of my desire to get in an industry that was client driven. I felt that the real estate industry was one that I could use my self-drive and networking skills to excel. I chose the financial side rather than sales and have been so happy since.” Adam

“After receiving my Bachelors from Southern Mississippi, the plan was take a year off and get ready for Law School.  I had an opportunity to work as a Loan Officer and thought it would be excellent ‘Real World’ experience.  Within my first 3 months I knew this was the Industry meant for me.  There is an excitement that surrounds this industry and it is very addicting and one of the many reasons I love my job.” Matt   

What services do you personally offer your customers?
“I offer residential lending solutions that run the gamut from construction, refinance, to purchase. We use different lending products based on the client’s needs to help them use their mortgage as more of a financial tool than simply a liability. Our goal is for the mortgage to be a way for our clients to build wealth through their home over time.” Adam

“In my world of mortgage, we offer all of the traditional mortgage products you often here discussed.  FHA, VA, fixed, floating, bridge loans, etc.  We work with everything from first time home buyers to those who might want to purchase a second home.  With our online applications it is a simple process to apply and get pre-qualified.  Then we can walk with you each step of the way.  Outside of mortgage, the bank offers just about anything else you can imagine from a bank.  For individuals we offer various forms of checking and savings accounts, certificates of deposit, consumer loans, lines of credit, as well as our mobile and online banking offerings with bill pay and mobile deposit.  For our commercial clients, we offer everything from business transaction accounts with online banking to lines of credit, construction loans and commercial financing.  We also have a very robust treasury management suite of products that include remote deposit capture and lock box, as well as our merchant card services.” Matt 

Any advice for people interested in a mortgage loan?
“If someone leads with rate and closing cost be aware. There is so much more to a mortgage. You need to look at the total cost of the product over time. Up-front funding fees or excessive monthly mortgage insurance may impact the overall cost of a loan to the point that taking a higher interest rate on a different product might make better fiscal sense.” Adam

“The entire process of purchasing a home can, at times, seem very overwhelming.  It is critical if you are thinking about purchasing a home you get your team, Loan Officer and Realtor, in place.  Surrounding yourself with the right people well make the process much more efficient and enjoyable.” Matt    

Anything else you want to add?
“Our industry is changing at a rapid pace. Never has it been more important to consult with a true mortgage professional. This professional needs to take the time to find out your needs, you goals, etc. so they can better help you navigate the process.” Adam

“I would just add that there is so much misinformation out there today regarding mortgages and their availability.  With all of the talk about the housing market, I think a lot of people have gotten the false impression that it is extremely difficult if not impossible to get a mortgage today.  The reality is that many, if not most people out there thinking about buying a home can qualify.  If there is someone out there who feels like they can’t qualify, I would encourage them to speak with a mortgage lender and walk through the application process. It is pretty quick and painless and we can walk you through the process.  Then you won’t have to wonder if you qualify – you will know and you can begin taking the next steps toward owning a home.” Matt

Thank you so much, Adam and Matt!  As you can see, banking with Metropolitan Bank is an easy, yet extraordinary experience.  Bill nails it when he says, ”Our vision is to look at every client relationship and deliver an exceptional client experience based on their definition of what banking should be, not ours.  If we have associates who love what they do and are happy in their work, they will deliver that exceptional client experience which has come to define Metropolitan, and in the end everyone wins.”

For more information on Metropolitan Bank, please visit their beautiful website here.  Thank you to Karla Pound of Pound Photography for the wonderful photographs! 

A precious children’s clothing store has officially opened its doors in Dogwood Promenade!  Owner Jessica Donovan says, “My dream growing up was to always have my very own boutique.  I studied Fashion Merchandising at USM and went to fashion school at the Art Institute for Fashion Marketing Management.”  After welcoming three sweet boys and a beautiful baby girl, Jessica decided to make her dreams come true.  Bows & Arrows was born. 

Bows & Arrows had its grand opening yesterday, and will continue celebrating throughout the weekend!  On Saturday, they will have special sweets from the Turquoise Chandelier, and next weekend they will have a HUGE sale on all of their spring and summer merchandise!

We sat down with Jessica and asked her all about her amazing new children’s boutique:

What is the meaning behind the name “Bows & Arrows?”
“When I first decided to open a children's boutique, I started brainstorming. I was putting together my children's initials, names, kiddie verbs, etc.  I wanted something that was catchy and different, but still knowingly a children's store! The next day it came to me, as I was looking at arrow decor for my son's ‘big boy’ room.  Bows & Arrows... girls love Bows (hair bows) and boys love to play with Arrows! It was perfect and just the uniqueness that I was going for.  It represents boys & girls!”

What inspired you to open this store?
“My inspiration was my daughter!  When I found out I was blessed with a little girl (Christmas Day) finally...after having three boys, I knew I wanted to spend as much time with her and just spoil her rotten. I then decided to open an online boutique, and get it going, so that I would be able to stay home with her.  I saw a post on Instagram later that day that Material Girls was relocating, and didn't think anything of it. This has always been one of my favorite locations for a store! A few weeks later, walking into Target, I saw the old spot with a ‘For Lease’ sign in the window. I immediately called my mom and said, ‘It’s up for lease!’  I told her that if it indeed didn't already have a commitment then it was meant to be, and that I would find a way to make it my storefront!

After contacting the landlord back and forth through email, I was running numbers, putting together a business plan, praying that the good Lord look over me through all of this, etc.  After I left Pinelake, I opened up my phone to see that I had a voicemail letting me know someone had verbally committed to a lease the spot. I was upset, but not heartbroken. Like I told my family, ‘If it wasn't meant to be, then it just wasn't my time for a storefront and I would go through with my online store!’

Three weeks later, I received a call saying that the lease fell through and it was again available. I knew I would do whatever I had to do for this to be Bows & Arrows!  Four months later, I not only have a beautiful 2-month-old baby girl, but we are about to have our GRAND OPENING!  I still keep asking myself, ‘Is this real?’  I have been hoping and praying for a little girl and to have my very own store for the last few years, and it all fell into place, all within a few months of each other. God is so Good!”

Describe the clothing and the atmosphere of the store!
“Ahh, the clothing! I went to Dallas Market, Atlanta, and New York searching for different lines to carry, and boy, is it overwhelming! I carry sizes NB to 6-7 in both boys and girls clothing! I have chosen something for everyone and at all price points without sacrificing the quality. The clothing is a range from sweet, fun, and stylish to some edgy.  I am even carrying several organic lines. I wanted to bring back all the latest trends in the children's industry.  

I would say the atmosphere of the store is friendly, inviting, fun, and convenient for both adults and children, as we have a play area in the back with a TV to give the moms and dads a break - so they are able to shop!  You can come in looking for a baby shower gift, an entire outfit for pictures, or just some cute accessories!”

Describe the child you picture wearing your clothes!
“A newborn leaving the hospital in their coming home gown, a toddler girl wanting a ‘big girl’ purse to match her mom’s, or a toddler boy wanting to look cool for his first day back to school! I picture a true little Mississippi girl wearing a glamorous Tutu with her cowboy boots and all the accessories she can imagine!”

Bows & Arrows will not only carry clothing, but also sweet gifts and accessories.  Jessica adds, “In the next month we will also be selling Bratt Decor cribs, Lolli Living Crib Bedding and decor, as well as a huge selection of customizable nursery prints!  Brooklynn (my daughter) will be working the store with me and we cannot wait to meet everyone!” 

A special thank you to Hull Portraits Studio for capturing these perfectly adorable photographs!  Also, a big hug and thanks to our precious young models!

You can visit the Bows & Arrows Facebook Page here.  Happy Shopping!

{Blog by Mitchell Walters}