By Staff
Lauren Stewart and Russell Dearing, both of Meridian, were married Saturday, July 26, 2003, at Mt. Vernon Baptist Church with the Rev. Ron Mercer officiating.
Parents of the couple are Cheryl Stewart of Little Rock, Gordon Stewart of Orange Beach, Ala., and Mr. and Mrs. Roy Dearing of Tupelo.
Grandparents of the bride are Helen Watkins of Little Rock and the late Gordon Watkins and the late Patsy Ladd of Philadelphia.
Grandparents of the bridegroom are Essie Mae Dearman of Meridian and the late Johnny Dearman, and Mr. and Mrs. Bobby Dearing of Newton.
Music for the ceremony was provided by Suzy Nelson, pianist; and Kristal Burton, vocalist.
The bride was given in marriage by her father. She wore a white A-line satin gown with a detachable chapel-length train. The bodice was adorned with sequins, crystals and pearls. She wore a fingertip-length veil was anchored by a tiara of crystals.
Maid of honor was Grace Stevens of Decatur. Other attendants were Stephanie Allen of Meridian, Kellie Jo McGee of Hickory and Miranda Neese of Chunky.
Kathryn Gettys of Houston, Texas, was flower girl.
The father of the bridegroom served as best man. Groomsmen and ushers were Corey Fontane and Royce Dearing, both of Meridian, Justin Stewart of Little Rock and Grayson Gettys of Houston, Texas.
Stewart Gettys of Houston, Texas, was ring bearer. Rice bag attendant was Kathryn Gettys and registry attendant was Melissa Hale.
A reception was held in the church fellowship hall following the ceremony.
A bridesmaid brunch was held at Caf Late and hosted by the bride's aunts, Vicky Ladd and Lisa Gettys.
After a honeymoon trip to Florida, the couple resides in Meridian.