G A T H E R I N G S | Elevated Envelopes

By this time of year, the holidays are chasing us down at intense speeds - starting with Halloween, cutting a sharp corner on Thanksgiving, and skidding into Christmas. And before we know it, we find ourselves staring into the rear-view mirror wondering what just happened.

I am the world's worst about getting Christmas cards in the mail. Seems like my intentions are always good, but somehow time gets in my way - which leads me to "just making do" with whatever family picture I can find on my phone in early December. But this holiday season, Gatherings is doing our part in making sure the greeting cards we send are prepared in love, not haste. So on this Thursday evening, we slowed down and enjoyed the ride.

The weather might have been dreary on this October evening, but the teacher for this class was super fun and sassy! As a child, Meagan Babb spent many weekends dabbling in her mom's watercolors and doodling with her dad's intricate engineer drafting pencils. She has been drenched in fine art over the years from obtaining a degree in Graphic Design from Mississippi State University to once overseeing display and visuals at the local Anthropologie - even branching out to provide retail store environment interiors. Now Meagan works under the name @NovelPaper as an illustrator, letterer, and designer with stationary for sale on Minted.com. Meagan taught us how to add a touch of hand to our envelopes - so now, the United States Postal Service will be so delighted when they get to deliver our little envelopes of love. Thank you, Meagan, for bringing some flair into the drear on this rainy Thursday evening.

DISTANCE DRIVERS

This "mother-daughter" team came in first place for driving the farthest to this Gatherings. Amy Harris exited Tupelo yesterday afternoon, made a pit-stop in Starkville to pick up Caroline, then drove back when class was over. Hands down with flags flying ... you two came in first place.

Go Team Harris!

YOUNGEST TEAM MEMBER

A lot of "mother-daughter" and "mother-in-luv" teams in attendance at this evening's event, but the youngest team member, by far, was Mattie Holloway. Clocking in at less than one month old, we did not hear one peep from baby girl - all night long.

SOLO DRIVERS

IN LAST PLACE - BUT DEFINITELY

NOT LEAST

"Team Sister Act" is at it again ... they might not come in first place with their skills, but they will take you on the ride of your life - every single time!

CRUISING WITH CONTROL

IMPROMPTU ENTERTAINMENT

A special thank you to this lovely young lady. I have known Lucien Farese since she was just a baby girl and can honestly say she has been gifted with one amazing voice. As the evening was starting to wind down, she blessed us with her amazing gift and took us all by storm! I don't believe one single lady knew what just happened. And I pray that the Lord glorifies Himself through the gift He has so graciously given her.

Deliciousness for tonight's Gatherings was brought to us by the recently re-designed and totally awesome:

The Lounge at Bar R'evolution

Appetizer for the evening:

Smoked Pork Meatballs with a Sweet Bourbon Mustard Glaze

Dessert for the evening:

Mississippi Beignets

{fried brioche, powdered sugar with a vanilla Baileys sauce}

A couple weeks ago, I met some girlfriends at Seafood R'evolution to discuss collaborating on a future Gatherings event. Our meeting went well and dinner was delicious - but to be honest, I had not been in Seafood R'evolution for quite sometime. So imagine my surprise when I walked into the recently re-designed front room now named The Lounge at Bar R'evolution. And then I learned that one of our very own Gatherings' Girl, Sunny Holliday of @Sunny_Holliday_Designs, was the designer on this project.

So I took it upon myself to ask Sunny to give me a little info about the new look: "It was great working with Seafood Revolution! They wanted the new Lounge at Bar R'evolution to be warm and cozy, yet stay true to the original design of the room. I added warmth by bringing in nautical rope chandeliers, ‘Revolution blue’ wallpaper, and a moody paint color. The upholstered velvet swivel chairs and marble top cocktail tables add a touch of glam to the seafood restaurant. There is also a brand new quartz countertop at the oyster bar, directly behind the reception area, with a deeper dining area, and comfortable barstools with backs. Don’t miss out dining at either area. The new lounge and bar menu is outstanding!"

And that it was!

My girlfriend and I split the redfish sandwich and french fries. However, I think I could have probably eaten the whole thing all by myself - it was so yummy. So when you and your girlies are out and about shopping during this holiday season, stop in and grab a bite while enjoying Sunny's lovely work of art.

FRIENDS OF GATHERINGS

Colony Wine Market is Gatherings number one friend. To date, Scott Jackson has not missed wanting to be a part of our time together. For this evening's selection, Scott chose De La Costa Sangria for us to enjoy. This drink shows bright, fresh, berry flavors with a hint of lemon and orange, and a touch of sweetness. This pairs nicely with BBQ, fresh fruits, and cheeses or is perfect all by itself. Make sure you drop by and visit Scott for all your holiday needs. And remember to tell him you would like to get the Gatherings Discount. He is very generous in helping you pick the perfect bubbly. Thank you Scott - what a blessing you have been!

The Lounge at Seafood R’evolution is opened daily from 3:00 p.m. until close of business and offers a selection of snacks and small bites, which include Crab Beignets, Tuna Tartare, Lobster Rolls and Truffle Popcorn. Other options include a variety of salads, pastas and desserts such as Mississippi Beignets and Root Beer Floats. The Lounge at Bar R’evolution is available for private cocktail and hors d’oeuvre parties, business gatherings or intimate parties with family and friends. Located at 1000 Highland Colony Parkway in Renaissance at Colony Park, The Lounge at Bar R'evolution is open Monday through Thursday from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.; Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and on Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Seafood R'evolution, thanks for being a friend to Gatherings.