Upfront

As the saying goes it would be as hard to pick my favorite issue of Augusta Magazine as to pick my favorite child. And while I have just one child, that old adage still applies to my feelings about the magazine. In fact, there are some issues where the comparison to child birth isn’t too far removed from truth.

Old adages aside, this issue is truly one of my favorites in terms of both photography and stories. For what could be more appropriate for the Valentine season and the gray days of winter than stories about happily married couples and beautiful photos of recent newlyweds. And in this particular February/March issue we also feature some of the most stunning kitchens you’re likely to find anywhere. They all put a smile on my face and hopefully they’ll have the same effect on you. 

Our couples are at varying stages of their marriages, from the busy years of raising children to the golden years of retirement and the time in between. And though it may seem a little sappy, I’m inspired when I read about these couples each year—how they met, how their relationships have progressed and how they’ve kept their love alive over the years.
As for the newlyweds, what could be more beautiful and full of promise than a bride and groom? This year’s collection of photos is a testiment to that. From sunset beaches, to oceanside piers to traditional churches, the themes and locales are more interesting and creative every year—and the brides, it seems, more beautiful.

“Dream Kitchens” on page 48 is a dazzling photo essay highlighting the kitchens featured on the Augusta Symphony Guild’s kitchen tour last year.  They seem somehow a fitting inclusion in a magazine about weddings and Valentine couples. And they are absolutely kitchens to dream about. So indulgence. Then go to the Symphony Orchestra Augusta’s website (www.soa.org) and purchase your tickets for this year’s tour on March 9. In addition to fabulous kitchens, there are usually other fun surprises at each stop such as cooking demonstrations, food samples and entertainment by some of the area’s talented young musicians. I can’t wait to see what’s on the schedule for  this year.

I haven’t missed one yet and, once you’ve gone, I bet you don’t either.