One of Jackson's most beloved haunts has recently undergone a charming face lift.  With a nod to the past and a hope for a bright future, Brent’s Drugs has been taken to the next level.  “We really have tried to hold onto that sense of gathering over a burger and shake, and keep Brent’s a favorite of all of Jackson’s people and generations,” says Amanda Wells.  Every effort was made to not only improve, but also preserve the historic restaurant that Mississippians know and love.

Brent’s Drugs first opened its doors in October 1946 in the Morgan Center, the first shopping center in Mississippi (later renamed Woodland Hills Shopping Center).  Pharmacist Alvin Brent left Patterson’s Drugs in the Plaza Building downtown (at the time known as the Standard Life Building), to open his own pharmacy and soda fountain in Fondren.  While the pharmacy was highly successful, the restaurant became the gathering place for neighbors and friends. Brent owned the pharmacy until 1977, when he sold the business. After passing through many hands over the years, a pharmacy-free Brent’s was purchased by Fondren resident Brad Reeves in July 2009.  Together with Amanda and Nathan Wells and Jonathan Shull, Brad Reeves set out to make his local hot spot even better.

Keeping the charm of the old interiors, as well as providing a more functional space, took top priority.  Amanda says, “It was imperative that our kitchen expand, because we had to keep up with demand, but we made sure to be as careful as possible about preserving Brent’s…charm was definitely a big factor, along with historical integrity and accuracy.”

The team researched 1940’s diners, and used several old and original materials.  “Boomerang Formica counter and table tops, 1940's wood tones, quilted stainless, and of course the original soda fountain stools where generations of Jacksonians have enjoyed quite a few milkshakes" are all included in the impressive 3-month renovation.  "We also have on display some original prescriptions and pharmacy equipment,” says Amanda.

She adds, “It was definitely a collaborative effort.  We put our heads together to make the place the most functional it could possibly be, now being a full restaurant, but also to preserve Brent’s heritage and history."

The result?  A perfectly charming setting with great food and their famously delicious milkshakes.  The updated landmark is sure to please both loyal and new customers.  

Amanda notes, "Brent's is a Jackson staple, I believe, because it is a true representation of community.  It is historically (and remains) a neighborhood joint that brings people from all walks of life together.  At any given time, you'll see young, old, college students, families, black, white, just about everyone, at Brent's.  This is a true representation of our city."

{Bride} Heather Shaw (Jackson, Mississippi)
{Groom} Rhett Young (Greenwood, Mississippi)
{Location} Jackson, Mississippi

{How did you two meet?}
We met at Mississippi State University.

{What is your proposal story?}
Rhett and I met at Mississippi State University. Rhett proposed to me on the Jackson Academy football field. The reasoning behind this proposal was that my father passed away in 1995 while he was the head football coach at Jackson Academy. My mother and father also met when they started working together at JA. His proposal was a very happy and emotional time for everyone in my family and it could not have been more perfect.

{What inspired your wedding and reception locations?}
The wedding took place at Christ United Methodist Church because I grew up going there.
I chose Union Station for my wedding reception because it was unique, it had great character, and an ambiance that was unlike other places I had seen. 

{What’s your favorite unique accessory? Is there a story behind it?}
When I walked down the aisle I had my grandmother's handkerchief wrapped around the stem of my bouquet. This was special to me because my grandmother lost her battle with cancer when I was only a year old and my mother saved her handkerchief for my sister and I to have on our wedding day. My sister also had the handkerchief monogrammed with mine and my mothers initials a few weeks before the wedding and surprised me on my wedding day.

{What inspired your color scheme/theme/flowers?}
I used pastel colors mainly periwinkle, lavender, and a soft pink. They went well with my spring theme.

{How did you choose "the dress"?}
I decided to wear my mothers dress that she wore in her wedding to my father in 1984.

{What was your favorite part of the wedding planning process?}
My favorite part of wedding planning was having my mothers dress remade. Each time my sister, mother, and I went for a dress fitting we enjoyed every moment. It was amazing to see the progress and it meant a lot to each of us.

{Besides the actual wedding, what was your favorite moment of the wedding day?}
My favorite part of the wedding day was having both of our families come together to support us and bless our marriage. 

{Catering & Floral Design} Fresh Cut Catering and Floral
{Dress} Sandra Ashford
{Photography} Caitlyn Sullivan
{Bride's Cake} Jerri Ann Morgan 
{Groom's Cake} Meredith Brabec 

Last Friday, we featured wearable women’s trends fresh from the runways of New York.  Today, we are delighted to highlight new looks for men, with the help of one of Mississippi’s finest shops.  Great Scott offers tailored clothing, as well as sportswear and shoes in their handsome Jackson store.  For over 28 years, Great Scott has not only served loyal customers with wonderful service, but has also dressed them head-to-toe with impeccable style.  Co-owner Wright Scott shares 5 trends from Spring 2015 Fashion Week, with tips on how to wear each look:

"This spring you will see a lot of sneakers with no shortage of color.  Around Jackson you will see them worn mostly with denim, but don’t be afraid to put them with your fitted suits!"

"Designers were trying to elongate the t-shirt to give it a new look.  I don’t see Jackson being ready for that.  We will continue to wear them fitted and short.  If the look sticks, you will see us pick it up in about five years!"

"To me they look best with a pair of shorts."

"You saw bombers, unconstructed sport coats and reinterpreted sweatshirts.  Because of our climate, I feel that an unconstructed sport coat in a fabric like washed linen is the way to go. Not really dressy enough for a tie, the unconstructed jacket is a great way to dress up a denim and t-shirt look!"

"The consumer is tiring of denim, but designers are showing it in a big way right now.  Shirts, jackets, and of course, jeans.  I still think a man looks best in a great fitting pair of jeans.  Get bold and put a denim shirt under a dressy suit with a linen or cotton tie.  The blending of dressy and casual is a fresh look that the younger generation is able to get excited about!"

Thank you, Wright, for sharing these fresh trends and fashionable ideas with Inspiration Mississippi. For more information on Great Scott, please click here!

Over the past week, New York’s most fashionable have dashed between runway shows in towering heels and carefully curated outfits.  Designers are showcasing their Spring 2015 Ready-To-Wear looks, and as always, the clothes are stunning.  Though we can’t all wear pieces straight off the runway, they can inspire our wardrobe for the upcoming season!  We have chosen six wearable and classic trends that are perfect for spring, as well as many seasons to come.  We turned to Camille Hodges of CoatTails in Ridgeland for expert advice and tips for wearing these trends:

Evenings out often call for a dash of sequins and a heavy dose of elegance.  Whether you choose feathers, embroidery or sparkling beads, tasteful embellishments help create a feminine silhouette. Camille adds, "For a fun night out, embellishments both in sweaters and silk blouses give you the perfect pop of sparkle."

Black & White

Whether color-blocked, layered, or placed together in a pattern, black and white truly are the perfect pair.  Camille agrees.  "Black and white patterns contribute to a super flattering silhouette, either in color block or graphic print." 

A collared top is no longer stuffy.  This season’s blouses are chic, youthful and tailored to perfection.  Camille says, "Crisp collared shirts are always chic under a sweater, be it loose or fitted.

Whether you are dressing for day or night, reach for the unexpected - a long dress that gently sweeps the floor.  Simple silhouettes feel fresh for spring. 

Dressing head-to-toe in bright white is a key trend for spring.  "The buyers are CoatTails are thrilled to see the all-white trend hitting the runways for Spring 2015! White isn't just for Memorial Day through Labor Day. You can wear it year-round!  The crisp trend can be seen from Joie, Rebecca Taylor, Elie Tahari and many more!"

Accentuate your waist

Whether carefully tied or cinched with a belt, highlight (or create!) an hourglass figure this spring. 

Thank you, Camille, for your expertise!  Shop CoatTails for fashionable outfits for any occasion!  

Poised, gracious, and impossibly talented, Miss Mississippi Jasmine Murray will represent our state in the Miss America pageant this Sunday evening in Atlantic City, New Jersey.  A native of Columbus, Jasmine was crowned Miss Mississippi just a few weeks ago, on July 12th.  Jasmine is thrilled with her new role and says, "As Miss Mississippi, I have the ability to inspire so many lives.  Even though they don't understand the title, little girls love that I am wearing a crown.  We can help these young girls succeed - whether they dream of becoming Miss America, a lawyer, or the President of the United States!" 

Jasmine certainly inspires us, and we had the great pleasure of speaking with Miss Mississippi during her busy week of preliminary competition in Atlantic City.  The kind, driven 22-year-old shares some fun and interesting facts about herself with us:

·      Jasmine is the youngest of five!  She has three older sisters and a brother.

·      Jasmine has been involved in pageants since she was 13-years-old!  She even competed in the Miss America’s Outstanding Teen pageant in 2007

·      Jasmine’s older sister competed in Miss Mississippi pageants!  "She really inspired me to do the same thing.  It changed her life - her communication and people skills are amazing, and she understands the importance of community service."

·      At age 16, Jasmine auditioned for American Idol in Jacksonville, FL, and became a finalist on the show!  "I was so excited and thankful for the experience.  I spent the next year and a half pursuing my music career in Nashville."  She sang anywhere she could, including Mary Kay seminars! 

·      She has graced the Miss America stage once before.  Jasmine sang the National Anthem on the final night of competition as a teen.  Jasmine says, "It was such an incredible moment on the stage.  I am so thankful and incredibly blessed to be here again!"

·      Jasmine has a passion for teaching young girls to embrace their age.  With her platform, "13 going on 30", she has the opportunity to mentor young girls and encourage them to enjoy their childhood, not rush growing up.  She enjoys inspiring them to become the women they want to be.  

·      Jasmine has partnered with 10 ambassadors in different states around the country.  Just like Jasmine, these incredible young women spend their time mentoring little girls.

·      Jasmine loves being from Mississippi.  “The support from my fellow Mississippians, family and friends has been incredible.   Everyone is backing me 100%...I hope I make everyone proud!” 

YOU can vote now to help Jasmine be chosen as America's Choice!  Click here to watch a quick video about Jasmine and vote for her to secure a coveted spot in the Top 16 on Sunday evening.

Miss America will be crowned LIVE this Sunday, September 14th, at 7:00pm on ABC!  Tune in and cheer for Jasmine! She would certainly be a perfect choice for Miss America 2015.