Julie & Dallas: A Winter Wedding in Opelika, AL

Julie and Dallas' winter wedding boasted a warm and inviting style -- a perfect fit for this sweet pair! THE BRIDE Julie Mosow, 22, public relations representative THE GROOM Dallas Bunkley, 25, construction project engineer THE DATE January 31 Julie and Dallas met at church in their hometown of Mobile. Julie, then a senior in high school, soon followed Dallas on to college at Auburn. We dated all through college without a single doubt about our relationship, even though this was basically the first serious relationship for either of us, Julie recalls. She was nearing graduation when Dallas unexpectedly proposed on a visit during finals week (he was working in Birmingham at the time). After a romantic dinner (which the nervous groom-to-be didn't even touch), Dallas suggested a walk to Auburn's Samford Hall, where Julie found a gift surrounded by roses-a bible engraved with her married name. When she opened it, the ring dangled from an enclosed bookmark. After celebrating with some surprise visitors (unbeknownst to Julie, Dallas had invited all of their parents back to her apartment), the couple began planning a romantic winter wedding. Finals really didn't matter after that! Julie says. Nevertheless, new grad Julie quickly put her classroom skills into practice, using everything she'd just learned about public relations to help with the planning. The most important this is that your wedding should reflect you, so don't try to make it something you're not, she advises. To whit, Julie did nearly everything herself, including designing the invitations. Instead of selecting a theme to tie everything together, the bride-to-be tried to capture a warm, comfortable, and inviting feel throughout. The winter season inspired the rich ivory and red color scheme, and votive candles, hurricane lamps, and a roaring fireplace provided the lighting for the reception.