Bennett-Wartes. (2003 Wedding Register).

The Chapel of First Baptist Church in Jackson was the setting for an afternoon ceremony on March 23, 2002, uniting in marriage Lori Brett Bennett and Michael L. Wartes. Rev. Harvey Dallas, uncle of the groom, officiated at the double-ring ceremony. Nuptial music was provided by Andy Swanner, organist; Jennifer Clark, pianist; Darci Bishop, trumpeter; Karen Laubengayer, flutist and Dmitri Sushenia, guitarist. Vocalists were Courtney Sushenia and Amy Sartin.

The bride is the daughter of Mrs. Teresa Edens and Mr. Robert L. Bennett, Jr., both of Brandon. She is the granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ennis Blankinchip of Lumberton, the late Mr. J.W. Kirkland, Mrs. Mary Bennett of Brandon, and the late Mr. Robert L. Bennett, Sr. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. John L. Wartes of Brandon. He is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. James Ruffin of Columbus and Mr. and Mrs. Lloyd Wartes of Columbus.

Given in marriage by her father, the bride wore a designer gown by Oleg Cassini. Along the strapless bodice and the bottom of the A-line skirt, the white matte satin gown featured Alencon lace graced with pearls. The gown was accented by a chapel-length train. The cathedral-length veil of illusion was held by a tiara of pearls and Austrian crystals. She carried a bouquet of white roses, Asiatic lilies, and mixed greenery.

Attending the bride as maid of honor was Mignon Hallman. Bridesmaids were Allison Dallas, Patti Dickerson, and Ginger Thornton. Flower girls were Hannah Walters and Audrey Ann Jones.

Chris Wartes, brother of the groom, served as best man. Groomsmen were Alan Bennett, brother of the bride; Kyle Bennett, brother of the bride; Jimmy Dickerson; and Josh Windham. Along with the groomsmen, Beau Edens served as an usher. Program attendants were Clayton Walters and Justin Edens.

Following the ceremony, a reception was held at the Old Capitol Inn in Jackson, with piano music provided by Karen Laubengayer. On the eve of the wedding, the groom's parents hosted a rehearsal dinner at the Edison Walthall Hotel in Jackson.

After a Caribbean cruise, the couple is at home in Brandon, where Michael is co-owner of Keystone Builders, Inc., and Lori is a paralegal with Phelps Dunbar, LLP.